AD/B737/354 Fwd Cargo Compartment Frames and Frame Reinforcements (Cth)

AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVE

For the reasons set out in the background section, the CASA delegate whose signature appears below issues the following Airworthiness Directive (AD) under subregulation 39.001(1) of CASR 1998.  The AD requires that the action set out in the requirement section (being action that the delegate considers necessary to correct the unsafe condition) be taken in relation to the aircraft or aeronautical product mentioned in the applicability section: (a) in the circumstances mentioned in the requirement section; and (b) in accordance with the instructions set out in the requirement section; and (c) at the time mentioned in the compliance section.

Boeing 737 Series Aeroplanes

AD/B737/354 Fwd Cargo Compartment Frames
and Frame Reinforcements 5/2009

Applicability:	Model 737-300, -400 and -500 series aircraft, as identified on Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1279 original issue, or later FAA approved revision.
Requirement:	Action in accordance with the technical requirements if FAA AD 2009-02-06 Amdt 39-15796.
Compliance:	As specified in the Requirement document.
This Airworthiness Directive becomes effective on 7 May 2009.
Background:	The FAA received reports of cracking in the forward cargo compartment frames, or in the frame and frame reinforcements.  Such cracking could reduce the structural capability of the frames to sustain limit loads, and result in cracking in the fuselage skin and subsequent rapid depressurisation of the aircraft.

David Villiers
Delegate of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority

26 March 2009