EASA SIB 2007-43: WITHDRAWN - SEE FAA AD 2012-06-25

What to do

Operators of Airbus A330 and A340 aircraft equipped with Goodrich evacuation systems should follow the inspection and replacement procedures outlined in FAA AD 2007-23-01 as an interim measure. They should monitor communications from Airbus and EASA for the upcoming modification and service bulletin expected in early 2008, which will likely be mandated by a future EASA AD. No explicit compliance deadline is stated in this notice.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Notice No. 2007-43 is an informational document regarding the FAA Airworthiness Directive 2007-23-01, which addresses issues with Goodrich Evacuation Systems installed on Airbus A330 and A340 series aircraft. The affected evacuation systems, qualified under TSO-C69b, have experienced pressure relief valve leakage that impacts raft mode functionality. This notice informs stakeholders that EASA has not adopted the FAA AD but considers it an interim solution.

What changed

The FAA AD 2007-23-01 requires inspection and replacement of plastic pressure relief valves with aluminum ones on Goodrich evacuation systems for Airbus A330 and A340 aircraft. EASA indicates that this modification is not a final fix and that Airbus plans to release a further modification and service bulletin by early 2008. Once approved, EASA expects to issue its own AD to supersede the FAA AD requirements.

Why it matters

This notice is important for operators and maintenance organizations as it highlights an ongoing airworthiness concern affecting evacuation system reliability on Airbus A330 and A340 aircraft. Compliance with the interim FAA AD helps mitigate risks associated with pressure relief valve leakage, which could compromise evacuation raft functionality during emergencies. Awareness of forthcoming EASA actions ensures preparedness for future mandatory modifications.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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