EASA AD 2021-0034R1
Powerplant — Front Engine Mount / Strut Mount and Thrust Link — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0034R1 is an updated regulatory requirement addressing inspection of the front engine mount, strut mount, and thrust link on Airbus A380-841 and A380-842 aeroplanes equipped with Rolls-Royce RB211 Trent 900 engines. The directive focuses on engines with affected compressor intermediate cases (CIC) that have salvage welds, which could compromise structural integrity. It mandates repetitive inspections to detect potential failures that could lead to engine detachment in flight.
What Changed
This revision of EASA AD 2021-0034 introduces the use of Airbus Service Bulletin A380-71-8016 as an acceptable alternative method for compliance with inspection requirements. It also updates the definition of affected CICs based on the latest Airbus Alert Operators Transmission and retains the inspection intervals and corrective actions from previous versions. The AD supersedes earlier directives 2021-0034 and 2021-0001.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent potential engine mount failures that could result in engine detachment and loss of aircraft control. Operators and maintenance organizations must adhere to the reduced inspection intervals to ensure early detection of structural issues. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and safety of Airbus A380 aircraft powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 900 engines with affected CICs.
What To Do
Operators of Airbus A380-841 and A380-842 aircraft with affected Rolls-Royce RB211 Trent 900 engines must perform initial and repetitive inspections of the front engine mount and strut mount according to the intervals specified in Airbus AOT A71R017-20 or the Airbus Service Bulletin A380-71-8016. Inspections must begin no later than 29 January 2021, the original effective date of the AD. Any discrepancies found require engine removal and repair per Airbus-approved instructions before further flight.
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