Superseded by FAA AD 2024-16-06
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of Air Tractor Model AT-802 and AT-802A airplanes with Wipaire STC SA01795CH must perform repetitive inspections of the forward horizontal stabilizer spars within 3 to 15 days depending on configuration. Any cracked spar must be replaced immediately. Inspection results must be reported to the FAA. Comments on the directive are accepted until September 25, 2023.
Summary
FAA Airworthiness Directive 2023-15-07 is a final rule affecting all Air Tractor, Inc. Model AT-802 and AT-802A airplanes equipped with Wipaire Supplemental Type Certificate No. SA01795CH. The directive addresses cracks found in the forward horizontal stabilizer spars where the vertical finlets attach to the horizontal tail. It mandates repetitive inspections and replacement of any cracked spars to ensure continued airworthiness.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive inspections of both left and right forward horizontal stabilizer spars on affected Air Tractor airplanes. It requires replacement of any spar found cracked and reporting of inspection results to the FAA. The directive is an interim action pending a future modification to the STC configuration.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because cracks in the forward horizontal stabilizer spars can lead to structural failure of the horizontal tail and loss of airplane control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply promptly to mitigate safety risks, especially since affected airplanes are often used in high-stress firefighting missions. Compliance ensures regulatory adherence and enhances flight safety.
More for Air Tractor AT-600
All 7- EASA AD US-2026-16-12Stabilizer - Horizontal Stabilizer Spar - Inspection/ReplacementAug 17, 2026
- EASA AD US-2024-16-06Stabilizers - Horizontal Stabilizer Spar - Inspection / InstallationAug 21, 2024
- EASA SIB SAIB-2024-03Rudder Control SystemApr 29, 2024
- EASA AD US-2021-05-14Flight Controls - Trailing Edge Flap Control System - Inspection / ReplacementMar 29, 2021
- EASA SIB CE-16-07Engine Mount InspectionNov 25, 2015
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