EASA AD 2021-0281R3
Aircraft Flight Manual / Engine Bleed Air System — Amendment / Pneumatic — Engine Bleed Air System — Maintenance Tasks
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0281R3 is an amendment addressing the engine bleed air system on Airbus A330 series aeroplanes, including models A330-201 through A330-743L. It mandates updates to the Aircraft Flight Manual and maintenance tasks related to the pneumatic engine bleed air system to mitigate risks of engine bleed system over-temperature and valve malfunctions. The directive applies to all manufacturer serial numbers of the affected A330 variants.
What Changed
This revision removes concurrent requirements previously specified for Group 1 aeroplanes, reflecting that these have been embodied in production or in service. It updates the Flight Warning Computer software standards and clarifies applicability of certain requirements. The directive also supersedes earlier ADs 2021-0281R2 and 2020-0205, consolidating maintenance and operational procedures.
Why It Matters
The directive is critical for preventing potential damage to the engine bleed manifold and downstream ducts caused by over-temperature conditions, which could compromise structural integrity. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to avoid unsafe conditions and maintain airworthiness. It also affects software standards for Flight Warning Computers, impacting avionics maintenance and upgrades.
What To Do
Operators must amend the Aircraft Flight Manual within 30 days of the original AD effective date if not equipped with FWC software T9-0 or later, incorporating the specified Temporary Revisions. Group 1 aeroplanes must install FWC software standard T9-3 within 18 months of 31 December 2021. Installation of prohibited FWC software standards is forbidden, and compliance with updated maintenance tasks and service bulletins is required.