NTSB Demands Boeing 737 Rudder Fix After Newark Incident

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued urgent safety recommendations concerning the Boeing 737 rudder control system after a February Newark landing incident. The incident involved a United Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8, where the rudder pedals became stuck in the neutral position during landing. Fortunately, all 161 passengers and crew members were unharmed.

The NTSB’s investigation revealed a potential for the rudder control system to jam due to moisture accumulation and freezing within the actuators. In response, the NTSB has recommended that Boeing promptly inform flight crews about this risk and develop alternative responses beyond applying maximum pedal force during such emergencies.

Collins Aerospace, a subsidiary of RTX, identified a production flaw affecting over 353 rudder actuators since February 2017. This issue stems from an incorrectly assembled bearing, which compromises the rudder’s functionality. United Airlines confirmed that the affected components were installed in only nine of its 737 aircraft, originally built for other airlines, and these parts were removed earlier this year.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is set to review the NTSB’s recommendations and will convene a corrective action review board to determine the next steps. The FAA has stated that no Boeing 737s currently operating in the United States are equipped with the faulty actuators. Additionally, the FAA will notify international aviation regulators if the removal of these components is deemed necessary.

Boeing is actively addressing the NTSB’s recommendations, ensuring that flight crews receive the necessary guidance to handle potential rudder jams. Meanwhile, RTX is collaborating closely with the NTSB and Boeing to mitigate any operational impacts and enhance the safety of Boeing 737 operations.

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