EASA AD 25-194
Fuel — Fuel Low Pressure Shut-Off Valve — Leak Check
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive Proposal PAD No. 25-194 addresses fuel low pressure shut-off valve leak checks on Airbus A330 and A340 aeroplanes. It applies to specific models including A330-243, A330-243F, A330-341, A330-342, A330-343, A330-743L, A330-841, A330-941, and A340-211 through A340-643 series. The directive targets certain fuel low pressure shut-off valve part numbers to prevent fuel leaks that could lead to fire hazards.
What Changed
This new proposed airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive leak checks of affected fuel low pressure shut-off valves on the specified Airbus A330 and A340 models. It requires operators to perform these checks within defined compliance times and intervals, and to replace any faulty valves before the next flight. The directive also allows installation of affected parts only if they pass a leak check prior to flight.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential fire risk due to fuel leaks from shut-off valves. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to prevent unsafe conditions that could lead to fire and structural damage. Adhering to these requirements helps maintain aircraft safety and regulatory compliance, reducing operational risks and potential downtime.
What To Do
Operators of affected Airbus A330 and A340 aircraft must perform initial and repetitive leak checks on specified fuel low pressure shut-off valves within 35 months after the AD effective date or within 13,000 flight hours, 6,500 flight cycles, or 144 months from the aircraft reference date, whichever occurs first. Any valve found leaking must be replaced before the next flight. Installation of affected parts is permitted only if they pass a leak check before flight.