Atlas and Cathay Commence Boeing 747 Inspections Following Lightning Protection Concerns
Two major operators of Boeing 747 aircraft, Atlas Air and Cathay Cargo, have initiated inspections on their freighter planes after concerns surfaced regarding the early deterioration of lightning protection systems. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an airworthiness directive earlier this month, mandating inspections for all US-registered 747 operators. Boeing also issued a multi-operator message on November 13, urging compliance with the inspections.
Atlas Air, with 56 747s operated through Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings and its affiliates, has proactively started the inspection work. A spokesperson affirmed the company’s awareness of the FAA’s requirement, stating that inspections on fuel-tank lightning-protection features have already been conducted on several 747 aircraft. They anticipate completing inspections for the entire 747 fleet without causing disruptions to operations.
Cathay Cargo, operating a fleet of 20 freighters, including six 747-400ERFs and 14 747-8Fs, has also commenced the checks. The FAA directive allows freighter operators 120 days to comply, while passenger 747 operators have 90 days.
Concerns have been raised among freight forwarders about potential disruptions caused by inspections and corrective work. Some sources suggest each aircraft might be out of service for four to five days, while Boeing estimates the process to take two or three days. Boeing expressed support for the FAA’s directive and emphasized ongoing communication with the FAA and customers on the matter.”
