November 22, 2024 20:08 PM

Boeing's New 787 Dreamliner Battery Design Approved

The Federal Aviation Administration has given Boeing clearance to fix the battery on their 787 Dreamliner fleet, after 50 aircrafts were grounded for the past four months following battery-related fires.

Two Japanese jets experienced internal flames in the battery pack of their Dreamliners on January 16.

Upon that occurrence, the FAA ordered Boeing re-evaluate the design of their battery system.

Boeing has presented the FAA with their new redesign, and next week will equip all 787 aircrafts with the new system.

Spokesperson Marc Birtel told CNN that the planes will be fixed with the help of extra hands from special teams deployed by Boeing. He did not mention when, specifically, the 787s would be back in the air.

In their renovations, Boeing changed particular pieces within the battery that slim down the odds of a short circuit. They also have improved battery cell insulation, and made a new "containment and venting" system to prevent overheating.

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood reiterated that safety was of the utmost concern in considering changes for the 787 Dreamliner battery.

"Safety of the traveling public is our number on priority," he said. "These changes to the 787 battery will ensure the safety of the aircraft and its passengers."

United is currently the only American airline that flies the Boeing 787, but the plane has enjoyed massive popularity in Asia and the Middle East.

Boeing has already finished 20 tests on the new battery technology.

Their reward for the go-ahead on the new design happened mere days before the National Transportation Safety Board will come together for a two-day long investigation of the battery fires.

Join the Discussion
Real Time Analytics