Federal Register #FAA-2026-3471

FAA Proposed Airworthiness Directive for Boeing 787 Thrust Reverser Inspections and Repairs

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), under the Department of Transportation, is proposing a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Boeing 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 aircraft due to fatigue cracks found on the thrust reverser (TR) outer V-blade (OVB). - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Aircraft Certification Service, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch - OEM Highlight: - The Boeing Company is the primary OEM referenced - Products/Services Requested: - Repetitive inspections of the upper, center, and lower segments of the TR OVB and inner radius for cracks - On-condition actions including: - Restoration of dry film lubricant - Replacement of affected thrust reverser halves - High frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections at crack locations - All actions to be performed in accordance with Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B78781205SB78004900 RB, Issue 001 - Scope and Quantities: - Estimated 194 U.S.-registered Boeing 787 aircraft affected - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Strict compliance with Boeing's technical procedures - Interim action pending a permanent solution from Boeing - Aims to prevent TR structural failure and asymmetric reverse thrust - Place of Performance/Delivery: - FAA Southwest Region Office, Fort Worth, TX - FAA Airworthiness Products Section, Des Moines, WA - National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) referenced for records

Description

The FAA proposes a new airworthiness directive for all Boeing Model 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes due to reports of fatigue cracks on the thrust reverser outer V-blade found during maintenance. The directive would require repetitive inspections of various segments of the outer V-blade and inner radius for cracks, along with applicable on-condition actions such as repairs or replacements. This action aims to prevent structural failure of the thrust reverser that could lead to asymmetric reverse thrust and potential injury. Comments on the proposal are due by May 22, 2026.

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