EASA SIB 2011-25
Repair and/or Fabric Recovering of Rudder and Elevator
Summary
EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2011-25 addresses the repair and fabric recovering of rudders and elevators on RUAG Aerospace Dornier 228 series aeroplanes. It highlights incidents where fabric skin detached due to improper attachment not following the Structural Repair Manual and Aircraft Maintenance Manual procedures. The bulletin provides guidance to ensure repairs and fabric recoveries are performed correctly to maintain airworthiness.
What Changed
This new safety information bulletin introduces awareness of potential hazards arising from incorrect fabric repairs or recoveries on rudders and elevators of Dornier 228 aircraft. It emphasizes adherence to the approved repair procedures as per the Structural Repair Manual and Aircraft Maintenance Manual, but does not mandate regulatory action or an Airworthiness Directive.
Why It Matters
The bulletin is important for aviation professionals because improper fabric repairs on critical flight control surfaces like rudders and elevators can lead to in-flight detachment and safety risks. Operators, maintenance organizations, and repair facilities must ensure compliance with approved repair instructions to avoid potentially hazardous situations and maintain aircraft airworthiness.
What To Do
Owners and operators of Dornier 228 aeroplanes should verify whether any rudders or elevators were repaired or recovered by RUAG Aerospace, Fairchild Dornier, or Dornier, and confirm that these repairs followed the Structural Repair Manual procedures. If any non-conforming repairs are found on installed or spare parts, they should contact RUAG Customer Support for approved instructions to restore conformity. No mandatory compliance deadline is specified.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.