EASA AD 2026-0023 — Engine Exhaust — Noise Suppressor / Muffler — Inspections
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2026-0023 is an airworthiness directive affecting Tecnam P2010 aeroplanes equipped with Lycoming IO-390 engines up to serial number 335. It mandates repetitive inspections of the engine exhaust noise suppressor/muffler to detect potential blockages or disconnections. The directive aims to ensure continued safe operation by addressing a risk of engine power loss caused by muffler component failure.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2026-0023 introduces new mandatory inspection requirements for the exhaust muffler flame tube on affected Tecnam P2010 aircraft. It requires inspections within specified compliance times and at intervals not exceeding 200 flight hours, with corrective actions to be taken if discrepancies are found. This is a new regulation rather than an amendment and does not supersede any previous directives.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk that could lead to engine power loss and potential loss of aircraft control. Operators and maintenance organizations must incorporate these inspections into their maintenance programs to ensure compliance and maintain aircraft airworthiness. Failure to comply could result in unsafe flight conditions and regulatory violations.
What To Do
Operators of Tecnam P2010 aeroplanes with Lycoming IO-390 engines up to serial number 335 must perform the initial muffler inspection before exceeding 200 flight hours since first flight or within 25 flight hours or 30 days after 16 February 2026, whichever is later. Subsequent inspections must occur every 200 flight hours or less. If any defects are found, operators must contact Tecnam for repair instructions and complete repairs before further flight. Revising the Aircraft Maintenance Programme to include the specified Tecnam maintenance manual supplement is an acceptable method of compliance.