EASA SIB 2023-07
Main Cargo Door Opening in Flight
Summary
EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2023-07 is an airworthiness bulletin addressing the risk of the main cargo door opening in flight on Boeing 757-200 aircraft converted from passenger to freighter configuration under EASA Supplemental Type Certificate 10015539. The bulletin highlights incidents involving sudden in-flight opening of the main cargo door on Boeing 757-236 PCF aircraft modified with this STC. It provides information on the door's locking and monitoring systems and references ongoing investigations into potential causes.
What Changed
This new bulletin introduces precautionary recommendations for operators of Boeing 757-200 freighters modified with EASA STC 10015539 to mitigate the risk of main cargo door opening in flight. It recommends verifying embodiment of specific Precision Conversions LLC service bulletins, inspecting door view ports and locking mechanism indicators, and adding periodic maintenance tasks. It also advises visual inspections for contamination and door status verification in cold weather conditions.
Why It Matters
This bulletin is important for aviation professionals because it addresses a serious safety incident involving cargo door integrity during flight, which could lead to hazardous situations. Operators and maintenance organizations must be aware of potential door system vulnerabilities and implement recommended inspections and maintenance to ensure door security. Compliance with these recommendations helps maintain aircraft safety and operational reliability without yet requiring mandatory regulatory action.
What To Do
Operators of Boeing 757-200 aircraft converted under EASA STC 10015539 should verify that the design improvements from Precision Conversions LLC service bulletins PC 757-52-0006 and PC 757-52-0007 are incorporated. They should inspect and maintain the condition of cargo door view ports and locking indicators, include these checks in their maintenance programs, and perform visual inspections for contamination and door status before flight, especially in cold weather. No mandatory compliance deadlines are specified as the recommendations are advisory.