Boeing Fixes Pressure-Loss Problem On 777s

Boeing has modified a check valve on its test-flight fleet of six 777s after a loss of cabin pressure last week sent seven people to the hospital.

Two of the planes lost pressure during test flights last week. The people requiring treatment for oxygen deprivation were aboard a plane that lost pressure at 43,100 feet over Puget Sound on Feb. 2. The other lost pressure Feb. 1 while climbing through 22,500 feet over Hawaii. Both landed safely.

After testing the new valve, Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration “have determined that the 777 fleet can safely resume flying above 25,000 feet,” Boeing said in a news release. The FAA had limited test flights to below 25,000 feet, where air is thin but breathable, after the pressure-loss incidents.

“As expected, the incident has not aversely affected the test program or delivery of the first 777 to United Airlines on May 15,” the aerospace giant said.