Why was the A330 flown slowly and at lower altitude to Kuala Lumpur?

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The A330 Flew at a Reduced Speed and Altitude as a Precaution After a Hard Landing and Investigation

A Malaysia Airlines Airbus A330 aircraft was flown at a slower speed and lower altitude on its return journey to Kuala Lumpur as a precautionary measure following a hard landing on March 14 and a subsequent investigation. The aircraft had been grounded in Melbourne for nearly two weeks while the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) examined its flight records and interviewed the crew. Upon departure for Darwin, en route to Kuala Lumpur for repairs, the A330 maintained a significantly reduced flight profile.
Specific Flight Parameters for the Ferry Flight

Data from Flightaware indicated that the aircraft was flying at an altitude of 4,998 metres and a speed of 292 knots when it crossed Australia’s Lake Eyre. This contrasts sharply with typical flight conditions for similar routes, where other aircraft on the same day were operating at an altitude of 10,363 metres and a speed of 460 knots. This deviation from standard operating procedures was implemented as a safety measure during the ferry flight.
Precautionary Measures Following a Hard Landing

The decision to fly at a reduced speed and altitude was a direct consequence of the hard landing that occurred at Melbourne Airport on March 14. While hard landings are infrequent occurrences for Airbus passenger jets, the incident necessitated an investigation by the ATSB. This investigation involved a thorough review of the aircraft's flight data.
Subsequent Examination in Kuala Lumpur

After completing its ferry flight, the Airbus A330 landed at Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport near Kuala Lumpur yesterday afternoon. The aircraft is scheduled to undergo a more extensive examination in Kuala Lumpur to assess any potential damage or structural issues resulting from the hard landing. The ATSB's investigation into the flight records provided initial insights that informed the precautionary measures taken during the return flight.

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Why was the A330 flown slowly and at lower altitude to Kuala Lumpur?

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