EASA AD 2018-0262
SUPERSEDED BY CAA UK AD G-2022-0011
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0262 is an airworthiness directive addressing safety concerns with IPECO HOLDING Ltd Type 3A063 pilot and co-pilot seats installed on ATR 42 and ATR 72 aircraft. It mandates modifications and inspections to prevent unexpected rearward movement of flight crew seats caused by worn or defective track lock springs and guide blocks. The directive applies to specific seat part numbers listed in the document.
What Changed
This directive supersedes EASA AD 2016-0256 and retains its modification requirements while introducing new repetitive inspections of affected track lock springs. It requires replacement of springs if damage or incorrect installation is found and mandates reporting inspection results to IPECO. The directive also clarifies installation rules for seats and springs after inspection.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to ensure flight crew seats remain securely locked during takeoff and landing, preventing potential loss of aircraft control. Compliance reduces the risk of seat movement incidents and ensures continued airworthiness of affected ATR aircraft. It also provides clear instructions for inspection intervals and corrective actions, aiding regulatory compliance and safety management.
What To Do
Operators must modify pre-mod seats by 30 December 2018 if not already done and perform repetitive inspections of affected springs every 750 flight hours starting within 750 flight hours after 20 December 2018. Damaged or incorrectly installed springs must be replaced before the next flight. Inspection results must be reported to IPECO within 30 days of inspection or the AD effective date. Installation of affected seats or springs is only allowed after passing inspection.
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