EASA AD 2018-0037
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2019-0206
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0037 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus A350-941 aeroplanes. It mandates repetitive inspections of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer fittings and bearing assembly attachment interface to detect damage or corrosion. The directive aims to ensure continued airworthiness by preventing potential loss of attachment of the stabilizer to the fuselage.
What Changed
This directive introduces a new inspection program requiring detailed inspections of the fillet sealant and bearing assembly attachment interfaces at frame 102 on both left-hand and right-hand sides of Airbus A350-941 aircraft. It also specifies corrective actions if damage or corrosion is found, including contacting Airbus for approved repair instructions. The directive does not supersede any previous ADs.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential safety risk involving the trimmable horizontal stabilizer attachment. Failure to detect and correct damage or corrosion could lead to loss of control of the aircraft, posing risks to flight safety and ground personnel. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to ensure structural integrity and regulatory compliance.
What To Do
Operators of Airbus A350-941 aircraft must perform a detailed inspection of the specified stabilizer fittings and bearing assembly before exceeding 36 months since the aircraft's date of manufacture or within 3 months after 21 February 2018, whichever is later. These inspections must be repeated every 36 months. If damage or corrosion is found, further inspections and approved repairs must be carried out before the next flight. Compliance with Airbus Service Bulletin A350-53-P032 is required.
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