Leaking faucets on board Boeing 787s can pose a safety hazard to aircraft, as water can seep into aircraft electronics during flight.
The situation worries the American authorities.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposed repetitive inspections on Friday. If leaks were discovered, the defective parts would have to be replaced. The action comes on the heels of reports that water from aircraft bathrooms was ending up under the cabin floor and in electronics compartments.
According to the FAA, the leaks could damage critical equipment and “loss of safe flight and landing conditions.”
The agency said an airline discovered that a plane’s cockpit carpet was soaked. While checking her entire fleet of 787s, she discovered that several planes had leaky valves. The FAA did not reveal the identity of the company.
Boeing warned airlines in November of the problem, which was caused by a faulty gasket. The company said it was a slow leak, about eight ounces of water per hour (226 grams per hour). According to her, the leak would be limited to a certain number of devices, but the FAA orders the inspection of all the planes.
The FAA described these additional inspections as a temporary measure while waiting for the manufacturer to revise the design of the offending valves.
A Boeing spokesperson says the new plans are ready. The company is working with its supplier and customers to determine when the new parts can be installed in the devices.
Jamco, a Japanese aircraft parts manufacturer, says on its website that it is the exclusive supplier of bathroom parts for all Boeing twin-aisle 787s. interview.
An FAA proposal becomes an order after 45 days.