Stabilizers — Horizontal Stabilizer Hinge Bracket Assembly / Front Spar Attachment Area — Inspection
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators must inspect the affected hinge bracket assemblies and front spar attachment area during the next scheduled maintenance event within 100 flight hours or 12 months from the effective date, whichever occurs first. If any defects or damage are found, corrective actions must be completed before the next flight. Additionally, any affected parts installed as spares must be inspected and corrected as necessary before installation.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0217 is an airworthiness directive affecting all models and serial numbers of Pilatus PC-6 aeroplanes. It mandates inspection of the horizontal stabilizer hinge bracket assemblies and front spar attachment area to detect potential rivet shearing or missing rivets. The directive aims to ensure the structural integrity of the horizontal stabilizer to prevent possible separation and loss of control.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a one-time inspection requirement for the affected hinge bracket assemblies and front spar attachment area on Pilatus PC-6 aircraft. It also requires corrective actions if discrepancies or damage are found, and mandates inspection of affected parts before installation as spares. The directive is based on findings of rivet damage likely caused by excessive force during ground handling.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a potential failure in the primary load path of the horizontal stabilizer, which could lead to catastrophic loss of control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to ensure continued airworthiness and safety of Pilatus PC-6 aircraft. Compliance helps prevent structural failures and supports regulatory adherence.
More for Pilatus Aircraft PC-6
All 8- EASA AD 2025-0281Time Limits / Maintenance Checks — Airworthiness Limitations Section — AmendmentDec 11, 2025
- EASA AD 2021-0098Flight Controls / Stabilizers — Aileron, Elevator and Rudder Hinge Bolt Installations — Inspection / ModificationApr 9, 2021
- EASA AD 2020-0278Time Limits / Maintenance Checks – Airworthiness Limitations Section – AmendmentDec 14, 2020
- EASA AD 2020-0120Time Limits / Maintenance Checks – Airworthiness Limitations Section – AmendmentMay 27, 2020
- EASA AD 2018-0285Time Limits / Maintenance Checks – Airworthiness Limitations Section – Amendment
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