EASA AD 2020-0037
[Correction] Fuselage — Frame Foot Coupling at Frame 43 — Inspection / Repair
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0037 is a corrective directive addressing inspection and repair requirements for the fuselage frame foot coupling at frame 43 on Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 aircraft. It applies to all serial numbers except those with Airbus modifications 153126 or 153742 incorporated during production. The directive mandates a one-time special detailed inspection and subsequent repair or modification to ensure structural integrity.
What Changed
This directive republishes the original AD to correct typographical errors and clarifies inspection and repair instructions. It introduces specific compliance times based on flight cycles and hours, and provides detailed repair and modification procedures using Airbus Service Bulletins A320-53-1269 and A320-53-1270. It also includes provisions for crediting previous inspections, repairs, and modifications performed before the effective date.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of affected Airbus aircraft by detecting and correcting cracks in the fuselage frame foot coupling at frame 43. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must adhere to these requirements to prevent potential safety risks and ensure continued airworthiness. Failure to comply could result in unsafe conditions affecting aircraft safety and regulatory compliance.
What To Do
Operators must perform a one-time special detailed inspection of the affected fuselage areas within specified flight cycle and hour limits as outlined in the directive. If cracks are found, repairs must be completed before the next flight, followed by additional repairs within 15,000 flight cycles. If no cracks are detected, the affected area must be modified before the next flight. Compliance deadlines vary based on aircraft usage but begin no later than March 12, 2020.
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