Wings – Lower Skin Covers at Rib Bay 3/4 – Inspection
Superseded. Comply with 2019-0297R1, 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 of affected Airbus A340-541, A340-542, A340-642, and A340-643 aircraft must perform the required detailed visual and high frequency eddy current inspections within 12 months of the effective date or before exceeding 3,200 flight cycles or 19,600 flight hours since manufacture, whichever occurs later. Any detected cracks must be reported to Airbus and repaired according to approved instructions before further flight. Inspection results must be reported to Airbus within 30 days after completion.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0114 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus A340-541, A340-542, A340-642, and A340-643 aeroplanes. It addresses cracks found on the wing lower skin covers at rib bay 3/4 on both left-hand and right-hand sides, which could lead to fuel leaks and reduced structural strength. The directive mandates inspections to detect these cracks and ensure continued airworthiness.
What changed
This directive introduces a one-time detailed visual inspection and high frequency eddy current inspection of the lower wing skin panels around specific fastener locations on the affected Airbus A340 models. It is an interim measure pending further investigation to determine if repetitive inspections are necessary. The directive requires reporting inspection results to Airbus and specifies corrective actions if cracks are found.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a structural integrity issue that could compromise wing strength and safety. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent potential fuel leaks and structural failures. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and regulatory adherence, minimizing operational risks and potential grounding of aircraft.
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