EASA AD US-2020-18-01
Fuselage - Forward Cabin Doorposts at the Strut Attach Fitting - Repetitive Inspections
Summary
Fuselage - Forward Cabin Doorposts at the Strut Attach Fitting - Repetitive Inspections is a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airworthiness Directive (AD 2020-18-01) that applies to multiple Textron Aviation Inc. airplane models including various Cessna 172, 182, 206, 207, and 210 series aircraft. This AD mandates repetitive inspections of the lower area of the forward cabin doorposts at the strut attach fitting to detect cracks and requires repairs if cracks are found. The directive addresses a critical structural safety concern related to potential wing strut attach point failure.
What Changed
This AD introduces a new requirement for repetitive inspections of the forward cabin doorposts at the strut attach fitting on specified Textron aircraft models. It updates inspection intervals to 36 calendar months or 1,000 flight hours, whichever occurs first, and adds a reporting requirement to collect inspection results. The AD also clarifies inspection procedures for airplanes with previously installed service kits and corrects contact information for obtaining service information.
Why It Matters
This AD is crucial for aviation professionals because it addresses a structural cracking issue that could lead to wing failure and loss of airplane control if not detected and repaired. Operators and maintenance organizations must implement these inspections to ensure continued airworthiness and safety. Compliance with this AD helps prevent potentially catastrophic failures and supports regulatory adherence for affected Textron aircraft fleets.
What To Do
Affected operators must perform repetitive inspections of the lower forward cabin doorposts at the strut attach fitting for cracks every 36 months or 1,000 flight hours, whichever occurs first, starting November 12, 2020. Any cracks found must be repaired using the applicable Cessna service kits. Operators are also required to report inspection results as specified in the AD to the FAA.
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