EASA AD US-2021-13-02
Equipment / Furnishings - Insulation Blankets - Installation
Summary
Federal Aviation Administration Airworthiness Directive 2021-13-02 is a final rule addressing certain Boeing 777-300ER series airplanes. It mandates installation of an insulation blanket assembly over existing insulation blankets in the aft cargo compartment to prevent leakage of halon and smoke during a fire. This directive aims to enhance fire safety by mitigating potential loss of fire suppressant in the cargo area.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a requirement to install additional insulation blanket assemblies on the forward endwall of the aft cargo compartment in affected Boeing 777-300ER airplanes. It addresses a production design change that inadvertently created leakage paths for fire suppressant gases and smoke. The directive does not amend or supersede any previous ADs but establishes new compliance actions.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk that could lead to an uncontained fire in the aft cargo compartment due to loss of fire suppressant. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft fire safety certification and prevent potential catastrophic damage. The directive also affects configuration control and documentation for insulation blanket installations.
What To Do
Operators of Boeing 777-300ER airplanes must install the specified insulation blanket assemblies according to Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 777-25-0753 RB dated July 31, 2020. Compliance must be achieved by August 19, 2021, the effective date of the AD. Requests for alternative methods of compliance can be submitted to the FAA Seattle ACO Branch following established procedures.
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