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

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Model MD-11 and MD-11F airplanes. This AD requires a one-time inspection to determine if wires touch the upper surface of the center upper auxiliary fuel tank and marking the location, if necessary; a one-time inspection of all wire bundles above the center upper auxiliary fuel tank for splices and damage; a one-time inspection for damage to the fuel vapor barrier seal and upper surface of the center upper auxiliary fuel tank; and corrective actions, if necessary. This AD also requires installation of nonmetallic barrier/shield sleeving, new clamps, new attaching hardware, and a new extruded channel. This AD results from fuel system reviews conducted by the manufacturer. We are issuing this AD to reduce the potential of ignition sources inside fuel tanks, which, in combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result in fuel tank explosions and consequent loss of the airplane.