Similar Problem On First Superjumbo In February

For the second time in one month, Singapore Airlines had to ground one of its A380 superjumbos due to a problem with an aircraft fuel pump Tuesday evening, delaying passengers heading to Sydney, Australia.

"We regret the inconvenience caused to customers who incurred delays on Monday night," airline spokesman Stephen Forshaw told The Associated Press.

While acknowledging the problem appeared to be similar to the fuel pump issue that grounded the carrier's first A380 last month, Forshaw stressed "[i]t is important to mention, it is not the same problem, and not the same aircraft."

Such mechanical issues are not uncommon in any airline fleet, though it's noteworthy the problem has now cropped up on two of Singapore Airlines' three A380s now in service, and may point to an early-build issue on the first superjumbos.

Currently the only A380 operator, Singapore Airlines plans to take delivery of its fourth superjumbo in May. The carrier has another 15 on order after that.

Dubai-based Emirates will take delivery of its first A380 in August.

FMI: www.singaporeair.com