Flight Controls – Elevator Mass Balance – Inspection
Superseded. Comply with 2021-0102, which replaces this document.
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
- Replaces
- 2001-371/2
- Replaces
- 2001-371
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Affected operators must perform a visual inspection of the elevator mass balance fittings within 14 days or 5 flight hours after the effective date, whichever occurs first, and repeat inspections every 25 flight hours thereafter. If any cracks are found, the affected part must be replaced before the next flight. Only serviceable parts may be installed from the effective date onward.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0219 is an airworthiness directive addressing the AVO 68 series powered sailplanes manufactured by M&D Flugzeugbau GmbH & Co. KG. It mandates repetitive inspections of the elevator mass balance fittings due to reported cracks that could compromise flight control. The directive applies to several variants including AVO 68 - v, AVO 68 - s, AVO 68 - R, AVO 68 - R 100, and AVO 68 - R 115 "Samburo" powered sailplanes.
What changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0219 introduces mandatory repetitive visual inspections of the elevator mass balance fittings to detect cracks. It supersedes the previous German Luftfahrt-Bundesamt AD 2001-371/2 and requires replacement of any affected parts found cracked. This AD is considered an interim measure pending further action.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent potential detachment of elevator balance masses, which could lead to damage or reduced longitudinal control of the sailplane. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain airworthiness and flight safety. The inspections can be performed by pilot-owners, facilitating timely detection of defects.
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