NTSB Issues Urgent Warning on Boeing 737 Rudder System
The safety alert follows a February incident where a United Airlines flight experienced stuck rudder pedals during landing.
- The NTSB has issued urgent safety recommendations to Boeing and the FAA regarding potential rudder control issues on 737 Next-Generation and 737 Max 8 aircraft.
- The alert was prompted by an incident in February where a United Airlines 737 Max 8 had its rudder pedals stuck in the neutral position during landing at Newark Liberty International Airport.
- Investigations revealed that a component in the rudder system, manufactured by Collins Aerospace, was incorrectly assembled, affecting about 350 parts.
- The NTSB expressed concerns that Boeing's current manual, which advises pilots to apply maximum force to a jammed rudder, could lead to unintended loss of control.
- The FAA is reviewing the NTSB's recommendations and considering whether the faulty parts should be removed from planes, with a decision expected soon.