EASA AD US-2019-24-15
Equipment / Furnishings - Head Strike Pads - Replacement
Summary
Federal Register Volume 84, Number 249, Final Rule Airworthiness Directive 2019-24-15 issued by the FAA addresses certain Boeing 737-900ER series airplanes. This directive mandates the replacement of nonconforming head strike pads on the left and right mid exit doors with conforming pads to ensure passenger safety during emergency landings.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive requires operators to replace head strike pads fabricated with eight bonded layers of 1/8-inch-thick foam with the correct 1-inch-thick continuous foam pads. The directive introduces compliance requirements based on Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737-25-1831 RB dated September 24, 2019.
Why It Matters
The presence of nonconforming head strike pads poses a safety risk by potentially causing injury to passengers and obstructing emergency egress during survivable emergency landings. Compliance ensures that operators maintain cabin safety standards and meet FAA regulatory requirements, which is critical for airworthiness and passenger protection.
What To Do
Operators of Boeing 737-900ER airplanes must replace the nonconforming head strike pads on the mid exit doors following the procedures and timelines specified in Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737-25-1831 RB. The directive is effective January 14, 2020, and comments are accepted until February 13, 2020.
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