787’s return to skies edges closer

787’s return to skies edges closer
By admin


The US air regulator has approved Boeing's plan for a redesigned 787 battery system following a thorough review of the proposal submitted last month.

But a timeframe for the Dreamliner's return to the skies remains unclear.

While the certification plan's approval by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the "first step" towards the 787's return to service, it will require the aircraft manufacturer to undertake "extensive" testing and analysis to show the troubled aircraft complies with safety regulations.

The improvements will include a redesign of the internal battery components that will minimise the chances of a short circuit.

FAA administrator Michael Huerta said: "Today's announcement starts a testing process which will demonstrate whether the proposed fix will work as designed."

But he stressed its airworthiness directive, issued on January 16, which required the suspension of 787 operations still stands.

"We won't allow the plane to return to service unless we're satisfied that the new design ensures the safety of the aircraft and its passengers," US transportation secretary Ray LaHood said.

Meanwhile, Boeing chairman, president and chief executive Jim McNerney described the approval as a "critical and welcome milestone" towards getting the aircraft back on track.

"Our top priority is the integrity of our products and the safety of the passengers and crews who fly on them," he said. "Our team has been working around the clock to understand the issues and develop a solution based on extensive analysis and testing following the events that occurred in January."

Latest News

  • Aviation

Low-cost Indian carrier SpiceJet continues to burn cash

It’s not just low-cost Australian carriers that are facing hardship. SpiceJet, India’s version of Bonza, recently announced a 72 per cent reduction in its net loss versus last year. But, despite this improvement, the airline has posted losses for six straight years. But it has secured board approval to raise up to INR 30 billion […]

  • Attractions

SAKA Museum recognised in TIME magazine’s World’s Greatest Places 2024

AYANA Resort Bali’s newly-opened cultural and events centre, SAKA Museum has been recognised in TIME magazine’s World’s Greatest Places list for 2024. Part of AYANA Bali’s resort destination, the museum integrates Bali’s rich history with state-of-the-art facilities, making it the centrepiece for the island’s spiritual and cultural heritage. TIME magazine’s inclusion of SAKA Museum in […]

  • Cruise

Silversea taps Barbara Biffi as senior vice president for global sales

Ultra-luxury and expedition cruise travel brand, Silverseas, has announced Barbara Biffi as its new senior vice president of global sales. Biffi joined the company in 2007, holding numerous positions and gaining a deep understanding of the brand, the preferences of its guests and its strategic goals, the company said. An Italian national with a wealth […]

  • Technology
  • Travel Agents

Amadeus welcomes FCM Travel as new reseller partner of Cytric Easy

Cytric Easy, the travel management tool embedded in Microsoft Teams, is to be integrated into FCM Travel portfolio. Amadeus and FCM Travel have extended their Cytric distribution agreement to include Cytric Easy. With this new agreement, global travel management company FCM Travel, becomes a reseller of the innovative travel management collaboration solution embedded into Microsoft […]