EASA SIB NM-17-17
Boeing 737, 757 and 767 Aeroplanes - B/E Aerospace Chemical Oxygen Generators
Summary
The FAA Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin SAIB: NM-17-17 advises owners and operators of Boeing 737, 757, and 767 airplanes equipped with certain B/E Aerospace chemical oxygen generators about a potential oxygen system failure during emergencies. The bulletin highlights concerns with B/E Aerospace 117080 series oxygen generators, which may have a similar oxidation issue previously identified in the 117042 series installed on Airbus aircraft. This information bulletin is not mandatory but provides important safety guidance.
What Changed
This bulletin introduces awareness of a potential airworthiness concern involving B/E Aerospace 117080 series chemical oxygen generators installed on Boeing 737, 757, and 767 airplanes. It follows previous FAA AD 2016-16-02, which imposed a 10-year life limit on the 117042 series generators. The FAA and B/E Aerospace plan further investigation of 117080 series units between 10 and 15 years old to assess if similar issues exist.
Why It Matters
This matters because failure of chemical oxygen generators during emergencies could prevent oxygen delivery to passengers, posing a safety risk. Operators and maintenance teams need to monitor the age and condition of these oxygen generators to ensure compliance with life limits and maintain emergency system reliability. Early identification and replacement of affected units can prevent in-flight oxygen system malfunctions.
What To Do
Owners and operators should inspect B/E Aerospace chemical oxygen generators with part numbers 117080-02, 117080-03, and 117080-04 to determine their age. They are recommended to contact B/E Aerospace to arrange exchange of units between 10 and 15 years old for testing and evaluation. No mandatory compliance deadline is specified, but proactive inspection and possible replacement are advised.