A-67-015
NTSB Safety Recommendation — Aviation
Recommendation text
THE BOARD RECOMMENDS THAT AN AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVE BE PUBLISHED REQUIRING AN INTERNAL INSPECTION OF THE MAIN INTEGRAL TYPE FUEL TANKS ON PIPER PA-28/PA-32 AIRCRAFT FOR ANY EVIDENCE OF PEELING OR FLAKING OF THE SEALANT COMPOUND. THOSE TANKS FOUND FAULTY SHOULD BE REPAIRED OR REPLACED AS DIRECTED BY THE MANUFACTURER PRIOR TO FURTHER PASSENGER OR COMMERCIAL FLIGHT. IT IS FURTHER RECOMMENDED THAT THIS INSPECTION BE CONTINUALLY REQUIRED ON ALL PA-28-32 AIRCRAFT AT APPROPRIATE INTERVALS UNTIL A PERMANENT SOLUTION TO THE PEELING AND FLAKING PROBLEM IS FOUND, OR UNTIL ADEQUATE TANK ACCESS PLATES CAN BE INSTALLED ALLOWING COMPLETE INTERNAL INSPECTION AND INTERNAL TANK REPAIRS TO BE MADE DURING PERIODIC INSPECTIONS.
In plain language (FlightFinder summary)
The FAA is urged to mandate regular internal checks of fuel tanks on specific Piper aircraft models to detect deteriorating sealant. If damage is found, the manufacturer’s instructions must be followed for repairs before these planes carry passengers or operate commercially. This inspection requirement should remain in place until a lasting fix is developed or better access panels are installed to allow for complete maintenance during routine checks.
This plain-language summary is written by FlightFinder to explain the recommendation above. It is not the official wording — the verbatim NTSB text is quoted above.
Details
| Status | Closed - Acceptable Action |
|---|---|
| Mode | Aviation |
| Closed | Jan 1, 1975 |
| NTSB number | 80422 |
| Addressees | FAA |
External links
NTSB safety recommendations are advisory; addressees are not legally required to adopt them. Source: NTSB CAROL (public domain).