EASA AD 2026-0046
Landing Gear — Landing Gear Selector Valve — Functional Check
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2026-0046 is an airworthiness directive addressing the landing gear selector valve (LGSV) on ATR 42 and ATR 72 aeroplanes. It applies to specific LGSV parts with certain part and serial numbers that may cause uncommanded nose landing gear retraction due to internal leakage. The directive mandates a one-time functional leakage test of the affected LGSV to ensure continued safe operation.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a mandatory one-time leakage test of the affected landing gear selector valves on ATR 42 and ATR 72 aircraft. It requires replacement of any valve found with leakage out of tolerance and establishes reporting requirements for test results. The directive also clarifies installation rules for serviceable parts and defines affected aircraft groups based on installed parts.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent potential loss of landing gear or aircraft control during ground operations or after touchdown, which could lead to damage or injury. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety. Compliance teams need to track affected parts and ensure timely testing and reporting to meet regulatory requirements.
What To Do
Operators of ATR 42 and ATR 72 aeroplanes with affected LGSV parts must perform a leakage test before the valve exceeds 5,500 flight cycles or within six months after 20 March 2026, whichever is later. If leakage is detected, the affected part must be replaced before the next flight. Test results must be reported to ATR within 30 days of the test or the effective date, whichever is later. Installation of affected parts is only allowed if the part is serviceable.
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