FAA requires corrosion checks on Boeing 747 antennas

The Federal Aviation Administration is issuing a new airworthiness directive that mandates inspections for corrosion on the high-gain antenna adapter plates of certain Boeing 747 models. This rule applies to older variants including the 747-100, -200, -300, and -400 series, as well as the 747SP and 747SR.

Why it matters: This is a targeted safety measure rather than a broad regulatory change. It addresses a specific mechanical failure point identified through maintenance reports. While the cost per airplane is estimated at $935 for labor and parts, the potential consequence of ignoring it involves significant structural damage or loss of communication systems mid-flight.

Who it affects

• Operators of Boeing 747-100, -100B, -100B SUD, -200B, -200C, -200F, -300, -400, -400D, -400F, 747SP, and 747SR series airplanes.

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This rule was issued by the Federal Aviation Administration under the Transportation Department; you should verify the full text of the directive at regulations.gov before relying on this summary for compliance purposes.

Agency: Transportation Department, Federal Aviation Administration
Source: Federal Register — read the official document