EASA AD 2022-0196
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2024-0078
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2022-0196 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency concerning Airbus A350-941 and A350-1041 aeroplanes. It addresses the inspection and replacement of lower attachment studs, part number XP14-070-007800, in the aft galley complex to prevent potential galley module detachment. The directive applies to specific manufacturer serial numbers of these aircraft models.
What Changed
This directive introduces mandatory repetitive detailed inspections of the affected lower attachment studs and requires replacement with a serviceable part, part number XP14-070-019100, if any fracture is found. It also prohibits installation of the affected parts from the effective date and considers the replacement as a terminating action for inspections. Additional manufacturer serial numbers were added after the initial proposal without further consultation due to urgency.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk caused by hydrogen-induced failure of galley attachment studs, which could lead to galley detachment and potential injury or reduced evacuation capacity. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and passenger safety. Failure to comply could result in unsafe conditions and regulatory non-compliance.
What To Do
Operators must perform detailed inspections of the affected lower attachment studs within three months of the effective date and repeat these inspections every 4,400 flight hours. If any fractured parts are found, they must be replaced with serviceable parts before the next flight. Installation of affected parts is prohibited from the effective date, and replacing all affected parts terminates the inspection requirement for that aircraft.
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