Piper have released a Service Bulletin (SB) which may in the future become an Airworthiness Directive.

The update, which you can read here: SB1372A in all its dry glory relates to the wing spa's on the PA28 and the PA32 and includes all of the airframe derivatives. This service bulletin details the cracking found around the first couple of bolt holes on some aircraft.

Without going too far into the technicals here (read the SB for the gritty details), Piper have given the wing spa's a finite life of 15000 hours. 

There is fortunately a modification that can be applied to upgrade and extend the life of the spa and increase the time-frame for the NDT (Non Destructive Testing).

Aerofab Restorations, are working with Piper to provide a wing-spa upgrade to PA28 and PA32 aircraft. This modification is in no way a small undertaking however. The process involves our team of expert aviation engineers removing the wings, then riveting strengthening plates over the wing spa and surrounding structure. 

The addition of this Piper manufactured reinforcement kit, which is only available through authorised service centres extends the life of the wing-spa from 15000 hours, to 25000 hours, and with it, ensures both longevity and safety of the airframe. 

If you think your aircraft might be affected by the service bulletin, or if you would like to apply the modification, we're here to help and happy to talk about your needs. 

As always, you can drop by and see us, just fly into EGHO Thruxton and head up the north taxiway towards Hangar 6. The kettle is always on. You can now PPR online at www.thruxton.com