FAA Issues Urgent Directive for Boeing 787s After Pilot Seat Malfunctions
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a critical new directive requiring an immediate inspection of all Boeing 787 aircraft globally. This action follows several reports of pilot seat issues, including a significant incident involving LATAM Airlines’ Dreamliner, where a sudden seat adjustment led to a dangerous drop in altitude.
New Inspection Requirements
The FAA’s directive mandates that all Boeing 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 models undergo an inspection to check for missing or damaged rocker switch caps and cracked switch covers on pilot seats. Operators of these aircraft are required to complete these inspections within the next 30 days and address any identified issues promptly. This new regulation impacts 158 Boeing 787s in the United States and 737 aircraft worldwide, as reported by Reuters.
Background on the LATAM Airlines Incident
This latest directive stems from a serious incident involving a LATAM Airlines Boeing 787-9 aircraft, registered CC-BGG, which occurred in March 2024. The aircraft experienced a sudden altitude drop during a flight between Sydney and Auckland, injuring over 50 passengers and leaving at least one person in critical condition.
According to preliminary reports, the incident was caused when the captain’s seat unexpectedly moved forward, leading to a loss of altitude. The report indicated that weather conditions were not a factor and confirmed that the seat movement occurred while the plane was cruising at 41,000 feet.
Further investigation suggested that a flight attendant may have accidentally triggered a switch on the pilot’s seat during in-flight meal service, causing the seat to shift forward and disrupt the pilot’s control. Boeing had previously issued an advisory for routine inspections of cockpit seat switches, but the FAA’s directive now demands more urgent action.
Ongoing Investigations and Reports
The FAA has received five reports of similar issues related to the captain and first officer seats on Boeing 787s. The most recent report was filed in June, and two of these cases remain under investigation. The urgency of the FAA’s directive reflects the serious nature of these malfunctions and their potential impact on flight safety.
Popularity of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner
Despite these issues, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner remains a popular choice among airlines for long-haul flights. As of June 2024, there are over 390 787-8s, 621 787-9s, and 97 787-10s in service worldwide. The Dreamliner’s use of lightweight composite materials—making up 50% of its structure—enhances fuel efficiency and aerodynamics, contributing to its widespread adoption.
Boeing’s emphasis on composite materials and advanced technology in the 787 has helped it remain a favorite among airlines, despite some operational challenges. The company continues to address issues as they arise, ensuring that the 787 remains a leading choice in modern aviation.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, simpleflying.com