EASA AD US-2022-15-01
Stabilizers - Vertical Fin Tension Bolt Holes - Inspection / Maintenance or Inspection Program - Revision
Summary
The Federal Aviation Administration's Airworthiness Directive 2022-15-01 addresses certain Boeing 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes. It mandates inspections of vertical fin tension bolt holes for corrosion and finish degradation, reviews of maintenance programs regarding bolt sealant application, and applicable corrective actions to ensure structural integrity. This directive aims to prevent potential loss of the vertical fin due to undetected corrosion.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory detailed inspections of 16 vertical fin tension bolt holes in aluminum crown frames, composite decks, and root fittings. It requires reviewing maintenance records and programs for proper sealant application and specifies on-condition actions including repairs and maintenance program updates. The directive clarifies that primer degradation alone does not require alternative method of compliance approval but must be addressed with primer application as per Boeing's service bulletin.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent structural failures that could lead to loss of control of the aircraft. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to detect and mitigate corrosion early, maintaining airworthiness and safety. It also impacts maintenance planning and record-keeping to verify proper bolt replacement and sealant application procedures.
What To Do
Operators of affected Boeing 787 models must perform detailed inspections of vertical fin tension bolt holes, review and update maintenance or inspection programs for sealant application, and check maintenance records for bolt replacement status. On-condition repairs and primer applications must be conducted as specified. Compliance with this directive is required by August 25, 2022.
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