Exhaust — Thrust Reverser Outer Fixed Structure — Inspection / Replacement
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected Airbus A340 aircraft must perform tap test inspections of the thrust reverser outer fixed structure panels within the compliance times specified in Airbus Service Bulletin A340-78-4052. If discrepancies are found, corrective actions must be completed before the next flight. For aircraft where flight cycles cannot be determined, operators must contact UTAS within 90 days of the directive's effective date to establish compliance timing. Installation of affected thrust reversers is only allowed if they pass inspection or are inspected promptly after installation.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0224 is an airworthiness directive addressing inspection and replacement requirements for the thrust reverser outer fixed structure on Airbus A340-211, A340-212, A340-213, A340-311, A340-312, and A340-313 aeroplanes. It targets thrust reverser units with specific serial numbers that have outer fixed structure panels made of Hexcel Chromic Acid Anodized (CAA) honeycomb core, which are susceptible to disbonding. The directive mandates inspections and corrective actions to prevent potential in-flight loss of the common nozzle assembly.
What changed
This new regulation introduces mandatory tap test inspections of affected thrust reverser outer fixed structure panels on certain Airbus A340 models. It requires operators to inspect panels made with Hexcel CAA core and perform corrective actions if discrepancies are found. Additionally, it sets conditions for installation of affected thrust reversers, requiring prior inspection or post-installation inspection within specified compliance times.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk that could lead to in-flight loss of thrust reverser components, potentially causing damage to the aircraft or injury on the ground. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain airworthiness and avoid operational disruptions. Compliance teams need to track affected serial numbers and ensure inspections and repairs are completed within the mandated timeframes.
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