Narrative:

Approximately two hours into flight we initiated a climb from FL340 to FL360. While passing FL350 we received level 1 alert fuel contamination. As flying pilot I called for the checklist. Before we could open the checklist; the alert changed to level 1 eng 1 eng fuel filter. This alert lasted approximately 15 seconds then also went away. All engine were stable. As all alerts had cleared and all engines were stable; I decided to call [ops] and [maintenance] for their input via the satellite phone. The options were then discussed with the crew. The decision was made to continue toward destination but monitor the engines and be prepared for a possible divert. As preparation we had approach plates out for the nearest suitable airports and an approach built into the FMS secondary flight plan at the nearest suitable airport.all indications remained normal for approximately 20 minutes. Then the level 1 eng 1 fuel filter alert began to display intermittently. It would come on for a few seconds then go out for a few minutes. All engines remained stable. After approximately 15 minutes; the alert stayed on steady; then we received the level 1 fuel contaminated alert. We immediately requested direct to [a nearby alternate] which was the nearest suitable airport. On descent the fuel contaminated alert went away; but the eng 1 fuel filter alert continued to display intermittently.while diverting we asked the [other air carrier] jump seater to come to the cockpit. He was able to make a call on the satellite phone to keep [ops] in the loop. He was also an extra set of eyes on the approach and taxi in. Also worth mentioning; when we checked in with approach; we were given a vector away from the airport and slowed. I found this a little strange but compiled. We were then turned toward final 3 miles behind a B737 and handed off to tower. They seemed surprised by this. Although the approach and landing worked out fine; if there was a problem with the aircraft in front of us or if they had slowed; we would have been forced into a very unwanted; unnecessary and potentially hazardous go around.

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Original NASA ASRS Text

Title: MD-11 Captain reported diverting to an alternate after receiving alerts for fuel contamination and Number 1 engine fuel filter.

Narrative: Approximately two hours into flight we initiated a climb from FL340 to FL360. While passing FL350 we received level 1 alert Fuel Contamination. As flying pilot I called for the checklist. Before we could open the checklist; the alert changed to level 1 Eng 1 Eng Fuel Filter. This alert lasted approximately 15 seconds then also went away. All engine were stable. As all alerts had cleared and all engines were stable; I decided to call [Ops] and [Maintenance] for their input via the satellite phone. The options were then discussed with the crew. The decision was made to continue toward destination but monitor the engines and be prepared for a possible divert. As preparation we had approach plates out for the nearest suitable airports and an approach built into the FMS secondary flight plan at the nearest suitable airport.All indications remained normal for approximately 20 minutes. Then the level 1 Eng 1 fuel Filter alert began to display intermittently. It would come on for a few seconds then go out for a few minutes. All engines remained stable. After approximately 15 minutes; the alert stayed on steady; then we received the level 1 Fuel Contaminated alert. We immediately requested direct to [a nearby alternate] which was the nearest suitable airport. On descent the Fuel Contaminated alert went away; but the Eng 1 Fuel Filter alert continued to display intermittently.While diverting we asked the [other air carrier] jump seater to come to the cockpit. He was able to make a call on the satellite phone to keep [Ops] in the loop. He was also an extra set of eyes on the approach and taxi in. Also worth mentioning; when we checked in with Approach; we were given a vector away from the airport and slowed. I found this a little strange but compiled. We were then turned toward final 3 miles behind a B737 and handed off to Tower. They seemed surprised by this. Although the approach and landing worked out fine; if there was a problem with the aircraft in front of us or if they had slowed; we would have been forced into a very unwanted; unnecessary and potentially hazardous go around.

Data retrieved from NASA's ASRS site and automatically converted to unabbreviated mixed upper/lowercase text. This report is for informational purposes with no guarantee of accuracy. See NASA's ASRS site for official report.