Wings — Wing Rib Foot to Wing Lower Cover Clearance — Inspection / Temporary Operational Restrictions
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators must implement the specified MMEL changes and dispatch restrictions within 30 days of the directive's effective date and inform flight crews accordingly. A detailed inspection of the affected wing rib foot areas must be completed within 3 months. Any discrepancies or structural damage found during inspection must be corrected before the next flight, and Airbus must be contacted for repair instructions if structural damage is detected.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0220 is an airworthiness directive issued by EASA affecting Airbus A350-941 and A350-1041 aeroplanes. It addresses a potential unsafe condition related to the clearance between wing rib feet and the wing lower cover, which could lead to fuel tank ignition under certain conditions. The directive mandates inspections and temporary operational restrictions to ensure continued airworthiness.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory implementation of temporary MMEL changes and dispatch restrictions, a detailed one-time inspection of affected wing rib foot areas, and corrective actions if discrepancies or structural damage are found. It also allows removal of MMEL restrictions once inspections and any necessary repairs are completed. The directive is considered an interim action with potential for further updates.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations because it addresses a safety risk that could lead to fuel tank ignition and possible loss of the aircraft. Compliance ensures the structural integrity of the wing assembly and the safety of fuel systems under flight conditions. It also affects operational procedures through temporary MMEL restrictions, impacting dispatch and flight crew awareness.
More for Airbus A350
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- EASA PAD 26-124Doors – Forward and Aft Cargo Door Seals – Inspection / ReplacementOct 15, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0177R1Indicating / Recording Systems – Integrated Control Panels – InspectionOct 15, 2026
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