EASA AD 2024-0132
Fire Protection — Lavatory Compartment Fire Extinguishers — Inspection / Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0132 is an airworthiness directive addressing fire protection in lavatory compartments on ATR 42 and ATR 72 aeroplanes. It specifically targets lavatory fire extinguishers with part number BA24320L-1 and serial numbers between 70472 and 113558, requiring inspection and possible replacement to ensure safety. This directive applies to all manufacturer serial numbers of ATR 42-200 through ATR 42-500 and ATR 72-101 through ATR 72-212A models.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0132 introduces a new requirement for inspection and replacement of certain lavatory fire extinguishers due to a manufacturing defect that could cause leakage and loss of fire extinguishing capability. It prohibits installation of affected parts from the effective date and mandates a weight check inspection within six months for aircraft with affected parts installed.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because the identified defect could lead to ineffective fire suppression in lavatory waste bins, increasing the risk of uncontrolled fire propagation. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure affected extinguishers are inspected and replaced if necessary to maintain aircraft safety and regulatory compliance.
What To Do
Operators of ATR 42 and ATR 72 aeroplanes with affected lavatory fire extinguishers must perform a weight check inspection within six months of 23 July 2024. If discrepancies are found, the affected extinguisher must be replaced before the next flight. Additionally, no affected fire extinguishers may be installed on any aircraft from 23 July 2024 onward.