AD FAA-2018-0413

We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016-09-05, which applied to certain The Boeing Company Model 717-200 airplanes. AD 2016-09-05 required a detailed inspection for distress of the vertical stabilizer leading edge skin, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. It also required, for certain airplanes, repetitive inspections of the front spar cap for any loose or missing fasteners, or any cracking, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. This AD requires repetitive inspections for distress, cracking, and loose or missing fasteners in the vertical stabilizer leading edge skin and front spar cap, with new compliance times for certain airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of cracking in the leading edge of the vertical stabilizer and front spar web. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.