FlyerTalk Forums - View Single Post - BA 787 Dreamliner pre-delivery discussion thread
Old Apr 20, 2013 | 2:01 am
  #350  
BOH
All eyes on you!
20 Years on Site
 
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: UK
Programs: IC Hotels Diamond Elite, BA Nothing
Posts: 8,905
Originally Posted by jasensteve
Why would anyone fly this plane knowing that there is an in built fault in it ??
Thats an interesting question. It depends on when the in-built fault happens, is there a threat to the safety of the aircraft? Clearly BCAG cannot actually get to the root cause of why this problem happens so they have gone for an interim "fix" that categorically ensures that when it does happen, safety is not compromised.

As an aircraft engineer I struggle with this concept but OTOH I can see the logic in what Boeing have done. In a nutshell, they don't 100% know why this happens but:

a) they have been able to significantly reduce the likelihood of it happening (improved adjacent cell separation etc)
b) If it does happen, any repeat of what happened to the ANA and JAL planes will be totally contained (improved enclosure) and any fumes immediately discharged out of the aircraft (vent tube through the fuselage).

So is it an ideal, proper engineered solution to eliminate the cause.....NO
Has the "fix" reduced the risk of the effect to acceptable aviation safety levels.....YES

Would I fly on one now......YES
BOH is online now