EASA AD 26-027 — Fuel — Quantity Indicating Placard — Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 26-027 is a proposed directive addressing fuel quantity indicating placard modifications for Vulcanair P.68 "Victor" and P.68B "Victor" aeroplanes, serial numbers 1 to 182 inclusive. It targets specific fuel level indicators and placards to ensure accurate fuel quantity readings and warnings. The directive applies to aircraft with certain fuel tank configurations and requires updates to the Aircraft Flight Manual.
What Changed
This new directive introduces mandatory modifications or calibrations of affected fuel level indicators and installation of new minimum fuel quantity and maneuvering warning placards as specified in Vulcanair Service Bulletin 265. It also requires updating the Aircraft Flight Manual to reflect these changes. The directive categorizes affected aircraft into three groups based on fuel tank configuration and previous modifications, prescribing specific actions for each group.
Why It Matters
The directive addresses a safety issue where uncommanded in-flight engine shutdowns occurred due to probable fuel starvation despite fuel quantity being above unusable levels. Compliance ensures operators prevent engine power loss or shutdown caused by inaccurate fuel quantity indications, thereby maintaining safe flight operations. Maintenance and compliance teams must implement these changes promptly to avoid operational risks and regulatory non-compliance.
What To Do
Operators of Vulcanair P.68 and P.68B "Victor" aeroplanes must modify or calibrate affected fuel level indicators within 2 months of the directive's effective date, following Vulcanair Service Bulletin 265 instructions. They must also install new fuel quantity and warning placards and update the Aircraft Flight Manual accordingly before the next flight after modification or calibration. Group 3 aircraft owners should contact Vulcanair for approved instructions and comply within the same timeframe.