AD 2024-10-04 Requires Inspecting The Rear Wing Spar Attachment Fitting

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Piper Aircraft, Inc. (Piper) Model PA-28-181, PA-28R-201, PA-34-220T, and PA-44-180 airplanes. 

This AD was prompted by a report of a double-drilled bolt hole of the rear wing spar attachment fitting found during an unscheduled inspection of an airplane due to a ground collision with an automobile. This AD requires inspecting the rear wing spar attachment fitting and, if discrepancies are found, inspecting the forward wing spar attachment fitting, accomplishing corrective actions as required, and reporting to the FAA when corrective actions are required.

The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

This AD is effective June 6, 2024.

Background: The FAA is issuing this AD to correct an unsafe condition on certain serial-numbered Piper Model PA-28-181, PA-28R-201, PA-34-220T, and PA-44-180 airplanes. The FAA received a report that a double-drilled bolt hole of the rear wing spar attachment fitting was found during an unscheduled inspection of an airplane due to a ground collision with an automobile. This was the result of an error made during manufacturing. 

A double-drilled bolt hole of the rear wing spar attachment fitting reduces its strength below its limit load with possible failure of the fitting, which can lead to load redistribution and result in possible failure of the primary wing structure.

This condition, if not addressed, could result in separation of the wing and loss of control of the airplane. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

FAA's Determination: The FAA is issuing this AD because the agency has determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design.

FYI: The FAA estimates that this AD affects 499 airplanes of U.S. registry.

FMI: www.regulations.gov