EASA AD 2023-0219-E
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2024-0181
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0219-E is an emergency directive affecting Pilatus PC-24 aeroplanes with manufacturer serial numbers 101 and up. It addresses the replacement and inspection of threaded titanium bolts, part number 527.20.24.489, installed on the rudder trim tab short control rods to prevent potential failure. The directive mandates inspections and periodic replacements to ensure continued airworthiness.
What Changed
This directive introduces mandatory replacement of affected titanium bolts within 10 flight hours after the effective date or after exceeding 300 flight hours since first installation, whichever is later. It also requires a one-time inspection of the rudder mass balance arm and corrective actions if discrepancies are found. Additionally, it establishes ongoing replacement intervals of no more than 300 flight hours for these parts.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for maintaining safe rudder control on Pilatus PC-24 aircraft by preventing bolt failure due to unexpected oscillating loads. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to avoid potential loss of rudder control, which could lead to reduced or loss of aircraft control. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and regulatory adherence under EASA rules.
What To Do
Operators must replace affected titanium bolts within 10 flight hours after the directive's effective date or after the bolt exceeds 300 flight hours since first installation. They must perform a one-time inspection of the rudder mass balance arm within 10 flight hours after accumulating or exceeding 300 flight hours since first flight or within 10 flight hours after the directive's effective date. Any discrepancies found during inspection must be corrected before further flight following Pilatus instructions. Subsequent replacements of affected parts must occur at intervals not exceeding 300 flight hours.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.