The problematic seat-track fittings may fail under emergency landing loads, resulting in passenger injury.
WASHINGTON- The FAA orders a seat-track examination on Boeing 787 aircraft owing to a manufacturing issue, requiring fast action.
A proposed rule would require inspections to address potential safety issues caused by defective seat-track hardware.
The problem stems from the use of inappropriate materials in the manufacture of seat-track splice connections, which puts structural integrity at risk during an emergency. The FAA’s order applies to 37 Boeing 787s registered in the United States, including different types.
FAA Orders 787 Seat-Track Inspection
The FAA issued a proposed rule on January 15 in response to allegations from suppliers indicating potential problems in Boeing 787 seat-track splice connections, as reported by FlightGlobal.
These flaws result from the use of improper titanium alloys, notably Grade 1 or 2 commercially pure unalloyed titanium rather than the FAA-approved Grade 5 titanium alloy.
Grades 1 and 2 alloys lack the strength, fatigue resistance, and damage tolerance required to meet rigorous aviation safety standards.
The problematic seat-track fittings may fail under emergency landing loads, resulting in passenger injury.
This worry has prompted the FAA to require airlines that operate affected aircraft to perform rigorous inspections using modern techniques such as X-ray fluorescence spectrometry or high-frequency eddy current testing.
Boeing responded to the issue by issuing an Alert Requirements Bulletin on October 18, 2024. The warning specified inspection procedures for detecting defective seat-track fittings and instructed airlines to repair any non-compliant components.
The FAA’s proposed regulation formalizes these suggestions, requiring compliance from operators of US-registered Boeing 787s. Affected models include the 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10.
737 MAX 9 Door Plug Inspection
Boeing is modifying its instructions for airlines on examining mid-cabin emergency exit door plugs on 737 MAX 9 aircraft. Before the impacted jets may be returned to service, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) must approve the new procedures.
The grounding of 737 MAX 9 aircraft equipped with these door plugs was sparked by a January 6 incident on an Alaska Airlines flight.
A door plug failure during the flight resulted in a major cabin hole, forcing the pilots to safely land in Portland with no serious injuries to passengers or crew.
The FAA issued an emergency airworthiness directive on the same day, halting 171 aircraft globally until inspections were completed.
Boeing initially sent inspection instructions on January 8, but operator comments forced the corporation to change its guidelines. The FAA indicated on January 9 that it will thoroughly review the amended procedures once they are submitted.
“Every Boeing 737 MAX 9 with a plug door will remain grounded until the FAA determines it can safely return to operation,” the agency added, underlining that safety will determine the schedule.
Several airlines, including Aeromexico (AM), Alaska Airlines (AS), Copa Airlines (CM), Lion Air (JT), Turkish Airlines (TK), and United Airlines (UA), have grounded their 737 MAX 9 fleets in response to the mandate.
Boeing CEO David Calhoun addressed employees on January 9, accepting full responsibility for the incident and promising complete transparency during the investigation.
The business is working with the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to identify the core cause of the failure. “We’re going to acknowledge our mistake and work transparently every step of the way,” Calhoun promised.
This circumstance emphasizes the significance of strict safety measures and joint efforts among manufacturers, regulators, and operators to ensure the safety of the flying public.
FAA Proposes 737NG and 757 Guidelines
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed new guidelines that require airlines to replace overhead video monitors on Boeing 737NG and 757 aircraft.
This action follows an event in which passenger service unit (PSU)-mounted monitors separated from their rails during a hard landing while remaining under emergency load limitations.
The proposed rule, released on January 15, resolves safety concerns raised by Boeing via Special Attention Requirements Bulletins.
These bulletins, issued to 737NG operators in December 2023 and 757 operators in January 2024, instruct airlines to replace video monitors that lack secondary retention lanyards and secure lanyards to PSU rails.
The FAA underlined that detached monitors could endanger passengers, causing injury or impeding emergency evacuations.
If the rule is finalized, it will apply to 459 737NGs of all versions registered in the United States, as well as 85 757-200 and 757-300 aircraft fitted with Burrana and Panasonic monitors.
Boeing has not made any more remarks on the proposed measures. The FAA’s directive demonstrates its commitment to improving passenger safety by addressing the risks associated with aged aircraft components.
FAQ
Why did the FAA order seat-track inspections for Boeing 787 aircraft?
The FAA identified a potential manufacturing defect in the seat tracks of some Boeing 787 aircraft that could affect passenger safety. As a precautionary measure, inspections have been mandated.
What is the issue with the seat tracks?
The issue involves a potential weakness in the seat tracks that could compromise their ability to securely hold passenger seats during turbulence or emergency scenarios.
How will airlines comply with this inspection order?
Airlines operating the affected Boeing 787 aircraft will perform thorough inspections of the seat tracks and replace any defective parts as per FAA guidelines.
Does this affect passenger safety?
While the defect has not caused any incidents, the inspections are a precautionary measure to ensure passenger safety and prevent potential risks.
How long will it take to complete the inspections?
The timeline depends on the number of affected aircraft in each airline’s fleet, but the FAA expects airlines to act swiftly to minimize operational disruptions.
Has Boeing issued a response?
Boeing is cooperating with the FAA and supporting airlines in the inspection process to ensure compliance and resolve the issue promptly.
