EASA AD 2023-0079-E
SUPERSEDED BY EASA EMERGENCY AD 2025-0023-E
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0079-E is an emergency directive affecting Pipistrel Vertical Solutions Virus SW 121, SW 121A, SW 121C, and Virus SW 128 aeroplanes. It addresses a safety issue related to the flaperon bellcrank bolt installation on these aircraft. The directive mandates inspection and reinstallation of the flaperon bellcrank bolt to ensure proper flight control functionality.
What Changed
This new emergency airworthiness directive requires the removal and reinstallation of the flaperon bellcrank bolt on affected Pipistrel Virus models. It introduces mandatory compliance with the instructions provided in Pipistrel Vertical Solutions Service Bulletin SB-121-00-80-028 to correct an incorrect installation found in production. No previous directives are superseded by this AD.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because a loose or incorrectly installed flaperon bellcrank bolt can lead to malfunction of the control stick, potentially reducing aircraft controllability. Operators and maintenance organizations must address this issue promptly to maintain airworthiness and comply with regulatory requirements. Failure to comply could compromise flight safety and regulatory compliance.
What To Do
Operators of affected Virus SW 121, SW 121A, SW 121C, and Virus SW 128 aeroplanes must remove and reinstall the flaperon bellcrank bolt within 10 flight hours from 18 April 2023, following the instructions in the referenced service bulletin. Maintenance teams should ensure the correct application of the service bulletin procedures and document compliance accordingly.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.