Boeing 787 Radios Switching Channels Spontaneously: FAA Proposes Fix
Published Date: 2/26/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants Boeing 787 planes to get a software update because their radios sometimes switch frequencies on their own, which could cause communication problems with air traffic control. This fix will keep flights safer by making sure the radios work right. Airlines will need to update the software and check it soon, which might cost some time and money but is totally worth it.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Reduces missed ATC communications
The required software update fixes an issue on Boeing 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes where very high frequency (VHF) radios can switch between active and standby without flightcrew input, lowering the chance of missed communications with Air Traffic Control. That change is intended to keep flights safer by ensuring radios operate correctly.
Mandatory 787 radio software update
Operators of Boeing Model 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes must update the tuning control panel operational software (TCP OPS) and perform a software configuration check to correct VHF radio frequencies transferring between active and standby without crew input. The rule requires the software update and the configuration check to address the unsafe condition reported for these models.
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