Overview

• The NTSB issued an urgent recommendation to modify CFM International LEAP-1B engines on Boeing 737 Max jets after finding a load reduction device flaw can damage the oil system and introduce smoke into the cockpit or cabin.
• The recommendation follows two 2023 Southwest Airlines bird strikes in Havana and New Orleans that caused dense smoke to fill cabin areas and impair crew visibility.
• Boeing and CFM International are developing a software design update to automatically prevent oil smoke leaks and Boeing has revised flight manuals with new protocols for crews to limit smoke entry.
• The FAA has committed to mandating the software modification for all affected operators within an appropriate timeframe once the update is certified.
• The NTSB also urged evaluation of LEAP-1A and LEAP-1C engines used on Airbus A320neo and C919 jets, a move that could impact carriers including IndiGo, Air India, Akasa and SpiceJet.