Amid routine maintenance activities by an international operator, a Boeing B737 Max airplane revealed a concerning anomaly—a bolt with a missing nut. In response, Boeing has issued an advisory for airlines to inspect their B737 Max fleets. The identified issue has been promptly addressed, according to a statement released by Boeing.
This advisory has prompted three prominent Indian airlines—Akasa Air, SpiceJet, and Air India Express—to initiate inspections on their B737 Max planes. While Akasa Air assures that its operating fleet and deliveries remain unaffected, all three airlines are committed to adhering to the safety standards recommended by the manufacturer or regulator.
The US aviation regulator, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), is closely monitoring the situation. In a statement, the FAA disclosed that targeted inspections are underway to check for possible loose bolts in the rudder control system of newer single-aisle airplanes. Boeing has issued a Multi-Operator Message, specifically advising operators to inspect tie rods responsible for rudder movement to identify potential issues related to loose hardware.
A spokesperson from Akasa Air confirmed their awareness of the issue raised by Boeing and pledged to follow recommended checks and procedures. The FAA is urging airlines to collaborate with their approved Safety Management Systems to identify any previously detected loose hardware and to promptly provide details on the completion timeline for the two-hour inspections.
The discovery of a nut issue during regular maintenance on the rudder control part raises concerns about the integrity of critical components. Boeing has reportedly found another new plane with a nut that was not properly tightened, heightening the need for thorough inspections across the B737 Max fleet.
As the aviation industry remains vigilant about safety standards, these inspections play a crucial role in ensuring the airworthiness of the B737 Max aircraft, a model that has undergone significant scrutiny in recent years. The collaborative efforts of Boeing, airlines, and aviation regulators aim to swiftly address and resolve any potential safety risks associated with the identified bolt issue.
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