EASA AD US-2022-06-16: Superseded by FAA AD 2023-12-14

What to do

Operators must revise the airplane flight manual to include the specified operating procedures addressing 5G C-Band interference as identified by NOTAMs. These changes are effective immediately as of March 16, 2022. Operators should ensure flight crews are trained on the updated procedures and comply with the limitations to maintain safe flight operations.

Summary

FAA Airworthiness Directive 2022-06-16 is a final rule addressing all Boeing 747 series airplanes including models 747-100 through 747-400F. It mandates revisions to the airplane flight manual to incorporate specific operating procedures related to takeoff, instrument landing system approaches, non-precision approaches, and go-around maneuvers in the presence of 5G C-Band interference. This directive aims to mitigate risks posed by interference with radio altimeters from wireless broadband operations in the 3.7-3.98 GHz frequency band.

What changed

This new airworthiness directive requires operators of affected Boeing 747 models to revise the limitations and operating procedures sections of their airplane flight manuals. The revisions include procedures to manage the effects of 5G C-Band interference on multiple aircraft systems during critical flight phases. It introduces specific guidance for operations when Notices to Air Missions indicate the presence of 5G interference.

Why it matters

5G C-Band interference can cause erroneous radio altimeter readings, affecting critical systems such as autopilot, autothrottle, flight controls, and warning systems. This interference increases pilot workload and can reduce the ability to maintain safe flight and landing, especially during low altitude operations. Compliance with this directive is essential for maintaining operational safety and regulatory compliance in affected Boeing 747 aircraft.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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