AD NUMBER: 2018-11-02

PRODUCT: All Lockheed Martin Corporation/Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company Model 188A and 188C airplanes; and Model P3A, P-3A, and P3B airplanes type certificated under various other type certificate holders. Certain variants of Model 188A and 188C airplanes are known as “P-3” series airplanes. P-3 series airplanes include but are not limited to Model CP-140, NP-3A, P3A, P-3A, P3B, P-3B, P-3C, P-3P, and WP3D airplanes.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

SUMMARY:  This AD requires a borescope inspection of the aileron control rod assembly to determine if threads exist on the aileron control rod body, and corrective actions if necessary.

This AD was prompted by a report indicating that certain aileron control rod bodies were incorrectly machined so that they did not include the load-carrying threads in the bore of the aileron control rod body. As a result, aileron control rod assemblies, which contain the discrepant part, do not provide adequate load carrying capabilities.

DATES: This AD is effective May 23, 2018. Comments must be received by July 9, 2018.

COST: The FAA estimates that this AD affects 25 airplanes of U.S. registry. The cost of compliance is estimated as follows:

• Inspection - $340 per aircraft for 4 hours labor.
• Replacement - $2,365 per aircraft for parts and labor.

FMI: AD