EASA AD 2018-0015
Landing Gear — Main Landing Gear Drag Stay Tubes — Inspection / Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0015 is an airworthiness directive addressing inspection and replacement requirements for the main landing gear drag stay tubes on Fokker F27 aeroplanes, specifically models Mark 100 through Mark 700. It targets SAFRAN Landing Systems drag stay units and tubes with certain part numbers that may have manufacturing defects leading to fatigue cracks. The directive mandates inspections to detect cracks and corrective actions to prevent landing gear collapse.
What Changed
This directive introduces a one-time inspection requirement for affected drag stay units to identify the type of drag stay tube installed, followed by repetitive inspections for those with affected tubes. It also requires re-identification or replacement of drag stay tubes based on inspection findings and cancels previous related ADs issued by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Netherlands. Additionally, it clarifies installation conditions for drag stay units to prevent reintroduction of the unsafe condition.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a known unsafe condition that could lead to main landing gear collapse, posing risks of aircraft damage and occupant injury. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety. The directive also updates previous inspection and maintenance requirements, impacting maintenance planning and parts management.
What To Do
Operators must inspect each affected drag stay unit within 12 months of the AD's effective date to determine the installed drag stay tube type. Depending on inspection results, drag stay units must be re-identified or drag stay tubes replaced before further flight. Repetitive inspections are required for certain part numbers at intervals not exceeding 1,500 flight cycles until the next scheduled overhaul. Installation of affected drag stay units is only permitted if tubes have been inspected, reworked, or confirmed compliant prior to installation.
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