EASA AD 2020-0221
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2021-0024
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0221 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting ATR 42-200, ATR 42-300, and ATR 42-320 aeroplanes. It addresses a safety issue related to the electrical wiring routing of the left-hand and right-hand side Angle of Attack (AOA) probes. The directive mandates inspection and corrective actions to prevent spurious stall warning activations that could compromise flight safety.
What Changed
This directive introduces a one-time visual inspection requirement of the affected wiring between the AOA probes and the Crew Alerting Computer. If any wiring damage or discrepancies are found, operators must contact ATR for approved repair instructions and carry out the necessary corrective actions. Additionally, inspection results must be reported to ATR within 30 days.
Why It Matters
This airworthiness directive is critical for aviation professionals because wiring damage in the AOA probe circuits can cause false stall warnings, leading to autopilot disconnection, stick pusher and shaker activation, and other alerts that may result in loss of control during critical flight phases. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and safety of ATR 42 aircraft, helping operators and maintenance teams prevent potentially hazardous flight conditions.
What To Do
Operators of ATR 42-200, ATR 42-300, and ATR 42-320 aircraft must perform a visual inspection of the affected AOA probe wiring within two months of the directive's effective date. If any damage is found, repairs must be completed before the next flight using ATR-approved instructions. All inspection results, including no findings, must be reported to ATR within 30 days after the inspection.
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