EASA AD US-2018-01-01
Fuel - Tail Fuel Tank Transfer Pump Wire Assemblies - Inspection
Summary
Airworthiness Directive 2018-01-01 is a final rule issued by the Federal Aviation Administration addressing certain Boeing Model MD-11 and MD-11F airplanes. It mandates a one-time inspection of the wire assemblies of the tail fuel tank transfer pumps to verify the installation of metallic transitions at wire harness breakouts, with required corrective actions if deficiencies are found. This directive aims to mitigate risks associated with potential ignition sources inside the tail fuel tank.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a mandatory inspection and corrective action requirement for the tail fuel tank transfer pump wire assemblies on Boeing MD-11 and MD-11F airplanes. It updates estimated labor hours for repairs and replacements based on operator feedback and clarifies testing and maintenance procedure requirements. The directive does not supersede any previous ADs but supplements existing safety regulations related to fuel system wiring.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a potential ignition source inside the tail fuel tank that could lead to fire or explosion, posing a severe safety risk. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to prevent fuel tank fires and maintain airworthiness. Accurate labor and parts cost estimates help in planning maintenance resources and budgeting for potential repairs or replacements.
What To Do
Operators of Boeing MD-11 and MD-11F airplanes must perform a one-time detailed inspection of the tail fuel tank transfer pump wire assemblies to check for metallic transitions at wire harness breakouts. If issues are found, corrective actions including repair or replacement must be completed. Compliance with this directive is required by February 7, 2018, the effective date of the AD.
Your fleet's weekly compliance brief
AI-summarized regulatory changes, compliance deadlines, and action items — filtered to your aircraft, every Monday.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.