EASA AD 2018-0244
Flight Controls — Flap / Slat Torque Shafts — Inspection / Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0244 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus A350-941 aeroplanes. It mandates inspection and potential replacement of flap and slat torque shaft junctions to ensure proper torque of nuts and prevent uncommanded slat or flap movements. The directive references Airbus Service Bulletin A350-27-P022 for detailed inspection and corrective actions.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a one-time detailed inspection requirement for the flap and slat torque shaft junctions on Airbus A350-941 aircraft. It addresses the discovery of un-torqued nuts during final assembly, which could lead to unsafe flight control conditions. The directive also mandates corrective actions if discrepancies are found during inspection.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because improperly torqued nuts on flap and slat torque shafts can cause uncommanded control surface movements, potentially resulting in loss of aircraft control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to maintain aircraft safety and regulatory compliance. It ensures continued airworthiness and prevents possible in-flight failures related to flight controls.
What To Do
Operators of Airbus A350-941 aircraft must perform a detailed inspection of the affected flap and slat torque shaft junctions within three months of the directive's effective date. If any discrepancies are found, corrective actions specified in Airbus Service Bulletin A350-27-P022 must be completed within the compliance times defined in the service bulletin. Alternative methods of compliance may be approved by EASA if properly substantiated.
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