EASA AD 26-092
Power Plant – Air Intake Cowl – Nacelle Anti-ice Duct Female Socket – Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive PAD No. 26-092 is a proposed directive addressing inspection requirements for the air intake cowl nacelle anti-ice duct female socket on Airbus A380-861 aeroplanes equipped with SAFRAN engine nacelles. It targets potential structural failures caused by excessive wear in the female socket of the anti-ice duct. The directive applies to all manufacturer serial numbers of the Airbus A380 and references specific Airbus and SAFRAN service bulletins for inspection procedures.
What Changed
This new proposed airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive inspections of the affected nacelle anti-ice system components, categorized into three groups based on flight hours and cycles. It requires general visual inspections followed by detailed inspections and corrective actions if discrepancies are found. The directive also mandates reporting inspection results to Airbus and allows for postponement of inspections after certain repairs.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk involving potential structural failure of engine nacelle components, which could lead to in-flight damage and secondary airframe damage. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to ensure continued airworthiness and prevent incidents. Compliance with these inspections helps maintain aircraft safety and regulatory conformity.
What To Do
Operators of Airbus A380-861 aeroplanes must perform initial inspections within specified flight hour or cycle thresholds depending on the part group, followed by repetitive inspections every 5,000 flight hours or 800 flight cycles. If damage is found, corrective actions must be taken before the next flight, including contacting SAFRAN Nacelles for instructions. Inspection results must be reported to Airbus within 30 days of inspection or the directive's effective date, whichever is later.
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