AD 2021-23-21 Requires Repetitive Inspections For Cracking Of Certain Areas Of The Aft Wheel Well Bulkhead

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 787-8 and 787-9 airplanes.

This AD was prompted by reports that shimming requirements were not met during the assembly of certain structural joints, which can result in reduced fatigue thresholds and cracking of the affected structural joints. This AD requires repetitive inspections for cracking of certain areas of the aft wheel well bulkhead (AWWB) body chord and AWWB side fitting and failsafe straps, and repair of any cracking found. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. This AD is effective January 10, 2022.

Supplementary Information: The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain The Boeing Company Model 787-8 and 787-9 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on May 10, 2021 (86 FR 24778). The NPRM was prompted by reports that shimming requirements were not met during the assembly of certain structural joints, which can result in reduced fatigue thresholds and cracking of the affected structural joints. In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require repetitive inspections for cracking of certain areas of the AWWB body chord and AWWB side fitting and failsafe straps, and repair of any cracking found. The FAA is issuing this AD to address undetected fatigue cracking, which could weaken primary structure so it cannot sustain limit load, and could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane.

FMI: www.regulations.gov