EASA AD 2018-0214
Flight Controls — Rudder Pedal Gust Lock Mounts — Removal
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0214 is an airworthiness directive affecting Diamond Aircraft Industries GmbH DA 42 NG and DA 42 M-NG aeroplanes. It addresses a potential issue with the rudder pedal gust lock mounts that may interfere with the canopy gas spring damper, potentially restricting rudder travel. The directive mandates removal of the pilot side rudder pedal gust lock mounts to ensure safe operation.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a requirement to remove the pilot (left-hand side) rudder pedal gust lock mounts on affected DA 42 NG and DA 42 M-NG aeroplanes. It also requires a temporary revision to the Airplane Flight Manual to reflect this change. The modification is intended to prevent interference caused by production tolerances that could restrict rudder movement.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety concern that could reduce rudder control, impacting aircraft handling and safety. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to ensure continued airworthiness and regulatory compliance. Failure to implement the modification could lead to restricted rudder travel and compromised flight control.
What To Do
Operators of affected DA 42 NG and DA 42 M-NG aeroplanes must remove the pilot side rudder pedal gust lock mounts within 100 flight hours from 18 October 2018, following the instructions in Diamond Aircraft Industries Mandatory Service Bulletin 42NG-077. Concurrently, they must update the Airplane Flight Manual with the temporary revision TR-MÄM 42-1097 and inform all flight crew. After modification, installation of the gust lock mounts on the pilot side is prohibited.
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