EASA AD US-2020-15-14
Fuselage - Longeron Extension Fittings - Inspection
Summary
Airworthiness Directive 2020-15-14 is a final rule issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) addressing certain Boeing 747 series airplanes, including models 747-100, 747-200, 747-300, 747-400, 747-400F, 747SR, and 747SP. This directive mandates repetitive inspections of the fuselage longeron extension fittings for cracking and requires repairs if cracks are found. It applies to airplanes identified in Boeing Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, Revision 3, dated November 11, 2019.
What Changed
This AD supersedes AD 2015-13-06 by expanding the applicability to include additional Boeing 747 models not previously covered. It retains the original inspection requirements and adds repetitive inspections and repair mandates for the newly included airplane models. The directive also updates compliance instructions based on the latest Boeing service bulletin revision.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of affected Boeing 747 airplanes by addressing cracks in the longeron extension fittings that could compromise fuselage strength. Operators, maintenance, and repair organizations must ensure compliance to prevent potential structural failures. The expanded applicability means more airplanes require monitoring, impacting maintenance planning and resource allocation.
What To Do
Operators of affected Boeing 747 models must perform repetitive inspections of the longeron extension fittings as specified in Boeing Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, Revision 3. Any detected cracks must be repaired following the service bulletin instructions. Compliance with this AD is mandatory by the effective date of September 3, 2020, and must continue at intervals specified in the service bulletin.
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