EASA AD 2023-0065
Flight Controls — Rudder Control Rod — Functional Check / Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0065 is an airworthiness directive addressing the rudder control rod on Dornier 328-100 and Dornier 328-300 aeroplanes. It mandates a one-time functional check and general visual inspection of specific rudder control rods with part numbers 001A272A4042000 and 001D272A4042000 to detect potential buckling risks during critical flight phases. The directive also requires reporting inspection results and corrective actions if discrepancies are found.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory inspections and functional checks of the rudder control rods on all Dornier 328-100 and 328-300 aircraft to mitigate the risk of part buckling during single-engine operations. It requires operators to follow Deutsche Aircraft GmbH Alert Service Bulletins for inspection procedures and corrective actions. Additionally, it establishes reporting requirements and conditions for installing affected parts.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential safety risk that could lead to reduced aircraft control during take-off and landing with one engine inoperative. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and avoid operational restrictions. The directive also impacts parts installation procedures, ensuring only inspected and cleared rudder control rods are used.
What To Do
Operators of Dornier 328-100 and 328-300 aeroplanes must perform a functional check and general visual inspection of the affected rudder control rods within 500 flight hours or 3 months from 3 April 2023, whichever occurs first. Any discrepancies found must be corrected before the next flight following instructions from Deutsche Aircraft GmbH. Inspection results must be reported within 30 days after completion. Installation of affected parts is permitted only if they have passed the required checks and inspections.
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