EASA AD 2020-0179R1
Fuselage — Forward Pressure Bulkhead — Inspection / Repair
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0179R1 is a regulatory document addressing inspection and repair requirements for the forward pressure bulkhead on Embraer ERJ 170 and ERJ 190 series aeroplanes. It mandates repetitive special detailed inspections and a modification to prevent fatigue cracking that could compromise structural integrity. The directive applies to specific serial numbers of ERJ 170-100, ERJ 170-200, ERJ 190-100, and ERJ 190-200 models.
What Changed
This revision of EASA AD 2020-0179 adds credit for previous modifications performed according to earlier versions of the applicable Embraer Service Bulletins. It clarifies compliance by recognizing prior actions and updates references to include earlier service bulletin revisions. The revision also maintains the original inspection and modification requirements while correcting the crediting process.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to ensure the structural integrity of the forward pressure bulkhead, a component susceptible to widespread fatigue damage. Compliance prevents potential fatigue cracking that could reduce aircraft safety and airworthiness. It also affects maintenance planning by defining inspection intervals and terminating actions, impacting operational reliability and regulatory compliance.
What To Do
Operators must perform special detailed inspections of the forward pressure bulkhead web aft face before exceeding 25,954 flight cycles or within 3,600 flight cycles after 26 August 2020, and repeat inspections every 6,489 flight cycles thereafter. If cracks are found, repairs approved by ANAC Brazil or EASA must be completed before further flight. The forward pressure bulkhead must be modified before exceeding 38,931 flight cycles, with previous modifications credited if done per specified service bulletin revisions.
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