The crash-landing of an Emirates airliner (EK521) in Dubai on Wednesday is a matter of serious concern. The Boeing 777 is indeed a superb flying machine that is in service today. A total of 1,200 of these aircraft fly daily, serving over 100 global airlines. It is indeed troubling that the 777 has encountered 156 recorded incidents.
Recent incidents identified computer failures, which can lead to pilots being given inaccurate speed readings. The United States FAA ordered an upgrade warning that faulty data could cause difficulties with flight controls, autopilot, pilot display, brakes, auto-throttles and sensors linked to the landing gear mechanism.
In 1994, the hydraulic system of a Boeing 777 failed because of a broken panel, thus complicating the landing. An access panel for a filter in one of the twin jet’s three hydraulic systems tore loose, severing a tube and causing the system to drain. Hydraulic systems use fluid under pressure to move parts like flaps, rudders and landing gear. 
The fact that only one person, a firefighter died, in the blaze following the Dubai accident is a sterling tribute to the crew of EK521 and the top-class fire-fighting skills of the Dubai fire department. It is a feat unparalleled in the history of aviation.

Source: Arab News