EASA AD 2025-0071: Fuselage — Central Windshield Frame — Inspection

What to do

Operators of affected Airbus A330 models must perform the initial inspection of the central windshield frame before the aircraft exceeds 27,490 flight cycles and continue inspections at intervals not exceeding 27,490 flight cycles. If any cracks are detected, operators must contact Airbus for repair instructions and complete the repairs within the specified timeframe. These inspections are repetitive unless otherwise stated in the repair instructions.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2025-0071 is an airworthiness directive addressing inspection requirements for the central windshield frame on Airbus A330 aeroplanes. It applies to multiple A330 variants with affected part numbers F531-23012-200 or F531-23011-200 installed. The directive mandates repetitive inspections to detect potential cracks due to incorrect shot peening applied during production starting in 2008.

What changed

This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive special detailed inspections of the central windshield frame on affected Airbus A330 aircraft. It requires operators to inspect before exceeding 27,490 flight cycles and at intervals not exceeding that number thereafter. If cracks are found, corrective actions must be taken following Airbus repair instructions.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of affected Airbus A330 aircraft by addressing a potential fatigue life reduction in the central windshield frame. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure timely inspections and repairs to prevent safety risks and regulatory non-compliance. Failure to comply could lead to unsafe conditions and grounding of aircraft.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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