FAA announces formal approval of Boeing Dreamliner battery changes

Regulators on Friday approved a revamped battery system for Boeing Co’s 787 Dreamliner, a crucial step in returning the high-tech jet to service after more than three months of grounding prompted by lithium-ion batteries that burned on the planes.

The Federal Aviation Administration said it approved a package of detailed design changes, a move that allows Boeing to issue a service bulletin and make repairs to the fleet of 50 planes owned by eight airlines around the world.

“Next week, the FAA will issue instructions to operators for making changes to the aircraft and will publish in the Federal Register the final directive that will allow the 787 to return to service with the battery system modifications. The directive will take effect upon publication,” the agency said.

“The FAA will require airlines that operate the 787 to install containment and venting systems for the main and auxiliary system batteries, and to replace the batteries and their chargers with modified components.”

Reporting by Alwyn Scott; Editing by Gerald E. McCormick). Copyright (2013) Thomson Reuters. Click for restrictions.