The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued urgent safety recommendations to Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) following an incident in February where the rudder pedals on a United Airlines Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft were stuck during landing at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey.
The rudder controls the side-to-side movement of the aircraft, known as yaw motion. The NTSB is currently investigating the incident and has found that the rudder control component was significantly compromised due to incorrect assembly during production by Collins Aerospace.
In response to the incident, pilots are instructed in Boeing's 737 flight manual to overpower the jammed or restricted rudder system using maximum force, including a combined effort of both pilots. However, NTSB investigators have expressed concern that applying maximum force during landing could result in an undesired rudder deflection that could lead to loss of control or departure from the runway.
As a result, the agency has recommended that Boeing determine appropriate flight crew responses besides applying maximum pedal force for such situations in flight or during landing. The investigation is ongoing, and the safety of passengers and crew remains a top priority for both Boeing and the FAA.
This incident highlights the importance of thorough safety protocols and training for pilots to handle emergency situations effectively. As the investigation continues, it is crucial for all parties involved to take the necessary steps to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.