FAA Issues Airworthiness Directive for Certain Piper Aircraft Models

The AD will affect about 500 U.S.-registered aircraft, according to the agency.

Amelia Walsh

Thursday, May 30, 2024 at 05:46 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

The FAA said the airworthiness directive will affect some 500 U.S.-registered aircraft similar to the one here—including certain serial-numbered Piper models PA-28-181, PA-28R-201, PA-34-220T, and PA-44-180. [File Photo]

Key Takeaways:

A new FAA airworthiness directive (AD) mandates inspections of rear (and potentially forward) wing spar attachment fittings on specific Piper aircraft models (PA-28-181, PA-28R-201, PA-34-220T, and PA-44-180) due to a discovered double-drilled bolt hole.
Approximately 500 U.S.-registered aircraft are affected, requiring inspections and corrective actions if discrepancies are found.
The FAA bypassed the typical public comment period due to the unsafe condition posed by the weakened fitting, which could lead to wing separation.
The AD is effective June 6, 2024.

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The FAA issued a new airworthiness directive (AD) for specific Piper aircraft models after an unscheduled inspection, prompted by a ground collision with an automobile, revealed a double-drilled bolt hole in the rear wing spar attachment fitting.

The FAA says the AD will affect some 500 U.S.-registered aircraft—including certain serial-numbered Piper models PA-28-181, PA-28R-201, PA-34-220T, and PA-44-180. It requires inspection of the rear wing spar attachment fitting and, if discrepancies are found, inspecting the forward wing spar attachment fitting as well. The directive mandates performing necessary corrective actions and notifying the FAA once these actions have been completed.