Boeing Recommends Fixing Thrust Reversers on 777

CHICAGO --

Boeing Co. is recommending that airlines fix a key piece of equipment on its 777 airliner to make sure that engine heat doesn't cause damage.

Boeing says the new service bulletin applies to 225 aircraft, including 55 flown by U.S. carriers.

The fix involves a device on the engine called a thrust reverser. It directs the jet's power backwards, and is used as the plane lands to slow it down on the runway.

But heat damage has been showing up on 777s equipped with a Rolls Royce thrust reverser. Boeing is recommending that airlines replace insulation blankets and other changes that will keep the area around the thrust reverser cooler.

Boeing issued the recommendation Nov. 25. It was first reported Friday by The Wall Street Journal.