EASA AD 2014-0016R6
Wings — Wing Inboard Leading Edge Droop Nose Gooseneck — Inspection / Repair / Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014-0016R6 is an updated regulatory document addressing inspection, repair, and replacement requirements for the wing inboard leading edge droop nose gooseneck on Airbus A380-841, A380-842, and A380-861 aeroplanes. It applies to all manufacturer serial numbers except those with specific Airbus modifications 73979, 73981, and 73983 incorporated during production. The directive mandates detailed inspections and corrective actions to prevent structural cracks that could lead to in-flight loss of a droop nose panel.
What Changed
Revision 6 of EASA AD 2014-0016 adds references to the final applicable modification service bulletin as an optional terminating action for repetitive inspections. It also includes editorial standardization changes without altering the substantive requirements. This revision supersedes the previous Revision 5 dated 13 October 2017.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential unsafe condition involving structural cracks that could result in droop nose panel loss and possible injury on the ground. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety. The AD provides clear inspection intervals and repair instructions, helping compliance teams manage maintenance schedules effectively.
What To Do
Operators of affected Airbus A380 aeroplanes must perform detailed inspections of the wing inboard leading edge droop nose gooseneck brackets and related structures before exceeding specified flight cycle thresholds and at defined intervals thereafter. Any discrepancies found must be corrected before the next flight following the Airbus service bulletin instructions. Incorporation of the applicable modification service bulletin can terminate the repetitive inspection requirements. Compliance with these actions is mandatory as per the AD's effective dates.
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