Exhaust — Thrust Reverser Latch Beam Gussets — Inspection / Modification
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected Airbus A330 models must perform a one-time special detailed inspection of the thrust reverser latch beam gussets within 24 months of 5 November 2018 or before the affected thrust reverser exceeds 26,000 flight cycles, whichever is later. If cracks are detected, the latch beam gussets must be modified before the next flight following the instructions in the specified service bulletins.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0227 is an airworthiness directive affecting Airbus A330-223, A330-223F, A330-321, A330-322, and A330-323 aeroplanes equipped with certain Pratt & Whitney thrust reverser assemblies. It mandates inspection and potential modification of the thrust reverser latch beam gussets to address fatigue cracking issues. The directive aims to ensure continued safe operation of these aircraft by preventing possible thrust reverser part failure.
What changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0227 introduces a one-time special detailed inspection of the latch beam gussets on affected thrust reverser assemblies and requires modification if cracks are found. This is a new regulation prompted by reports of fatigue cracks and subsequent design improvements introduced by Airbus production modification 48539 and related service bulletins.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because undetected cracks in the thrust reverser latch beam gussets could lead to part failure and potential runway hazards. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety, preventing costly incidents and ensuring regulatory compliance.
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