EASA AD 2018-0023
[Correction] Doors — Main Landing Gear Fixed Fairing Assembly - Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0023 is a corrective directive addressing inspection requirements for the main landing gear fixed fairing assembly on Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 aircraft. It applies to all manufacturer serial numbers of these models and focuses on preventing in-flight loss of the main landing gear fixed and hinged fairings due to fatigue cracking and corrosion. The directive mandates inspections, replacements, and modifications to ensure continued airworthiness and safety.
What Changed
This directive supersedes EASA AD 2015-0001R1 and introduces updated inspection procedures using Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1165 revision 03. It corrects previous errors in part number identification and inspection instructions, requires additional work for aircraft modified with earlier revisions of the service bulletin, and clarifies compliance requirements for repetitive inspections and component replacements.
Why It Matters
The directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk involving potential in-flight detachment of main landing gear fairings, which could cause damage to the aircraft or injury to persons on the ground. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to avoid unsafe conditions and regulatory non-compliance. The updated inspection and modification requirements help ensure the structural integrity of the landing gear fairings and reduce the risk of fatigue cracking and corrosion.
What To Do
Operators must perform repetitive detailed inspections and replace affected components within specified compliance times, not exceeding intervals of 6,500 flight cycles or 12 months depending on configuration. Aircraft modified with Airbus mod 27716 or SB A320-52-1100 must follow specific inspection intervals and corrective actions. Additional work outlined in Airbus SB A320-52-1165 revision 03 must be completed within 12 months of the directive's effective date. Compliance with these actions is mandatory to maintain airworthiness.
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