AD FAA-2012-0931

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Boeing Company Model 727, 727C, 727-100, 727-100C, 727-200, and 727- 200F series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a structural re- evaluation by the manufacturer, which identified elements within the wing trailing edge flap area that qualify as structural significant items (SSIs). This AD requires revising the maintenance inspection program to include inspections that will give no less than the required damage tolerance rating (DTR) for certain SSIs, and repairing any cracked structure. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking of the wing trailing edge structure, which could result in compromised structural integrity of the airplane.