Summary
This document proposes the adoption of a new airworthiness directive (AD) that is applicable to certain Boeing Model 747-400 series airplanes. This proposal would require repetitive inspections to detect discrepancies of the drip shield and supports located above the rudder pedal mechanisms; corrective action, if necessary; and eventual modification of the drip shield, which would terminate the repetitive inspections. This action is necessary to prevent unrestrained drip shields from interfering with the rudder pedal mechanism, which could result in reduced controllability of the airplane. This action is intended to address the identified unsafe condition.