Safety Information BulletinEASA SIB AIR-22-09R1

Autopilot Flight Director System: ALT HOLD Engaged on Takeoff

Published: May 23, 2022

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What to do

Operators of the affected Boeing 777 and 787 models should notify flightcrews about the potential for ALT hold mode engagement on takeoff and incorporate the procedures outlined in Boeing Multi Operator Messages MOM-MOM-22-0118-01B and MOM-MOM-22-0119-01B as soon as possible. Flightcrews should maintain situational awareness of Flight Management Annunciations and follow recommended steps to restore TO/GA pitch guidance if ALT mode is latched on the ground. No mandatory compliance deadline is specified.

Summary

The Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin AIR-22-09R1 is an FAA advisory addressing the potential for the Autopilot Flight Director System (AFDS) altitude hold (ALT) mode to engage erroneously during takeoff on Boeing Model 777-200, -200LR, -300, -300ER, 777F, and Model 787-8, -9, and -10 airplanes. This bulletin informs operators of a known issue where ALT hold mode activation on the ground can lead to improper pitch guidance after liftoff, potentially causing low climb rates or descent warnings. The bulletin provides background, operational details, and references Boeing Multi Operator Messages for corrective procedures.

What changed

This revision of SAIB AIR-22-09 corrects typographical errors in the airplane model references within the Multi Operator Messages. It clarifies the conditions under which the AFDS ALT hold mode may engage on the ground and updates guidance on restoring proper pitch mode. No new airworthiness directives are introduced, and the document remains informational only.

Why it matters

Understanding this issue is critical for flight crews and operators to prevent mismanagement of the AFDS during takeoff, which can lead to unsafe flight profiles such as low climb rates or descent warnings immediately after liftoff. Awareness and proper training on the AFDS behavior ensure safer takeoff operations and reduce the risk of triggering ground proximity warnings. Maintenance and compliance teams benefit from clear procedural guidance to support flightcrew training and operational readiness.

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