Inspection Details
On January 31, 2012, at approximately 1900 UTC, a Boeing 747-400F cargo airplane, registration 4X-ELF, operated by El Al Airlines, underwent an inspection at Ben Gurion Tel Aviv Airport. The inspection was prompted by a reported hydraulic leak that occurred during a flight from Chillagoe, Australia.
Crack Findings
During the inspection, maintenance personnel identified a large crack on the right-hand body landing gear outer cylinder. The crack was documented as a significant structural anomaly. No injuries were reported in connection with this event.
Investigation
The investigation into the crack is being conducted by the State of Israel, Ministry of Transport. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has appointed an Accredited Representative to assist, as the United States is the State of Manufacture and Design of the airplane and engines, in accordance with ICAO Annex 13 provisions.