EASA AD US-2018-15-03
Engine - Inner Fixed Structure (IFS) Forward Upper Fire Seal - Inspection
Summary
Airworthiness Directive 2018-15-03 is a final rule issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) addressing The Boeing Company Model 787 series airplanes powered by Rolls Royce Trent 1000 engines. It mandates inspection of the inner fixed structure (IFS) forward upper fire seal and requires corrective actions to prevent failures and damage to thermal insulation blankets in the thrust reverser area.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a mandatory inspection to determine the part number of the IFS forward upper fire seal and requires on-condition actions if defects are found. It addresses previously reported failures of the fire seal and damage to thermal blankets that could compromise engine fire detection and containment.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it prevents potential uncontrolled engine fires and damage to critical airplane structures caused by fan bypass air entering the engine core compartment. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft safety and airworthiness, reducing the risk of severe engine and structural damage.
What To Do
Operators of affected Boeing 787 airplanes with Rolls Royce Trent 1000 engines must perform the required inspection of the IFS forward upper fire seal by August 27, 2018. If discrepancies are found, they must carry out the specified on-condition corrective actions as detailed in the Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB780033-00, Issue 001.
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