EASA AD US-2023-18-06
Wings - Inboard Foreflaps - Inspection / Replacement
Summary
Airworthiness Directive 2023-18-06 is a final rule issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) addressing certain Boeing Model 747 series airplanes, including 747-100, 747-200, 747-300, 747-400, and 747SR variants. This directive focuses on the inspection, lubrication, and replacement of inboard foreflap components to prevent partial or full departures of the foreflap assembly. The directive incorporates updated service information from Boeing and mandates repetitive inspections and maintenance actions to ensure continued airworthiness.
What Changed
This AD supersedes the previous AD 2021-02-15 by reducing compliance times for required inspections and replacements related to the inboard foreflap assembly. It retains the core inspection and maintenance requirements but updates the service bulletin reference to Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 747-57A2367 RB, Revision 1, dated March 20, 2023. The changes aim to address the unsafe condition more promptly to enhance flight safety.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk involving the potential detachment of the inboard foreflap assembly, which could cause damage to the airplane and compromise safe flight and landing. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply with the updated inspection intervals and replacement requirements to mitigate this risk. Ensuring adherence to this AD helps maintain regulatory compliance and prevents costly incidents or accidents related to foreflap failures.
What To Do
Operators of affected Boeing 747 models must perform all inspections, lubrication, and part replacements as specified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 747-57A2367 RB, Revision 1, within the revised compliance times. The AD becomes effective on November 7, 2023, and compliance must be achieved according to the schedule in the service bulletin. Any on-condition repairs or replacements identified during inspections must be completed promptly to maintain airworthiness.
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