|
The battery failures resulted in release of
flammable electrolytes, heat damage, and smoke
on two Model 787 airplanes.
The root cause of these failures is
currently under investigation. These conditions,
if not corrected, could result in damage to
critical systems and structures, and the
potential for fire in the electrical
compartment.
Last Friday, the FAA announced a comprehensive
review of the 787’s critical systems with the
possibility of further action pending new data
and information.
In addition to the continuing review of
the aircraft’s design, manufacture and assembly,
the agency also will validate that 787 batteries
and the battery system on the aircraft are in
compliance with the special condition the agency
issued as part of the aircraft’s certification.
United Airlines is currently the only U.S.
airline operating the 787, with six airplanes in
service. When the FAA issues an airworthiness
directive, it also alerts the international
aviation community to the action so other civil
aviation authorities can take parallel action to
cover the fleets operating in their own
countries.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is a long-range,
mid-size wide-body, twin-engine jet airliner
developed by Boeing Commercial Airplanes. Its
variants seat 210 to 290 passengers. Boeing
states that it is the company's most
fuel-efficient airliner and the world's first
major airliner to use composite materials for
most of its construction. According to Boeing,
the 787 consumes 20% less fuel than the
similarly-sized 767. Its distinguishing features
include a four-panel windshield, noise-reducing
chevrons on its engine nacelles, and a smoother
nose contour. The 787 shares a common type
rating with the larger 777 twinjet, allowing
qualified pilots to operate both models, due to
related design features. (see
NTSB Identifies Origin Of JAL Boeing 787 Battery
Fire) |
