EASA AD US-2018-02-20
Fuselage - Aft Fuselage - Inspection / Review of Maintenance Procedures
Summary
Federal Aviation Administration Airworthiness Directive 2018-02-20 is a final rule addressing certain Boeing 777-200, -200LR, -300, and -300ER series airplanes. It mandates inspections and maintenance procedure reviews due to reported corrosion in the aft fuselage area. The directive aims to prevent structural fatigue cracks and potential rapid decompression caused by untreated vacuum waste system spills or leaks.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a one-time review of operators' maintenance procedures, repetitive detailed internal and external inspections for corrosion or cracking, and applicable on-condition corrective actions. It also provides an optional terminating action for the inspections. The directive establishes specific compliance times and clarifies acceptable materials and methods for neutralizing corrosion-causing residues.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk that could compromise the structural integrity of Boeing 777 airplanes. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to detect and mitigate corrosion early, preventing costly repairs and potential safety incidents. Compliance teams must manage inspection schedules and documentation to meet FAA requirements and maintain airworthiness.
What To Do
Affected operators must perform a one-time review of maintenance procedures and conduct repetitive detailed inspections for corrosion or cracking in the aft fuselage. They must also carry out any necessary corrective actions identified during inspections. Compliance with this directive is mandatory by March 16, 2018, the effective date of the AD.
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