Flight Controls — Flap Actuator / Pushrod Assembly Taper Pins — Inspection
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of Pilatus PC-6 aeroplanes must inspect the taper pins of affected flap actuator and pushrod assemblies during the next scheduled 100 flight hours maintenance or annual inspection, or within 12 months from 19 November 2018, whichever occurs first. If any taper pin is found damaged or incorrectly swaged, corrective actions must be completed before the next flight. Only serviceable parts, as defined by the directive, may be installed from the effective date onward.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0235 is an airworthiness directive addressing the inspection of flap actuator and pushrod assembly taper pins on Pilatus PC-6 aeroplanes, excluding those with electrically operated flaps. The directive targets specific parts with part numbers 6132.0039.51, 6132.0039.52, and 6132.0040.00 to ensure their correct installation and condition. It mandates a one-time inspection to detect improperly swaged taper pins that could compromise flap operation.
What changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0235 introduces a new mandatory inspection requirement for the taper pins of flap actuator and pushrod assemblies on Pilatus PC-6 aircraft. It requires operators to inspect these parts within the next 100 flight hours or 12 months and to perform corrective actions if defects are found. The directive also restricts installation to only serviceable parts as defined in the directive.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because improperly swaged taper pins can lead to loss of flap control, resulting in asymmetric flap deployment or flutter, which may cause loss of aircraft control. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft safety and airworthiness. Failure to comply could lead to unsafe flight conditions and regulatory penalties.
More for Pilatus Aircraft PC-6
All 8- EASA AD 2025-0281Time Limits / Maintenance Checks — Airworthiness Limitations Section — AmendmentDec 11, 2025
- EASA AD 2021-0098Flight Controls / Stabilizers — Aileron, Elevator and Rudder Hinge Bolt Installations — Inspection / ModificationApr 9, 2021
- EASA AD 2020-0278Time Limits / Maintenance Checks – Airworthiness Limitations Section – AmendmentDec 14, 2020
- EASA AD 2020-0120Time Limits / Maintenance Checks – Airworthiness Limitations Section – AmendmentMay 27, 2020
- EASA AD 2018-0285Time Limits / Maintenance Checks – Airworthiness Limitations Section – Amendment
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