Electrical Power – Ram Air Turbine Gearbox – Inspection
Superseded. Comply with 2020-0183, 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 Airbus A380-841, A380-842, and A380-861 aircraft must perform detailed inspections of the RAT gearbox oil within specified compliance times based on aircraft manufacture date or AD effective date, and repeat inspections every 6 months or 4,000 flight hours, whichever occurs first. If water ingress exceeds 4 ml per month, operators must contact Airbus for approved corrective instructions and comply accordingly. Inspection results must be reported to Airbus within 10 days after each inspection.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0009 is an airworthiness directive issued for Airbus A380-841, A380-842, and A380-861 aeroplanes. It addresses the inspection of Ram Air Turbine (RAT) gearboxes, specifically those with part numbers 1704287G or 1704287H, to detect water ingress and corrosion that could impair RAT operation. The directive mandates repetitive detailed inspections of the gearbox oil and corrective actions if necessary.
What changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0009 introduces repetitive inspections of the RAT gearbox oil for affected Airbus A380 aircraft to monitor water ingress rates. It requires operators to report inspection results to Airbus and to follow approved corrective instructions if water ingress exceeds specified limits. This AD is an interim measure pending further action and supersedes no previous ADs.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because water ingress in the RAT gearbox can freeze at altitude, potentially preventing RAT operation and causing loss of electrical generation. This condition could reduce aircraft control during electrical emergencies. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and safety of Airbus A380 aircraft equipped with the affected RAT parts.
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