EASA AD 2021-0119
Flight Controls — Trim Tab Trailing Edge — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0119 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Costruzioni Aeronautiche TECNAM SPA P2012 "Traveller" aeroplanes with manufacturer serial numbers 002 to 030 inclusive. The directive mandates inspections of the trim tab trailing edge on the mechanical trim actuator assembly, part number 212-27-30-0410-000, to detect and correct free play that could cause vibrations and reduced control of the aircraft.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces repetitive inspections of the trim tab trailing edge for free play within 100 flight hours after the effective date and at intervals not exceeding 100 flight hours thereafter. It also requires corrective actions if free play exceeds specified tolerances, including inspection of the endless screw and replacement of the affected part if necessary.
Why It Matters
This directive is important for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk related to vibration and control issues in the horizontal stabiliser caused by free play in the trim tab actuator. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to ensure continued airworthiness and prevent potential control degradation, thereby maintaining flight safety and regulatory compliance.
What To Do
Operators of affected TECNAM P2012 aeroplanes must perform initial and repetitive inspections of the trim tab trailing edge within 100 flight hours of 14 May 2021 and every 100 flight hours thereafter. If free play is detected beyond limits, further inspections and corrective actions must be taken before the next flight, including possible replacement of the mechanical trim actuator assembly. Maintenance programs should be updated to incorporate these requirements.
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