Why is the FAA Investigating New Boeing 737 MAX Rudder Control Reports?
Key Points
- 1The FAA is investigating new reports of 737 MAX difficulty maintaining stable flight due to a potential rudder control issue.
- 2The issue is linked to a defect in a Collins Aerospace rudder rollout guidance actuator, which can jam due to moisture freezing in cold temperatures.
- 3The NTSB issued urgent safety recommendations in September 2024, noting over 353 affected actuators were delivered to Boeing since 2017.
- 4The investigation focuses on whether initial fixes and safety alerts have fully resolved the rudder control system failure risk across the global 737 fleet.
The FAA has launched a new investigation into the Boeing 737 MAX rudder issue. This follows multiple reports from global airlines. The reports detail difficulty maintaining stable flight control. This new scrutiny focuses on the aircraft's rudder control system failure potential.
Background on the Rudder Control System Failure
The current investigation is an expansion of previous safety actions. It stems from a critical incident in February 2024. A United Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 experienced a rudder control problem. Pilots reported the rudder pedals were "stuck" during landing rollout. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigated the incident.
NTSB investigators found a defect in a specific component. The component is the rudder rollout guidance actuator (RRGA). This part is supplied by Collins Aerospace. The issue was traced to an incorrectly assembled sealed bearing. This manufacturing error allowed moisture to enter the actuator. The moisture could then freeze in cold temperatures, restricting movement.
Regulatory and Industry Response
In September 2024, the NTSB issued urgent safety recommendations. These were directed to both Boeing and the FAA. The NTSB warned of the potential for a jammed or restricted rudder control system on some 737 Next Generation (NG) and Boeing 737 MAX rudder issue aircraft.
Following this, the FAA issued a Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO) in October 2024. The alert warned airlines globally about the potential for limited or jammed rudder movement. It also advised pilots on the procedure for responding to a jammed rudder.
Scope of the Actuator Problem
The scope of the problem is significant across the global fleet. Collins Aerospace delivered over 353 affected actuators since February 2017. The NTSB estimated that 271 of these parts may be installed on aircraft operated by at least 40 foreign air carriers. United Airlines, the only major U.S. operator confirmed to have the faulty components, removed them from nine aircraft earlier in 2024.
Impact on Commercial Aviation
This new FAA investigation highlights ongoing quality control issues for the manufacturer. The agency is looking into the Boeing 737 MAX stable flight reports. These new reports suggest the problem may not be fully resolved by the initial component replacements.
- Operational Risk: A jammed rudder can make it difficult for pilots to maintain directional control. This is especially true during takeoff and landing.
- Pilot Procedures: The NTSB has expressed concern over the existing flight manual procedure. This procedure instructs pilots to use "maximum force" to overpower a jammed rudder. The NTSB believes this could lead to a sudden, undesired rudder deflection and loss of control. They recommended Boeing determine safer flight crew responses.
- Regulatory Oversight: The FAA continues its increased oversight of Boeing's production processes. This is part of a broader effort following multiple safety incidents.
The aviation industry relies on robust safety systems. The FAA's renewed focus on the rudder control system failure underscores the importance of manufacturing quality. Airlines and passengers worldwide are following this critical commercial aviation news closely. The outcome of the investigation could lead to a new airworthiness directive requiring mandatory fleet inspections or component replacement.
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