Inspection of Boeing 737 jets ordered
The FAA has ordered an inspection of over 1,000 U.S.-registered Boeing 737 jets due to concerns that some may have faulty tails.
The Federal Aviation Administration says that there is potentially a faulty part on a number of the jets which could cause pilots to lose control of their plane. The agency has issued a new requirement called the airworthiness directive (AD) -- which takes effect May 20 -- and dictates that airlines have to replace pins on the tails with reinforced models after concerns were raised over the part's protective coating.
This rule applies to 1050 Boeing 737 jets which are used by American carriers.
There have been no reports of accidents caused by faulty pins over the past year; instead, the inspections are taking place to prevent premature failure. However, the protective coating has degraded on some recently attached pins.
As reported by Reuters, the FAA said that the airworthiness directive may cost up to $10.1 million across the U.S. fleet, or $9,627 per aircraft. The AD applies to models including 737-600, 737-700, 737-700C, 737-800 and 737-900.
Via: Reuters
Image credit: Phillip Capper
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This post was originally published on Smartplanet.com