EASA AD 2020-0149
Landing Gear — Nose Landing Gear Door Attachment Bolts — Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0149 is an airworthiness directive addressing the replacement of nose landing gear door attachment bolts on Saab-Fairchild SF340A, SAAB 340B, and SAAB 2000 aeroplanes. The directive targets bolts with part number 7232203-041, identified by specific tracking and work order numbers, which may be affected by hydrogen embrittlement. This AD mandates the replacement of these bolts to ensure continued safe operation of the affected aircraft.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a mandatory replacement of certain nose landing gear door attachment bolts that were found to be incorrectly manufactured and susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement. It prohibits the installation of affected bolts and requires operators to replace them within 12 months of the effective date. The directive also provides definitions for affected and serviceable parts and references specific Saab service bulletins for compliance.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because the affected bolts may fail, potentially impairing the nose landing gear extension or retraction, which could lead to damage during landing. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety. Non-compliance could result in operational restrictions or unsafe flight conditions.
What To Do
Operators of Saab-Fairchild SF340A, SAAB 340B, and SAAB 2000 aeroplanes must identify if affected bolts are installed and replace them with serviceable parts within 12 months from 2020-07-21. Installation of affected bolts is prohibited from the effective date of the AD. Compliance should be performed following the instructions in Saab Service Bulletins 340-32-146 and 2000-32-082.
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