EASA AD US-2021-20-19
Fuel - Fuel Tank Ignition Prevention and Nitrogen Generation System Airworthiness Limitations - Maintenance or Inspection Program Revision
Summary
Fuel - Fuel Tank Ignition Prevention and Nitrogen Generation System Airworthiness Limitations - Maintenance or Inspection Program Revision is a final rule airworthiness directive issued by the FAA that applies to certain Boeing 767-200, -300, -300F, and -400ER series airplanes. It mandates revisions to the maintenance or inspection programs to incorporate updated airworthiness limitations related to fuel tank ignition prevention and the nitrogen generation system. The directive aims to mitigate the risk of fuel tank explosions caused by ignition sources within fuel tanks.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive requires operators to revise their existing maintenance or inspection programs to include the latest revisions of airworthiness limitations concerning fuel tank ignition prevention and nitrogen generation systems. It introduces updated compliance times and clarifies applicability for affected Boeing 767 models. The directive also addresses wire types and sleeving qualifications and provides specific compliance timelines based on prior maintenance program inclusions.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses potential ignition sources inside fuel tanks that could lead to catastrophic fuel tank explosions. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure their maintenance programs reflect these updated limitations to maintain airworthiness and safety. Compliance with these requirements helps prevent latent failures and ensures regulatory adherence, reducing operational risks and enhancing fleet safety.
What To Do
Affected operators must revise their maintenance or inspection programs to incorporate the latest airworthiness limitations by November 30, 2021. They should review the updated compliance times, especially for initial inspections, and ensure all tasks are performed within the specified intervals. Operators with airplanes in long-term storage should note that compliance times are not extended beyond the directive's requirements unless approved by the FAA through alternative methods of compliance.
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