EASA SIB 2015-15: Large Transport Aeroplanes — Fan Cowl Door Loss Prevention

What to do

Operators and owners should update their pre-take-off procedures to notify flight crews of any maintenance involving fan cowl doors before flight. Design approval holders are recommended to revise maintenance manuals to require logbook entries each time fan cowl doors are opened or closed. These measures aim to increase awareness and prevent door loss, although no mandatory compliance deadline is specified.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin No. 2015-15 is a safety information bulletin addressing fan cowl door loss prevention on large transport aeroplanes powered by turbojet or turbofan engines. It highlights incidents primarily involving Airbus A320 family aircraft with CFM56 or V2500 engines, as well as similar events on Boeing, Bombardier, Embraer, and Sukhoi aeroplanes. The bulletin focuses on the risk of fan cowl doors becoming unsecured and lost during take-off due to improper latching or unlocking.

What changed

This bulletin introduces recommendations to improve the detection and prevention of fan cowl door loss by emphasizing the importance of proper latching and securing procedures. It encourages operators to amend pre-take-off procedures to ensure flight crews are informed of any maintenance involving fan cowl doors. Airbus is also developing a design modification for the A320 family to better identify improperly closed fan cowl doors, which will be addressed in a future Airworthiness Directive.

Why it matters

Fan cowl door loss during take-off poses safety risks and potential damage to aircraft and airport infrastructure. For operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams, ensuring proper door security is critical to prevent such events and maintain airworthiness. Improved procedures and potential future design changes will enhance safety and reduce the likelihood of undetected unsecured fan cowl doors.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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