EASA SIB SAIB-2022-20
Wing Lower Spar Cap Bolt Holes
Summary
The FAA Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin SAIB: 2022-20 provides information regarding fatigue cracks found in the lower spar cap bolt holes of Piper Aircraft, Inc. PA-28 and PA-32 airplanes. This bulletin follows a fatal 2018 accident involving a Piper PA-28R-201 airplane and the subsequent Airworthiness Directive AD 2020-26-16, which mandated inspections of certain lower spar cap bolt holes. The bulletin highlights inspection findings of numerous cracks and hole-quality issues across the fleet and discusses ongoing analysis to develop further corrective actions.
What Changed
SAIB: 2022-20 does not introduce new mandatory requirements but informs stakeholders of the inspection results from AD 2020-26-16 and the FAA's concerns about additional fatigue cracks and hole-quality issues. It indicates that further inspections beyond those initially required may be necessary and that the FAA is considering additional corrective actions, including possible life limits on wing spars for high-usage aircraft. The bulletin also summarizes previous accidents and inspection findings to support these considerations.
Why It Matters
This bulletin is critical for operators, maintenance technicians, and inspectors of Piper PA-28 and PA-32 airplanes because it highlights an ongoing unsafe condition that could lead to in-flight wing separations. Understanding the extent of fatigue cracking and hole damage helps ensure timely inspections and repairs, preventing structural failures. It also informs compliance teams about potential future regulatory actions and the need for proactive fleet management to address aging aircraft structures.
What To Do
Affected stakeholders should continue to comply with the inspection and reporting requirements of AD 2020-26-16 and monitor FAA communications for any new directives or life limits. Operators are encouraged to report inspection findings to the FAA to aid in developing further corrective actions. Maintenance personnel should be vigilant for signs of fatigue cracks or hole damage during inspections and apply corrective measures as necessary to maintain airworthiness.