EASA SIB 2013-03
Seat Track Monument Fittings Replacement
Summary
EASA Safety Information Bulletin SIB No: 2013-03 titled 'Seat Track Monument Fittings Replacement' addresses concerns related to seat track lower attachment fittings Part Number ABS1262C010 installed on Airbus A318, A319, A320, A321, A330-243, and A330-343 aircraft. The bulletin informs operators about engineering static load test failures indicating these fittings may not meet required load specifications. It highlights that while Airbus-installed fittings comply with certification requirements, fittings installed via Supplemental Type Certificate modifications may pose a safety risk.
What Changed
This bulletin introduces information regarding the degraded material quality of certain seat track monument fittings P/N ABS1262C010 and recommends their replacement with the improved P/N ABS1262F010 fittings. It references related Airbus and Bucher Leichtbau AG service bulletins for replacement procedures but does not mandate regulatory action. The bulletin serves as an advisory to raise awareness and encourage proactive replacement.
Why It Matters
This information is critical for aviation professionals because the affected fittings may not withstand emergency landing load conditions, potentially compromising cabin safety. Operators and maintenance organizations must be aware of the risk especially when fittings are installed through STC modifications. Addressing this issue helps maintain airworthiness standards and prevents possible safety incidents related to seat track monument failures.
What To Do
Operators of affected Airbus A318, A319, A320, A321, A330-243, and A330-343 aircraft should replace seat track monument fittings P/N ABS1262C010 with the latest standard P/N ABS1262F010 fittings following Airbus Service Bulletins A320-25-1766 or A330-25-3463 as applicable. For fittings installed by STC, operators should contact the STC approval holder for approved replacement instructions. No mandatory compliance deadline is specified, but timely replacement is recommended.