EASA AD 2021-0141
Fuselage — Trimmable Horizontal Stabilizer Fittings and Bearing Assembly Attachment Interface — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0141 is an airworthiness directive affecting Airbus A350-941 and A350-1041 aeroplanes, specifically addressing the trimmable horizontal stabilizer fittings and bearing assembly attachment interface. It mandates inspections and corrective actions to detect and prevent corrosion and damage caused by rotation of the bearing assembly, which could lead to detachment of the stabilizer and potential loss of control. The directive applies to all serial numbers except those with certain Airbus production modifications.
What Changed
EASA AD 2021-0141 supersedes the previous AD 2019-0206 and adds new requirements for Group 2 aeroplanes that have Airbus modification 113102. It introduces a one-time detailed inspection and corrective actions for these aeroplanes, while retaining repetitive inspections for Group 1 aeroplanes. The AD also updates inspection procedures and includes references to new Airbus service bulletins for compliance.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to ensure the structural integrity and safe operation of Airbus A350 aircraft by preventing corrosion-related failures in the trimmable horizontal stabilizer attachment. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to avoid potential loss of control incidents and to maintain regulatory compliance. The AD provides clear inspection intervals and repair instructions to manage this risk effectively.
What To Do
Operators of affected Airbus A350-941 and A350-1041 aeroplanes must perform detailed inspections of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer fittings and bearing assembly attachment interface within 36 months of manufacture or within 3 months after the AD effective date, whichever is later. If damage or corrosion is found, corrective actions must be taken before the next flight. For Group 1 aeroplanes, repetitive inspections are required every 36 months until modification SB is embodied, which serves as a terminating action. Group 2 aeroplanes require a one-time inspection and corrective actions as specified.
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