EASA AD US-2025-06-12
Auto Flight - Autopilot Flight Director Computer Operational Program Software - Installation / Software Configuration Check
Summary
The document titled "Auto Flight - Autopilot Flight Director Computer Operational Program Software - Installation / Software Configuration Check" is a final rule airworthiness directive issued by the FAA affecting certain Boeing 777-200, -200LR, -300, -300ER, and 777F series airplanes. It addresses a safety issue related to misleading flight director guidance during instrument landing system approaches caused by a glideslope beam anomaly. The directive mandates installation of new autopilot flight director computer operational program software and a software configuration check.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a requirement for operators of specified Boeing 777 models to install updated autopilot flight director computer software and perform a software configuration check. It responds to a reported anomaly that caused higher-than-expected descent rates during ILS approaches. The directive replaces no previous ADs and is issued as a new safety measure.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a potentially hazardous condition that could lead to late touchdowns, runway excursions, or controlled flight into terrain. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to maintain safe flight operations and avoid incidents related to autopilot and flight director system errors. Compliance also ensures adherence to FAA safety regulations and avoids regulatory penalties.
What To Do
Affected operators must comply by installing the new autopilot flight director computer operational program software and conducting the required software configuration check as specified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777-22A0046 RB dated October 25, 2022. The compliance deadline is May 2, 2025, the effective date of this airworthiness directive. Operators should coordinate with Boeing and FAA resources for the necessary service information and approvals for alternative methods of compliance if needed.