EASA AD 2021-0223-E
Flight Controls — Elevator Control Rod — Inspection / Modification / Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0223-E is an emergency directive addressing corrosion issues found in elevator control rods, part number 304S-46-12, on Glasflügel 304 S, 304 eS, and 304 MS powered sailplanes of all serial numbers. It mandates inspections, pull tests, modifications, or replacement of affected elevator control rods to ensure continued airworthiness and flight safety.
What Changed
This new directive introduces mandatory pull tests and inspections for corrosion on elevator control rods, requiring modification by drilling a drainage hole or replacement with a serviceable part if corrosion or damage is found. It also establishes compliance timelines and defines terminating actions for inspections upon modification or replacement.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent potential elevator control rod failure, which could lead to loss of control of the sailplane. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and safety, avoiding unplanned grounding or accidents due to undetected corrosion.
What To Do
Operators of affected Glasflügel 304 sailplanes must perform a pull test within 3 days and an inspection within 30 days of the effective date. If corrosion or damage is found, the elevator control rod must be replaced or modified within specified timeframes, with ongoing inspections required until terminating actions are completed. Installation of only serviceable parts is allowed from the effective date.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.