Federal aviation agency to convene expert committee to review Boeing 787 guidelines

The Federal Aviation Administration said on Friday it would convene a committee of experts to review guidance Boeing Co. plans to provide to 787 Dreamliner operators to inspect cockpit switches. LATAM Airlines 787 dives in mid-air, injuring more than 50 people.

Aviation industry publication Airstream reported Wednesday that the movement of cockpit seats was the focus of the investigation into Monday’s flight.

Boeing said earlier Friday it had taken the precaution of reminding operators of a 2017 service bulletin detailing instructions for inspecting and maintaining cockpit seat switches.

“We recommend that operators conduct inspections during their next maintenance,” Boeing said.

But the FAA said it was convening a Corrective Action Review Board (CARB) to review Boeing’s proposed multi-operator message (MOM) in response to LATAM Flight 800 before it is released.

Boeing did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the status of its MOM.

The FAA said the process will include reviewing the 2017 service bulletin related to the pilot seat switch and “will provide feedback to Boeing prior to issuance. The agency will continue to monitor developments closely.”