EASA AD 2021-0018
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2021-0085
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0018 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus A350-941 and A350-1041 aeroplanes. It addresses the replacement and inspection of passenger door guide arms and support brackets related to the passenger door damper emergency opening actuators with part number FE396001001. The directive aims to ensure the proper functioning of passenger doors during emergency openings to maintain evacuation safety.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0018 introduces mandatory replacement of forward and aft passenger door guide arms after any emergency door opening involving affected parts. It also requires detailed inspections of the guide arm support brackets and corrective actions if damage is found. This AD is an interim measure pending further regulatory action.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk where passenger doors may fail to operate correctly during emergencies due to damaged guide arms caused by reduced damping from oil leakage. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and passenger safety by preventing door malfunctions that could reduce evacuation capacity and cause injuries.
What To Do
Operators must replace the forward and aft guide arms within four months if an emergency door opening with affected parts occurred before the AD effective date, or within 15 days if it occurs after. Concurrently, a detailed inspection of the guide arm support brackets must be performed, with corrective actions taken before the next flight if damage is detected. Installation of affected parts is allowed only if these post-emergency opening actions are followed.
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