AD 2003-14-05 Airworthiness Directives; McDonnell Douglas Model 717-200 Airplanes

Models named: 717-200. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

All Model 717-200 airplanes, certificated in any category.

Required as indicated, unless accomplished previously. To find and correct cracking of the support fitting assemblies of the main spoiler actuators, which could result in damage of adjacent structure such as the rear spar or upper skin panel, and consequent reduced structural integrity of the airplane; accomplish the following: Repetitive Detailed Inspections (a) Prior to the accumulation of 2,000 total flight hours, or within 550 flight hours after the effective date of this AD: Perform a detailed inspection for cracking of the support fitting assemblies and stop pads of the main spoiler actuators, per the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) 717-57A0016, dated May 29, 2003. Thereafter, repeat the detailed inspections at intervals not to exceed 550 flight hours. Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed inspection is defined as: “An intensive visual examination of a specific structural area, system, installation, or assembly to detect damage, failure, or irregularity. Available lighting is normally supplemented with a direct source of good lighting at intensity deemed appropriate by the inspector. Inspection aids such as mirror, magnifying lenses, etc., may be used. Surface cleaning and elaborate access procedures may be required.” No Cracking Found: Follow-on Action (b) If no cracking is found during any inspection required by paragraph (a) of this AD, before further flight, lubricate the spoiler system and ensure that grease “squeeze-out” occurs at the locations indicated in Figure 3 of the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 717-57A0016, dated May 29, 2003. If Any Cracking Found: (c) If any cracking is found, before further flight, repair and perform follow-on inspections per a method approved by the Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA; or per data meeting the type certification basis of the airplane approved by a Boeing Company Designated Engineering Representative who has been authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles ACO, to make such findings. For a repair method to be approved, the approval must specifically reference this AD. No Reporting Requirements (d) Although the Accomplishment Instructions of the ASB referenced in this AD specifies to submit information to the manufacturer, this AD does not include such a requirement. Alternative Methods of Compliance (e) In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, the Manager, Los Angeles ACO, is authorized to approve alternative methods of compliance for this AD. Incorporation by Reference (f) Unless otherwise specified in this AD, the actions shall be done in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 717-57A0016, dated May 29, 2003. This incorporation by reference was approved by the Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies may be obtained from Boeing Commercial Aircraft Group, Long Beach Division, 3855 Lakewood Boulevard, Long Beach, California 90846, Attention: Data and Service Management, Dept. C1-L5A (D800-0024). Copies may be inspected at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; at the FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California; or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC. Effective Date (g) This amendment becomes effective on July 31, 2003. Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 3, 2003. Vi L. Lipski, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 03-17430 Filed 7-15-03; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P