EASA AD US-2022-25-15
Wings - Rear Spar Lower Chord - Inspection
Summary
The Federal Aviation Administration's Airworthiness Directive 2022-25-15 addresses all Boeing 737-100, -200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500 series airplanes. This directive mandates inspections of the wing rear spar lower chord at the main landing gear aft fitting due to detected cracking. It requires repetitive high frequency eddy current and ultrasonic inspections and applicable repairs to ensure structural integrity.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive inspections for cracks in the wing rear spar lower chord at a specific wing buttock line on affected Boeing 737 models. It also clarifies that installation of Supplemental Type Certificate STC ST01219SE does not affect compliance. Additionally, it corrects a reference error within the directive for clarity.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of the wing rear spar lower chord, which if compromised, could lead to reduced load-bearing capability and potential loss of airplane control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent unsafe conditions and ensure continued airworthiness. The inspections and repairs help mitigate risks associated with fatigue cracking in a key structural component.
What To Do
Operators of affected Boeing 737 models must perform the required inspections within 120 days of the directive's effective date, January 26, 2023. They must use approved inspection methods including open hole high frequency eddy current or surface eddy current and ultrasonic inspections. Any detected cracks must be addressed with on-condition actions such as fastener installation or repairs according to Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737-57A1353 RB.
Your fleet's weekly compliance brief
AI-summarized regulatory changes, compliance deadlines, and action items — filtered to your aircraft, every Monday.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.