EASA AD US-2026-16-06 — Wings - Lower Outboard Wing Skin - Inspection

Summary

The document titled "Wings - Lower Outboard Wing Skin - Inspection" is a final rule Airworthiness Directive (AD 2026-16-06) issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) affecting certain Boeing 767-300 and 767-300F series airplanes equipped with Aviation Partners Boeing winglets installed under Supplemental Type Certificate ST01920SE. The directive mandates inspections for fatigue cracking in the lower outboard wing skin and requires repairs or modifications as necessary to ensure continued airworthiness.

What Changed

This AD supersedes AD 2018-11-14, expanding its applicability to include airplanes that had the STC ST01920SE winglets installed and later removed. It continues the required high frequency eddy current inspections and adds repetitive internal and external inspections for certain airplanes with external doubler repairs at stringer L-9.5. The AD also clarifies applicability and corrects typographical errors from the previous rule.

Why It Matters

This AD addresses critical fatigue cracking that could lead to wing and winglet separation, posing a significant safety risk and potential loss of airplane controllability. Compliance is essential for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent structural failures and ensure regulatory adherence. The directive impacts maintenance planning, inspection scheduling, and repair procedures for affected Boeing 767 fleets.

What To Do

Operators of affected Boeing 767-300 and 767-300F airplanes must perform the specified high frequency eddy current inspections of the lower outboard wing skin and carry out any required repairs or modifications. The AD becomes effective on September 17, 2026, and inspections and repairs must be completed according to the compliance times outlined in the directive and referenced service bulletins. Stakeholders should review the updated applicability criteria and ensure all inspections are documented and performed as required.