Airworthiness DirectiveEASA AD US-2019-03-07

Wings - Krueger Flap Bullnose Attachment Hardware - Inspection

Published: Mar 22, 2019
Effective: Mar 29, 2019
Deadline: Mar 29, 2019
Replaces: 2017-16-05

Boeing 737 600 700 700C 800

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What to do

Operators must perform a one-time detailed visual inspection of the Krueger flap bullnose attachment hardware and an inspection to determine if any Krueger flap numbers 1 through 4 have been replaced, followed by any necessary investigative and corrective actions. These inspections must be completed by March 29, 2019, the effective date of the AD. Additionally, inspections are required after installation of any Krueger flap or bullnose hardware before further flight to ensure compliance.

Summary

Airworthiness Directive 2019-03-07 is a final rule issued by the Federal Aviation Administration addressing The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER series airplanes. It mandates inspections of the Krueger flap bullnose attachment hardware to detect discrepancies and missing hardware that could cause the bullnose to detach during flight. The directive expands applicability to all airplanes with Krueger flap bullnose installations due to the rotable nature of the parts.

What changed

This AD supersedes AD 2017-16-05 by adding more airplanes to the applicability and introducing an additional inspection to determine if any Krueger flap numbers 1, 2, 3, or 4 have been replaced. It clarifies inspection requirements and expands the scope beyond the airplanes listed in the original service bulletin to include all airplanes on which a Krueger flap bullnose may be installed. The AD also addresses comments received and provides clarifications on compliance methods.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals because missing or defective Krueger flap bullnose hardware can lead to the bullnose detaching during flight or taxi, potentially causing structural damage and compromising safe flight and landing. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to prevent costly damage and maintain airworthiness. The expanded applicability ensures that all affected aircraft are inspected, reducing the risk of undetected unsafe conditions.

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