EASA AD US-2019-25-17
SUPERSEDED BY FAA AD 2024-16-10
Summary
FAA Airworthiness Directive 2019-25-17 is a final rule addressing Boeing 737 Next Generation series airplanes, specifically models 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER. It requires revising the airplane flight manual to prohibit selection of certain runways equipped with specific software combinations that cause display electronic unit software errors. The directive targets operations at seven specific runways in the U.S., Colombia, and Guyana to prevent display blanking during instrument approaches.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a mandatory revision to the airplane flight manual to restrict the selection of certain runways when the airplane is equipped with display electronic unit software version CDS BP15 and flight management computer software U12 or later. It addresses a software error causing all six primary flight displays to blank on approaches to runways with a 270-degree true heading at specified locations. The directive is an interim measure pending a future software update from the manufacturer.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance teams because the software issue can cause complete loss of primary flight displays during critical phases of flight, potentially compromising safe flight and landing. Compliance ensures continued operational safety and prevents unscheduled diversions or incidents at affected airports. It also highlights the importance of software configuration management and adherence to flight manual limitations.
What To Do
Operators of affected Boeing 737 NG airplanes must revise the Miscellaneous Limitations section of the airplane flight manual within 14 days of the directive's effective date to include the prohibition on selecting the identified runways. They should verify the software versions installed and ensure compliance with the AFM revision. Stakeholders should monitor for forthcoming software updates from Boeing that will provide a permanent fix.
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