EASA AD 2025-0066: Fuselage — Pressure Panel at Centre Wing Box — Inspection

What to do

Operators must perform initial inspections before exceeding specified flight hours or cycles and continue with repetitive inspections at intervals defined in the directive. If any discrepancies are found, they must contact Airbus for approved repair instructions and complete repairs within the specified compliance times. Rototest inspections are also required following clean inspections, and certain repairs can terminate the need for further repetitive inspections.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2025-0066 is an airworthiness directive issued by EASA concerning Airbus A319, A320, and A321 aeroplanes with specific modifications embodied in production. It mandates inspections of the pressure panel at the centre wing box to detect potential fatigue-related cracks. The directive applies to various Airbus A319, A320, and A321 models up to manufacturer serial number 09287, excluding certain CEO aeroplanes with specific mods.

What changed

This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive inspections of the fastener holes in the pressure deck membrane attachment area at the centre wing box. It requires operators to perform initial and ongoing inspections, rototest inspections, and corrective actions if discrepancies are found. The directive also provides terminating actions for inspections upon completion of approved repairs.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of affected Airbus A319, A320, and A321 aircraft by preventing crack initiation and propagation in a key fuselage area. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to ensure continued airworthiness and avoid potential safety risks. Compliance with these inspections and repairs helps prevent costly structural failures and unscheduled downtime.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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