EASA AD 2023-0176R1
Fuselage — Cargo Compartment Panels Sealing Tape — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0176R1 is a regulatory update addressing inspection requirements for sealing tape on cargo compartment panels of Airbus A350-941 and A350-1041 aeroplanes, excluding those with Airbus modification 120495. It mandates repetitive detailed inspections of sealing tapes installed in both longitudinal and transversal directions in cargo compartments to ensure fire extinguishing system effectiveness. The directive applies to all manufacturer serial numbers except those modified in production.
What Changed
This revision of EASA AD 2023-0176 introduces an extended inspection interval for aeroplanes that have embodied Airbus Modification Service Bulletin A350-53-P089, doubling the inspection interval from 8 to 16 days. It also excludes aeroplanes modified with Airbus mod 120495 from applicability and expands the list of affected sealing tape parts to include additional cargo compartment areas. The directive retains previous inspection and corrective action requirements while incorporating updated Airbus Alert Operators Transmission revisions.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for maintaining the integrity of the cargo compartment fire extinguishing system by preventing sealing tape migration that could compromise fire containment. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to avoid potential safety risks and regulatory non-compliance. The extended inspection intervals for modified aircraft reduce maintenance burden while ensuring continued airworthiness.
What To Do
Operators of affected Airbus A350-941 and A350-1041 aeroplanes must perform detailed inspections of specified cargo compartment sealing tapes within 30 days of the relevant effective dates and then at intervals not exceeding 8 days, or 16 days if the MSB modification has been applied. Any discrepancies found must be corrected before the next flight following Airbus instructions. Aircraft modified with Airbus mod 120495 are excluded from these requirements.
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