FAA Proposes $3.1 Million in Fines Against Boeing

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FAA Proposes $3.1 Million in Fines Against Boeing  The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed civil penalties totaling $3,139,319 against The Boeing Company for multiple safety violations tied to its 737 production line. The fines stem from issues that occurred between September 2023 and February 2024, including events connected to the January 5, 2024, 737 MAX door plug blowout and interference with FAA safety oversight. Quality System Failures The FAA said it found “hundreds of quality system violations” at Boeing’s 737 factory in Renton, Washington, and at Spirit AeroSystems’ 737 facility in Wichita, Kansas. According to the agency, Boeing failed to comply with its mandated quality control system and even presented two aircraft as airworthy when they were not in conformity with FAA standards. “These lapses undermine the integrity of the aviation safety system,” the FAA said, noting that it exercised its maximum statutory civil penalty authority in the case. Pres...
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FAA Issued Safety Alert on Lithium Battery Risks in Aircraft Cabins


FAA Issued Safety Alert on Lithium Battery Risks in Aircraft Cabins

Washington, D.C., – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a new Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO 25002) warning airlines about the growing risks posed by lithium batteries carried by passengers and crewmembers. The alert highlights the dangers of thermal runaway events and urges operators to strengthen risk management, firefighting procedures, and passenger education.

Lithium batteries, found in portable electronic devices (PEDs), power banks, and chargers, are essential for modern travel but have also become a leading cause of in-flight fire incidents. FAA data shows a steady rise in reported cases where lithium batteries overheated, smoked, or ignited, with many events occurring in carry-on baggage or overhead bins—locations that can delay detection and firefighting.

Thermal Runaway Risks

The FAA stresses that traditional firefighting methods are not enough to stop a lithium battery in thermal runaway. While Halon extinguishers can suppress flames temporarily, they cannot halt the internal reaction. The only effective response is the rapid application of large amounts of water to cool the device until all battery cells have discharged their energy. Without this, the event can escalate into a self-sustaining fire, increasing danger to passengers and crew.

FAA Recommendations for Operators

The SAFO directs airlines to review their safety risk management systems under 14 CFR Part 5 and ensure lithium battery hazards are fully assessed. Recommended actions include:

  • Crew Training: Ensure flight attendants recognize the early signs of thermal runaway (smoke versus flame) and respond appropriately.
  • Onboard Equipment: Verify that aircraft fire extinguishers, water sources, and fire containment tools are sufficient to combat lithium battery fires.
  • Safety Procedures: Develop strategies to reduce passenger and crew exposure to smoke during incidents.
  • Passenger Messaging: Strengthen communication through websites, announcements, and safety videos to explain lithium battery risks, proper handling, and the importance of reporting overheating devices immediately.

Passengers are advised to carry spare lithium batteries in protective cases, avoid crushing or damaging them, and prevent short-circuiting by taping terminals or storing them in plastic bags.

Protecting Aircraft and Passengers

The FAA notes that lithium battery fires can involve not only personal devices but also other onboard items or aircraft components located nearby. Early detection and quick action remain critical to preventing escalation. The agency is calling on operators’ Directors of Safety, Operations, and Training to integrate these updated recommendations into their policies and training programs.

What’s Next

With lithium batteries powering nearly every passenger device, the FAA is urging airlines to keep passenger safety at the forefront by updating procedures and ensuring crew preparedness. Enhanced training, stronger messaging, and rapid-response firefighting techniques will be key to reducing risks in the cabin.

Sources

  • FAA Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO 25002), Managing the Risks of Lithium Batteries Carried by Passengers and Crewmembers, August 25, 2025.
  • FAA Hazardous Materials Safety Resources: Lithium Battery Incidents.
  • FAA Advisory Circulars: AC 120-92, AC 120-80.


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