FAA Proposes Fix for Boeing's Tricky Thrust Reverser Sensor
Published Date: 3/30/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants to make sure Boeing 737 planes keep flying safely by fixing a sensor that might wrongly say a thrust reverser is locked when it’s not. This means airlines will need to do some tests, measurements, and update their maintenance plans to catch any problems early. Comments on this plan are open until May 14, 2026, and these changes could mean some extra work and costs for operators but will keep passengers safer.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Inspections and Maintenance Program Update
If you operate Boeing 737-600/700/700C/800/900/900ER airplanes, this proposed AD would require measurements, tests, operational checks, and a revision to your maintenance or inspection program to add certain certification maintenance requirements. The FAA estimates the inspection and checks cost $1,530 per airplane (18 work-hours × $85/hour) and estimates revising the maintenance program takes 90 work-hours per operator ($7,650).
Possible Part Replacements and Costs
If inspections find problems, operators may have to replace parts: an upper locking hydraulic actuator replacement is estimated at $47,920 per product, a torsion spring replacement at $104, and a proximity sensor target replacement up to $215. The FAA states it cannot predict how many aircraft will need these on-condition replacements.
Prevents False 'Locked' Indications
The proposed rule addresses a sensor/target adjustment issue that could make a thrust reverser show it is 'locked' when it is not, which could lead to an uncommanded in-flight deployment and loss of control. The AD would require checks and program changes to reduce that risk and keep passengers safer.
Terminates Prior Repetitive Test Requirement
For the affected Boeing 737 models, completing the actions required by this proposed AD would terminate the actuator integrity test and corrective actions that were required by AD 2019-18-03 (paragraphs (i), (j), and (k)). This would remove the need to continue those specific repetitive tests once you comply with this new AD.
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