EASA AD 2025-0140
Flight Controls — Rudder Drive Plate — Inspection / Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2025-0140 is issued for Fiberglas-Technik Rudolf Lindner GmbH & Co.KG sailplanes, specifically the GROB G 103 series including TWIN II, TWIN II ACRO, TWIN III, TWIN III ACRO, and TWIN III SL models. This directive addresses inspection and modification requirements for the rudder drive plate to prevent corrosion-related structural integrity issues. It mandates inspections and modifications to ensure continued airworthiness of the affected rudder assemblies.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive inspections of the rudder drive plate for corrosion within 50 flight hours or 3 months after the effective date, followed by annual inspections. It requires corrective actions including detailed inspections, modifications, and sealing of the rudder assembly if corrosion or water ingress is detected. The directive also establishes that modification of the rudder assembly terminates the need for further repetitive inspections.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of the rudder drive plate, which is essential for safe flight control of the affected sailplanes. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent potential rudder failure due to corrosion, which could lead to reduced control of the aircraft. Compliance ensures regulatory adherence and enhances flight safety by addressing a known unsafe condition.
What To Do
Operators must perform an initial inspection within 50 flight hours or 3 months after 21 July 2025, then repeat inspections every 12 months. If corrosion or water ingress is found, a detailed inspection and modification must be completed before the next flight. Additionally, a one-time inspection and modification are required during the next life-time extension inspection. After modification and sealing, repetitive inspections are no longer required. Installation of affected rudders is permitted only if inspections and modifications are completed as specified.