EASA AD 2019-0171R2
Aircraft Flight Manual Section Limitations — Amendment
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0171R2 is an amendment addressing Airbus A321neo aircraft equipped with specific Elevator Aileron Computer (ELAC) units. It mandates changes to the Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM) limitations to mitigate reduced angle of attack protection caused by certain ELAC software versions. The directive applies to various A321neo models except those with Airbus modification 163923 installed in production.
What Changed
This amendment revises the original EASA AD 2019-0171R1 by reducing the applicability to exclude aircraft that have incorporated Airbus modification 163923, which upgrades the ELAC software to version L103 and restores the original center of gravity envelope. It updates compliance requirements related to AFM Temporary Revisions and clarifies conditions for removing AFM limitations after the ELAC upgrade.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to ensure continued airworthiness and safe flight operations by addressing a potential unsafe condition involving pitch attitude control. Compliance prevents increased flight crew workload and mitigates risks associated with reduced angle of attack protection. It also ensures regulatory conformity with EASA requirements and Airbus operational recommendations.
What To Do
Operators of affected Airbus A321neo aircraft must amend the applicable AFM by incorporating the specified AFM Temporary Revisions within 30 days after 31 July 2019 or before the next flight after installing affected ELAC units. Flight crews must be informed of these changes, and aircraft must be operated accordingly. For aircraft upgraded with ELAC L103 software per Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1284, the AFM limitations can be removed following approved instructions.
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