EASA AD 2020-0130
Landing Gear — Main Landing Gear Torque Link Apex Pin — Replacement / Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0130 is an airworthiness directive addressing the replacement and inspection of the main landing gear torque link Apex pins on Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 aeroplanes. The directive targets specific parts identified by part number 201383606 and serial numbers listed in Airbus Alert Operators Transmission A32N018-20 Revision 01. It aims to ensure continued airworthiness by mitigating risks associated with torque link pin failures.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory replacement of affected main landing gear torque link Apex pins with certain serial numbers and requires a one-time magnetic particle inspection for other potentially affected parts. It expands the list of affected parts based on manufacturing defects and provides detailed instructions for inspection and replacement to prevent unsafe conditions.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a manufacturing defect that has caused torque link Apex pin ruptures, which could lead to landing gear disconnection and reduced braking efficiency. Compliance ensures flight safety by preventing potential tyre bursts during take-off or landing, thereby protecting passengers, crew, and aircraft integrity. Operators and maintenance teams must prioritize these inspections and replacements to maintain regulatory compliance and operational safety.
What To Do
Operators must replace affected torque link Apex pins listed in Appendix 1 of the Airbus AOT within three months or 200 flight cycles after 22 June 2020, whichever is later. For parts listed in Appendix 4, a one-time magnetic particle inspection must be performed within the same timeframe, with immediate replacement of any parts found with discrepancies before the next flight. Only serviceable parts may be installed on aircraft from the effective date onward.
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