Fuselage – Double Joggle Area Frame 16 and Frame 20 – Inspection /; Modification
Superseded. Comply with 2023-0212, which replaces this document.
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators must perform special detailed inspections within specified flight cycle thresholds and at recurring intervals as defined in the directive. If cracks are detected, approved repair instructions from Airbus must be followed before further flight. Modification of affected areas per Airbus service bulletins is recommended as a terminating action to repetitive inspections. Compliance deadlines start from 25 October 2021.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0227 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 aeroplanes. It addresses the detection of cracks in the double joggle areas at fuselage frames 16 and 20, which could compromise structural integrity. The directive mandates repetitive special detailed inspections and provides optional modification instructions to reinforce the affected areas.
What changed
This directive introduces mandatory repetitive special detailed inspections of the double joggle areas at frames 16 and 20 on specified Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 models. It supersedes certain Airworthiness Limitation Item tasks and includes instructions for corrective actions if cracks are found. Additionally, it offers modification service bulletins as a terminating action to stop repetitive inspections.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of affected Airbus aircraft fuselages, ensuring continued airworthiness and safety. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent potential structural failures due to undetected cracks. Compliance affects maintenance scheduling, repair procedures, and may require incorporation of modification service bulletins to avoid repetitive inspections.
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