EASA AD 2025-0014
Flight Controls — Flap Transmission Shafts — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2025-0014 is an airworthiness directive addressing flap transmission shafts inspection for Piaggio Aviation P.180 Avanti and Avanti II aeroplanes, specifically serial numbers 1002, 1004 through 3016 inclusive, and 3018. The directive mandates a one-time inspection of the flap transmission shafts to detect chafing and clearance issues that could compromise flap transmission integrity and aircraft control.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory inspections and clearance checks of flap transmission shafts on specified Piaggio P.180 aircraft. It requires corrective actions if discrepancies are found and provides specific instructions on contacting the manufacturer for approved repair instructions when certain discrepancies occur. The directive also clarifies which service bulletin steps are not required for compliance.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for maintaining the safety and airworthiness of affected Piaggio P.180 aircraft by preventing potential flap control failures caused by chafing or clearance issues. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure timely inspections and corrective actions to avoid reduced aircraft control and ensure regulatory compliance. Failure to comply could lead to unsafe flight conditions and regulatory penalties.
What To Do
Operators of affected Piaggio P.180 Avanti and Avanti II aeroplanes must perform the required inspections and clearance checks within 220 flight hours from 27 January 2025, the effective date of the directive. If any discrepancies are found during inspections, corrective actions must be completed within the compliance times specified in the Piaggio Aero Industries Service Bulletin 80-0498. Additionally, if certain discrepancies are detected during clearance checks, operators must contact Piaggio for approved repair instructions before the next flight.