EASA AD 2025-0220
Flight Manual — Amendment; Powerplant — Operational Restriction; Placards and Markings — Placards — Installation
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2025-0220 addresses safety concerns for DG-1000T powered sailplanes related to propeller adapter rings. It applies to all serial numbers of DG-1000T sailplanes and introduces operational restrictions on the powerplant, flight manual amendments, and placard installations to prevent propeller separation incidents. The directive also specifies part installation restrictions and optional modifications to improve safety.
What Changed
This directive supersedes EASA AD 2025-0112-E and retains its powerplant operational restrictions for affected sailplanes while introducing a design improvement for the propeller adapter ring. It mandates flight manual amendments and installation of “Motor INOP” placards for affected aircraft and prohibits installation of certain propeller adapter ring versions on all DG-1000T sailplanes from the effective date. Additionally, it allows removal of restrictions after modification with the improved propeller adapter ring.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a serious safety risk of propeller separation that could cause structural damage and loss of control. Operators must comply to ensure continued airworthiness and avoid operating unsafe aircraft configurations. Maintenance and compliance teams need to track affected parts and implement required placards and flight manual changes to meet regulatory requirements and maintain safe operations.
What To Do
Operators of Group 1 DG-1000T sailplanes must cease powerplant operation from 16 May 2025 and amend the flight manual and install “Motor INOP” placards within 7 days after that date. They may alternatively remove the powerplant. After modifying the sailplane per DG Aviation Technical Note 1000/52, these restrictions can be lifted. From 24 October 2025, no affected propeller adapter rings may be installed on any DG-1000T sailplane.