3.2.5.3.3. Wing root fairing panel seals
The aircraft exterior transitions between the wing root and the fuselage via a number of fairing panels. These panels are not part of the aircraft’s primary structure but they perform an important role in managing the airflow in this aerodynamically critical area. Flexible seals, which are sometimes referred to as “Karman seals”, cover gaps between the panels and the adjacent wing or fuselage structure.
The following quantifies the effect of the loss of any seal above (upper) or below (lower) the wing. $12,000
$10,000
$8,000
$6,000
$4,000
$2,000
$0

*Figures represent additional fuel burn
and cost for an A320 aircraft.
For A318, A319 and A321 the factors
shown on page 33 should be applied.

Figure 3-20
Missing Wing Root Fairing Seals
Upper and Lower Seals (A320* - fixed fuel price)

Monthly Additional Fuel Cost (US$)
$12,000 
$10,000 
 
$8,000 
 
$6,000 
 
$4,000 
 
$2,000 
 
$0 
 
$1.50  $1.70  $1.90  $2.10  $2.30  $2.50 
Fuel Price (US$ per US Gallon) 
Figure 3-21 
Missing Upper Wing Root Fairing Seals 
(A320* - variable fuel price) 

References: Missing Karman Seals
MPD Task Reference:  ZL-100-02 
MPD Task Interval:  every 100 days 
Estimated inspection time:  15 minutes 
Estimated time to replace one seal:    2 man-hours 
AMM Reference:  53-35-11 PB401 

3.2.5.3.4. Moving surface seals
Gaps between the various sections of the aircraft’s structure can disrupt local airflow and this will generate unnecessary drag, and have a consequent impact on fuel consumption. Flexible seals are often used to fill external gaps between moving surfaces and access panels and their surrounding structure.
The effect on fuel consumption of moving surface seals that are often found missing or damaged in-service and have a particularly negative impact on aerodynamic performance are highlighted here.

$5,000 $4,000 $3,000 $2,000 $1,000 $0
US$5,000

$1.50 $1.70 $1.90 $2.10 $2.30 $2.50

Fuel Price (US$ per US Gallon)
*Figures represent additional fuel burn
and cost for an A320 aircraft.
For A318, A319 and A321 the factors
shown on page 33 should be applied.

References: Missing seal - slat (spanwise)
MPD Task Reference: ZL-500-02-1
MPD Task Interval:  every 20 months or 6000 flight hours 
Estimated inspection time (all slats):  20 minutes 
Estimated repair time per slat seal:  3 man-hours 
AMM Reference:  57-40-00 PB401 
　
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