Superseded by FAA AD 2024-26-02
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators must inspect each affected Pacific Scientific Company buckle for cracks within six months and measure the buckle handle vane thickness within twelve months from the effective date. Any buckle found cracked or failing thickness criteria must be removed from service and replaced with an airworthy part. Installation of affected buckles is prohibited from the effective date of May 11, 2021.
Summary
FAA Airworthiness Directive 2021-07-13 is a final rule addressing Pacific Scientific Company rotary buckle assemblies, specifically part numbers 1111430 and 1111475, used in seat restraint systems on various airplanes and helicopters. The directive requires inspections for cracks and thickness measurements of the buckle handle vane and mandates removal and replacement of any defective buckles. It also prohibits installation of affected buckles to ensure airworthiness and safety.
What changed
This directive introduces mandatory inspections of specific Pacific Scientific Company rotary buckles for cracks and handle vane thickness, with replacement required if defects are found. It extends applicability beyond rotorcraft to include airplanes and updates compliance times compared to the related EASA AD. The directive also updates contact information and clarifies applicability without relying on date of manufacture.
Why it matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals because cracked buckle handles can prevent proper release of seat restraints, posing a safety risk especially in emergency situations such as aircraft inversion. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure affected buckles are inspected and replaced promptly to maintain compliance and passenger safety. The directive also clarifies inspection intervals and prohibits installation of unsafe buckles, impacting maintenance and parts management.
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