Summary
The FAA proposes to supersede an existing airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to certain Boeing Model 727 series airplanes. The existing AD currently requires repetitive inspections to detect cracks and loose brackets of the elevator rear spar, and corrective actions if necessary. The existing AD also provides for an optional terminating action for the repetitive inspections. This proposed AD would reduce the repetitive intervals of the inspections, mandate the previously optional terminating action for the repetitive inspections, and no longer allow stop-drilling. This proposed AD results from new reports of cracks, elongated fastener holes, and loose fittings of the elevator rear spar. We are proposing this AD to prevent cracking of the elevator rear spar at the tab hinge locations, which could cause excessive freeplay of the elevator control tab and possible tab flutter, and consequent loss of control of the airplane.