The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States has mandated an immediate inspection of 895 Boeing 787 aircraft to scrutinize the pilot and co-pilot seats. This directive follows an incident involving a Latam Airlines plane in March, which resulted in 50 injuries.
According to an FAA statement, the aircraft, traveling from Australia to New Zealand, experienced a sudden loss of altitude after a crew member accidentally touched an uncovered switch located on the pilot's seat. This action caused the seat to jolt forward, thereby disengaging the autopilot system.
Since this event, there have been four additional reports of similar issues, with two of these incidents attributed to loose seat covers in the cockpit. As a response, the FAA has issued an "Airworthiness Directive effective immediately" targeting specific models: the Boeing 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10. In total, 895 aircraft are affected, with 158 registered in the United States and 737 in other countries.
Airlines are required to inspect the safety of the captain and co-pilot seats to ensure that the switch covers are intact and functional. This evaluation must be completed within 30 days.
Key Details on Boeing 787 Inspections
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding the FAA's recent directive on Boeing 787 inspections.
Why did the FAA order these inspections?
The FAA ordered these inspections after an incident where a Latam Airlines Boeing 787 experienced a sudden loss of altitude due to an uncovered switch in the pilot's seat, causing 50 injuries.
How many aircraft are affected by this directive?
A total of 895 Boeing 787 aircraft are affected, including 158 registered in the United States and 737 worldwide.
What models of Boeing 787 are involved?
The directive includes the Boeing 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 models.
What is the deadline for completing the inspections?
Airlines must complete the inspections within 30 days to ensure the switch covers in the captain and co-pilot seats are secure and functional.