EASA AD 2021-0237-E
Fire Protection — Engine Fire Handles Snap Wire — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0237-E is an emergency directive addressing a potential unsafe condition in ATR 42 and ATR 72 aeroplanes related to the engine fire handles snap wire. It applies to multiple ATR 42 and ATR 72 models except certain serial numbers and mandates inspection of the fire handles to ensure proper installation. The directive aims to prevent failure of the engine fire handle operation in case of an engine fire.
What Changed
This new emergency airworthiness directive introduces a one-time visual inspection requirement for the engine fire handles snap wire on affected ATR 42 and ATR 72 aircraft. It corrects an incorrect reference in the Aircraft Maintenance Manual and incorporates updated inspection instructions and corrective actions as detailed in ATR Airworthiness Operators Message 2021/12 Issue 2.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because failure of the engine fire handle to operate could lead to an uncontrolled engine fire and reduced aircraft control, posing a serious safety risk. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain continuing airworthiness and avoid potential accidents. The directive also clarifies procedures and documentation to prevent confusion during maintenance.
What To Do
Operators of affected ATR 42 and ATR 72 aircraft must perform a one-time visual inspection of both engine fire handles within 7 days of the directive's effective date. If any discrepancies are found, corrective actions must be completed before the next flight following the instructions in ATR AOM 2021/12 Issue 2. Previous inspections done per ATR AOM 2021/12 Issue 1 before the effective date are acceptable for compliance.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.