Fuselage — Rear Cone Frame Feet 102/103 — Modification
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
- Replaces
- 2019-0220R1
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators must modify the fuselage rear cone in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A380-53-8214 within the specified compliance times: before exceeding 6,750 flight cycles or 49,700 flight hours since first flight, or within 2,100 flight cycles or 15,400 flight hours after the effective date of 22 October 2021, whichever occurs later. Alternative methods of compliance may be approved by EASA upon request.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0226 is an airworthiness directive issued for Airbus A380-841, A380-842, and A380-861 aeroplanes, excluding those with Airbus modification 77140 incorporated in production. It addresses structural integrity concerns related to the fuselage rear cone frame feet 102 and 103 between stringers 19 and 20 on both left and right sides of the fuselage. The directive mandates a modification to reinforce these areas to ensure continued airworthiness.
What changed
This directive supersedes EASA AD 2019-0220R1 and introduces an improved modification involving the installation of machined washers as detailed in Airbus Service Bulletin A380-53-8214. The change was prompted by the detection of cracks during implementation of the previous modification and subsequent analysis that led to a new solution to enhance structural durability.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of affected Airbus A380 aircraft, preventing potential failures in the fuselage rear cone area under severe thermo-mechanical loads. Compliance ensures safety and airworthiness, helping operators and maintenance organizations avoid costly repairs and operational disruptions due to structural damage.
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