EASA AD 2024-0048
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2024-0057
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0048 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus A321-251NX, A321-252NX, A321-253NX, A321-271NX, and A321-272NX aeroplanes. It addresses a potential unsafe condition related to the escape slide and offwing slide inflation reservoir venting holes, specifically concerning certain orifice fittings installed on these reservoirs. The directive mandates inspection and possible replacement of affected parts to ensure continued airworthiness.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0048 introduces a one-time general visual inspection of specific orifice fittings on the slide inflation reservoirs of affected Airbus A321NX models. It requires replacement of any affected parts found with discrepancies and prohibits installation of affected parts from the effective date. This AD is a new regulation addressing a manufacturing quality escape involving torque strip indicators on orifice fittings.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it prevents the risk of in-flight deployment of non-inflated escape slides, which could compromise aircraft control and safety. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to avoid unsafe conditions and regulatory penalties. It also impacts parts installation procedures by restricting use of affected orifice fittings.
What To Do
Operators of affected Airbus A321NX aeroplanes must perform a general visual inspection of the specified orifice fittings within three months from 1 March 2024. If discrepancies are found, the affected parts must be replaced before the next flight. Additionally, from the effective date, no affected parts may be installed on any aeroplane.
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