EASA AD 25-098R1 — SAFRAN SEATS: Third Occupant Seat Bottom Equipped Screw — Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 25-098R1 is a proposed directive addressing the replacement of screws in the third occupant seats of the SAFRAN SEATS 168 Series, which are installed on Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 aircraft. The directive targets screws with part number 168000VI-82 that may become unscrewed, posing a safety risk. It mandates replacement with serviceable screws and re-identification of affected seats to ensure continued airworthiness.
What Changed
This revision of the directive introduces clarifications regarding part installation and mandates the use of the latest revision (Revision 3 dated 03 February 2026) of the Safran Seats Service Bulletin 168-25-009. It updates the compliance instructions following feedback received during the consultation period of the original proposal. No previous airworthiness directive is superseded by this document.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk where screws in third occupant seats may loosen, potentially causing injury during flight operations. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure affected seats are modified within the specified timeframe to maintain regulatory compliance and passenger safety. Failure to comply could lead to grounding of aircraft or safety incidents.
What To Do
Operators must replace affected screws with serviceable parts and re-identify the seats within 36 months of the directive's effective date, following the instructions in Safran Seats Service Bulletin 168-25-009 Revision 3. From the effective date, installation of affected screws on serviceable seats is prohibited. Compliance with the latest service bulletin revision is mandatory.