EASA AD 2024-0081
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2024-0096
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0081 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting ATR 42-400, ATR 42-500, and various ATR 72 models. It addresses the inspection and testing requirements for the rudder travel limiting unit (TLU) lever, part number S2728183300200, due to potential corrosion and premature failure risks. The directive mandates repetitive inspections and conductivity tests to ensure continued safe operation of the affected aircraft.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0081 introduces mandatory repetitive detailed visual inspections and one-time conductivity tests for the TLU lever on affected ATR 42 and ATR 72 aeroplanes. It also requires corrective actions based on inspection results and prohibits installation of affected parts from the effective date. This is a new directive addressing a specific unsafe condition related to corrosion caused by improper heat treatment of the TLU lever.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it prevents potential rudder control issues that could lead to loss of aircraft control at high speeds. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to ensure aircraft safety and regulatory compliance. The inspections and tests help detect corrosion early, avoiding premature failure of the rudder travel limiting unit and ensuring continued airworthiness.
What To Do
Operators of affected ATR 42 and ATR 72 aircraft must perform detailed visual inspections within 30 days of the directive's effective date and repeat every three months. Conductivity tests are required within 750 flight hours or 9 months if no earlier test was done, or immediately if corrosion is found. Any corrective actions specified by ATR must be completed promptly, and affected parts must not be installed after the effective date.