EASA AD 2019-0265
Wings — Main Landing Gear Forward Pintle Bearing Lock Washer Tabs and Nuts — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0265 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus A350-941 and A350-1041 aeroplanes. It mandates inspections of the main landing gear forward pintle bearing lock washer tabs and nuts to ensure proper installation and locking. The directive addresses a potential unsafe condition related to incorrect lock washer tab engagement that could lead to main landing gear collapse.
What Changed
This new regulation introduces mandatory detailed inspections of the main landing gear forward pintle bearing nuts and lock washer tabs on both left-hand and right-hand sides. It requires corrective actions if discrepancies are found, including marking, repetitive inspections, or repairs as specified by Airbus instructions. The directive also establishes terminating actions following corrective repairs.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because improper lock washer tab engagement can cause unexpected nut rotation, loss of torque, and axial movement of the bearing housing, potentially leading to main landing gear collapse. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and safety of Airbus A350 aircraft, preventing damage and injury. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must address these inspections to avoid operational restrictions or safety risks.
What To Do
Operators of Airbus A350-941 and A350-1041 aircraft must perform a detailed inspection of the main landing gear forward pintle bearing nuts and lock washer tabs within 500 flight cycles or 5 months from 8 November 2019, whichever occurs first. If issues are found, corrective actions or marking must be done before the next flight, followed by repetitive inspections at intervals not exceeding 500 flight cycles or 5 months. For any signs of nut rotation or bearing migration, approved repair instructions from Airbus must be followed promptly.
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