EASA AD DCA-750XL-18B
Fin Forward Pickup — Inspection
Summary
The Airworthiness Directive DCA/750XL/18B Fin Forward Pickup – Inspection issued by the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand mandates inspection and maintenance actions for Pacific Aerospace 750XL aircraft, serial numbers up to 193, 195, and 197. It addresses potential fatigue cracks in the fin forward pickup component to ensure continued airworthiness and safety. The directive references Pacific Aerospace Limited Mandatory Service Bulletin PACSB/XL/068 issue 6 dated 8 January 2018 for detailed procedures.
What Changed
Airworthiness Directive DCA/750XL/18B supersedes DCA/750XL/18A by introducing the updated Pacific Aerospace Limited Mandatory Service Bulletin PACSB/XL/068 issue 6. The changes are limited to minor editorial revisions and the addition of alternate part number hi-lok fasteners due to limited availability of the original fasteners, with no changes to applicability or requirements.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent failure of the fin forward pickup due to fatigue cracks, which could compromise aircraft safety. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and avoids potential in-flight failures. It also provides clear inspection intervals and replacement procedures, aiding maintenance planning and regulatory compliance.
What To Do
Operators must perform the required inspections and maintenance actions as detailed in PACSB/XL/068 issue 6, including reducing bolt torque, applying thread locking compound if the fin has been removed, conducting visual and dye penetrant inspections, and replacing the fin forward pickup if cracks are found. Compliance deadlines vary by aircraft category, with initial inspections required at the next 150-hour maintenance or specified flight hours, followed by recurring inspections at defined intervals. Replacement of the fin forward pickup is terminating action to the directive.
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