Wings - Lower Wing Skin - Inspection

Published: Mar 23, 2018
Effective: Apr 23, 2018
Deadline: Apr 23, 2018

Boeing 737 300 500

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

What to do

Operators must perform a detailed inspection of the lower wing skin at stringer L-5 on both wings within 18 months of April 23, 2018, and repeat inspections every 6,000 flight cycles or 9,000 flight hours, whichever comes first. Any cracks found must be repaired before further flight using FAA-approved methods.

Summary

Federal Aviation Administration Airworthiness Directive 2018-06-05 is a final rule addressing certain Boeing 737-300 and 737-500 series airplanes equipped with blended winglet kits. It mandates repetitive inspections of the lower wing skin at stringer L-5 for fatigue cracks and requires repairs if cracks are found to ensure continued airworthiness.

What changed

This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive detailed inspections for cracking in the lower wing skin of affected Boeing 737-300 and -500 airplanes with winglets installed. It also requires prompt repair of any detected cracks using approved methods to prevent structural failure.

Why it matters

This AD is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential structural integrity issue that could lead to loss of wing control. Operators and maintenance teams must monitor and repair fatigue cracks to maintain safety and regulatory compliance, preventing costly incidents or grounding of aircraft.

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