EASA AD 2024-0204: Fuselage — Rivet Holes at Frame 64 — Inspection

What to do

Operators of affected aircraft must perform the special detailed inspection within 24 months after 5 November 2024 or within 17,000 flight cycles after modification embodiment, whichever is later. If discrepancies are found, corrective actions must be completed before the next flight or within the specified compliance time. For aircraft not yet modified, rivet installation must be done before the next flight after modification according to the inspection service bulletin instructions.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0204 is issued for Airbus A319 and A320 aeroplanes, specifically models A319-112, A319-132, A320-214, A320-232, A320-233, A320-251N, and A320-271N. This directive mandates inspection of rivet holes at frame 64 of the fuselage to detect and correct potential fatigue damage. The directive applies to all manufacturer serial numbers listed in the AD's appendix.

What changed

This new airworthiness directive introduces a one-time special detailed inspection of rivet holes at frame 64 on affected Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft. It requires corrective actions if discrepancies are found and allows modifications with rivet installation according to specified Airbus service bulletins. The AD addresses missing rivet installation instructions in previous modification service bulletins that could lead to structural fatigue.

Why it matters

The directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of affected Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft by preventing fatigue damage originating from unplugged rivet holes. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to ensure continued airworthiness and avoid potential safety risks. Compliance teams need to track inspection deadlines and corrective actions to meet regulatory requirements and avoid operational disruptions.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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