EASA AD 2018-0119: Wings — Outboard Flaps Skin — Inspection

What to do

Operators must perform a general visual inspection and records check of the affected flap skin areas within 10 months of 12 June 2018. If non-compliant repairs are found, Airbus must be contacted within 30 days for corrective instructions, which must be completed within 12 months after the inspection. Additionally, no repairs should be performed using Structural Repair Manual revisions dated June 2015 or earlier from the effective date of the directive.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0119 is an airworthiness directive issued by EASA concerning Airbus A380-841, A380-842, and A380-861 aeroplanes. It mandates inspection of the outboard flaps skin, specifically the upper and lower skin surfaces between certain ribs on both left-hand and right-hand outer flaps. The directive addresses potential structural issues related to incorrect repair zoning in the aircraft's Structural Repair Manual.

What changed

This directive introduces a one-time general visual inspection of the affected flap skin locations and a review of repair records to identify any repairs done using outdated or incorrect repair zones. It prohibits future repairs using Structural Repair Manual revisions dated June 2015 or earlier and requires corrective actions if non-compliant repairs are found.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of the Airbus A380 outboard flaps, preventing possible in-flight detachment of flap portions which could compromise aircraft control and safety. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure inspections and repairs comply with updated standards to avoid safety risks and regulatory non-compliance.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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