EASA AD US-2024-01-07: Flight Controls - Force Limiter Assemblies - Replacement

What to do

Operators of Boeing 777 airplanes must inspect maintenance records to determine if force limiter assembly P/N 253W1263-1 was installed or replaced on airplanes with line numbers 1531 through 1707. Affected assemblies must be replaced with P/N 253W1263-3 by March 7, 2024. Installation of the affected assemblies is prohibited on all Model 777 airplanes from that date forward.

Summary

The Federal Aviation Administration's Airworthiness Directive 2024-01-07 is a final rule addressing all Boeing Company Model 777 airplanes. It mandates the replacement of certain force limiter assemblies for the lateral control mechanism that do not meet maximum design force requirements, and prohibits installation of affected parts. This directive aims to correct an unsafe condition that could lead to loss of lateral control and affect safe flight and landing.

What changed

This new Airworthiness Directive requires identification and replacement of affected force limiter assemblies P/N 253W1263-1 on Boeing 777 airplanes, specifically those installed on line numbers 1531 through 1707, with force limiter assemblies P/N 253W1263-3. It excludes airplanes outside this line number range unless a replacement with the affected part was previously made. The directive also prohibits installation of the affected force limiter assemblies on any Model 777 airplane.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals because the affected force limiter assemblies may not break out within design force limits, risking lateral control system jams or restrictions. Operators, maintenance, and compliance teams must address this to ensure continued safe flight and landing capabilities. Failure to comply could result in unsafe flight conditions and regulatory non-compliance.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

More for Boeing 777