Airworthiness Directives; McDonnell Douglas Model MD-11 and MD-11F Airplanes

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to certain McDonnell Douglas Model MD-11 and MD-11F airplanes that requires an inspection to detect chafed wires in the avionics equipment compartment, and repair, if necessary. This amendment also requires replacement of the existing cover of the avionics cooling fan with a new cover, and installation of a new placard on the cover. Additionally, this amendment specifies which previously accomplished actions are acceptable for compliance with certain requirements of this AD; and clarifies the applicability, a part number, and the inspection definition. The actions specified by this AD are intended to ensure that the cover of the avionics cooling fans is removed only for fan maintenance, and to prevent smoke and/or fire in the avionics equipment compartment due to chafing and arcing as a result of maintenance personnel lying against the removed cover and/ or insulation blankets that cover wire harnesses. This action is intended to address the identified unsafe condition.