Flight Controls – Trimmable Horizontal Stabilizer Actuator – Replacement
Superseded. Comply with 2021-0251R1, which replaces this document.
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators must replace any affected THSA on Airbus A340-541, A340-542, and A340-642 aircraft before the THSA exceeds 3,500 flight cycles or within 30 days after 25 March 2021, whichever is later. Maintenance should follow the Airbus A340 Aircraft Maintenance Manual task 27-44-51-920-801-A for replacement procedures. Installation of affected THSAs is only permitted if the flight cycle limit has not been exceeded.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0068 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus A340-541, A340-542, and A340-642 aeroplanes. It addresses the replacement of certain trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuators (THSA) with part numbers 47175-501 or 47175-521 to prevent potential uncommanded movements of the horizontal stabilizer. The directive ensures continued safe operation by mandating replacement of affected THSAs before exceeding specified flight cycle limits.
What changed
This directive introduces a requirement to replace affected THSAs on Airbus A340 aircraft before they exceed 3,500 flight cycles or within 30 days after the effective date, whichever is later. It expands on previous directives by including newly certified THSA part numbers that may be affected by the same technical issue. It also allows installation of affected THSAs only if they have not exceeded the flight cycle limit.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a potential unsafe condition that could lead to loss of control of the aircraft due to uncommanded horizontal stabilizer movements. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety. Failure to comply could result in operational restrictions or safety risks.
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