Fuselage — Frame 94 Upper Shell — Inspection
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
- Replaces
- 2017-0188
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected Airbus A380 aircraft must perform detailed inspections before exceeding 8,800 flight cycles and repeat them every 4,400 flight cycles thereafter, following Airbus Service Bulletin A380-53-8133. If damage is found, high frequency eddy current inspections and corrective actions must be completed before the next flight. Incorporating Airbus modification 74725 via Service Bulletin A380-53-8078 is an optional terminating action that stops the need for repetitive inspections.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2017-0188R1 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus A380-841, A380-842, and A380-861 aeroplanes, excluding MSN 0162 and 0167 and those with Airbus modification 74725 incorporated in production. The directive mandates repetitive inspections of the fuselage frame 94 upper shell to detect and address potential structural damage. It also provides an optional terminating modification to eliminate the need for repetitive inspections.
What changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2017-0188R1 revises the original AD 2017-0188 by extending the intervals for initial and repetitive detailed inspections of the frame 94 upper shell. It introduces updated inspection procedures and confirms the optional modification as terminating action for the repetitive inspections. The revision reflects updated service bulletin revisions and inspection intervals.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of the Airbus A380 fuselage, specifically at frame 94 where fatigue damage was detected during testing. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent potential structural failure that could compromise flight safety. The directive ensures continued airworthiness by requiring timely inspections and corrective actions, helping to avoid costly repairs or unsafe conditions.
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