Stabilizers - Horizontal Stabilator Tip Tube and Weight Assemblies - Inspection
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
- Replaces
- 78-02-03
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Affected operators must perform the required inspections and modifications within 50 hours time-in-service after January 25, 2022, or as specified in the directive. They must inspect for cracks, missing rivets, and screws, replace forward rib/horn assemblies as needed, and reinforce mountings following the updated Piper service bulletins. Any repairs must be approved by the FAA before implementation.
Summary
Airworthiness Directive 2021-25-11 is a final rule issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) addressing Piper Aircraft, Inc. Model PA-23-250 airplanes. It mandates inspections and modifications of the horizontal stabilator tip tube and weight assemblies to detect and correct cracks and prevent structural weakening. This directive applies to specific serial-numbered Piper PA-23-250 airplanes and updates previous inspection requirements.
What changed
This AD supersedes AD 78-02-03 by reducing the applicability to exclude airplanes manufactured with a newly-designed stabilator starting with serial number 27-7954122. It retains the original inspection and modification requirements but updates the service information references and requires compliance with revised service bulletins. Additionally, it changes repair instructions by requiring FAA approval rather than contacting Piper directly.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of the stabilator on affected Piper PA-23-250 airplanes, preventing potential loss of control due to cracks or missing components. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must adhere to these updated inspections and modifications to ensure continued airworthiness and regulatory compliance. Failure to comply could result in unsafe flight conditions and regulatory penalties.
Get the next one by email
New ADs and bulletins for Piper Aircraft PA-23 (Aztec) and PA-23-250, summarized like this page, every Monday.