EASA AD US-2019-16-05: Superseded by FAA AD 2024-15-03

What to do

Operators of Boeing Model 777 airplanes must inspect the Captain's and First Officer's seats to identify part and serial numbers and perform required on-condition actions as specified. Compliance with this directive is mandatory by October 8, 2019. Stakeholders should obtain and review the referenced Boeing and Ipeco service bulletins and coordinate with FAA for any alternative compliance requests.

Summary

FAA Airworthiness Directive 2019-16-05 is a final rule applicable to all Boeing Model 777 airplanes. It addresses uncommanded fore/aft movements of the Captain's and First Officer's seats by requiring identification of seat part and serial numbers and applicable corrective actions. This directive aims to mitigate the risk of flight control obstruction or unintended inputs caused by seat movement during critical flight phases.

What changed

This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory inspections to identify part and serial numbers of the flight deck seats and requires on-condition corrective actions for affected seats. It clarifies terminology by specifying 'uncommanded fore/aft movement' instead of general 'uncommanded movement' and updates the estimated parts cost for horizontal actuator replacement. The directive does not extend applicability to Boeing 747 models, which are covered under a separate NPRM.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent potential loss of airplane control caused by unexpected seat movements during takeoff or landing. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to maintain flight safety and avoid operational disruptions. Accurate identification and timely corrective actions reduce the risk of flight control interference and enhance cockpit safety.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

More for Boeing 777