EASA AD 2023-0013R1
Flight Controls — Rudder Steering Bracket — Inspections / Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0013R1 is an updated regulatory requirement addressing inspection and modification of the rudder steering bracket on Diamond Aircraft Industries DA 42 series aeroplanes, including DA 42, DA 42 M, DA 42 NG, and DA 42 M-NG models. The directive mandates inspections and corrective actions related to the rudder T-yoke bolt to prevent potential loss of rudder control. It applies to all manufacturer serial numbers of these aircraft.
What Changed
This revision improves the definitions of aircraft groups, clarifies compliance times for initial torque seal mark inspections, and updates the parts installation requirements. It also updates the referenced service bulletins and maintenance manual temporary revisions. The directive supersedes previous ADs to incorporate these clarifications and procedural enhancements.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for maintaining safe flight controls by preventing rudder control loss due to wear or improper installation of the rudder T-yoke bolt. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to avoid unsafe conditions that could lead to flight control issues. The updated instructions help streamline inspections and repairs, ensuring continued airworthiness and regulatory compliance.
What To Do
Operators of affected DA 42 series aeroplanes must perform initial inspections within 200 flight hours or 9 months after 1 February 2023, depending on aircraft group classification. Group 2 aircraft require concurrent modification and bolt replacement. Repetitive inspections of torque seal marks must be conducted every 200 flight hours thereafter. Any discrepancies found during inspections must be addressed with approved repair instructions from Diamond Aircraft Industries before further flight.