EASA AD 2020-0182R1
Fuselage — Centre Wing Fairings / Frame 5 — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0182R1 is an updated safety directive addressing inspection requirements for Airbus Defence & Space C-212 aeroplanes, specifically targeting the fuselage centre wing fairings at frame 5. The directive mandates repetitive detailed visual inspections to detect cracks near the wing leading edge on both left and right sides to ensure structural integrity. It applies to multiple C-212 variants and includes instructions for corrective actions and optional structural reinforcement.
What Changed
This revision of EASA AD 2020-0182 adds an optional terminating action involving structural reinforcement of the affected area as per Airbus Defence & Space Service Bulletin SB-C212-53-0055. It also updates inspection thresholds and intervals following earlier findings of cracks occurring sooner than expected. The directive maintains the requirement for repetitive detailed visual inspections but now allows modification to end these inspections.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent structural failures caused by undetected cracks in the fuselage near the wing root. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and safety of C-212 aeroplanes by mandating timely inspections and corrective actions. The optional terminating action provides a long-term solution, potentially reducing maintenance burden and inspection frequency.
What To Do
Operators of affected C-212 aeroplanes must perform a detailed visual inspection of the centre wing fairings at frame 5 within specified compliance times, then repeat inspections every 1,750 flight hours or cycles, whichever occurs first. If cracks or discrepancies are found, corrective actions approved by Airbus Defence & Space must be implemented before further flight. Optionally, operators may apply the structural reinforcement modification to terminate repetitive inspections.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.