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

This document publishes in the Federal Register an amendment adopting Airworthiness Directive (AD) 98-02-51 that was sent previously to all known U.S. owners and operators of Boeing Model 737-300, -400, and -500 series airplanes by individual telegrams. This AD requires a one-time general visual inspection to detect any missing fasteners on the top and bottom of the leading edge skin where it attaches to the front spar of the horizontal stabilizer. This AD also requires a one- time detailed visual inspection to detect any loose or missing fasteners of the attachment of the elevator hinge plates to the horizontal stabilizer rear spar fittings. If a loose or missing fastener is detected, this AD requires installation of a new or serviceable fastener. This action is prompted by reports of loose or missing fasteners of the leading edge structure and elevator attachment fitting of the right-hand horizontal stabilizer. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent reduced structural integrity of the horizontal stabilizer due to loose or missing fasteners.