EASA AD 2026-0144: Stabilizers – Rudder Outer Skin – Inspection

What to do

Operators must identify the rudder serial number within 15 days of the effective date and report it to Airbus. Detailed inspections must be completed before exceeding 2,000 flight cycles or 12 months from the aircraft reference date, or at the next rudder removal after the effective date. Any detected discrepancies require immediate corrective action before the next flight, and inspection results must be reported to Airbus within 30 days.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2026-0144 is an airworthiness directive addressing inspection requirements for the rudder outer skin on certain Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft models. It applies specifically to Airbus A320-251N, A320-252N, A321-252NX, and A320-271N aeroplanes with specified manufacturer serial numbers. The directive mandates inspections to detect dents caused by storage trolleys during production that could lead to structural damage and reduced control of the aircraft.

What changed

This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory visual and woodpecker inspections of affected rudder parts within specified compliance times. It requires operators to determine rudder serial numbers, report findings to Airbus, and perform corrective actions if discrepancies are found. The directive also allows replacement of affected parts only after inspection and any necessary corrective actions have been completed.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals to ensure the structural integrity and safe operation of affected Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent potential rudder damage that could compromise flight control. Compliance teams need to track inspection deadlines and reporting requirements to meet regulatory obligations and maintain continuing airworthiness.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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