NTSB Investigates Boeing Rudder Malfunction Incident in Newark

The NTSB has released its findings after an apparent rudder pedal malfunctioned on a Boeing 737-8 in February at Newark Liberty International Airport.

Meg Godlewski

Friday, March 08, 2024 at 02:21 PM ET

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Key Takeaways:

The NTSB's preliminary report details an incident where a Boeing 737-8's rudder pedals became "stuck" shortly after landing at Newark, requiring pilots to use nosewheel steering to maintain runway centerline.
The investigation suggests cold temperatures may have adversely affected a disabled "rollout guidance servo" that was mechanically connected to the rudder input system.
Lab tests confirmed that after being "cold soaked," the servo's output crank arm required significantly more torque to move, which would restrict rudder pedal operation as observed during the incident.
After removing and replacing the suspected components, the rudder control system operated normally, and the aircraft returned to service, though the investigation is ongoing.

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The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released the preliminary report into the investigation of an apparent rudder pedal malfunction on a Boeing 737-8 in February at Newark Liberty International Airport (KEWR).

As the rudders are a flight control system, federal regulations require the NTSB be notified in the event of a malfunction. According to the report, the servo that activates the rudders may have been adversely impacted by the cold.