FAA investigates counterfeit titanium used in some Boeing and Airbus jets
What specific types of aircraft components are made using the titanium in question?
The specific types of aircraft components made using the titanium in question include landing gears, blades, and turbine discs for aircraft. These components are crucial for the safe operation of the aircraft, and the investigation into falsified documents related to the titanium's authenticity has raised concerns about the short- and long-term safety implications for planes equipped with these parts.
How is the Federal Aviation Administration planning to assess the scope and safety implications of the falsified titanium documents?
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating the scope of the problem and trying to determine the short-and long-term safety implications to planes that were equipped with the falsified titanium parts1. They are likely to assess the situation by examining the affected aircraft, analyzing the corrosion found in the material, and working with Spirit AeroSystems and the involved manufacturers, Boeing and Airbus. The FAA may also evaluate the potential risks and impact on the aircraft's structural integrity and performance, as well as develop a plan to address and mitigate any safety concerns that may arise from the use of these counterfeit materials.
What were the initial findings that triggered the investigation into the titanium used in Boeing and Airbus jets?
The initial findings that triggered the investigation into the titanium used in Boeing and Airbus jets were falsified documents used to verify the authenticity of the titanium. These documents were investigated by both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Spirit AeroSystems, which supplies fuselages for Boeing and wings for Airbus. The investigation began after a parts supplier found small holes in the material, which were caused by corrosion. This raised concerns about the safety of the aircraft that were equipped with parts made from this potentially counterfeit titanium.