Summary
This document proposes the adoption of a new airworthiness directive (AD) that is applicable to certain McDonnell Douglas Model DC-8 series airplanes. This proposal would require an inspection of the antifogging or heating wiring to detect chafing or damage, as applicable; inspection of the insulation blankets to detect damage; and repair, if necessary. This proposal also would require revising the clearview window heating wiring installations. This proposal is prompted by a report of an electrical short that resulted in damage to the antifogging circuit wiring and insulation blanket above the Captain's clearview window. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to prevent chafed and damaged wires as a result of a sharp bend and restricted space between the fuselage frame and the clearview window in the full open position, which could result in an electrical short, damage to the antifogging circuit wiring and insulation blanket, and consequent smoke and fire in the flight deck.