AD NUMBER: 2004-04-08

MANUFACTURER: Boeing
SUBJECT: Cat III Autoland Ops
SUMMARY: This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) that is applicable to certain Boeing Model 777-200 series airplanes. This action requires a revision to the Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) to advise the flightcrew that Category IIIB autoland operations are prohibited and to warn the flightcrew of the potential for reversion of the primary flight control system to direct mode during takeoff or landing and its associated airplane effects. This AD also requires installation of a placard in the flight deck. This action also provides an optional terminating action for the AFM revision and placard installation. This action is necessary to prevent the possibility of the airplane departing the runway during Category IIIB autoland operations due to autopilot disconnect in low visibility weather conditions, and to warn the flightcrew of the potential for autopilot disconnect or unscheduled speed brake retraction during any landing, which could result in a departure from the runway. This action is intended to address the identified unsafe conditions.

FMI: www.avantext.com/DailyADIndex.ASP?AD=20040408