EASA AD 2021-0070
Flight Controls — Airbrake Blade No. 3 — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0070 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency concerning M&D Flugzeugbau GmbH & Co. KG JS-MD 1C sailplanes. It mandates inspection and possible corrective action of Airbrake Blade No. 3 (the bottom blade) due to reported interference issues during rapid airbrake extension. This directive aims to ensure continued safe operation of affected sailplanes by addressing potential airbrake blockage.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0070 introduces a new mandatory requirement for a one-time inspection and measurement of Airbrake Blade No. 3 on all JS-MD 1C sailplanes. If discrepancies are found, corrective actions must be taken before the next flight. This directive is based on a service bulletin issued by the manufacturer to address interference between the airbrake blade and wing structure.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it prevents potential airbrake blockage, which could reduce sailplane control and compromise flight safety. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to ensure the airbrake system functions correctly, avoiding unsafe conditions. Compliance also ensures adherence to European aviation regulations and maintains the airworthiness of the affected aircraft.
What To Do
Operators of JS-MD 1C sailplanes must inspect Airbrake Blade No. 3 and measure specified dimensions within 30 days of 18 March 2021, following the manufacturer's service bulletin instructions. If any discrepancies are found, corrective actions must be completed before the next flight. Previously completed inspections and corrections in line with the original service bulletin before the effective date are acceptable for compliance.
Your fleet's weekly compliance brief
AI-summarized regulatory changes, compliance deadlines, and action items — filtered to your aircraft, every Monday.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.