EASA AD US-2022-10-11
Wings - Fuel Tank Fasteners - Inspection / Maintenance Program Revision
Summary
The Federal Aviation Administration's Airworthiness Directive 2022-10-11 addresses certain Boeing 747 series airplanes, including models 747-100B SUD, 747-200B/C/F, 747-300, 747SP, 747-400/D/F. This directive focuses on inspecting and maintaining fuel tank fasteners that have insufficient bonding, which could lead to arcing during lightning strikes or electrical faults. It mandates revisions to maintenance programs to include more restrictive airworthiness limitations to enhance fuel tank safety.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces requirements for reconfiguring wire bundle clamps, applying sealant to specific fuel tank fasteners, installing cushion clamps and TFE sleeves, and inspecting for proper sealant application. It also requires all affected airplanes to update their maintenance or inspection programs to incorporate new, more restrictive airworthiness limitations. The directive does not supersede previous AD 2007-20-01 but adds additional work for certain airplane groups.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a potential ignition source inside fuel tanks that could lead to explosions or fires, thereby enhancing flight safety. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent hazardous arcing caused by lightning strikes or electrical faults. Incorporating these new maintenance requirements ensures continued airworthiness and regulatory compliance for affected Boeing 747 fleets.
What To Do
Operators of affected Boeing 747 models must reconfigure clamps, apply sealant, install protective components, and inspect fasteners as specified. They must also revise their maintenance or inspection programs to include the updated airworthiness limitations. Compliance with this directive is mandatory by July 11, 2022, the effective date of the AD.
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