Time Limits / Maintenance Checks — Airworthiness Limitations Section — Amendment
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of Piper PA-34-200 airplanes with serial numbers 34-7250001 through 34-7450220 must incorporate a 500-hour life limit for bolts P/N 693-215 and NAS6207-50D into their maintenance records within 90 days of the effective date. They must comply with this directive by May 31, 2022, and no alternative replacement times are allowed without FAA approval. Maintenance teams should reference the Piper Seneca Service Manual, Airworthiness Limitations, dated November 30, 2019, for detailed information.
Summary
The Federal Register document titled "Time Limits / Maintenance Checks — Airworthiness Limitations Section — Amendment" is a final rule airworthiness directive issued by the FAA for Piper Aircraft, Inc. Model PA-34-200 airplanes. It establishes a life limit for alternate bolts, part numbers 693-215 and NAS6207-50D, that attach the drag link to the nose gear trunnion. This directive addresses a previously unlisted life limit to ensure continued airworthiness and safety of the affected aircraft.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a mandatory 500-hour life limit for the alternate bolts attaching the drag link to the nose gear trunnion on Piper PA-34-200 airplanes. It requires operators to update maintenance records to reflect this life limit, correcting an omission in the airworthiness limitations section. No alternative replacement times are permitted unless specifically approved by the FAA.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it prevents potential failure of the nose landing gear due to bolt fatigue, which could lead to loss of airplane control during critical phases of flight such as takeoff, landing, or taxiing. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft safety and regulatory adherence. The update simplifies record-keeping by requiring a one-time maintenance record revision rather than repetitive inspections or part replacements.
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