EASA AD US-2019-09-01
Ice and Rain Protection - Pitot Anti-Icing System - Replacement / Test
Summary
Airworthiness Directive 2019-09-01 is a final rule issued by the Federal Aviation Administration addressing certain Boeing 737-100, -200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500 series airplanes. It mandates replacement and testing of the pitot anti-icing system components to prevent misleading air data caused by the pitot heat switch not always being set to ON. The directive also requires installation of a junction box and wiring provisions to enhance system reliability.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces requirements for replacing pitot anti-icing system components, installing a new junction box and wiring provisions, and performing repetitive testing of the anti-icing system. It also includes on-condition actions if issues are found during testing. The directive clarifies that installation of Supplemental Type Certificate ST01219SE does not affect compliance.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because misleading air data from an unheated pitot system can compromise crew situational awareness and jeopardize safe flight and landing. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to maintain airworthiness and avoid potential safety hazards. The directive also impacts maintenance planning due to the significant labor hours and parts required for the modification.
What To Do
Affected operators must replace the pitot anti-icing system components, install the junction box and wiring provisions, and conduct repetitive testing as specified in the directive. Compliance must be achieved by June 26, 2019, with ongoing repetitive inspections thereafter. Operators should coordinate parts procurement and maintenance scheduling to meet the compliance deadline and maintain continued airworthiness.
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