EASA AD US-2018-21-08: Fuselage - Bulkhead Frame Web - Inspection

What to do

Operators of affected Boeing 737 series airplanes must perform repetitive high and low frequency eddy current inspections of the bulkhead frame web at station 259.5 as specified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737-53A1369 RB. If cracks are detected, they must contact Boeing for repair instructions and carry out the applicable on-condition actions. Compliance with this directive is required by November 20, 2018.

Summary

The Federal Aviation Administration's Airworthiness Directive 2018-21-08 addresses all Boeing 737-100, -200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500 series airplanes. This directive mandates repetitive inspections of the fuselage bulkhead frame web at station 259.5 due to detected cracking, and requires applicable on-condition corrective actions to maintain structural integrity.

What changed

This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive inspections using eddy current methods on the bulkhead frame web between stringers S-10 and S-13 at station 259.5. It clarifies that corrective actions include more than repairs, requiring operators to contact Boeing for repair instructions if cracks are found. The directive also includes provisions for different airplane groups and confirms that installation of STC ST01219SE does not affect compliance.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a structural safety concern that could compromise the airplane's integrity if left uncorrected. Operators and maintenance teams must implement the inspections and corrective actions to ensure continued airworthiness and regulatory compliance. It also provides clarity on compliance requirements for airplanes with supplemental type certificates, facilitating smoother maintenance planning.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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