Boeing 787s Get Transponder Upgrades to Stay Connected
Published Date: 3/12/2026
Rule
Summary
The FAA is requiring certain Boeing 787 airplanes to get new hardware for their transponders because the old ones can lose signal in some situations. This fix must be done by April 16, 2026, to keep flights safe and avoid costly issues. If you own or operate these planes, it’s time to upgrade those parts and keep the skies clear!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory ISSPU hardware replacement
If you own or operate certain Boeing 787-8, 787-9, or 787-10 airplanes identified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB340065-00 RB (Issue 001, dated February 11, 2025), you must replace the left and right integrated surveillance system processor units (ISSPUs) P/Ns 822-2120-101 and 822-2120-102 with P/N 822-2120-113 and perform the installation test (repeating the test until successful). This AD is effective April 16, 2026, and compliance times are the times specified in the Boeing Requirements Bulletin as modified by the AD.
Estimated compliance cost per airplane
The FAA estimates the required ISSPU replacement will cost $53,001 per airplane (4 work-hours × $85/hour = $340 labor plus $52,661 parts). The FAA estimates this AD affects 150 U.S.-registered airplanes for a total cost on U.S. operators of $7,950,150.
Parts availability and compliance flexibility
Collins Aerospace confirmed it will increase availability of ISSPU P/N 822-2120-113 so operators can meet the AD compliance time. The FAA also will consider requests to approve an extension of the compliance time (an alternative method of compliance) under paragraph (i) of the AD if operators submit sufficient data showing the new time provides an acceptable level of safety.
Software update not required for compliance
The Boeing service bulletin includes a software update procedure (software P/N COL49-0010-0091), but the AD confirms that installing that software is not a required-for-compliance step. Operators may install later approved versions of the software without obtaining an alternative method of compliance (AMOC).
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Key Dates
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