EASA AD US-2023-06-15
Fuselage - Left and Right Side Station 727 Frame Inner Chord and S—18A Web - Inspection
Summary
Fuselage - Left and Right Side Station 727 Frame Inner Chord and S–18A Web - Inspection is a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airworthiness Directive (AD 2023–06–15) addressing certain Boeing 737–600, –700, –700C, –800, –900, and –900ER series airplanes. This AD mandates inspections of the left and right sides at station 727 frame inner chord and S–18A web for missing or incorrect shims, fastener issues, and cracking. It aims to ensure structural integrity by detecting and repairing fatigue cracks before they become critical.
What Changed
This new AD introduces mandatory inspections for existing repairs and cracking using general visual and high frequency eddy current (HFEC) methods, along with on-condition corrective actions such as shim installation and repairs. It incorporates Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–53A1402 RB Revision 1, which updates fastener part numbers and clarifies shim installation criteria. The AD also clarifies that installation of blended or split scimitar winglets per STC ST00830SE does not affect compliance.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses potential structural fatigue issues that could compromise the principal structural elements of affected Boeing 737 models. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent cracks from reaching critical lengths that could affect airplane safety and airworthiness. Timely inspections and repairs help maintain fleet integrity and avoid costly unplanned maintenance or grounding.
What To Do
Affected operators must perform the required inspections and any necessary repairs as specified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–53A1402 RB Revision 1. The AD becomes effective on May 30, 2023, and compliance with the inspection and corrective actions must be completed accordingly. Operators with previously completed inspections under Boeing Requirements Bulletin 737–53A1385 RB may receive credit for certain inspection steps.
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