EASA AD 2023-0103
Fuselage — Rear Fuselage / Upper Stringers at Frame 43 — Inspection / Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0103 is an airworthiness directive affecting Airbus Defence and Space CN-235 and C-295 aeroplanes. It addresses the inspection and modification of the rear fuselage upper stringers at frame 43 due to detected cracks that could compromise structural integrity. The directive mandates inspections and structural modifications to ensure continued airworthiness.
What Changed
This directive supersedes EASA AD 2020-0159 and retains its inspection requirements while additionally mandating modification of the affected fuselage structures. It introduces new compliance times for inspections and requires modification as a terminating action to repetitive inspections. The directive also recognizes repairs done per approved instructions as terminating actions.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent structural failures caused by cracks in the rear fuselage stringers. Compliance ensures the structural integrity and safety of CN-235 and C-295 aircraft, avoiding potential in-service failures. It also provides clear instructions and timelines for inspections and modifications, aiding regulatory compliance and maintenance planning.
What To Do
Operators must perform detailed visual inspections or combined inspections with high frequency eddy current within specified flight hour or cycle thresholds and at defined intervals thereafter. If cracks or discrepancies are found, approved corrective actions must be taken before further flight. Additionally, operators must complete the required structural modification within nine months or before reaching specified flight cycle limits to terminate repetitive inspections.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.