EASA SIB SAFO24006
Potential for Jammed or Restricted Rudder on Boeing Model 737 Series Airplanes Equipped with Optional Collins Aerospace SVO-730 Rudder Rollout Guidance Actuators (RRGA).
Summary
The Safety Alert for Operators SAFO 24006 notifies operators of Boeing 737 series airplanes, including the 737-600/-700/-800/-900/-900ER (737NG) and 737-8/-8200/-9 (737 MAX) models, equipped with optional Collins Aerospace SVO-730 Rudder Rollout Guidance Actuators (RRGA) about the potential for jammed or restricted rudder movement. This condition may occur due to moisture freezing inside the actuator, which can limit rudder control during flight or landing rollout. The alert provides important safety information and recommended procedures to address this issue.
What Changed
SAFO 24006 introduces awareness of a newly identified safety concern involving the Collins Aerospace SVO-730 RRGA on Boeing 737NG and 737 MAX airplanes. It highlights the risk of rudder restriction caused by moisture freezing inside the actuator and provides guidance on recognizing and responding to this condition. The document also recommends operational procedures including the use of Boeing's Multi-Operator Message and Operations Manual Bulletin for flightcrew guidance.
Why It Matters
This alert is critical for aviation professionals because a jammed or restricted rudder can significantly affect aircraft controllability during critical phases such as landing rollout. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must understand the risk to ensure proper training, checklist usage, and operational procedures are in place to mitigate potential safety hazards. Early identification and correct response to rudder restrictions can prevent accidents and maintain safe flight operations.
What To Do
Operators should review SAFO 24006 and Boeing’s Multi-Operator Message 24-0142-02B, and ensure flightcrews are trained on the Jammed or Restricted Flight Controls Non-Normal Checklist. Flightcrews should be instructed to verify rudder servo functionality using dual autopilot ILS approaches when applicable and to use differential braking if rudder restriction occurs on the ground. Questions can be directed to the FAA Aircraft Evaluation Division via the provided contact email.