AD FAA-2011-1231

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of damaged fire seals on the forward edge of the thrust reverser. This AD requires inspecting to detect damage to the upper fire seals on the forward edge of the thrust reverser, where the fire seal contacts the 12-o'clock engine strut, and for correct stiffness and vent holes, and doing corrective actions if necessary; and installing a bracket for the fire seal. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct damage to the fire seals, which could allow airflow into the engine fire zone and could degrade the ability to extinguish an engine fire.