EASA AD US-2017-22-10
Equipment / Furnishings - Fastener Assemblies - Replacement
Summary
The Federal Aviation Administration's Airworthiness Directive 2017-22-10 addresses certain Boeing Model 747-400, 747-400F, and 747-8F series airplanes. This directive mandates the replacement of fastener assemblies on the crew access ladder handrails due to reported failures. The directive aims to prevent potential serious or fatal injuries resulting from loose fastener assemblies.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a requirement to replace the existing fastener assemblies on the crew access ladder handrails with new assemblies as specified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-25-3693 dated November 10, 2016. It also prohibits the installation of discrepant fastener hardware on any affected airplane from the effective date. The applicability was revised to exclude certain Boeing 747-8F airplanes with compliant parts installed during production.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because failure of the fastener assemblies on crew access ladders can lead to serious or fatal injuries to personnel. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain safety and regulatory adherence. The directive also clarifies applicability and installation limitations to prevent recurrence of the unsafe condition.
What To Do
Operators of affected Boeing 747-400, 747-400F, and 747-8F airplanes must replace the fastener assemblies on the crew access ladder handrails within 36 months from December 29, 2017. Maintenance teams must follow the procedures in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-25-3693. Additionally, no discrepant fastener hardware may be installed on any airplane after the effective date.
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