Boeing 787s Swap Faulty Landing Cables for Safer Flights
Published Date: 2/24/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants Boeing 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 planes to swap out some radio altimeter cables because the current ones can give wrong altitude info during landing. This fix will make flying safer by improving the altimeter’s reliability. Airlines need to comment by April 10, 2026, and expect some costs and downtime to get the new cables installed.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Estimated per-airplane and total compliance costs
The FAA estimates the replacement will affect 169 U.S.-registered Boeing 787 airplanes. Estimated cost per airplane is 28 work-hours × $85/hour = $2,380 labor plus $15,170 parts, for a total of $17,550 per airplane. The FAA estimates total cost on U.S. operators at $2,965,950.
Boeing 787s must replace LRRA cables
If you operate Boeing Model 787-8, 787-9, or 787-10 airplanes, the FAA proposes to require replacing the left and right low range radio altimeter (LRRA) transmit and receive coaxial cables with larger gauge Type 0J coaxial cables to address increased non-computed data outputs during approach and landing. The actions reference Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB340062-00 RB, Issue 001, dated December 23, 2024, and the FAA is taking comments on the proposal through April 10, 2026.
Manufacturer warranty may reduce operator costs
The FAA notes that, according to the manufacturer, some or all of the costs to comply with this proposed AD may be covered under warranty, which could reduce the cost impact on affected operators.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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