EASA AD 2024-0049
Horizontal Stabilizer — Rear Attachment Fittings — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0049 is an airworthiness directive addressing inspection requirements for the rear attachment fittings of the horizontal stabilizer on Airbus Defence and Space CN-235 and C-295 aeroplanes. It mandates repetitive high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections to detect cracks that could compromise structural integrity and control of the aircraft. This directive applies to all manufacturer serial numbers of the affected models.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0049 supersedes the previous AD 2017-0218 by introducing repetitive HFEC inspections instead of one-time visual inspections. It also updates inspection procedures based on new occurrences of cracking and requires contacting Airbus Defence and Space for corrective actions if discrepancies are found during inspections.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of the horizontal stabilizer rear attachment fittings, preventing potential failures that could reduce aircraft control. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure adherence to the updated inspection intervals and procedures to avoid unsafe conditions and regulatory non-compliance. It helps mitigate risks associated with undetected cracks in key structural components.
What To Do
Operators of CN-235 and C-295 aeroplanes must perform HFEC inspections of the rear attachment fittings on both left-hand and right-hand sides within the compliance times specified in Airbus Defence and Space Alert Operators Transmission documents. If any cracks or discrepancies are detected, they must contact Airbus Defence and Space for approved corrective instructions and complete those before further flight. The first inspections must be completed by 5 March 2024 or within the intervals defined in the directive.
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