Boeing 737s Get FAA Safety Homework on Engine Parts
Published Date: 3/4/2025
Rule
Summary
If you fly or work with certain Boeing 737 models, listen up! The FAA found some engine parts that could break and cause serious damage, so they’re requiring inspections and fixes by April 8, 2025. This means checking parts, adding safety brackets, or swapping out parts to keep everyone safe and sound—plus updating maintenance plans. It’s a smart move to avoid costly repairs and keep flights smooth and secure.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Inspect and Fix Exhaust Nozzles
If you operate affected Boeing 737-600/700/700C/800/900/900ER airplanes, you must inspect or check maintenance records for affected primary exhaust nozzle part numbers and, for affected nozzles, install bridge brackets or install a serviceable exhaust nozzle per Boeing bulletin. The AD is effective April 8, 2025; the FAA estimates an inspection costs $170 per airplane and installation of bridge brackets or a replacement nozzle can cost up to $65,155 per airplane.
Revise Maintenance Programs (AWLs)
You must revise your maintenance or inspection program to incorporate new Airworthiness Limitations (AWLs) for fan-blade-out and related nacelle issues, including AWL Nos. 2, 3, and 4. The FAA estimates revising an operator's program takes about 90 work-hours, with an average cost of $7,650 per operator.
Deadlines to Keep Aircraft Operating
Airplanes that have not incorporated the required structural and AWL modifications cannot operate past July 31, 2028 for System AWL Nos. 2 and 3 unless upgraded to compliant hardware, and cannot operate past December 31, 2029 for System AWL No. 4. Those dates are the regulatory cutoffs for continued operation without the mandated upgrades.
Credit for Prior Compliance
If you completed the required actions before the AD's effective date using Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737-78-1106 RB dated September 1, 2023, you get credit and do not need to repeat those actions after April 8, 2025. The AD explicitly provides credit for prior work done under that earlier bulletin.
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Previous: 2025-03395, Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
The FAA is making new safety rules for Boeing 737 airplanes to fix problems caused by engine fan parts falling off. Owners must replace certain fasteners, modify parts, or swap in safer fan cowls by April 8, 2025, and update their maintenance plans. These changes keep flights safer and might cost some money but prevent serious emergencies.
Next: 2025-03401, Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
If you fly or work with Boeing 737 models from the 600 to 900ER series, listen up! The FAA found some engine parts that could come loose and cause serious problems, so they’re requiring fixes like replacing certain fasteners and spacers, plus updating maintenance checks. These changes kick in April 8, 2025, and help keep flights safe without breaking the bank.