Boeing issued a directive advising airlines operating 787 Dreamliners to inspect flight deck switches after a LATAM Airlines 787 plane experienced a sudden mid-air dive, resulting in over 50 injuries. The incident, which occurred during a flight from Sydney to Auckland, raised concerns about the safety of the aircraft.
The Air Current, an aviation industry publication, highlighted the movement of a flight deck seat as a focal point of the investigation into the incident.
Boeing responded by reminding operators of a 2017 service bulletin outlining procedures for inspecting and maintaining flight deck seat switches. The company recommended that airlines conduct inspections during the next maintenance opportunity.
In response to the incident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) formed an expert board to review Boeing’s message to airlines regarding the need to check the switches. While the FAA does not require approval for such directives, it pledged to closely monitor the situation and provide feedback to Boeing.
Boeing shares saw a slight increase following the issuance of the directive, signaling investor confidence in the company’s proactive approach to addressing safety concerns.
Meanwhile, the New Zealand Transport Accident Investigation Commission took steps to retrieve the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder from the flight, aiming to glean insights into the pilots’ conversations and the aircraft’s movements during the incident.
As the investigation unfolds, stakeholders remain focused on ensuring the safety and reliability of 787 Dreamliners. The directive serves as a precautionary measure to mitigate potential risks and bolster confidence in the aircraft’s operations.
