EASA SIB SAIB-2025-09
Instrument Panel - Potential Installation of Lockwire on Switch Guards that may Restrict Access to Passenger Oxygen and Ram Air Turbine (RAT) Switches
Summary
The Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin SAIB 2025-09 is an FAA informational bulletin addressing the potential installation of lockwire on switch guards that may restrict access to passenger oxygen and Ram Air Turbine (RAT) switches on Boeing 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 series airplanes. It highlights a maintenance manual discrepancy that could lead to improper installation of lockwire instead of the correct breakaway wire on these switch guards. The bulletin provides recommendations to inspect and correct any improper installations to ensure emergency switch accessibility.
What Changed
SAIB 2025-09 clarifies that the Boeing 787 Airplane Maintenance Manual initially misidentified the required wire as a lockwire when the correct part is a breakaway wire, P/N MS20995CY15. Boeing revised the manual in October 2023 to remove lockwire installation steps. The bulletin informs operators of this issue and recommends inspecting and replacing any lockwire with the proper breakaway wire to maintain switch functionality.
Why It Matters
This bulletin matters because improper installation of a lockwire on passenger oxygen and RAT switch guards can prevent manual deployment of critical emergency systems, potentially compromising safety during emergencies. Operators, maintenance personnel, and compliance teams must ensure the correct wire type is installed to avoid restricted access and inadvertent switch actuation. Addressing this issue proactively helps maintain regulatory compliance and operational safety.
What To Do
Operators of Boeing 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes should inspect the passenger oxygen and RAT switch guards as soon as possible to determine if a lockwire or breakaway wire is installed. If a lockwire is found, it must be cut and removed, and the correct copper breakaway wire P/N MS20995CY15 should be installed if operator policy requires it. No mandatory compliance deadline is specified, but action is recommended at the earliest opportunity.