EASA AD 2022-0176
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2025-0151
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2022-0176 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus A321-251NX, A321-252NX, A321-253NX, A321-271NX, and A321-272NX aeroplanes. It addresses a safety issue related to the escape slide inflation reservoir regulator valve protective cover that may cause uncommanded door 3 escape slide release during flight. The directive mandates modification of affected parts to prevent deployment of a non-inflated escape slide.
What Changed
This directive introduces a mandatory modification requiring removal of the orifice protective cover on affected escape slide inflation reservoir regulator valves. It applies to specific part numbers and serial numbers identified in the directive and associated service bulletins. The AD is considered an interim action with potential for further follow-up directives.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential unsafe condition that could lead to in-flight deployment of a non-inflated escape slide, which may reduce aircraft control. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety. Failure to comply could result in operational restrictions or safety risks.
What To Do
Operators must modify affected parts by removing the orifice protective cover within three months from the effective date of 7 September 2022, following Airbus Alert Operators Transmission A25N024-22 instructions. Only serviceable parts may be installed from the effective date onward. Alternative methods of compliance may be approved upon request.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.