EASA AD US-2022-11-10
Wing Splice Assembly Life Limit - Amendment
Summary
The Wing Splice Assembly Life Limit - Amendment is a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airworthiness Directive (AD 2022-11-10) addressing certain Piper Aircraft, Inc. Model PA-46-600TP airplanes. It mandates a reduction in the life limit of the wing splice assembly part number 46W57A100-001 due to testing that revealed potential premature failure. This directive aims to enhance safety by preventing wing splice assembly failures that could lead to loss of airplane control.
What Changed
This AD reduces the life limit of the wing splice assembly from 5,132 hours time-in-service to 3,767 hours time-in-service. It requires operators to revise the Airworthiness Limitations section of the existing maintenance manual or instructions for continued airworthiness to reflect this new life limit. The applicability was updated to include specific serial numbers based on actual delivery of the revised life limits.
Why It Matters
This amendment is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses an unsafe condition that could cause wing splice assembly failure and potential loss of airplane control. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must update maintenance documentation to ensure continued airworthiness and regulatory compliance. Failure to comply could compromise flight safety and regulatory standing.
What To Do
Affected operators must revise the Airworthiness Limitations section in their maintenance manuals or instructions for continued airworthiness to reduce the wing splice assembly life limit to 3,767 hours time-in-service. This revision must be completed within 90 days after the AD's effective date of June 27, 2022. Operators can comply by updating electronic documentation or other methods that ensure the new life limit is incorporated.
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