EASA AD US-2024-06-01
Fuselage - Skin and Bear Strap at the Forward Galley Door Cutout - Inspection
Summary
Federal Aviation Administration Airworthiness Directive 2024-06-01 is a final rule addressing certain Boeing 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER airplanes. It mandates inspections of the fuselage skin and bear strap at the forward galley door cutout forward upper corner due to reported cracks caused by high operating stresses. The directive aims to ensure structural integrity and prevent potential rapid decompression.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory inspections for cracks and existing repairs in the fuselage skin and bear strap at the forward galley door cutout forward upper corner. It requires related investigative and corrective actions based on findings, including detailed and eddy current inspections. The AD also clarifies that installation of winglets per STC ST00830SE does not affect compliance and allows use of later-approved revisions of the Boeing 737NG Structural Repair Manual Repair 6.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals because undetected cracks in the fuselage skin and bear strap could lead to structural failure and rapid decompression, posing serious safety risks. Operators, maintenance, and compliance teams must ensure timely inspections and repairs to maintain airworthiness and regulatory compliance. The directive also provides guidance on repair methods and coordination with the manufacturer to address unique crack configurations.
What To Do
Operators of affected Boeing 737 models must perform the required inspections of the forward galley door cutout area and carry out any necessary investigative and corrective actions as specified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737-53A1407 RB dated December 20, 2022. Compliance with this AD is mandatory by May 22, 2024. Stakeholders should also review and apply later-approved revisions of the Structural Repair Manual as applicable and coordinate with the FAA or Boeing for alternative repair methods if needed.