EASA AD US-2021-08-06
Landing Gear - Main Landing Gear A-Frame Assemblies - Inspection / Replacement
Summary
Airworthiness Directive 2021-08-06 is a final rule issued by the FAA addressing Textron Aviation Inc. Model 76 airplanes, serial numbers ME-1 through ME-437. It mandates magnetic particle inspections of the main landing gear (MLG) "A" frame assemblies for cracks and requires replacement of affected parts to prevent landing gear failure. This directive supersedes a previous AD related to the same assemblies and excludes airplanes equipped with newly designed MLG "A" frame assemblies P/N 105-810023-0083 (left) and P/N 105-810023-0084 (right).
What Changed
This AD supersedes AD 97-06-10 by replacing repetitive visual and dye penetrant inspections with more accurate and quicker magnetic particle inspections for detecting cracks in MLG "A" frame assemblies. It introduces new part numbers for replacement assemblies that are not subject to these repetitive inspections. The directive also updates cost estimates and clarifies inspection and replacement procedures.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to ensure the structural integrity of the main landing gear on affected Model 76 airplanes, preventing potential gear failure during landing or taxi operations. Operators and maintenance organizations must adopt the improved inspection method to detect fatigue cracks more reliably, thereby enhancing flight safety and compliance with FAA regulations.
What To Do
Operators of affected Textron Model 76 airplanes must perform repetitive magnetic particle inspections of the MLG "A" frame assemblies as specified in Beechcraft Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 32-4156. Any cracked assemblies must be replaced promptly. Compliance with this AD is mandatory by May 25, 2021, the effective date of the directive.
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