EASA AD BR-2024-10-02
Landing Gear - Nose and Main Landing Gear Down Lock Spring Assemblies - Inspection
Summary
The Brazilian Emergency Airworthiness Directive EAD No. 2024-10-02 mandates inspection and potential replacement of nose and main landing gear down lock spring assemblies on EMBRAER EMB-545 and EMB-550 aircraft. This directive targets specific affected parts identified by part numbers and serial identifications to address corrosion and damage risks. It requires compliance to ensure the proper locking and holding of landing gear during critical flight phases.
What Changed
EAD No. 2024-10-02 introduces a new mandatory inspection and replacement requirement for down lock spring assemblies on EMBRAER EMB-545 and EMB-550 models. It prohibits installation of affected parts after the effective date and establishes specific inspection intervals and replacement timelines. This directive is issued as an immediate corrective action due to identified safety risks.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because failure of the down lock springs can lead to unannounced loss of landing gear locking capability, risking collapse during takeoff or landing. Operators and maintenance teams must act promptly to prevent potential accidents and ensure continued airworthiness. Compliance ensures safety and regulatory adherence for affected EMBRAER aircraft.
What To Do
Operators must perform a general visual inspection of the nose and main landing gear down lock springs within 10 flight cycles or 10 days from October 21, 2024, whichever occurs first. Affected springs must be replaced before the next flight or within 100 flight cycles or 4 months, depending on the condition found. Installation of affected parts is prohibited after the effective date, and compliance must be recorded in maintenance logs.