Airworthiness Directives; McDonnell Douglas Model DC-8 Series Airplanes Modified in Accordance With Supplemental Type Certificate SA1802SO

This document publishes in the Federal Register an amendment adopting Airworthiness Directive (AD) 98-26-51 that was sent previously to all known U.S. owners and operators of certain McDonnell Douglas Model DC-8 series airplanes by individual telegrams. This AD requires a revision to the Airplane Flight Manual to specify restrictions on operating if any pressurization anomaly is detected. This AD also requires a one-time inspection to detect discrepancies and cracking of the main deck cargo door in the immediate area of the bolts attaching the latch fittings, and repair, if necessary. This action is prompted by a report that a cabin pressurization anomaly was detected on a McDonnell Douglas Model DC-8 series airplane, and by subsequent investigation, which revealed fatigue cracking in the structure of the main deck cargo door. The actions specified by this AD are intended to detect and correct fatigue cracking in the structure of the main deck cargo door, which could result in cabin decompression of the airplane and loss of the main deck cargo door, and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane.