Part 7/8:
Crucially, an overhaul of the fuel supply system had led to saltwater contamination, and subsequent fueling activities ignored telltale signs of improper function, resulting in the contamination of the aircraft's fuel by the very material designed to cleanse it.
Lessons Learned
The final investigation led to recommendations for improved fueling practices and monitoring of fuel quality to prevent similar catastrophes. Airbus took proactive measures by adding new guidelines to the A330's Quick Reference Handbook concerning potential fuel system contamination.