The ATSB is investigating a fuel leak involving a Fokker 70, registered VH-NUU, which was being operated on a passenger air transport flight from Brisbane Airport to Roma, Queensland, on 7 April 2023.
It was reported that during pushback at about 0640 local time, a trail of fluid on the ground was observed and then found to be due to a fluid leak from the no. 2 (right) engine. Both engines were shut down and the aircraft was towed back to the bay.
When inspected, engineers determined there was a leak from a connection on the underside of the engine, between a fuel line and an engine component, and fuel had drained out of the engine nacelle through an access hole near the leak. Inspection found that a pair of elastomeric seals (O-rings) in the connection had degraded.
As part of the investigation, the ATSB has interviewed involved parties, examined maintenance information, and obtained relevant information from the operator and engine manufacturer and will collect other evidence as required.
A final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation. Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties, so that appropriate safety action can be taken.