Fuselage / Stabilizers — Interfay Sealant in Hybrid Joints — Modification
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of Airbus A350-941 aeroplanes must apply the required sealant and protective treatments within 36 months of the aircraft's date of manufacture or within 3 months after the directive's effective date, whichever is later. Group 2 aircraft must also modify the trimmable horizontal stabilizer torsion box and re-identify the elevator as specified in the relevant Airbus service bulletin. Compliance must follow the instructions in Airbus SB A350-53-P029 and SB A350-55-P003.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0036 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus A350-941 aeroplanes. It addresses the application of interfay sealant in hybrid joints on the fuselage and stabilizers to prevent corrosion and maintain structural integrity. The directive applies to all serial numbers except those with specific Airbus production modifications already embodied.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive requires the application of interfay sealant and protective treatment on affected areas of the fuselage at section 19 and the horizontal tail plane (HTP). For certain aircraft, it also mandates modification of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer torsion box and re-identification of the elevator. These actions are based on Airbus Service Bulletins A350-53-P029 and A350-55-P003.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a potential risk of water ingress and galvanic corrosion in multi-material joints involving aluminum, which could compromise the structural integrity of the horizontal tail plane and fuselage. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and safety of the Airbus A350 fleet, protecting operators from potential costly repairs and grounding.
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