EASA AD US-2018-26-06
Doors - Main Landing Gear Center Door Assemblies - Inspection
Summary
Federal Aviation Administration Airworthiness Directive 2018-26-06 is a final rule addressing all Boeing 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER series airplanes. It mandates inspections of the main landing gear center door assemblies due to reports of loose, worn, or missing attachment bolts. The directive aims to ensure the structural integrity of the main landing gear doors to prevent potential damage and loss of airplane control.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces repetitive detailed inspections of the forward and aft main landing gear center door assembly attachments for loose, missing, damaged, or bottomed-out bolts and retention clip wear. It also requires on-condition corrective actions and offers an optional terminating action to end repetitive inspections. Additionally, it imposes parts installation limitations to prevent installation of non-compliant assemblies.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses an unsafe condition that could lead to the departure of main landing gear door assemblies, causing damage to flight control surfaces and potential loss of airplane control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to maintain airworthiness and safety. Compliance ensures continued operational safety and prevents costly unscheduled maintenance or grounding.
What To Do
Operators of affected Boeing 737 models must perform repetitive detailed inspections of the main landing gear center door attachments as specified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-52-1170, Revision 1. Any findings of loose, missing, or damaged bolts or worn retention clips require immediate corrective actions. The directive is effective February 1, 2019, and no installation of non-compliant main landing gear or door assemblies is allowed after this date without required modifications.
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