Boeing 787 Pilots: FAA Demands Crack Checks on Engines Now
Published Date: 4/7/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants all Boeing 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 planes to get regular checks for cracks on a key engine part called the thrust reverser V-blade. These inspections will help keep flights safe by catching problems early. Airlines need to comment by May 22, 2026, and be ready for ongoing inspections that might cost some time and money but keep everyone flying safely.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Boeing 787 thrust-reverser inspections
The FAA proposes required repetitive inspections of the thrust reverser outer V-blade (OVB) and inner radius on all Boeing Model 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes to find cracks and require on-condition actions (HFEC inspection at crack location, restoring dry film lubricant, or replacing a thrust reverser half) as specified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB780049-00 RB, Issue 001, dated August 12, 2025. The proposal would affect 194 U.S.-registered airplanes and estimates up to 20 work-hours (20 x $85 = $1,700) per airplane per inspection cycle, totaling up to $329,800 for U.S. operators per inspection cycle; on-condition costs shown include HFEC $85, lubricant inspection up to $255, lubricant restoration $595, and TR replacement labor up to $8,500 (parts cost for replacement not estimated).
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