FAA Update: How Boeing 787 Moisture Fixes Impact Global Airline Fleets.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a key update to an Airworthiness Directive (AD) affecting The Boeing Company's 787 Dreamliner fleet. This revision specifically addresses Boeing 787 Dreamliner models 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10. The change clarifies the applicability of required maintenance actions across the global fleet.

Background on the Airworthiness Directive

The underlying AD was prompted by reports of undetected water leaks. Water was found migrating from the lavatory Faucet Control Modules (FCMs). This moisture was reaching the electronic equipment (EE) bays below the passenger floor.

This is an unsafe condition for the aircraft. Undetected water leaks can damage flight critical equipment. The result could be the loss of multiple line replaceable units (LRUs). This could then lead to the loss of continued safe flight and landing.

Initially, the AD required repetitive visual inspections. However, the FAA is now superseding an earlier AD (AD 2024-01-01). The new rule mandates more permanent fixes. These include replacing the FCM with an improved design. It also requires the installation of moisture management device components.

Configuration Update for Airline Operators

The latest update focuses on administrative clarity. It revises the Boeing 787 configuration descriptions. Specifically, the descriptions for Configuration 1, Groups 4 and 5, are being updated.

This change was requested by Boeing and supported by All Nippon Airways (ANA). It aims to account for airplanes that already received a fix during production. These airplanes had P200 panel changes incorporated at the factory. This means they already have the necessary moisture management device installed.

• The revision includes these production-fixed aircraft in the Configuration 1 descriptions.
• This effectively grants an exception for those specific airplanes.
• Operators of these aircraft are therefore exempt from certain installation requirements in the AD.

This update helps airlines streamline AD compliance requirements. It prevents unnecessary rework on airplanes already meeting the safety standard.

Industry Impact and Safety Focus

This AD is part of the FAA's ongoing effort to ensure commercial aviation safety. It mandates hardware changes to address the leak risk permanently. The directive applies to a significant portion of the global 787 fleet.

Some industry groups have voiced concerns. They noted the extended compliance timeline for certain modifications. However, the FAA continues to work closely with manufacturers and operators. The goal is to implement these critical safety measures efficiently. The ultimate aim is to protect flight critical equipment from water intrusion.

Visit flying.flights for the latest commercial aviation news and airline industry updates.

For airline finances, mergers, and industry strategy, visit the Business category at flying.flights/business.