Boeing Urges 747 Fuel Tank Checks

Boeing is urging airlines to inspect the center fuel tanks on all 747 jumbo jets in service to look for potential sources of sparks as part of the investigation into the TWA Flight 800 explosion. All 230 people aboard were killed when the Paris-bound jet exploded off New York’s Long Island last July 17. Investigators have not determined what caused the explosion, but theories include static electricity, faulty wiring or a spark in the center tank’s fuel pump. Boeing, which is helping with the crash probe, wants to know whether there are any potential dangers that should be addressed, spokesman Doug Webb said. “While no conclusion has been drawn, it has been determined that the center wing tank was involved in the crash, “ he said.