EASA AD 2021-0263
Equipment / Furnishings — Aft Lavatory Quick Pin — Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0263 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting certain Airbus A321 models, specifically A321-251N, A321-251NX, A321-252NX, A321-253N, A321-253NX, and A321-271NX with specified manufacturer serial numbers. The directive addresses the replacement of the quick release pin in the aft lavatory equipment due to safety concerns. It mandates modification and reidentification of affected lavatory parts to ensure continued airworthiness.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a requirement to replace the quick release pin installed on the upper attachment of specific SMART HS-L41 and HS-L42 lavatories, as the existing pins are too short to lock properly. The directive requires operators to modify and reidentify the affected parts following Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1BXR and Diehl Aviation Vendor Service Bulletin A2-254-25-266. It also mandates reporting the completion of the modification to Airbus within a specified timeframe.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because the improper locking of the quick release pin could lead to unintended movement of the lavatory, posing a risk of injury to crew and passengers. Compliance ensures the safety and regulatory conformity of affected Airbus A321 aircraft. Maintenance, repair, and operations teams must prioritize this modification to avoid operational restrictions and maintain airworthiness certification.
What To Do
Operators of affected Airbus A321 aircraft must modify and reidentify each affected aft lavatory part within 45 days of the directive's effective date, following the instructions in the referenced Airbus and Diehl Aviation service bulletins. Additionally, they must report the completion of these modifications to Airbus within 30 days after the modification or within 30 days after the effective date, whichever is later. Failure to comply may result in grounding or operational limitations.
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