FAA orders fuel‑tank inspections on 60 US‑registered Boeing 787s over lightning‑ignition risk
The Federal Aviation Administration issued an airworthiness directive requiring operators of 60 U.S.‑registered Boeing 787 Dreamliners to inspect fuel‑tank fasteners and sealant for bonding deficiencies that could spark during a lightning strike. The directive also extends to certain Boeing 747 models. Inspections must be completed after the effective date and the cost of the work is expected to be borne by the airlines.
Why it matters
The FAA estimates the inspection labor will cost $2,890 per aircraft, or $173,400 for the 60 jets, adding to airlines’ maintenance budgets. Boeing indicated that any repair expenses could be covered under warranty, but the directive may still affect flight schedules as aircraft are taken out of service for the work.
Key facts
- 1The directive applies to 60 U.S.-registered Boeing 787 Dreamliners, covering the 787‑8, 787‑9 and 787‑10 variants. aeroxplorer.com
- 2The FAA also extended related inspection requirements to specific Boeing 747 models. aeroxplorer.com
- 3The airworthiness directive will take effect on December 7. aeroxplorer.com
- 4The FAA estimates 34 work‑hours per aircraft at a cost of $2,890, totaling $173,400 for all 60 jets. simpleflying.com
- 5The directive addresses fasteners that may lack adequate electrical bonding, which could create an ignition source inside fuel tanks during a lightning strike. aeroxplorer.com
- 6United, American and Alaska Airlines operate the majority of the affected U.S. Dreamliners. simpleflying.com
Summary written by AlphAI AI Desk from 2 of 2 sources. Not investment advice. Figures are as stated by the linked sources.