EASA AD 26-028 — Air Conditioning — Air Conditioning Pack — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 26-028 is a proposed directive addressing the inspection of the air conditioning pack exhaust plenum on Dassault Aviation Falcon 7X aeroplanes, including those modified to Falcon 8X standard. The directive targets specific exhaust plenum parts with Part Numbers 6112C020 and 6146C770 due to reported damage. It mandates inspections to ensure the structural integrity of the affected components.
What Changed
This new proposed airworthiness directive introduces a one-time inspection requirement for the exhaust plenum within the Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECS) pack assembly on Falcon 7X aeroplanes. It specifies inspection procedures, flow analysis thresholds, and corrective actions including structural inspections, repairs, or part replacements. The directive also sets conditions for reinstallation of ECS pack assemblies equipped with affected parts.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential safety risk that could compromise the structural integrity of Falcon 7X aircraft. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to detect and correct damage to the exhaust plenum, preventing possible in-flight failures. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and regulatory adherence, reducing operational risks and potential grounding of aircraft.
What To Do
Operators of Falcon 7X aeroplanes must perform an ECS pack assembly flow analysis within 13 months or 850 flight hours after the directive's effective date. If flow rates exceed specified limits, a detailed inspection of the exhaust plenum is required before the next flight. Any damage found necessitates immediate structural inspection, reporting to Dassault, and following repair instructions. Replacement of non-serviceable exhaust plenums with approved parts is mandatory before further flight. Additionally, any ECS pack assembly with affected parts must pass inspection before installation.