Summary
We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model MD-11 and MD-11F airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a report of fuel odor in the cabin. Fuel was found leaking from a cracked fuel line shroud in the left cargo compartment equipment tunnel. This proposed AD would require a check for the presence of fuel at the fuel shroud drain; a high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection for cracked fuel line shrouds; a pressure test of the drain system of the tail tank fuel shroud and a pressure test of the drain system of the aft fuselage fuel shroud to determine cracking; and corrective actions, if necessary. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct fuel leaking from a cracked fuel line shroud, which could result in fuel accumulation below the cargo compartment floor and consequent increased risk of fire.