EASA AD 2021-0019
Fuselage — Type A Emergency Exit Door Frames — Modification / Reinforcement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0019 is an official regulatory document addressing structural reinforcement of the Type A emergency exit door frames on specific Airbus A340 models, including A340-211, A340-213, A340-311, and A340-312. The directive mandates modifications to door frames on aircraft with certain manufacturer serial numbers to ensure continued airworthiness and structural integrity.
What Changed
This directive supersedes the previous DGAC France AD 98-102-081(B) and corrects its applicability by limiting the affected aircraft models. It introduces a reduced compliance time for the required reinforcement and confirms that no additional work is needed for aircraft already modified according to Airbus Service Bulletin A340-53-4027 at any revision level.
Why It Matters
For aviation professionals, this directive is critical to prevent structural cracks found during fatigue testing that could compromise aircraft safety. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft certification and avoid operational restrictions. The clarified applicability and updated compliance timeline help streamline maintenance planning and regulatory adherence.
What To Do
Operators of affected Airbus A340-211, A340-213, A340-311, and A340-312 aircraft must reinforce the Type A emergency exit door frames according to Airbus Service Bulletin A340-53-4027 Revision 04 or earlier revisions. This modification must be completed before exceeding 8,090 flight cycles or 54,600 flight hours, or within 18 months after 29 January 2021, whichever occurs later. Aircraft already modified per the specified service bulletin revisions are considered compliant.
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