Fuselage - Bulkhead Frame Web - Inspection
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Affected operators must begin repetitive inspections of the bulkhead frame web at station 259.5 according to Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 727-53A0235 RB, with intervals not exceeding 8,600 flight cycles. Any cracks found must be repaired following the specified on-condition actions. The directive becomes effective November 2, 2018, and compliance must begin by that date.
Summary
Federal Register Volume 83, Number 189 (2018-20-05) is a final rule airworthiness directive issued by the FAA for all Boeing Model 727C, 727-100, 727-100C, 727-200, and 727-200F series airplanes. It addresses cracking found in the bulkhead frame webs at body station 259.5, which could compromise the fuselage integrity. The directive mandates repetitive inspections and applicable corrective actions to ensure continued airworthiness.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive inspections of the bulkhead frame web at station 259.5 on specified Boeing 727 models. It requires operators to perform high and low frequency eddy current inspections at intervals not exceeding 8,600 flight cycles and to carry out on-condition repairs if cracks are detected. This AD is a new regulation prompted by fleet survey results and does not amend or supersede any previous directives.
Why it matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential structural failure risk that could lead to rapid decompression. Operators and maintenance organizations must incorporate these inspections into their maintenance programs to detect and mitigate cracking before it compromises safety. Compliance ensures continued regulatory approval and helps prevent costly in-service failures or accidents.
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