New Safety Alert For Boeing 737

After much deliberation and concern, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a new safety alert for the Boeing 737 family.

The FAA stated in a document that the subject refers to the potential for a jammed and/or restricted rudder on the 737 series equipped with the optional Collins Aersoapce SVO-730 Rudder Rollout Guidance Actuators.

The Safety alert for operators involves those that fly 737 -600/-700,-800,-900,-
900ER(737NG) and 737-8, -8200, and -9 (737 MAX). Thus, it encompasses many jets across the 737 family, from old to new.

A SAFO also largely follows an incident involving a Boeing 737-8 from the MAX series. This incident saw the flight crew aboard the aircraft unable to move the rudder pedals during the landing rollout.

After this incident, a formal investigation was launched, and concerns began to arise over how such a complication was possible.

The preliminary investigation found that the jammed and/or restricted rudder resulted from moisture entering the actuator during the flight and freezing it.

While inspections must occur, the FAA notes that this may be more widespread and affect aircraft operators. However, it does not affect those with the RRGA actuators.

Now, airlines must recommend that their flight crews follow the NNC, a non-normal checklist for jammed or restricted flight controls. This will determine if rudder restrictions occur and if differential braking is necessary to maintain the runway’s centerline.

Pilots must also avoid using the nosewheel steering above 100 knots in indicated airspace unless necessary for airplane control.

Ultimately, this safety alert follows a safety recommendation at the end of September, which can be perceived as an escalation of the matter.

As part of this notice, action must be taken to ensure the aircraft in service continue to be of the highest standard and don’t see a situation worsen aboard a flight.

Many foreign carriers’ 737 jets are said to be affected, and as the first incident occurred on United Airlines, there may well be units in the U.S. that need a close inspection.