EASA AD 2019-0128
Equipment / Furnishings — Seat Belt Attachment Points / Bolts — Inspection / Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0128 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency concerning Pipistrel Vertical Solutions Virus SW 121 aeroplanes. It addresses the inspection and possible replacement of seat belt attachment bolts on the baggage compartment bulkhead to ensure proper thread engagement and secure attachment. The directive applies to all serial numbers of the Virus SW 121 aircraft.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a mandatory one-time inspection of the seat belt attachment points on the baggage compartment bulkhead for Virus SW 121 aeroplanes. If insufficient thread engagement is found, affected seat belt attachment bolts must be replaced with longer, serviceable bolts. It also specifies allowable installation of only serviceable parts from the effective date onward.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for maintaining occupant safety by preventing potential detachment of seat belts during high G-force maneuvers or landing. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to avoid safety risks and regulatory violations. It also helps maintain continued airworthiness by addressing a known manufacturing deviation affecting composite laminate thickness.
What To Do
Operators of Virus SW 121 aeroplanes must inspect seat belt attachment points within 25 flight hours or 30 days from 2019-06-20, whichever occurs first. If less than two full threads protrude beyond the attachment point, the affected bolts must be replaced before the next flight with serviceable bolts. From the effective date, only serviceable seat belt attachment bolts may be installed on any affected aircraft.
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