Summary
The FAA is revising an earlier NPRM for an airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to all BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Model BAe 146 and Avro 146-RJ series airplanes. The original NPRM would have required repetitive detailed inspections of the rear fuselage upper skin to detect cracking due to fatigue, and repair if necessary. The original NPRM was prompted by evidence of cracking due to fatigue along the edges of certain chemi-etched pockets in the rear fuselage upper skin. This new action revises the area of inspection specified in the original NPRM. We are proposing this supplemental NPRM to prevent a possible sudden loss of cabin pressure and consequent injury to passengers and flightcrew.