EASA AD US-2025-21-05
Landing Gear - Upper Lock Link Assembly - Inspections
Summary
Federal Aviation Administration Airworthiness Directive 2025-21-05 is a final rule addressing all Boeing Company Model 717-200 airplanes. It mandates repetitive inspections of the upper lock link assembly in the nose landing gear to detect cracking and requires corrective actions if cracks are found. This directive aims to prevent nose gear-up landings caused by failure of the upper lock link assembly.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive eddy current high frequency inspections of the upper lock link assembly for cracks and requires replacement of any cracked parts with serviceable assemblies. It also exempts upper lock link assemblies manufactured after December 31, 2001, from overhaul requirements and clarifies acceptable installation conditions for inspected parts. The directive finalizes these requirements following public comments and consultation with stakeholders.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk that could lead to nose landing gear failure during landing, potentially causing runway excursions. Operators and maintenance organizations must implement the inspection and replacement procedures to ensure continued airworthiness and compliance. The directive also provides clarity on part eligibility, reducing unnecessary overhaul burdens and supporting efficient maintenance planning.
What To Do
Operators of Boeing 717-200 airplanes must begin repetitive inspections of the upper lock link assembly using the specified eddy current high frequency method starting January 2, 2026. Any cracked assemblies must be replaced with serviceable parts, with exemptions for assemblies manufactured after December 31, 2001. Compliance with the inspection intervals and corrective actions outlined in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 717-32A0043 RB is mandatory to maintain airworthiness.