FAA Mandates Fixes for Boeing 747 Oxygen Hose Issues
Published Date: 4/22/2026
Rule
Summary
The FAA is rolling out a new safety rule for Boeing 747-400 planes with certain upgrades after finding a busted oxygen hose and damaged wiring. Airlines must inspect and fix any worn hoses or wiring by May 7, 2026, to keep flights safe. This might cost some time and money but keeps crews and passengers protected.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Immediate inspection and repair mandate
Airlines and operators of Boeing 747-400 freighters converted under certain STCs must do a detailed inspection before further flight, effective May 7, 2026. The inspection follows Israel Aerospace Industries Service Bulletin 366-35-157 (January 2026) to check for chafing and arcing, ensure a minimum clearance of 2 inches between the crew oxygen bottle flexible hose and adjacent wiring, and perform any required repairs.
Repairs required if damage or insufficient clearance
If inspections find chafing, arcing damage, or a clearance less than 2 inches, operators must repair the airplane before further flight using an FAA-, CAAI-, or CAAI-designee-approved method. The FAA states it has received no definitive data to estimate the cost of those repairs.
Estimated inspection cost: $85 per airplane
The FAA estimates this AD affects 5 U.S.-registered airplanes. The required inspection is estimated at 1 work-hour at $85 per airplane (parts cost $0), for a total estimated cost on U.S. operators of $425.
Special flight permits allowed to reach repair location
A special flight permit may be issued under 14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199 to operate an airplane to a location where corrective actions can be done, provided there are no signs of wear or chafing on the oxygen tubes or electrical wires or harnesses.
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