B737 Next Generation Undifferentiated
Communication Breakdown; Other / Unknown; Situational Awareness
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Maintenance; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural FAR; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
Aircraft Aircraft Damaged
Aircraft; Human Factors; Company Policy
Aircraft arrived with damage to right wing upper scimitar trailing edge and had missing material and rough edges. Upon closer inspection it was discovered a lightning strike damage. This was also confirmed by a sheet metal technician on duty and called into the controller by radio to take aircraft OOS (out of service) for lightning strike inspection. But the Maintenance Supervisor signed off lightning strike inspection at the gate within minutes and without complying with procedure outlined in AMM (Aircraft Maintenance Manual). Not only that; but the damage at the trailing edge was not even addressed or blended smooth per SRM (Structural Repair Manual); but deferred to paint and aircraft released for service. Maintenance Supervisor signed off lightning strike damage to prevent further delay of revenue flight. This compromises safety of equipment; crew; and passengers and is against [the] core value of [the company]. This was immediately brought to attention of Union Stewards and Shift Manager on duty.
Maintenance Technician reported that the required action was not taken after a lightning strike on a B737 scimitar winglet.