Airworthiness DirectiveEASA AD US-2021-07-02

Ice and Rain Protection - Pitot Anti-icing System Components - Inspection / Replacement

Published: Apr 19, 2021
Effective: Apr 20, 2021
Deadline: Apr 20, 2021

Boeing 737 200

AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.

What to do

Operators of affected Boeing 737-200 series airplanes must replace specified pitot anti-icing components, install the required junction box and wiring provisions, and perform repetitive system tests as outlined in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-30A1064 Revision 2 and related service bulletins. Compliance with these actions is required by April 20, 2021. Operators should also review and maintain FAA-approved Minimum Equipment List provisions for time-limited operation if the modified system is inoperative.

Summary

The Federal Register Volume 86, Number 63 (April 5, 2021) Final Rule titled "Ice and Rain Protection - Pitot Anti-icing System Components - Inspection / Replacement" is a new airworthiness directive issued by the FAA for certain Boeing 737-200 series airplanes. It addresses the pitot heat switch issue that can lead to misleading air data by requiring replacement of pitot anti-icing system components, installation of a junction box and wiring provisions, and repetitive testing of the anti-icing system.

What changed

This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory replacement and modification of pitot anti-icing system components on affected Boeing 737-200 series airplanes, including installation of a junction box and wiring changes to automate power supply to the air data sensors. It also mandates repetitive testing and applicable on-condition corrective actions to ensure system reliability. The AD applies specifically to Model 737-200 airplanes with variable numbers PK625 through PK627 inclusive.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals because failure to activate the pitot heat system can cause ice formation on air data sensors, resulting in erroneous airspeed and altitude readings. Such errors can compromise crew situational awareness and jeopardize safe flight and landing. Compliance ensures improved reliability of the pitot anti-icing system, reducing the risk of accidents and incidents related to misleading air data.

More for Boeing 737

All 175

Get the next one by email

New ADs and bulletins for Boeing 737, summarized like this page, every Monday.