Aircraft
New Quality Problem Further Delays Boeing 787 Deliveries
Boeing engineers found gaps between two sections of the 787’s forward pressure bulkhead, requiring new inspections and repairs.
Boeing has struggled to deliver 787s this year due to ongoing inspections and rework related to skin flatness deficiencies and, most recently, gaps between parts of the forward pressure bulkhead. (Photo: Boeing)
Boeing has struggled to deliver 787s this year due to ongoing inspections and rework related to skin flatness deficiencies and, most recently, gaps between parts of the forward pressure bulkhead. (Photo: Boeing)

Boeing has found further production problems involving the 787 as it continues consultations with the FAA over documentation and process validation on the widebody, the company said Tuesday. The latest issue, discovered as part of ongoing inspections related to out-of-specification skin flatness and gaps between the fuselage sections, involves the forward pressure bulkhead. During the inspections, engineers found small gaps between two sections of the bulkhead and reported the problem to the FAA. Rework will involve removal and replacement of the component, confirmed a Boeing spokesperson. Whether or not airplanes already in service will need to undergo similar rework remains undetermined, added the spokesperson.