Boeing Recommends 737 Max Inspections Over Rudder Control Bolt Concerns, FAA Monitoring

In a recent development, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has disclosed that Boeing is advising airlines to conduct inspections on newer 737 MAX aircraft due to concerns about a potential loose bolt in the rudder control system. The FAA has stated that it is closely monitoring these targeted inspections initiated by Boeing and is ready to take further action if any additional issues related to loose or missing hardware are discovered.

Boeing’s recommendation for inspections comes in the wake of an incident where an international operator found a bolt lacking a nut during routine maintenance on a component within the rudder-control linkage. Subsequently, Boeing identified another undelivered aircraft with an improperly tightened nut.

As a precautionary measure, Boeing has issued a message to operators of newer single-aisle aircraft, urging them to inspect specific tie rods responsible for controlling rudder movement for any signs of loose hardware.

The FAA has assured that it will maintain close communication with Boeing and the airlines throughout the inspection process. Airlines are requested to report any previous instances of loose hardware and provide details on the expected completion time for these two-hour inspections.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, reuters.com