EASA AD US-2018-24-02
Wings - Upper and Lower Reinforcing Straps on the Ailerons - Inspection / Replacement
Summary
The Federal Register Volume 83, Number 228, Final Rule titled "Wings - Upper and Lower Reinforcing Straps on the Ailerons - Inspection / Replacement" is an airworthiness directive issued by the FAA for certain Dassault Aviation Model MYSTERE-FALCON 50, MYSTERE-FALCON 900, and FALCON 900EX airplanes equipped with blended winglets. It mandates repetitive inspections and replacement of cracked reinforcing straps on the ailerons to ensure continued airworthiness.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive detailed inspections for cracks in the upper and lower reinforcing straps on the left-hand and right-hand ailerons of affected Dassault aircraft. If cracks are found, the directive requires replacement of the reinforcing straps with new parts. This AD also provides terminating action for repetitive inspections upon replacement.
Why It Matters
This directive addresses a critical safety issue involving potential fatigue cracking of aileron reinforcing straps, which could lead to loss of control of the airplane. Aviation professionals, including operators and maintenance organizations, must comply to prevent unsafe conditions and ensure regulatory compliance. It impacts maintenance planning, inspection schedules, and parts inventory management.
What To Do
Operators of affected Dassault MYSTERE-FALCON 50, MYSTERE-FALCON 900, and FALCON 900EX airplanes with blended winglets must perform detailed inspections of the aileron reinforcing straps within 8 months or 400 flight hours after January 2, 2019, whichever occurs first, and repeat inspections at the same intervals. If cracks are detected, the reinforcing straps must be replaced before further flight. Replacement of the straps terminates the need for further repetitive inspections on those parts.
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