The engines and electronics on that aircraft type have such a history of reliability, and there is so much redundancy, that it seems that a failure of one of those systems is unlikely.

Pilot procedures also are honed to a very reliable sequence so except in v. unusual circumstances it would seem an unlikely cause.

I’m wondering if one of the procedures in the circuit is to switch to a fuel tank that is as yet unused, in which case, with Beijing as the departure airport, the possibility of contaminated fuel seems plausible, and would seem to account for what happened.
‘Engines roaring’ observation of one passenger could be engines trying to run with incorrect or contaminated fuel.

GeoffR

Exactly what I began to think – until I thought that for the result/consequence of the use of contaminated fuel to occur so late in the flight was unusual or unlikely – as far I am aware, fuel has to be moved around the aircraft (albeit limited movement), and fuel has to be taken from multiple tanks at the same time to retain the balance of weight in the aircraft.

If contaminated fuel was suspected, actions would most likely have been taken already at Beijing?

I was expecting something completely different in this thread…

You certainly have some nice photos of her, Ian. She was even subject to a Screeners and Peoples Choice award on Jetphotos.net just less than a month ago.

The complete loss of power/electrics theory is even more interesting when you consider that the 777 is an ETOPS aircraft, and was designed as such from the outset.

Therefore, it has lots and lots of redundancy built into to the power and control systems. This allows the aircraft to legally fly with some systems inoperative.

I’m speculating, but perhaps some systems were inop and then the backups failed? Will be interesting to see exactly what failed.

As an aside, diversions were on the relatively small scale. One aircraft – a BA 757 – diverted to Manchester. About 20 diverted to London airports.

I love how ‘forumites’ are becoming more artistic with their photography – this is one such excellent example – it makes for much more interesting photos – they’re great – not just stock images of aircraft. They each have ‘something else to look at’ and multiple points of interest.

Great work ‘Umble T. 🙂

You could try Ad-Aware – http://www.lavasoftusa.com/ – the free version is good. run a full system scan.

Also, download this program – Hijack This – http://www.majorgeeks.com/download3155.html

It detects every running process on your computer and you can save a log file and post it on relevant forums for people to examine. they’ll be able to guide you as to which programs or processes shouldnt ‘be there’.

Thats a collection of stunning photos if I ever saw one!

What is that Black ring, looks like it used to be a Freight door.

Super shots, flcriminal.

the black ring is dirt mainly – caused by the airbridge when attached.

Can’t not have a bit of Alanis….

Thank You – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0CljvaEquHk

Wunderkind – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JdBZzjq2SZo – ignore the slide show, just listen

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ncwK7Y1K08 – and this, by Michael Bolton.

This thread should have a disclaimer – forums’ cannot be held responsible for any viewers going out and spending money after listening to music featured.