Navigation — Angle of Attack Sensors — Replacement
- Published
- Effective
- Replaces
- 2015-0135R2
- Replaces
- 2015-0087
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators must replace specified AOA sensors within defined compliance times ranging from 4 to 22 months depending on sensor part number and aircraft model. They must also perform repetitive functional heating tests on certain Thales sensors at intervals not exceeding 2,000 flight hours. Additionally, the AFM must be amended to include emergency procedures until removal is authorized. Installation of prohibited sensor parts is forbidden from specified dates.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2015-0135R3 is an amendment addressing the replacement of Angle of Attack (AOA) sensors on Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 aircraft. It applies to various AOA sensor part numbers from manufacturers including Thales, UTC Aerospace, and SEXTANT/THOMSON. The directive mandates modifications to ensure continued safe operation by preventing loss of control caused by blocked or malfunctioning AOA sensors.
What changed
This revision updates the previous AD 2015-0135R2 by expanding the conditions under which the Emergency Procedure can be removed from the Aircraft Flight Manual for additional AOA sensor and Elevator Aileron Computer configurations. It retains all prior requirements for sensor replacement, inspections, and prohibitions on certain parts installation while refining compliance instructions.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk where blocked AOA sensors can cause uncontrollable nose-down pitch commands, potentially leading to loss of aircraft control. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure affected sensors are replaced or inspected within specified timeframes to maintain airworthiness and regulatory compliance. It also impacts flight crew procedures through mandated AFM amendments.
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