EASA AD 2019-0124
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2019-0192
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0124 is an airworthiness directive issued for Airbus A380 aeroplanes, specifically models A380-841, A380-842, and A380-861 with certain manufacturer serial numbers. The directive addresses an unsafe condition related to the Ram Air Turbine (RAT) gearbox, which may contain water leading to corrosion and potential failure of the RAT during flight. This AD mandates inspection and corrective actions to ensure continued safe operation of the affected RAT parts.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0124 introduces a one-time manual free rotation check of the affected Ram Air Turbine parts, followed by inspection, draining, flushing, and refilling of the gearbox oil if no discrepancies are found. If the turbine fails the rotation check, the affected part must be replaced before further flight. The AD also requires reporting findings to Collins Aerospace for further analysis.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because undetected water and corrosion in the RAT gearbox can lead to RAT failure, resulting in loss of electrical generation and potentially reduced aircraft control during emergency conditions. Compliance ensures aircraft safety and regulatory adherence, preventing in-flight electrical failures and maintaining airworthiness.
What To Do
Operators must perform a manual turbine free rotation check of the affected RAT parts within 12 months from 2019-06-19. If no issues are found, they must inspect, drain, flush, and refill the gearbox oil before the next flight. If the turbine fails the check, the RAT must be replaced before further flight. Additionally, a report including a photo and oil condition description must be submitted to Collins Aerospace within 30 days after corrective actions or the effective date.
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