EASA AD 2023-0007
Stabilizers — Horizontal Stabilizer Central Box — Inspection / Repair / Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0007 is an airworthiness directive addressing corrosion issues in the horizontal stabilizer central box of Piaggio Aviation P.180 Avanti and Avanti II aeroplanes. It mandates inspections, reporting, and corrective actions including repair or replacement of the horizontal stabilizer to ensure structural integrity and flight safety.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a one-time detailed inspection requirement for the horizontal stabilizer central box on affected P.180 aeroplanes, followed by repetitive inspections and corrective actions based on corrosion severity. It also requires reporting inspection results to Piaggio Aviation for assessment and mandates repair or replacement if severe corrosion is found.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations as it addresses a corrosion issue that could compromise the structural integrity of the horizontal stabilizer, potentially leading to loss of control of the aircraft. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and safety of the affected Piaggio P.180 fleet, especially for aircraft exposed to prolonged inactivity or outdoor storage.
What To Do
Operators of affected Piaggio P.180 Avanti and Avanti II aeroplanes must perform a detailed inspection of the horizontal stabilizer central box within specified flight hour or calendar time limits after 27 January 2023. If corrosion is found, they must report to Piaggio Aviation, conduct repetitive inspections as directed, and repair or replace the horizontal stabilizer if level 3 corrosion is detected within 660 flight hours or 13 months. Compliance with the mandatory service bulletin 80-0489 Revision 2 is required.
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