The US Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) says that it will issue an airworthiness directive (AD) today calling for 737NG operators to start periodic inspections of the thrust reverser assemblies. The move follows reports of damage to the attachment fittings for thrust reverser actuators of aircraft in service. The damage is caused when bushings in the actuator attach fitting wear out due to friction during the normal course of operations which in turn could lead to actuator attach fitting failure, loss of the thrust reverser auto re-stow function, and consequent loss of control of the aircraft. Loss of the thrust reverser auto re-stow function removes one of the three primary levels of protection against an uncommanded thrust reverser deployment.
So this AD means operators will have to carry out an inspection of hydraulic actuator ends within 7,500 flight hours of the issue time and then after that all aircraft must have a detailed inspection of thrust reverser mechanisms every 7,500 flight hours.
The FAA says the AD will apply to 737-600/700/700C/800/900 and 900ER aircraft of which there are 1,070 currently registered in the USA.
Meanwhile, Airbus wants to start delivering the A320neo six months earlier than originally planned to give the aircraft a further edge over rivals. Estimated fuel increases over the next decade are also leading Airbus to strongly consider the A350-1000 option on a scale in the region of 380 passengers which would put the type in direct competition with the 777-300ER.