EASA AD US-2026-01-06 — Fuselage - Cargo Barrier Fitting Link - Inspection
Summary
EASA AD US-2026-01-06 is a final airworthiness directive issued by the FAA addressing certain Boeing 787-9 and 787-10 airplanes. It requires inspection of cargo barrier fitting links to verify the titanium alloy material used, due to concerns that some fittings may have been manufactured with incorrect titanium alloy. The directive mandates use of high frequency eddy current or handheld X-ray fluorescence spectrometer inspections to determine material compliance and specifies replacement if necessary.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory inspections of cargo barrier fitting links on Boeing 787-9 and 787-10 aircraft to detect incorrect titanium alloy material. It requires operators to perform either HFEC or XRF spectrometer inspections and to replace any non-compliant fittings with parts made from the correct Ti-6Al-4V alloy. The directive updates the estimated number of affected U.S. registered airplanes from 23 to 25 and clarifies inspection methods.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because incorrect titanium alloy in cargo barrier fittings could lead to failure during rapid decompression, risking damage to the aft electronic equipment bay and potentially compromising safe flight and landing. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft structural integrity and safety. The inspections and potential replacements affect maintenance planning and cost considerations.
What To Do
Operators of Boeing 787-9 and 787-10 airplanes must perform HFEC or handheld XRF spectrometer inspections of the cargo barrier fitting links by February 20, 2026, or within the compliance times specified in the Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin. If fittings are found to be made from incorrect titanium alloy, they must be replaced with approved Ti-6Al-4V alloy parts. Documentation and adherence to the Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB530089-00 RB, Issue 001, dated February 7, 2025, are required.