Wing Spar - Main Wing Spar - Inspection
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected Piper models must inspect the left and right main wing spars for corrosion within 100 hours time-in-service or 12 months after December 28, 2020, whichever occurs first, and repeat inspections every 7 years. If corrosion is found, repairs must be performed using FAA-approved methods. Access to the inspection area can be achieved by various means including existing or newly installed access panels or borescope inspections.
Summary
Federal Register Volume 85, Number 226 (November 23, 2020) - Airworthiness Directive 2020-24-05 issued by the FAA addresses certain Piper Aircraft, Inc. models PA-28-140, PA-28-150, PA-28-160, PA-28-180, PA-28-235, PA-32-260, and PA-32-300 airplanes. This directive mandates inspection of the left and right main wing spars for corrosion in areas that are not easily accessible. It aims to ensure the structural integrity of the main wing spars to prevent potential failure and loss of airplane control.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory inspections of the main wing spars for corrosion within 100 hours time-in-service or 12 months after the effective date, and recurring inspections every 7 years thereafter. It allows multiple methods to access the inspection area, including use of existing access panels, installation of new panels, concurrent inspections, or borescope inspections, rather than requiring installation of access panels as initially proposed. The directive also clarifies repair requirements if corrosion exceeds allowable limits.
Why it matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals as corrosion in the main wing spar can lead to structural failure and loss of control of the aircraft. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure timely inspections and corrective actions to maintain airworthiness and safety. Compliance with this directive helps prevent unexpected structural failures and supports regulatory adherence.
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