EASA AD 2024-0176
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2024-0192
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0176 is issued for Fokker F28 Mark 0070 and Mark 0100 aeroplanes equipped with Collins Aerospace main landing gear pistons having specific part numbers. The directive addresses a crack found in the main landing gear piston modified by an Australian landing gear shop, which could lead to structural failure and landing gear collapse. It mandates inspections and replacement of affected parts to ensure continued airworthiness.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive detailed inspections of the main landing gear pistons identified as affected parts and requires replacement of any cracked pistons with serviceable parts. It also allows installation of affected parts only if they pass inspection and mandates reporting inspection results to Fokker Services. The directive establishes terminating action upon replacement of all affected parts.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent potential landing gear failure due to stress corrosion cracking in modified pistons. Compliance ensures aircraft safety and regulatory adherence, avoiding possible damage and injury. It also impacts maintenance planning by requiring frequent inspections and timely part replacements.
What To Do
Operators of affected Fokker F28 Mark 0070 and 0100 aeroplanes must perform a detailed inspection of the lower aft side of each affected main landing gear piston within 30 days of 18 September 2024 and before each first flight of the day thereafter. Any cracked piston found must be replaced before the next flight. Inspection results must be reported to Fokker Services within 15 days of the initial inspection and after subsequent inspections. Replacement of all affected parts with serviceable parts ends the need for repetitive inspections.