Superseded by FAA AD 2023-08-02

Published: Mar 8, 2018
Effective: Apr 11, 2018
Deadline: Apr 11, 2018
Replaces: 2016-09-12

Boeing 787 8 9

AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.

What to do

Operators must continue repetitive inspections of bilge barriers for disengaged decompression panels and reinstall any found panels. Within 36 months of the AD's effective date, they must replace existing decompression panels with new panels and adjustable straps to terminate inspections. Service information from Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB500009-00, Issue 003, dated December 7, 2016, should be used to perform these actions.

Summary

FAA Airworthiness Directive 2018-05-06 is a final rule affecting certain Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 airplanes. It addresses the issue of disengaged decompression panels in the bilge barriers of the forward and aft cargo compartments. The directive mandates inspections and replacement of decompression panels to enhance safety.

What changed

This AD supersedes AD 2016-09-12 by retaining its inspection requirements and adding a new requirement to replace existing decompression panels with redesigned panels and adjustable straps (zip ties), which terminates the need for repetitive inspections. It also removes some airplanes from the applicability and extends the compliance time for panel replacement from 22 to 36 months.

Why it matters

The directive is critical for preventing decompression panels from disengaging, which could allow smoke and fire suppression agents to enter the flight compartment and passenger cabin during a cargo fire. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and safety, reducing the risk of fire-related hazards and maintaining regulatory compliance for operators and maintenance organizations.

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