Boeing 787's Control Panel Goes Rogue, FAA Steps In
Published Date: 11/17/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants to fix a problem on certain Boeing 787 airplanes where the altitude setting on the control panel can change by itself. They’re proposing to replace the old control panel with a new, safer one and test it to keep flights safe. Owners of these planes should act soon, as comments are due by January 2, 2026, and the fix might cost some time and money but keeps everyone flying safely.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Mandatory MCP replacement on Boeing 787s
Owners/operators of certain Boeing Model 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes must replace the existing mode control panel (MCP) part numbers 4091640-901, -902, or -903 with MCP part number 4091640-904 and perform the MCP installation test, following Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB220004-00 RB, Issue 001, dated April 22, 2025. The proposed AD requires doing the actions at the times specified in that bulletin.
Large retrofit cost for affected operators
The FAA estimates the replacement and installation test will cost up to $405,170 per airplane (2 work-hours at $85/hour plus parts up to $405,000) and would affect 165 U.S.-registered airplanes for a total estimated cost up to $66,853,050. The manufacturer (Honeywell) has stated some or all retrofit costs may be covered under warranty, which could reduce operators' out-of-pocket costs.
Fix prevents dangerous altitude changes
The FAA found reports of uncommanded changes to the MCP selected altitude; if not fixed, this could result in controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) or traffic confliction and possible mid-air collision. Replacing the MCP with part number 4091640-904 is intended to prevent those uncommanded altitude changes.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Take It Personal
Get Your Personalized Policy View
Start a Free Government Policy Watch to see how policy affects your household, then upgrade to PRIA Full Coverage for year-round monitoring.
Already have an account? Sign in