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Cessna doorpost cracks prompt FAA concern

Doorpost cracking found on several airplanes during a fleet inspection of Cessna 207s has resulted in the FAA issuing an airworthiness concern sheet that also lists other Cessna models with shared design elements. 

The FAA released an airworthiness concern sheet for Cessna 172, 175, 182, 205, 206, 207, and 210 models with strut-braced wings, noting that wing deformation could result from the cracks in the vicinity of the wing strut attach fitting. Photo by Mike Fizer.

The airworthiness concern sheet, which pertains to Cessna 172, 175, 182, 205, 206, 207, and 210 models with strut-braced wings, noted concern that wing deformation could result from the cracks in the vicinity of the wing strut attach fitting.

The wing deformation could change flight characteristics such as stalls, the airworthiness concern sheet noted, adding, “Although not as likely, excessive cracking may cause the wing strut to lose its support at the doorpost that could result in the wing separation.”

The airworthiness concern sheet, issued Feb. 8, provides a means by which the FAA can notify operators of its concerns and solicit information to be submitted. A final determination of a course of action may depend in part on information received.

A table included in the airworthiness concern sheet lists affected airplane models, inspection documents, and related service bulletins.

The FAA is specifically interested in receiving current flight hours on Cessna 172, 175, 182, 205, 206, 207, and 210 wing-strutted airplanes, and the results of inspections outlined in the Cessna supplemental inspection documents. Members with information relating to this airworthiness concern sheet are encouraged to contact AOPA.

AOPA ePublishing staff

AOPA ePublishing Staff editors are experienced pilots, flight instructors, and aircraft owners who have a passion for bringing you the latest news and AOPA announcements.

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