Opportunity
Federal Register #FAA20264653
FAA Proposes Airworthiness Directive for Boeing 747-8 Series: Repetitive HFEC Inspections and Repairs
Buyer
Federal Aviation Administration
Posted
June 08, 2026
Respond By
July 23, 2026
Identifier
FAA20264653
NAICS
488190
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), under the Department of Transportation, is proposing a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Boeing Model 747-8 series airplanes. - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) - Aircraft Certification Service, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch - OEM Highlight: - The Boeing Company is the primary OEM referenced - Products/Services Requested: - Repetitive external surface high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections of the upper fastener row of the fuselage skin lap splice between STA 1350 and STA 1480 at stringers S23L and S23R - On-condition actions, including contacting Boeing for repair instructions and performing repairs as needed - Reference to Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 747-53A2913 RB for detailed procedures - Quantities: - Estimated to affect 3 U.S.-registered Boeing 747-8 series airplanes - Notable Requirements: - Compliance with Boeing's service bulletin instructions is mandatory - Inspections are to be performed at intervals specified in the referenced Boeing bulletin - The unsafe condition addressed is the risk of rapid decompression and loss of structural integrity due to cracks - No specific part numbers or new product purchases; this is a maintenance and inspection requirement for existing aircraft
Description
The FAA proposes a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Boeing Model 747-8 series airplanes due to reported cracks in the fuselage skin lap splice at the upper fastener row. The AD requires repetitive external surface high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections of the upper fastener row of the fuselage skin lap splice for cracks and applicable on-condition actions, including repairs. This action aims to address the unsafe condition that could lead to rapid decompression and loss of structural integrity. Comments on the proposed AD must be received by July 23, 2026.