EASA AD US-2021-26-17
Equipment / Furnishings - Passenger Service Units and Life Vest Panels - Inspection / Modification
Summary
Airworthiness Directive 2021-26-17 is a final rule issued by the FAA addressing certain Boeing 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER series airplanes without Boeing Sky Interior. It supersedes AD 2019-03-26 and focuses on inspection and modification of passenger service units (PSUs) and life vest panels to ensure correct lanyard assemblies and proper part number re-identification. The directive aims to prevent PSUs and life vest panels from detaching, which could cause passenger injuries and hinder evacuation.
What Changed
This AD retains the modification requirements from AD 2019-03-26 and adds a new inspection requirement for certain airplanes to verify the correct re-identified PSU part number, with further re-identification if necessary. It clarifies that earlier service bulletin revisions do not require additional action for certain configurations and confirms that winglet installations under STC ST00830SE do not affect compliance.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to maintain cabin safety by preventing detachment of PSUs and life vest panels, which can cause injuries and obstruct emergency egress. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to avoid safety risks and regulatory penalties. Accurate part identification and proper installation of lanyard assemblies are essential for continued airworthiness and passenger safety.
What To Do
Affected operators must comply with the modification and inspection requirements by February 15, 2022. This includes replacing and installing lanyards on PSUs and life vest panels, measuring torsion spring hook distances, replacing discrepant assemblies, and verifying correct PSU part number re-identification. Any necessary replacements or re-identifications discovered during inspection must be completed promptly.
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