EASA AD US-2024-13-05
Nacelles / Pylons - Left and Right Engine Inlet Cowl Assembly / Engine Anti-Ice Duct Seals - Inspection / Records Check
Summary
The Federal Aviation Administration's Airworthiness Directive 2024-13-05 addresses all Boeing Model 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes. It responds to reports of heat damage around the engine anti-ice duct seals in the engine inlet cowl assemblies, requiring inspections and repairs to ensure continued airworthiness. The directive mandates records checks, seal replacements, damage repairs, and prohibits installation of certain engine inlets under unsafe conditions.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory inspections of the left and right engine inlet cowl assemblies for heat damage, requires updating the operator's minimum equipment list, and enforces installation or replacement of engine anti-ice duct seals. It also establishes repair and replacement criteria for damaged engine inlets and prohibits installation of inlets that do not meet serviceability standards. The directive incorporates specific Boeing and Collins Aerospace service bulletins by reference.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent structural damage and potential departure of engine inlets during flight, which could jeopardize safe flight and landing. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to avoid safety risks and regulatory penalties. The directive clarifies inspection and repair standards, helping maintenance teams maintain aircraft integrity and operational safety.
What To Do
Affected operators must perform a records check and update their minimum equipment list by incorporating the Dispatch Deviations Guide update. They must inspect engine inlet cowl assemblies for heat damage and replace or install engine anti-ice duct seals as specified. Any damage found must be repaired or the engine inlet replaced before further flight. Compliance with these actions is required by September 24, 2024.