EASA AD 2024-0078
Equipment / Furnishings — AFT Galley Complex Lower Attachment Studs — Inspection / Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0078 is issued for Airbus A350-941 and A350-1041 aeroplanes, addressing inspection and replacement of the aft galley complex lower attachment studs. The directive targets specific part numbers of lower attachment studs that secure the aft galley complex to the aircraft structure. It mandates inspections and replacement to ensure continued airworthiness and safety.
What Changed
This directive supersedes EASA AD 2022-0196, expanding the applicability to additional Airbus A350 aeroplanes and requiring replacement of all affected lower attachment studs with serviceable parts. It retains the previous inspection requirements but adds mandatory part replacement as a terminating action to prevent galley detachment.
Why It Matters
The directive addresses a safety risk due to hydrogen-induced failures in the lower attachment studs of the aft galley complex, which could lead to galley detachment and potential injury to cabin crew or passengers. Compliance ensures the structural integrity of the galley, maintaining safe evacuation capabilities and overall aircraft safety. Operators and maintenance organizations must manage inspections and replacements to meet regulatory requirements and avoid operational disruptions.
What To Do
Operators of affected Airbus A350-941 and A350-1041 aeroplanes must perform detailed inspections of the lower attachment studs within specified timeframes: Group 1 aircraft within 3 months after 4 October 2022 and Group 2 aircraft within 6 months after 3 April 2024. If any fractured parts are found, immediate replacement with serviceable parts is required before the next flight. All affected parts must be replaced within 4,400 flight hours after the last inspection to terminate repetitive inspections.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.