EASA AD 2021-0010
Fuel — Inward Vent Valve — Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0010 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Pilatus Aircraft Ltd PC-12/47E aeroplanes, specifically those with manufacturer serial numbers 1720 and 2001 or higher. The directive addresses an issue with inward vent valves that lack a chromate conversion coating, which could lead to corrosion and potential fire hazards. It mandates modification of affected inward vent valves to ensure continued airworthiness and safety.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a mandatory modification of inward vent valves with part number 963.04.26.520 installed on certain PC-12/47E aeroplanes. It prohibits the installation or re-installation of affected parts and requires operators to modify these parts within specified compliance times. The directive is based on Pilatus Aircraft Service Bulletin 28-015, which provides the detailed modification instructions.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk related to corrosion and electrical bonding degradation in the fuel system, which could cause arcing and fire during lightning strikes. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent potential accidents and ensure regulatory compliance. Failure to comply could result in grounding of affected aircraft and increased safety risks.
What To Do
Operators of PC-12/47E aeroplanes with affected inward vent valves must modify these parts during the next scheduled inspection or within 1,200 flight hours or 9 months from 25 January 2021, whichever occurs first. Installation of affected inward vent valves is prohibited from the effective date of the directive. Compliance must be documented and any alternative methods of compliance require EASA approval.
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