EASA AD 2022-0163-E
Flight Controls — Flap Control Rods — Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2022-0163-E is an emergency directive addressing flap control rod failures on CEAPR DR400 series aeroplanes, specifically models DR400/120, DR400/140B, DR400/160, DR400/180, and DR400/180R with certain serial numbers. The directive targets flap control rods with part numbers 16.11.08.000 and 16.18.22.010 from specific batches that have a welding defect. This AD mandates replacement of affected flap control rods to ensure continued safe operation.
What Changed
This new emergency AD introduces mandatory identification and removal of defective flap control rods due to a welding defect that can cause detachment of the control lever and loss of flap control. It also permits a single ferry flight under defined conditions if immediate replacement is not possible. The directive references CEAPR Service Bulletin 220701 for detailed replacement procedures.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals because failure to replace the affected flap control rods could lead to asymmetric flap positions and potential loss of aircraft control. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain airworthiness and prevent in-flight control failures. The directive imposes immediate action requirements, impacting maintenance scheduling and operational planning.
What To Do
Operators of affected CEAPR DR400 aeroplanes must identify and remove all affected flap control rods before the next flight after 9 August 2022, following CEAPR Service Bulletin 220701 instructions. If replacement cannot be performed immediately, a single ferry flight is allowed under specified operational restrictions. Maintenance teams should coordinate to source replacement parts and complete the required actions promptly.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.