asked the Minister for Communications if he is concerned at the findings of the US Federal Aviation Authority in regard to cracks in some Boeing Jets; and if he will report to the House on the results of checks carried out by Aer Lingus on their fleet.
Written Answers. - Aircraft Defects.
13.
Any report of defects found in an aircraft is a matter for concern. Following recent examinations which revealed cracks in stringers and frames of some Boeing 747 aircraft, the US Federal Aviation Authority directed that inspections of all B747s with more than 10,000 flights be carried out to ensure that there were no cracks in these aircraft. Aer Lingus, in compliance with the directive, have carried out inspections of their B747s and I am very glad to say that no cracks have been found. Continuing examination of these aircraft is being undertaken by Aer Lingus.