"Yesterday's action incorporates several recent recommendations Boeing sent out to airlines operating 747s. Under Boeing's voluntary program, 250 aircraft have been inspected "with no significant problems found," said Boeing spokeswoman Kirsti Dunn.
Although the proposed rule requires only a one-time inspection, McSweeny said the agency plans to eventually require repeat inspections of the center fuel tank components. Currently, the inside of the tank is not part of aircraft-maintenance programs.
"We do not believe one time is enough," McSweeny said of the inspections.
The rules proposed yesterday would also require that a flame arrester -- a series of screens that could snuff out a spark -- be installed on a pipe leading to the scavenge pump, which removes residual fuel, in the center tank. McSweeny said the FAA believes it's possible for components of the pump to separate and cause a spark.
The FAA also is preparing to issue directives that would require airlines to separate fuel-measuring system wires outside the tank from other high-voltage wires. "We are working on a final action," McSweeny said. ....
I tend to discount conspiracy theories, but a couple of years ago I sat in on a meeting regarding TWA 800. One gentleman stood up and said, "I am a retired 747 captain, and there are 34 additional retired and active 747 captains in this room. Each of us are united in our belief that an exploding center fuel tank did not bring down TWA 800.