Federal Register #FAA20263868

FAA Proposes Airworthiness Directive for Boeing 737 Series: Inspection and Repair of Fuselage Skin Cracks

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), under the Department of Transportation, is proposing a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER series airplanes to address safety concerns related to fuselage skin cracks near the aft drain mast. - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Aircraft Certification Service, Integrated Certificate Management Division - OEM Highlight: - The Boeing Company is the primary Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) referenced - Products/Services Requested: - Inspection and repair services for fuselage skin near the aft drain mast on Boeing 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER series airplanes - Estimated affected U.S. airplanes: 1,987 - Procedures include external general visual inspection, detailed inspections, high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection, and on-condition repairs - All work must comply with Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 73753A1421 RB - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Repetitive inspections for cracks and corrosion - On-condition actions, including contacting Boeing for alternative inspections and repair instructions if needed - Compliance with FAA-approved or Boeing Organization Designation Authorization (ODA)-approved alternative methods - The directive aims to prevent rapid decompression and loss of structural integrity - Key Locations: - FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198 (contracting/government office) - Boeing Commercial Airplanes, 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-5600 (contractor facility)

Description

The FAA proposes a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER series airplanes. This AD is prompted by reports of fuselage skin cracks near the aft drain mast. It requires inspection of the aft drain mast area and surrounding fuselage skin for repairs, repetitive inspections for cracks and corrosion, and applicable on-condition actions to address the unsafe condition. The goal is to prevent rapid decompression and loss of structural integrity of the airplane.

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