In a move to ensure passenger safety, India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued an advisory to all airlines operating Boeing 737 aircraft. This comes in response to a recent investigation by the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) that revealed potential safety risks associated with the aircraft’s rudder control system.
The NTSB report highlighted concerns surrounding certain rudder components manufactured by Collins Aerospace. These components, according to the investigation, could potentially jam or malfunction, posing a serious threat to aircraft safety. As an immediate response, the DGCA has issued an interim advisory, directing airlines to implement measures aimed at mitigating these potential risks.
The advisory instructs airlines to inform their crew about the potential for the rudder control system to jam during flight or landing. This could occur due to moisture buildup and freezing within the actuator. Crew members have been advised to familiarize themselves with the relevant sections of the flight manual, particularly the Quick Reference Handbook.
Furthermore, the DGCA has mandated that airlines refrain from performing Category III B landings, a precision landing technique requiring specific visibility and landing conditions. The advisory also mandates that airlines incorporate specific training exercises into their crew training programs, simulating scenarios involving a jammed or restricted rudder control system. These exercises will be included in both Recurrent Training and IR/PPC programs, ensuring pilots are adequately prepared to handle such situations effectively.
The DGCA has stated that these interim measures are aimed at enhancing safety and ensuring flight crews are equipped to handle potential rudder control issues. The regulator is working closely with Boeing to develop a comprehensive, long-term strategy for addressing the identified concerns. The DGCA’s action highlights its commitment to ensuring the safety of passengers and air travel in India.
