EASA AD 2018-0103
Flight Controls — Aileron Bellcrank Support Bracket — Inspection / Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0103 is an airworthiness directive issued by EASA concerning SAAB 2000 aeroplanes. It addresses a manufacturing defect in the aileron bellcrank support brackets, specifically those with part numbers 7327993-813 and 7327993-814, which may have insufficient lug thickness attaching the bracket to the wing rear spar. The directive mandates inspection, possible repetitive inspections, reporting, and replacement of affected support brackets to ensure continued safe flight control operation.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0103 introduces a new requirement for a one-time detailed visual inspection and thickness measurement of the aileron bellcrank support brackets on SAAB 2000 aircraft. It also requires repetitive inspections if the lug thickness is below the specified limit, reporting of inspection results to SAAB, and replacement of affected brackets with serviceable ones as terminating action. This AD does not supersede any previous directives.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential safety risk due to a manufacturing defect that could lead to failure of the aileron bellcrank support bracket and reduced aircraft control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent possible aileron jamming and ensure regulatory compliance. Timely inspections and corrective actions help maintain the airworthiness and operational safety of SAAB 2000 aircraft fleets.
What To Do
Operators of SAAB 2000 aeroplanes must perform a detailed visual inspection and measure the thickness of the affected aileron bellcrank support brackets within 100 flight cycles or 30 days from 2018-05-07, whichever occurs first. If the lug thickness is below 2.75 mm, repetitive inspections every 100 flight cycles are required until the affected bracket is replaced with a serviceable one within six months of the effective date. Inspection results must be reported to SAAB within 15 days of measurement.
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