EASA AD 2025-0023-E
Flight Controls - Flaperon Bellcrank Bolt - Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2025-0023-E is an emergency directive addressing the inspection and corrective actions for the flaperon bellcrank bolt on Pipistrel Vertical Solutions Virus SW 121, SW 121A, SW 121C, and Virus SW 128 aeroplanes. The directive mandates inspection and modification procedures to ensure the secure installation of the flaperon bellcrank bolt to prevent control stick malfunctions. This AD applies to all serial numbers listed in the relevant Pipistrel service bulletins.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2025-0023-E supersedes AD 2023-0079-E and expands the applicability to include additional serial numbers, specifically Group 1 aeroplanes previously not covered. It retains previous inspection and reinstallation requirements while introducing new configuration determination and modification actions for Group 1 aircraft. The directive also updates the compliance instructions referencing the latest Pipistrel service bulletins.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for maintaining safe flight control operation by preventing potential loosening of the flaperon bellcrank bolt, which could lead to reduced aircraft control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to avoid unsafe conditions that could compromise flight safety. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and regulatory conformity for affected Pipistrel aeroplanes.
What To Do
Operators of Group 1 aeroplanes must determine the aircraft configuration within 10 flight hours after 24 January 2025 and perform required modifications or bolt reinstallation before the next flight based on the configuration. Group 2 aeroplanes must remove and reinstall the flaperon bellcrank bolt within 10 flight hours after 18 April 2023. Compliance with the latest Pipistrel service bulletins SB-121-00-80-028 Issue A02 and SB-121-00-80-031 Issue A01 is required.