EASA AD 2020-0052
Fuselage — Satellite Communications Antenna Doubler — Inspection / Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0052 is an airworthiness directive affecting Airbus A319 aeroplanes, specifically models A319-111 through A319-133 with certain exceptions. It mandates inspection and replacement of the satellite communications (SATCOM) antenna doubler on the fuselage to address potential structural integrity issues. The directive applies to aircraft without specific Airbus modifications or service bulletin embodiments that mitigate the issue.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a one-time special detailed inspection of affected fastener holes for the SATCOM antenna doubler and requires replacement of the doubler with a modified version. It also establishes compliance groups based on aircraft modification status and provides instructions for corrective actions depending on inspection findings.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of affected Airbus A319 aircraft by preventing potential widespread fatigue damage in the fuselage area around the SATCOM antenna installation. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to ensure continued airworthiness and avoid unsafe conditions that could compromise flight safety.
What To Do
Operators of affected Airbus A319 aircraft must perform the special detailed inspection within specified flight hour or flight cycle thresholds depending on their aircraft group. If no cracks are found, the fastener holes must be modified and the SATCOM antenna doubler replaced before the next flight. If cracks are detected, Airbus must be contacted for further corrective instructions before installing the new doubler. Group 2 aircraft may modify the aircraft per Airbus SB A320-23-1211 and then comply with Group 1 requirements.
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