EASA AD US-2018-07-18
Fuselage - Stringer Lap Splices - Inspection
Summary
Federal Register Volume 83, Number 73 Airworthiness Directive 2018-07-18 is a final rule issued by the FAA addressing certain Boeing Company Model 767 airplanes. It mandates inspections of fuselage stringer 37 lap splices for missing fasteners to prevent structural integrity issues. The directive updates previous requirements and expands the applicability to additional airplanes.
What Changed
This AD supersedes Airworthiness Directive 2015-19-12 by retaining its inspection requirements and adding more affected Boeing 767 airplanes. It clarifies that installation of Supplemental Type Certificate STC ST01920SE does not affect compliance and addresses comments regarding inspection procedures and maintenance planning. Minor editorial changes were also made without increasing the scope or burden.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to detect and correct missing fasteners in fuselage lap splices, which could lead to cracks and compromise airplane structural integrity. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to maintain airworthiness and safety. Understanding the updated applicability and inspection protocols helps avoid regulatory non-compliance and potential safety risks.
What To Do
Affected operators must perform a general visual inspection of stringer 37 lap splices for missing fasteners and carry out any necessary investigative and corrective actions as specified. Compliance with this AD is mandatory by May 21, 2018. Operators should refer to Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767-53A0251, Revision 1, for detailed procedures and ensure their maintenance programs reflect these requirements.
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