EASA AD US-2018-09-01
Wings - Main Landing Gear Beam Forward Support Fitting - Inspection
Summary
The Federal Aviation Administration Airworthiness Directive 2018-09-01 addresses all Boeing 737-100, -200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500 series airplanes. It mandates repetitive inspections of the main landing gear beam forward support fitting due to reported cracks that could compromise structural integrity. This directive aims to prevent potential fuel leaks, structural failures, or main landing gear collapse.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive high frequency eddy current inspections of the main landing gear beam forward support fitting and requires applicable on-condition corrective actions. It clarifies that installation of Supplemental Type Certificate STC ST01219SE does not affect compliance requirements. The directive also sets specific compliance timelines and inspection procedures based on Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-57A1334 dated September 26, 2017.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk involving cracks in a principal structural component of the Boeing 737 wing. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure timely inspections and repairs to avoid potential in-flight failures or landing gear collapse, which could jeopardize flight safety. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and regulatory adherence, minimizing operational disruptions and safety hazards.
What To Do
Operators of affected Boeing 737 models must perform the required inspections within 120 days of June 4, 2018, for Group 1 airplanes, and follow the specified compliance schedule for Group 2 airplanes as detailed in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-57A1334. Any detected cracks must be repaired using FAA-approved methods. No alternative method of compliance approval is needed for airplanes with STC ST01219SE installed.
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