Summary
This document proposes the supersedure of an existing airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to certain Boeing Model 727 series airplanes, that currently requires that the FAA-approved maintenance inspection program be revised to include inspections that will give no less than the required damage tolerance rating for each Structural Significant Item, and repair of cracked structure. That AD was prompted by a structural re-evaluation by the manufacturer which identified additional structural elements where, if damage were to occur, supplemental inspections may be required for timely detection. This action would require additional and expanded inspections, and repair of cracked structure. This action also would expand the applicability of the existing AD to include additional airplanes. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to ensure the continued structural integrity of the entire Boeing Model 727 fleet.