Boeing to Use RFID "Smart Labels" on Some B-787 Parts

Boeing plans to introduce RFID (radio frequency identification) "smart labels" on some "maintenance significant" parts of its B-787 Dreamliner to improve configuration control and help airlines reduce costs.

RFID automatically uses radio frequency waves to transfer data between a reader and items that have RFID devices affixed.  The "smart labels" contain a microchip and antenna and operate at internationally recognized standard frequencies.  The RFID tag stores data similar to a bar code, but offers enhanced data collection and other advantages, such as being able to read without a direct view of the label, and a dynamic read/write capability.

Mike Bair, Boeing's 787 vice president and general manager, says Boeing's customers "are eager to take advantage of automated identification technology, especially the capabilities and benefits of RFID."  And Lou Mancini, Boeing Commercial Aviation Services' vice president and general manager, said he believes the technology "will enhance parts traceability and reduce cycle time to solve in-service problems by improving the accuracy of information exchanged between customers and suppliers."

Boeing plans for the tags to contain unique identification as well as maintenance and inspection data in accordance with industry standards developed by the Air Transport Association.  Typically, parts that will incorporate RFID smart labels will be serialized end items such as LRUs (line replaceable units) and life-limited parts as well as on-board emergency equipment.  The labels will be applied during the manufacturing process by the responsible systems and equipment supplier prior to delivering the airplane to airlines.

The FAA published its RFID policy in May 2005 which states that passive RFIDs – transponders that do not have a dedicated power supply and derive their operating power from the reader – pose no safety risk and are acceptable for use on civil aircraft under specified conditions.

Boeing says it conducted two in-service evaluations of passive RFID labels on a FedEx MD-10 freighter, which showed that passive RFID devices don't adversely affect the simultaneous operation of any aircraft systems.  10-10-2005.