AD NUMBER: PL2007-18-52
MANUFACTURER: Boeing
SUBJECT: Airworthiness Directive PL2007-18-52
SUMMARY: Since the issuance of emergency AD 2007-18-51, we have received additional reports of parts coming off the main slat track downstop assemblies.

In these cases, the parts were found in the bottom of the slat track housing ("slat can"). Additionally, in one case, the slat can was damaged. Based on this new information, we find that the 24-day compliance time specified in AD 2007-18-51 for accomplishing the detailed inspection of each main slat track downstop assembly to verify proper installation of the slat track hardware is not adequate to address the unsafe condition.

We have determined that the appropriate compliance time for this inspection is 10 days after receipt of this new AD.

In addition, we have determined that an inspection using borescope techniques in lieu of a detailed inspection is acceptable.

Further, we have determined that by performing the initial detailed or borescope inspection within the reduced compliance time of 10 days, the compliance time for torquing the nut and bolt can remain at 24 days after receipt of AD 2007-18-51.

FMI: www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/airworthiness_directives/