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.
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
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-08943 — Designation-Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility
The FAA is proposing new rules to keep drones away from certain important fixed sites like power plants or airports to keep everyone safe and secure. If you own or operate one of these sites, you can request a drone flight restriction zone to protect your property and people nearby. Comments are open until July 6, 2026, and these changes could affect drone pilots and site operators, but no big costs are expected.
2026-10293 — Prohibition of Remote Dispatching
The FAA wants to stop airplane dispatchers from working remotely, except in emergencies when the main center is down. This change affects all domestic, flag, and supplemental airline operators and aims to keep flight safety tight and clear. Comments on this rule are open until July 21, 2026, so airlines and dispatchers should get ready for a new way of working that could shake up their routines.
2026-10270 — Airworthiness Directives; Embraer S.A. (Type Certificate Previously Held by Yaborã Indústria Aeronáutica S.A.; Embraer S.A.) Airplanes
The FAA is requiring certain Embraer ERJ 190-100 ECJ airplanes to get a close check on their overheat detection sensors because some parts might not work right. If problems are found, those parts must be replaced, and no faulty parts can be installed anymore. This rule kicks in on June 26, 2026, helping keep flights safe without breaking the bank.
2026-10256 — Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters
If you fly Airbus EC130T2 helicopters, the FAA wants you to install a new fix on the tail rotor drive shaft and keep checking its vibration regularly. This update replaces old rules and stops certain parts from being used unless they meet new safety standards. You’ve got until July 6, 2026, to share your thoughts, and while this might cost some bucks, it’s all about keeping flights safe and smooth.
2026-10271 — Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, Inc., Airplanes
The FAA is making sure certain Bombardier BD-700 airplanes are safe by checking and fixing bolts on the baggage door that might have been tightened wrong. Owners need to inspect and adjust or replace these bolts by June 26, 2026, to keep flying safely. This fix helps avoid any door problems and keeps passengers secure without breaking the bank.
2026-10272 — Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes
If you fly or work with Airbus A330 planes, listen up! The FAA found a problem where a backup fuel pump might fail quietly, trapping fuel that can’t be used. Starting June 8, 2026, airlines must regularly check these pumps and fix any issues to keep flights safe—no big wallet hits expected, just smart safety moves.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-03013 — Airworthiness Directives; Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type Certificate Previously Held by Turbomeca, S.A.) Engines
If you own a Safran ARRIUS 2B2 helicopter engine, listen up! The FAA wants you to run regular tests to prevent engine flameouts caused by clogged fuel injectors and update your engine’s software. Some engines might need injector replacements too, so get ready to keep your flights safe and smooth without breaking the bank.
Next: 2025-03095 — Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters
If you fly an Airbus Helicopters Deutschland MBB-BK 117 C-2 or D-2, listen up! The FAA wants you to check some key parts for wear, report what you find, and fix any problems fast. This keeps your helicopter safe and stops worn parts from causing trouble, with rules kicking in soon and some parts now off-limits unless they meet strict standards.