EASA AD 2021-0082
Nacelles / Pylons — Aft Pylon Fairing Rear Drain Pipes Sealing — Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0082 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus A380-841, A380-842, and A380-861 aeroplanes. It addresses a sealing issue around the aft pylon fairing rear drain pipes on engine pylons, specifically for Rolls-Royce and Engine Alliance GP7200 engine pylons. The directive mandates a modification to prevent fluid leakage inside the aft pylon fairing.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a required modification to apply sealant around the rear drain pipes of each engine aft pylon fairing on affected Airbus A380 models. The modification is based on Airbus Service Bulletins issued in April 2019 and targets all manufacturer serial numbers except those already incorporating certain Airbus production modifications. No previous airworthiness directives are superseded by this AD.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because the lack of sealant can cause fluid leakage inside the aft pylon fairing, potentially leading to fluid contacting hot parts and causing an on-ground fire. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft safety and prevent damage or injury. Compliance with this AD is mandatory under EU regulations to continue lawful operation of affected aircraft.
What To Do
Operators of Airbus A380-841, A380-842, and A380-861 aeroplanes must apply the specified sealant modification around the rear drain pipes of each engine aft pylon fairing within 5,000 flight hours from 2 April 2021, the effective date of the AD. The modification must be performed following the instructions in the applicable Airbus Service Bulletins listed in the directive. Alternative methods of compliance may be approved by EASA if properly substantiated.
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