EASA AD 2018-0170
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2020-0145
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0170 is an airworthiness directive issued for Airbus A300, A300-600, and A300-600ST aeroplanes. It addresses the inspection of main landing gear hinge arms and barrel pins, specifically parts with Part Numbers C66441-(X) and C65543-(X), to detect cracks that could lead to landing gear collapse. The directive mandates detailed visual inspections to ensure continued airworthiness and safety.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0170 supersedes AD 2016-0058 and removes the allowance of credit for main landing gear overhaul as a substitute for the first inspection of the hinge arm/barrel pin. It retains the requirement for repetitive detailed visual inspections and clarifies that overhaul does not eliminate the need for these inspections.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because undetected cracks in the main landing gear hinge arm or barrel pin can cause landing gear collapse, risking aircraft damage and occupant injury. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to ensure aircraft safety and regulatory compliance, preventing potential accidents and costly repairs.
What To Do
Operators must perform detailed visual inspections of the internal diameter of each affected main landing gear hinge arm and barrel pin within 30 months since the pin's first flight or within 30 days after the directive's effective date, whichever is later. Inspections must be repeated every 100 flight cycles. If cracks are found, the affected landing gear leg must be replaced before the next flight. Inspection results must be reported to Airbus within 15 days after each inspection.
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