EASA AD BR-2026-07-03: Structures - Wing Tips Cracks - Inspection

What to do

Operators must perform a detailed inspection of the wing spar and adjacent skin as outlined in Embraer Service Bulletin 170-57-0081 Revision 01 within 750 flight hours or before reaching 15,750 total flight hours, whichever is later. Inspections must be repeated every 750 flight hours thereafter. If any damage is found, repairs must be approved by ANAC and Embraer before further flight. Compliance must be recorded in the maintenance logbook.

Summary

Brazilian Airworthiness Directive AD No. 2026-07-03 is a regulatory document issued by the Agência Nacional de Aviação Civil (ANAC) that applies to all Embraer S.A. ERJ 170-200 aircraft equipped with specific left-hand and right-hand wingtip components. The directive mandates inspections for cracks in the wing spar and adjacent skin areas to ensure structural integrity and flight safety.

What changed

This new Airworthiness Directive introduces mandatory detailed inspections of wing spar 1 and adjacent wing skin between ribs 22 and 23 on both left-hand and right-hand wings of affected Embraer ERJ 170-200 aircraft. It specifies affected part numbers and requires repetitive inspections every 750 flight hours, along with procedures for repair approvals and alternative compliance methods.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals because undetected cracks in the wing structure can lead to partial structural failure, posing significant safety risks. Operators and maintenance organizations must implement these inspections to maintain airworthiness and comply with regulatory requirements, preventing potential in-service failures and ensuring continued safe operation of the aircraft.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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