EASA AD 2024-0221: Exhaust — Engine / Turbocharger Exhaust System / Components — Inspection

What to do

Operators of affected aircraft must review maintenance records within 50 flight hours after 6 December 2024 to determine flight hours on each affected part. Parts must be replaced before exceeding 500 flight hours or within 50 flight hours after the directive's effective date, whichever is later. Repetitive inspections are required annually or every 12 months, with alternative inspection intervals allowed under specific conditions. Only serviceable parts may be installed after the effective date.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0221 is an airworthiness directive addressing inspection requirements for spot-welded, multi-segment v-band couplings installed at the tailpipe of turbocharger exhaust housing flanges on turbocharged reciprocating engine-powered aircraft. It applies to various aircraft including Piper PA-60 (Aerostar) series, Britten BN2 series, Cirrus SR22 and SR22T, and others listed in the directive's appendix. The directive establishes life limits and inspection protocols for these exhaust system components to ensure continued airworthiness.

What changed

This new regulation introduces mandatory life limits and repetitive inspections for the affected spot-welded, multi-segment v-band couplings on turbocharger exhaust systems. It requires operators to review maintenance records, replace parts exceeding 500 flight hours, and perform inspections at specified intervals. The directive aligns with FAA findings but is independently issued by EASA and does not adopt the FAA AD 2023-09-09.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals because failures of the specified v-band couplings have caused serious incidents including in-flight fires and loss of aircraft control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent exhaust tailpipe detachment and potential safety hazards. Compliance ensures regulatory adherence and enhances flight safety for affected turbocharged reciprocating engine aircraft.