EASA AD 2020-0252: Fuel — Fuel Drain System — Modification

What to do

Operators of affected PC-24 aeroplanes must modify the fuel drain system within 5 months after the effective date of 26 November 2020, following Pilatus Aircraft PC-24 Service Bulletin 28-003 Revision 1. If the original issue of the service bulletin was previously used, an additional installation of anti-chafe tape is required within the same timeframe. Alternative methods of compliance may be approved upon request.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0252 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Pilatus Aircraft Ltd PC-24 aeroplanes with manufacturer serial numbers 101 to 184 inclusive. The directive mandates modifications to the fuel drain system to address safety concerns. It specifically targets the fuel drain pipe routing and installation of a drain mast to improve system performance.

What changed

This new airworthiness directive requires modification of the fuel drain system on affected PC-24 aircraft to correct insufficient fuel drain performance. The modification involves following the instructions in Pilatus Aircraft PC-24 Service Bulletin 28-003 Revision 1, including installing an anti-chafe tape on the new right-hand underwing stringer if the original service bulletin was previously used. No prior AD is superseded by this directive.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a potential unsafe condition where fuel leaks could lead to fuel vapor accumulation and fire risk in the inboard rear fuselage. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety. Failure to comply could result in operational restrictions or increased risk of fire damage.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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