The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued an immediate safety advisory for certain Boeing 737 models, encompassing the 737 MAX.
The autonomous investigative body has issued a warning regarding a potential issue with an actuator connected to the rudder on certain 737 NG and 737 MAX aircraft. This warning follows an examination by the NTSB into a February event involving a United Airlines MAX 8, where the pilots reported their rudder pedals were stuck in the neutral position during landing.
According to the NTSB, Boeing's 737 flight manual advises pilots dealing with a jammed or restricted rudder to exert "maximum force" using both pilots, including "overpowering the jammed or restricted system."
The NTSB raises concerns that implementing such force during landing or takeoff could result in an unusually large rudder pedal input, leading to an unwanted, significant, and unexpected rudder deflection. This could potentially cause an unintentional loss of control or departure from the runway.
The NTSB suggests that Boeing should explore an alternative solution and alert pilots to the issue.
In response, the FAA declares it is keeping a close eye on the situation and will convene a review board on Friday to evaluate necessary corrective actions based on the NTSB's preliminary recommendations. CNN has contacted Boeing for comment.
The FAA shares that United Airlines is the sole American carrier using the relevant components, and these components are no longer in use.
This story is still in progress and will be updated.
The warning issued by the autonomous investigative body could negatively impact affected airlines' business operations due to potential flight disruptions. In light of this issue, Boeing might need to revise its 737 flight manuals to provide safer alternative solutions for pilots.
%20has%20issued%20an%20immediate%20safety%20advisory%20for%20certain%20Boeing%20737%20models%2C%20encompassing%20the%20737%20MAX.){kind=link}