EASA AD 2023-0052: Fuel — Inner Fuel Tanks — Leak Test

What to do

Operators of affected Airbus A330 models must perform a leak test of the left and right inner fuel tanks within 48 months of the directive's effective date, following Airbus Service Bulletin A330-28-3141. If any discrepancies are found during the test, corrective actions must be completed within the same 48-month period according to the service bulletin or approved instructions from Airbus. Alternative methods of compliance may be approved upon request and substantiation.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0052 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus A330 aeroplanes, including models A330-201 through A330-941. This directive mandates a leak test of the inner fuel tanks to ensure their integrity. The directive applies to all manufacturer serial numbers listed in Airbus Service Bulletin A330-28-3141.

What changed

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0052 introduces a new requirement for performing a differential pressure leak test on the inner fuel tanks of affected Airbus A330 aircraft. This test addresses an identified issue where the original production ground test procedure was not properly accomplished on aeroplanes delivered before July 2021. The directive also requires corrective actions if any discrepancies are found during the leak test.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it ensures the integrity of the inner fuel tanks, which is vital for safe flight operations. Failure to detect and correct leaks could result in insufficient fuel availability in the event of an uncontained engine rotor failure and subsequent fuel tank puncture. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must address this to maintain airworthiness and regulatory compliance.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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