EASA AD 2018-0123
Fuselage — Tail Cone Balancer Fitting Anchor Nuts and Fasteners — Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0123 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus A350-941 aeroplanes. It addresses corrosion protection issues related to the tail cone balancer fitting anchor nuts and fasteners on these aircraft. The directive mandates a modification to improve corrosion resistance on specific parts of the tail cone structure.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a required modification involving the application of additional overcoat sealant and elastic varnish to the balancer fitting anchor nuts and fastener heads at frame 103 on Airbus A350-941 aircraft. It mandates compliance for all affected aircraft except those already incorporating Airbus production modifications 110319 or 110348. The directive provides instructions through Airbus Service Bulletin A350-53-P024 for in-service aircraft.
Why It Matters
This directive is important because the affected parts were found to have inadequate corrosion protection, which could compromise the structural integrity of the aircraft if left uncorrected. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must address this to ensure continued airworthiness and safety of the Airbus A350 fleet. Failure to comply could result in unsafe conditions and regulatory non-compliance.
What To Do
Operators of Airbus A350-941 aeroplanes must apply the additional corrosion protection to the balancer fitting anchor nuts and fastener heads at frame 103 within 72 months from the aircraft's date of manufacture. The modification must be performed following the procedures outlined in Airbus Service Bulletin A350-53-P024. Alternative methods of compliance may be approved by EASA if properly substantiated.
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