Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 737-300, -400, and -500 Series Airplanes

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to certain Boeing Model 737-300, -400, and -500 series airplanes. This amendment requires, for certain airplanes, replacement of the hinge assemblies on certain escape slide compartments of the forward doors with new, stronger hinge assemblies; and, for certain other airplanes, an inspection for incorrectly crimped hinge assemblies, and corrective action if necessary. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent forward door escape slides from falling out of their compartments into the airplane interior and inflating, which could impede an evacuation in the event of an emergency. This action is intended to address the identified unsafe condition.