EASA AD 2021-0229
Wings — Outer Flaps and Tabs — Identification/ Inspection (Improper Heat Treatment) / Replacement (Wrong Material)
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0229 is an airworthiness directive addressing Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 aeroplanes. It focuses on the identification, inspection, and replacement of outer flaps and tabs that may have been improperly heat-treated or manufactured from the wrong material. The directive mandates inspections and corrective actions to ensure the structural integrity of these flap components.
What Changed
This directive supersedes EASA AD 2020-0174 and updates the list of suspected outer flap and tab parts affected by improper heat treatment or wrong material. It clarifies serial number formats and retains previous inspection and replacement requirements while incorporating revised Airbus Service Bulletins. The directive also introduces notes to improve identification of affected parts and allows installation of suspected parts provided inspections are performed.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent potential flap trailing edge failures that could reduce aircraft control. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety. The updated requirements and clarified part identification help streamline inspections and corrective actions, reducing risk and ensuring regulatory compliance.
What To Do
Operators of affected Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 aeroplanes must perform a one-time special detailed inspection of suspected outer flap and tab parts within 72 months after 19 August 2020 or before exceeding 144 months since the reference date, whichever is earlier. If defects are found, approved repair instructions or part replacement must be accomplished within the specified compliance times. Records should be reviewed to confirm if suspected parts are installed, and installation of suspected or affected parts is allowed only if followed by required inspections or corrective actions.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.