A D NUMBER: PL2004-25-51
MANUFACTURER: Raytheon
SUBJECT: Airworthiness Directive PL2004-25-51
SUMMARY: On December 7, 2004, the left wing of a Raytheon Beech Model A45 (T-34A), serial number G-13, separated from the airplane in flight. The airplane, operated by Texas Air Aces, crashed near Montgomery, Texas. The wing was found about a quarter mile away from the crash site. The left wing center section failed 4 inches inboard of the forward wing attach fitting. In addition, FAA investigation revealed further visual evidence of fatigue (found in other locations) not previously addressed by AD 2001-13-18 R1, which FAA issued as a result of an accident near Conroe,Texas. A review of maintenance records shows that the accident airplane was in compliance with AD 2001-13-18 R1. AD 2001-13-18 R1 requires compliance with Raytheon Service Bulletin SB57-3329 to inspect four locations per wing:. Location (1) - 9 fasteners at W.S. 34 forward spar;. Location (2) - the lower rear bathtub fitting;. Location (3) - 1 fastener at W.S. 64 forward spar; and. Location (4) - 2 fasteners at W.S. 66 rear spar.The FAA approved four alternative methods of compliance (AMOCs) to AD 2001-13-18 R1 based on front spar replacement or modification and inspections of Location (2) and (4) of the rear spar.

FMI: www.avantext.com/DailyADIndex.ASP?AD=PL20042551