EASA AD 26-093
Electrical Systems Installation – Battery Retaining Rods – Identification / Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive PAD No. 26-093 is a proposed directive addressing battery retaining rods on Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 aeroplanes. It focuses on identifying and replacing affected battery retaining rods with part number D9241023700000 that may have quality defects leading to potential battery displacement and electrical system failures. The directive applies to all manufacturer serial numbers of the specified Airbus models, including the A321-251NX and A321-271NX variants.
What Changed
This proposed directive supersedes EASA AD 2026-0130 and updates the applicability to include additional Airbus A321 models. It clarifies the definitions of affected parts and Group 1 aeroplanes, extends compliance times for certain inspections and replacements, and introduces relabelling instructions for battery retaining rods. The directive retains previous inspection and replacement requirements while providing updated guidance based on manufacturer identification and operator feedback.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk involving battery retaining rod failures that could lead to battery detachment and electrical system loss. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to prevent potential in-flight electrical failures and associated hazards. The directive provides clear inspection, replacement, and labeling procedures to maintain aircraft airworthiness and operational safety.
What To Do
Operators of affected Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 aeroplanes must perform repetitive general visual inspections of battery retaining rods within four months of the previous AD's effective date and after any hard landing or severe turbulence. Detailed inspections to identify manufacturer markings must be completed within 24 months, followed by replacement or relabelling of affected parts within the same timeframe. Compliance with Airbus service bulletins and operators information transmissions is required, and all actions must be documented accordingly.
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