Boeing is urging airlines to inspect 737 MAX jets for a possible loose bolt in the rudder control system, the Federal Aviation Administration said Thursday.
In coordination with the agency, Boeing issued a Muti-Operator Message (MOM), targeted to operators of newer single-aisle aircraft, prompted by the discovery of a missing nut on a bolt during routine maintenance by an international operator. Additionally, an undelivered aircraft was also found with a nut that was not properly tightened.
In a press release issued Thursday, the FAA asked operators to review their Safety Management Systems to determine if they have previously identified any instances of loose hardware. The agency said inspections should take two hours.
According to a CNN report, Boeing confirmed the repair of the aircraft with the missing bolt but emphasized the need to inspect all 1,370 737 Max aircraft currently in service for similar issues. So far, no in-service incidents have been caused due to the condition.
The FAA will consider further action based on any new findings regarding any loose or missing hardware.
Well, it’s a good thing Boeing has never had issues with the 737 rudder.
Having worked as a FAA designee, check airman evaluator and instructor on the 737NG for 16 years I came to the conclusion that there never was any issue with the rudder on the 737. I dug deep into the systems and the NTSB reports along with speaking with several aeronautical engineers who agreed with me or convinced me of that conclusion. That being said I am not saying that Boeing has not had their issues.
Loose bolts should be detected during a proper C check.
Two hours to get to the bolt, two days to order a new one and have it delivered.
Two hours to get to the bolt? That’s nothing, I have spent two hours looking for a tool when working on my plane, that I had in my hand just 1 minute prior.