Boeing LEAP-1B Engine LRD update
The Boeing LEAP-1B engine's Load Reduction Device (LRD) issue involves smoke entering the cockpit or cabin after activation during events like bird strikes or fan failures. This safety feature on CFM LEAP-1B engines, used exclusively on 737 MAX aircraft, disconnects the damaged fan to reduce vibration but can allow hot oil fumes into the bleed air system.
Current Status: Boeing and CFM International are on track to finalize a software update by early April 2026, which will automatically close the pressure regulating shutoff valve (PRSOV) upon LRD activation to minimize smoke intrusion. The NTSB's February 2026 report confirms progress on this fix, first planned in late 2024, though FAA Part 25 certification for the full aircraft integration and fleet rollout timelines remain uncertain.
5G installations near Australian airports - AusALPA submission.
February 2026, AusALPA provided a submission to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) in response to its consultation on additional assurance measures for the coexistence of Wireless Broadband (WBB), including 5G, and aircraft Radio Altimeters (RA). AusALPA reiterated that potential interference with Radio Altimeters (RAs) is a “Safety of Life” issue with direct implications for aircraft landing and take-off performance, operational continuity, and public safety. While supporting the consolidated submission led by the Australian Airports Association (AAA), AusALPA expressed strong concern about ACMA’s proposal to rely on voluntary mitigation measures and called for existing mandatory mitigations to remain in place until updated RTCA Minimum Operational Performance Standards (MOPS) are published and aircraft RAs are retrofitted as required.
AusALPA also recommended limiting power levels from 5G transmission installations, extending protections beyond major airports to include emergency and medical operations, and applying mitigation measures to all WBB installations operating above 3700 MHz. We emphasised that the absence of reported interference does not equate to proof of safety, and that a precautionary, risk-based approach must be maintained to safeguard aviation operations.
IFALPA ADO summary:
IFALPA ADO Committee Position Papers currently in the draft stage.
- SBAS Autoland and Pilot Roles
- PAPI System Calibration and Safety Papers
- Primary Flight Displays for RNP Approaches, IFALPA is developing a position paper advocating for an updated or modernised Primary Flight Display (PFD) for RNP Approaches, supporting designs that integrate approach tolerance information and system integrity monitoring.
- Updates to several position papers, including 15POS14 on “Sustainable Aviation” and 16POS03 on “Engine-out Taxi Procedures”, “Cold Weather Altimetry” and “Circling Approaches” have been made.
- Emerging Technologies and Safety Concerns • IFALPA supports the development of onboard systems for detecting Clear Air Turbulence (CAT).
- Escalation of Briefing Leaflet 25ADOBL02 to a Safety Bulletin. acknowledging that the threat of manipulated GPS signals remains significant.
The next IFALPA ADO Meeting is scheduled for March 2026 in Madrid, with the annual meeting planned for Montreal later in the year.