EASA AD 2025-0077: Wings — Centre Wing Fuel Gauge — Inspection

What to do

Operators of CN-235 series aeroplanes must perform the initial HFEC inspection within the compliance times specified in the directive, based on accumulated flight cycles or hours, or within 50 flight cycles or hours after the effective date if applicable. Subsequent inspections must be conducted at intervals not exceeding 700 flight cycles or 1,000 flight hours. If any cracks or damage are detected, operators must contact Airbus Defence and Space for repair instructions and carry out the repairs accordingly.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2025-0077 is an airworthiness directive affecting Airbus Defence and Space CN-235 series aeroplanes, including CN-235, CN-235-100, CN-235-200, and CN-235-300 models. The directive mandates repetitive High Frequency Eddy Current (HFEC) inspections of the centre wing fuel gauge mount area to detect cracks that could compromise wing structural integrity and cause fuel leakage.

What changed

This new regulation introduces mandatory repetitive HFEC inspections of the centre wing fuel gauge mount area on all CN-235 series aeroplanes. It requires operators to perform initial inspections within specified flight cycle or flight hour limits and continue inspections at intervals not exceeding 700 flight cycles or 1,000 flight hours. If cracks or discrepancies are found, operators must contact Airbus Defence and Space for approved repair instructions.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of the wing and preventing potential fuel leaks caused by undetected cracks in the centre wing skin. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and safety of CN-235 aeroplanes, helping operators and maintenance organizations avoid unexpected failures and costly repairs. It also aligns maintenance practices with updated safety standards mandated by EASA.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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