EASA AD 2021-0029
Wings — Centre Wing Spar to Rib 1 Attachment — Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0029 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus A340-211, A340-212, A340-213, A340-311, A340-312, and A340-313 aeroplanes. It addresses a structural issue involving cracks found in the centre wing spar to rib 1 attachments during fatigue testing. The directive mandates modification of these affected wing areas to maintain structural integrity.
What Changed
This directive supersedes DGAC France AD 2000-074-136(B) and introduces a reduced compliance time for the required wing modification. It retains the original modification requirements but shortens the deadline for operators to complete the replacement of vertical angle fittings as specified in Airbus Service Bulletin A340-57-4022 Revision 03.
Why It Matters
The directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of the Airbus A340 wings, preventing potential safety risks due to fatigue cracks. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure timely modifications to avoid grounding or regulatory non-compliance. It also clarifies acceptable compliance methods and provides updated thresholds for modification based on operational usage.
What To Do
Affected operators must modify the centre wing spar to rib 1 attachments by replacing the vertical angle fittings according to Airbus Service Bulletin A340-57-4022 Revision 03. The modification must be completed within 18 months after 5 February 2021 or before exceeding specified flight cycle or flight hour limits depending on short range or long range operation. Operators who have already completed the modification per earlier revisions of the service bulletin are in compliance.
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