Airworthiness DirectiveEASA AD US-2023-10-09

Fire Protection - Forward and Aft Cargo Compartment Decompression Panels - Inspection

Published: Jun 21, 2023
Effective: Jun 26, 2023
Deadline: Jun 26, 2023

Boeing 787 8 9 10

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What to do

Operators of Boeing 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes must perform repetitive inspections of the decompression panel fastener holes starting by June 26, 2023. Any panel found with damage exceeding allowable limits must be replaced with a serviceable panel or repaired using FAA-approved methods. If a panel is deemed not serviceable, operators may continue flight operations only if provisions are included in the FAA-approved Minimum Equipment List addressing the damaged panel.

Summary

Airworthiness Directive 2023-10-09 is a final rule issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) addressing The Boeing Company Model 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes. It mandates repetitive inspections of the forward and aft cargo compartment decompression panels for damaged fastener holes and requires corrective actions if damage exceeds allowable limits. This directive aims to ensure the integrity of decompression panels to maintain adequate fire suppression capabilities in cargo compartments.

What changed

This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive general visual inspections of fastener holes on decompression panels located on the vertical and bottom edges of the forward and aft cargo compartment sidewall linings. It also requires replacement of panels that exceed specified damage limits and prohibits folded-back fastener holes during installation. Additionally, it provides provisions for continued operation under the Minimum Equipment List if damaged panels are not serviceable.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals because damaged decompression panels can compromise the cargo compartment's fire suppression system by allowing leakage, potentially resulting in insufficient Halon concentration during a fire. Operators, maintenance, and compliance teams must address this unsafe condition promptly to ensure continued safe flight and landing, especially for extended operations (ETOPS) flights where fire suppression integrity is essential.

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