**NTSB Issues Urgent Safety Recommendations for Boeing 737 Aircraft**

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has urged Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to address potential safety hazards related to the rudder control system on the 737 Next-Generation and 737 Max 8 aircraft. This action follows an incident in February where the rudder pedals of a United Airlines Boeing 737 Max 8 became stuck in their neutral position during the landing rollout at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey.

The rudder, which manages the side-to-side movement of the aircraft's nose, is crucial for maintaining directional control. In the February incident, the aircraft’s captain had to use the nosewheel steering tiller to maneuver the plane after touchdown, as stated by the NTSB.

Investigators from the NTSB, in collaboration with Collins Aerospace—the manufacturer of the rudder control component in question—tested the problematic part in cold conditions. The tests revealed that the functionality of the component was "significantly compromised," which Collins Aerospace later attributed to incorrect assembly during production.

Boeing’s current flight manual advises pilots experiencing a jammed or restricted rudder to apply maximum force, potentially with the combined effort of both pilots. However, the NTSB raised concerns that this could lead to excessive rudder input, posing a risk of unintentional loss of control or runway departure upon landing.

As a result, the NTSB has recommended that Boeing develop alternative responses for flight crews facing a jammed or restricted rudder system during flight or landing, rather than relying solely on maximum pedal force. These recommendations aim to enhance safety and prevent future incidents related to rudder control issues.