Wings – Centre Wing Box Fasteners – Replacement
Superseded. Comply with 2023-0068, 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 A350-941 aeroplanes must replace the affected centre wing box fasteners with those made from material with improved friction efficiency. This replacement must be completed before the aircraft exceeds six years from its date of manufacture. The replacement must be carried out following the instructions in Airbus Service Bulletin A350-57-P036 or its later approved revisions.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0123 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus A350-941 aeroplanes, except those with Airbus modification 109799 incorporated in production. The directive addresses an unsafe condition related to the rotation of certain fasteners in the centre wing box, which could lead to fuel vapour leakage inside the cabin. This directive mandates the replacement of affected fasteners with improved friction material fasteners to ensure continued airworthiness.
What changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0123 introduces a mandatory replacement of fasteners installed on the left-hand and right-hand centre wing box of Airbus A350-941 aircraft. The replaced fasteners are those identified as having insufficient friction, which could cause rotation and subsequent cracking of the fastener head sealant cover. This is a new directive requiring compliance within a specified timeframe rather than an amendment to a previous AD.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a potential safety hazard that could lead to fuel vapour leakage into the cabin, posing a risk of injury to occupants. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain the aircraft's airworthiness and avoid operational restrictions. Compliance teams need to track affected aircraft and ensure timely replacement of the fasteners to meet regulatory requirements.
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