But that is the frustrating thing. Thus far, no one is privy to Boeing's "intentions" with the new technology.
It strikes me that is the basis of discussion at this point. Muddying "Emergency" (back up) duty with normal ops is the challenge, one apparently not met.
The mitigating conditions speak of pretty aggressive outcomes, fire, smoke, collateral damage to other systems, etc. For an Authority, FAA, JTSB, to allow for such outcomes in an emergency is one thing, but an expectation of such dangerous behavior becoming a "normal" expectation, (non emergency, non "back-up"), cannot possibly be the purpose of what essentially could be interpreted as a "waiver" for other than "abnormal" ops.
Could it?
So, here is the predicted outcome: Airworthiness is the call of the FAA, so if not met, the responsibility can be laid at the Feet of FAA, letting Boeing off the hook from some pretty severe sanctions. But, the FAA has no Money, so Boeing will pick up the tab for "Continued Airworthiness".
That is the way it is set up, grousing about it is useless. I hope it happens quickly and safely.
Last edited by Lyman; 1st Feb 2013 at 18:43.