FAA Orders Urgent Landing Gear Inspections for Boeing 767 Fleet

In a significant move, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an Airworthiness Directive (AD) that could affect as many as 574 Boeing 767 aircraft.

This directive calls for landing gear inspections following a serious incident during maintenance that has raised safety concerns.

On January 8, 2025, the FAA warned that US-registered Boeing 767-200, 767-300, and 767-300 Freighter aircraft may require thorough inspections of their main landing gear (MLG). This action comes after a recent maintenance mishap in which a 767’s main landing gear collapsed.

The incident occurred due to improper grinding techniques during maintenance, with a grinder being used beyond its specified input parameters. This malfunction caused excessive heat buildup, damaging the MLG’s outer cylinder, which plays a vital role in the landing gear’s structural integrity.

Following the investigation, the FAA concluded that this heat exposure could compromise the landing gear’s strength, potentially leading to safety hazards during flight operations. As a result, the FAA’s directive mandates that affected aircraft undergo detailed inspections to ensure the landing gear remains in optimal working condition.

The directive specifically targets a significant number of Boeing 767s, highlighting the importance of maintaining the integrity of this crucial component. Airlines operating the affected fleet will need to conduct these inspections to ensure continued safety and compliance with FAA regulations.

The FAA’s action underscores the critical need for meticulous maintenance and inspection practices in aviation, especially when it comes to key structural components like landing gear.