Power Plant - Cylinder Assembly or Intake Valve - Inspection / Replacement
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected Continental engines must inspect for the presence of the specified Superior Air Parts intake valves and replace any affected valves within 30 days from February 17, 2023. Maintenance personnel should follow the procedures outlined in SAP Mandatory Service Bulletin MSB22-01 A. Comments on the directive can be submitted to the FAA by March 20, 2023.
Summary
Federal Aviation Administration Airworthiness Directive 2023-02-12 is a final rule addressing certain Continental Aerospace Technologies, Inc. reciprocating engines equipped with specific Superior Air Parts, Inc. cylinder assemblies or intake valves. The affected engines include models such as GTSIO-520, IO-470, IO-520, IO-550, and others. This directive mandates inspection and replacement of intake valves that were found to be out of specification and prone to failure.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive requires removal and replacement of affected intake valves installed on certain Continental engines within 30 days of the effective date. It introduces mandatory compliance to address intake valve failures that have caused engine damage, emergency landings, and aborted takeoffs. The directive also incorporates Superior Air Parts Mandatory Service Bulletin MSB22-01 A by reference.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk that could lead to engine failure and potential loss of aircraft. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure timely compliance to prevent in-flight shutdowns caused by defective intake valves. Compliance teams need to track affected engine serials and part numbers to maintain airworthiness and regulatory compliance.
Get the next one by email
New ADs and bulletins for these 14 aircraft types, summarized like this page, every Monday.