EASA SIB 2017-05
Airbus A330 and A340 Aeroplanes - Main Wheel Hub — Improved Maintenance Instructions
Summary
EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2017-05 is an airworthiness bulletin addressing maintenance instructions for the main wheel hub on Airbus A330 and A340 aeroplanes equipped with Goodrich-Messier main wheels, Part Number 3-1546. The bulletin highlights occurrences of main wheel tie bolt failures leading to wheel hub cracks and associated damage. It provides updated maintenance guidance to improve safety and reliability.
What Changed
This bulletin introduces improved maintenance instructions developed by Goodrich-Messier for the main wheel hub tie bolts, as detailed in Airbus Operators Information Transmission 999.0015/17. These instructions clarify and align maintenance practices with manufacturer standards to prevent tie bolt failures. No Airworthiness Directive action is mandated at this time.
Why It Matters
The bulletin is important for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety concern involving main wheel hub integrity that can affect aircraft landing gear, brakes, and tires. Proper maintenance following the updated instructions helps prevent costly damage and potential safety risks. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure their procedures are consistent with the improved guidance to maintain airworthiness.
What To Do
Owners and operators of Airbus A330 and A340 aeroplanes fitted with Goodrich-Messier main wheels should review and apply the maintenance instructions specified in Airbus OIT 999.0015/17 whenever performing maintenance on wheel tie bolts. There is no mandatory compliance deadline, but adherence is strongly recommended to mitigate risk. For further technical information, contact Airbus or EASA as provided.