Stabilizers — Rudder — Inspection
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
- Replaces
- 2021-0002
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 aircraft must perform a general visual inspection within 50 flight cycles or 3 months from 13 January 2021, followed by a special detailed inspection within 200 flight cycles or 3 months if no defects are found. If defects are detected, inspections must be done before the next flight, with corrective repairs as specified in the Airbus Alert Operators Transmission. Installation of only serviceable rudders is permitted, and modification of rudders per the earlier service bulletins is prohibited from 13 January 2021 onward.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0002R1 is an updated regulatory requirement addressing inspection and repair of rudders on Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 aircraft. It applies to rudders modified according to specific Airbus Service Bulletins and aims to ensure structural integrity by mandating inspections and corrective actions. The directive covers all manufacturer serial numbers of the affected aircraft models.
What changed
This revision updates the original AD 2021-0002 by incorporating improved modification instructions from Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1052 Revision 03 and SB A320-55-1059 Revision 01. It clarifies inspection and repair procedures and expands compliance requirements to include new service bulletin revisions. The revision also refines definitions of affected and serviceable parts and updates compliance timelines.
Why it matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses potential structural integrity issues caused by disbonding near the lightning protection plate on modified rudders. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent unsafe conditions that could compromise flight safety. Timely inspections and repairs help maintain airworthiness and regulatory compliance, avoiding grounding or operational restrictions.
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New ADs and bulletins for Airbus A318, A319, A320 and A321, summarized like this page, every Monday.