EASA AD 2025-0251: Structure — Structural Parts — Replacement / Inspection

What to do

Operators must replace all Group 1 parts within 2,500 flight cycles after STC embodiment or within 8 months of 8 December 2025, whichever occurs first. They must also perform Eddy Current inspections on Group 2 parts within the same timeframe and replace any parts found defective before the next flight. For any instructions requiring contact with the STC holder, operators must coordinate with ELBE FLUGZEUGWERKE GmbH accordingly.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2025-0251 is issued for Airbus A330-343 aircraft, specifically those with manufacturer serial number 791 modified by EASA Supplemental Type Certificate STC 10063798 for passenger to freighter conversion. This directive addresses potential structural integrity issues due to incorrect heat treatment of certain structural parts identified as Group 1 and Group 2. The directive mandates replacement and inspection actions to ensure continued airworthiness.

What changed

This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory replacement of Group 1 structural parts and Eddy Current inspections of Group 2 parts on affected Airbus A330-343 aircraft. It requires corrective replacement of any Group 2 parts found with discrepancies during inspection. The directive also provides credit for prior inspections done according to earlier revisions of the relevant service bulletin.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of Airbus A330-343 aircraft converted to freighters, preventing potential safety risks from improperly heat-treated parts. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must adhere to these requirements to avoid grounding or regulatory non-compliance. Timely compliance ensures continued safe operation and regulatory approval of the modified aircraft.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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