NTSB Urges Action on Boeing 737 MAX Engine Smoke Risk After Bird Strikes

The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued an urgent safety recommendation for Boeing (NYSE:BA) 737 MAX aircraft equipped with CFM International LEAP-1B engines, warning of the potential for smoke to enter the cockpit or cabin following bird strikes. The concern centers on the activation of the Load Reduction Device (LRD) during critical phases like takeoff or landing, which may cause smoke intrusion.

The advisory follows two 2023 incidents involving Southwest Airlines (NYSE:LUV) 737 MAX jets that suffered bird strikes. In one case, smoke filled the cockpit; in another, smoke entered the passenger cabin. In both events, the LRD was activated, raising alarms over potential flight safety risks.

The NTSB also recommended assessing the risk in similar LEAP-1A and LEAP-1C engines used in Airbus A320neo and COMAC C919 jets. CFM International, the world’s largest jet engine maker, is jointly owned by GE Aerospace and Safran (EPA:SAF).

Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have acknowledged the issue. Boeing confirmed a software update is in development with CFM, which the NTSB wants mandated across all affected aircraft. The FAA stated it would require implementation once a permanent fix is available.

Southwest Airlines has already implemented mitigation protocols and briefed its flight crews on the incidents. The FAA is also evaluating procedural changes to reduce airflow to engines during takeoff as a precautionary measure.

The NTSB has asked European and Chinese aviation regulators to review similar risks with other LEAP engines. GE, Airbus, and COMAC have not yet responded.

These developments come amid growing scrutiny of 737 MAX safety, as regulators and airlines move to enhance training and onboard systems to mitigate in-flight hazards like engine-induced smoke.