Fuel – Fuel Pressure Sensor – Inspection / Replacement
Superseded. Comply with 2020-0045, which replaces this document.
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators must visually inspect the fuel distribution block within 14 days of the directive's effective date and amend the Pilot Operating Handbook to include post-flight fuel leakage checks. If damage or leakage is found, the affected part must be replaced and modified before the next flight. If no issues are found, replacement and modification must still occur within 25 flights or 2 months, whichever comes first. After modification, the temporary AFM amendment can be removed.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0281 is an airworthiness directive issued for Pipistrel Vertical Solutions d.o.o. Virus SW 121 aeroplanes, serial numbers VSW1210001 to VSW1210038. It addresses a fuel system safety issue involving the fuel distribution block and fuel pressure sensor installation. The directive mandates inspections, possible replacement, and modification of the fuel pressure sensor installation to prevent fuel leakage and potential in-flight fire.
What changed
This directive introduces mandatory repetitive inspections of the fuel distribution block for damage or leakage, temporary amendments to the Pilot Operating Handbook for post-flight fuel leakage checks, and requires replacement and modification of the affected fuel pressure sensor installation. It also allows installation of serviceable parts only after modification. This is a new regulation addressing a specific unsafe condition.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it ensures the continued airworthiness and safety of affected Virus SW 121 aircraft by preventing fuel leaks that could lead to in-flight fires. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to avoid operational restrictions and ensure pilot awareness of potential fuel system issues. Compliance helps maintain regulatory adherence and reduces safety risks associated with fuel system failures.
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New ADs and bulletins for Pipistrel Vertical Solutions D.O.O. Virus SW and Virus SW 121, summarized like this page, every Monday.