Summary
This document revises an earlier proposed airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to certain Boeing Model 737-300, -400, and -500 series airplanes, that would have required replacement of the hinge assemblies on certain escape slide compartments of the forward doors with new, stronger hinge assemblies. This new action revises the proposed rule by adding an inspection for incorrectly crimped hinge assemblies, and corrective action if necessary, for certain airplanes. The actions specified by this new proposed AD are intended to prevent forward door escape slides from falling out of their compartments into the airplane interior and inflating, which could impede an evacuation in the event of an emergency. This action is intended to address the identified unsafe condition.