Fuselage - Aft Wheel Well Bulkhead Structural Joints - Inspection
- Published
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- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 airplanes must perform repetitive inspections of the aft wheel well bulkhead structural joints as specified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletins B787-81205-SB530077-00 RB and B787-81205-SB530078-00 RB, Issue 001, dated September 8, 2020. Any cracking found must be repaired using FAA-approved methods. Compliance with this directive is required starting January 10, 2022.
Summary
The Federal Aviation Administration's Airworthiness Directive 2021-23-21 addresses certain Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 airplanes. It mandates repetitive inspections of the aft wheel well bulkhead structural joints due to improper shimming during assembly, which may cause fatigue cracking. The directive requires repair of any detected cracks to maintain structural integrity.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive high frequency eddy current inspections of specific areas of the aft wheel well bulkhead body chord, side fitting, and failsafe straps. It also requires repairs if cracking is found. The directive clarifies applicability to include two Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletins and establishes procedures for alternative repair approvals.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential structural weakness that could compromise the airplane's ability to sustain limit loads, thereby affecting safety. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to prevent undetected fatigue cracking that could reduce the aircraft's structural integrity. Timely inspections and repairs help maintain airworthiness and avoid costly unplanned downtime.
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