EASA AD 2018-0234R3
Exhaust — Thrust Reverser Actuators — Greasing / Master Minimum Equipment List Restriction — Amendment
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0234R3 is an amendment addressing thrust reverser actuator (TRA) greasing and Master Minimum Equipment List (MMEL) restrictions for Airbus A350-941 and A350-1041 aeroplanes. It targets specific TRA batches with part numbers 351D9908-657, -659, -661, -689, -691, and -693 due to corrosion issues causing potential jamming. The directive mandates maintenance actions to prevent inadvertent thrust reverser deployment and ensure continued airworthiness.
What Changed
This revision removes the repetitive greasing requirement for affected TRA Batch 02 from the directive, as this task has been transferred to the Airbus A350 Airworthiness Limitations Section Part 4 Revision 05, which is enforced by a separate AD. It also updates related maintenance program tasks and clarifies compliance timelines for greasing and replacement of affected TRA Batch 01 actuators.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent thrust reverser actuator failures caused by corrosion, which could lead to unintended thrust reverser deployment and compromised aircraft control. Compliance ensures safe operation of Airbus A350 aircraft and adherence to regulatory requirements, avoiding operational disruptions and potential safety risks.
What To Do
Operators must implement MMEL changes within 30 days of 13 November 2018, update maintenance programs accordingly, and perform repetitive greasing of affected TRA Batch 01 actuators within specified flight cycle intervals. Additionally, affected TRA Batch 01 actuators must be replaced within defined flight cycle limits depending on prior greasing history. Greasing of Batch 02 actuators is now managed under a separate airworthiness limitation document.
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