EASA AD 2019-0070
Stabilizers — Vertical Stabilizer Attachment Fittings — Inspection / Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0070 is an official regulatory document addressing inspection and modification requirements for the vertical stabilizer attachment fittings on DAHER AEROSPACE TBM 700 aeroplanes, specifically serial numbers 001 through 308 inclusive and 310. The directive mandates inspections for cracks caused by corrosion and provides instructions for optional modification using improved corrosion-resistant fittings. It applies to specific part numbers of vertical stabilizer attachment fittings and aims to maintain the structural integrity of the vertical stabilizer.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0070 supersedes the previous DGAC France AD F-2003-366 R1 and retains its inspection requirements while introducing a new optional terminating modification. The modification involves replacing affected parts with serviceable parts made from improved corrosion-resistant materials, which ends the need for repetitive inspections. The directive also updates the document to comply with the latest AD writing standards without changing the core requirements.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because undetected cracks due to corrosion in vertical stabilizer attachment fittings can compromise aircraft structural integrity, posing safety risks. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply with inspection intervals and corrective actions to ensure continued airworthiness. The optional modification provides a long-term solution, reducing maintenance burden and enhancing safety for TBM 700 operators.
What To Do
Operators of TBM 700 aeroplanes must perform special detailed inspections of the affected vertical stabilizer attachment fittings within 600 flight hours after 11 October 2003 and then at intervals not exceeding 1,200 flight hours or 24 months, whichever occurs first. Any detected discrepancies require immediate corrective action before further flight. Optionally, operators can modify the aircraft by replacing affected parts with serviceable parts as per the modification service bulletin to terminate repetitive inspections. After modification, installation of affected parts is prohibited.
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