The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued an emergency warning regarding potential smoke entering the cockpit and cabin of certain jet engines. This warning was prompted by concerns over the CFM International Leap-1B engine, and it also suggests evaluating the LEAP-1A and LEAP-1C engines. These engines are found in Boeing 737s and some Airbus A320neos, according to a recent press release.
This recommendation comes after two incidents involving Southwest Airlines flights where birds struck the engines, causing smoke and fog inside the cabins. In March 2023, birds collided with the engines of a flight leaving Havana, leading to smoke filling the passenger area. Another incident in December 2023 saw birds enter the left engine of a flight departing from New Orleans, which filled the cockpit with what was described by the crew as “thick white smoke,” obscuring visibility of the instruments.
Fortunately, there were no reported injuries from either incident. However, the NTSB expressed concerns that some operators of these aircraft may not fully recognize the potential dangers of smoke-related situations and the necessary mitigation steps.
The FAA has aligned with NTSB’s recommendations, stating that they will require operators to address these concerns by enhancing procedures and crew training. The FAA also noted that training simulators need to accurately reflect responses to engine failures that might trigger load reduction devices.
Engine manufacturers, including CFM International and Boeing, are reportedly working on permanent solutions and software updates to address the issues identified by the NTSB. Boeing has affirmed its support for the NTSB’s recommendations, emphasizing ongoing collaborative efforts with the Air Force to improve system capabilities.
