EASA AD US-2019-06-13
Flight Controls - Aileron and Elevator Power Control Units - Inspections
Summary
Federal Register Volume 84, Number 82, Final Rule titled 'Flight Controls - Aileron and Elevator Power Control Units - Inspections' is an airworthiness directive issued by the FAA affecting all Boeing 787 series airplanes. It addresses hydraulic leakage issues caused by lightning strike damage to aileron and elevator actuators. The directive mandates inspections and records checks of the power control units (PCUs) and requires corrective actions if necessary.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory inspections and records reviews for specific parts of the aileron and elevator PCUs on Boeing 787 airplanes. It incorporates Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB270037-00, Issue 003, dated December 3, 2018, clarifying inspection instructions and part applicability. The directive also extends reporting deadlines from 30 to 60 days and allows use of borescope inspections to identify PCU part numbers.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk involving hydraulic leakage that could lead to loss of control surface stiffness and oscillations, potentially reducing airplane controllability. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure timely inspections and reporting to prevent unsafe conditions. The directive also clarifies compliance procedures, helping streamline maintenance and regulatory adherence.
What To Do
Operators of Boeing 787 series airplanes must perform a records check or inspection of the aileron and elevator PCUs as specified in the referenced Boeing Alert Service Bulletin by June 3, 2019. Any discrepancies found must be reported within 60 days. Maintenance teams should use approved inspection methods, including borescope inspections where necessary, and carry out any required corrective actions promptly to maintain airworthiness.
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