Boeing 787s Swap Cockpit Windows to Survive Bird Strike Mayhem
Published Date: 2/4/2025
Rule
Summary
The FAA is requiring all Boeing 787 airplanes to replace certain flight deck windows that might not handle bird strikes safely. This rule kicks in on March 11, 2025, and stops anyone from installing the old, risky windows. Airlines will need to act quickly to keep their planes safe and flying smoothly.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Potentially Expensive Window Replacements
If an inspection finds an affected No. 1 flight compartment window, operators must replace it per the Boeing Requirements Bulletin. The FAA estimates replacement costs at 16 work-hours × $85/hour = $1,360 plus $104,060 in parts, totaling $105,420 per window. The FAA stated it cannot determine how many airplanes or windows will require replacement.
Ban on Installing Listed Window Parts
As of March 11, 2025, no one may install a No. 1 flight compartment window with part number 190800-11, -12, -13, -14, -15, -16, -19, or -20 with a serial number listed in Appendix A of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB560010-00 RB (Issue 001, dated December 13, 2023).
Mandatory 787 Window Inspections
If you operate Boeing 787-8, 787-9, or 787-10 airplanes, you must inspect the left and right No. 1 flight compartment windows at the times specified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB560010-00 RB (Issue 001, dated December 13, 2023). This AD is effective March 11, 2025. The FAA estimates the inspection takes 0.25 work-hour × $85/hour = $21.25 per airplane and that 152 U.S.-registered airplanes are affected (total estimated inspection cost $3,230).
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