Leak Cropped Up While Airplane Was Taxiing For Takeoff

An ANA Dreamliner taxiing for takeoff from Okayama in western Japan to Tokyo had to cancel that departure and return to the gate due to a leaking hydraulic pump.

Japanese broadcaster NHK showed pictures of the airplane with white smoke issuing from the rear of the aircraft. None of the 88 passengers on board the airplane reportedly suffered any ill effects because of the problem, according to a report from Reuters.

ANA spokeswoman Masumi Oguchi said the airplane had been taken out of service and was awaiting inspection. The hydraulic pump suspected of leaking provides actuation to parts in the wings and other areas of the plane.

ANA was Boeing's launch customer for the Dreamliner, and has 55 of the composite airplanes on order with the U.S. planemaker. It recently grounded five of the airplanes after tests showed the possibility of corrosion occurring in some engine parts. Those aircraft were returned to service after being repaired. A landing gear problem cropped up in another of ANA's new Dreamliners shortly after delivery.

(Image from file)

FMI: www.boeing.com