EASA AD 2020-0223
Landing Gear — Transfer Valve Installation — Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0223 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting all SAAB 2000 aeroplanes. It addresses a safety issue related to the main landing gear hydraulic transfer valve installation. The directive mandates a modification to improve the reliability of the landing gear extension and retraction system.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a required modification to the main landing gear hydraulic transfer valve installation on SAAB 2000 aircraft. The modification involves installing a new relay, relocating wiring, and adding new wiring to ensure the transfer valve solenoid is energized during emergency extension, preventing valve malfunction caused by foreign object restrictions.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it prevents potential landing gear collapse due to transfer valve failure, which could cause severe aircraft damage and occupant injury. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety. Compliance also avoids operational restrictions imposed by the AD.
What To Do
Operators of SAAB 2000 aeroplanes must modify the main landing gear hydraulic transfer valve installation according to SAAB Service Bulletin 2000-32-081. This modification must be completed within 24 months or 3,000 flight hours from the effective date of 28 October 2020, whichever occurs first. Alternative methods of compliance may be approved by EASA if properly substantiated.
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