A new report reveals a suspected safety risk in Boeing 777 models: About 300 planes in American Airlines’ fleet are believed to have a potentially fatal defect. In the worst case, this could cause the machine to explode in mid-air.
The list of worrying reports about aircraft manufacturers in crisis is growing: an electrical fault on the airline’s 777 jets was discovered early this year, the Daily Mail reported. This defect could cause the wings’ fuel tanks to catch fire and explode.
When the defect was discovered, it was also noted that 300 other Boeing aircraft were potentially at risk – not only American Airlines, but also United Airlines, as confirmed in a statement from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Electrostatic discharge can lead to disasters
The FAA reported the problem in March and asked Boeing and outside experts to report on it. Whether this happened is unknown, the British newspaper said. The authority had warned Boeing of an “electrostatic discharge” near the fuel tanks at the center wing level. “If the unsafe condition is not corrected, it could result in an ignition source in the fuel tank,” the FAA said, “and subsequent fire or explosion.”
The FAA specifically required the installation of new “electrical wiring” and “grounding” to prevent short circuits or “electrostatic discharge.” The new components required would cost just under $100 per aircraft. A total of $698,000 would be needed to eliminate the deficit.
Boeing sees ‘no problem with flight safety’
“This is not an immediate aviation safety issue,” Boeing tried to reassure regarding the FAA report. “The 777 fleet has been in service for nearly three decades and has safely transported more than 3.9 billion passengers,” the company said in a statement.
Engineer warned of safety flaws on the 777 and 787
Only recently has a Boeing engineer made people sit up with serious accusations. The company ignored repeated dire warnings about safety and quality control in the assembly of the 777 and 787 models.
The most recent fatal incident involving a Boeing aircraft also involved a 777 series aircraft. A Boeing 777-300ER encountered heavy turbulence on Monday evening – dozens of people were injured, some seriously, and one man was even killed. He may have suffered a heart attack when the plane sank and people and objects on board were shaken. In March, a Boeing 777 lost a wheel shortly after takeoff from San Francisco airport.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
