EASA SIB 2026-02
SZD-9 bis 1E - Notification of unapproved parts installed
Summary
EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2026-02 is a notification concerning the installation of unapproved rubber cord parts in the Main Landing Gear shock absorber assembly of Zakład Szybowcowy “Jeżów” SZD-9 bis 1E “Bocian” sailplanes. The bulletin informs that the Type Certificate Holder installed an unapproved shock ring due to the unavailability of the approved part. This information applies to all serial numbers of the SZD-9 bis 1E sailplanes.
What Changed
This new bulletin informs stakeholders that an unapproved rubber cord part was installed in the main landing gear shock absorber assembly of SZD-9 bis 1E sailplanes since at least 2019. It also notes that a previously issued service instruction endorsing the unapproved part was withdrawn following regulatory authority feedback. No Airworthiness Directive action is currently mandated.
Why It Matters
This bulletin matters because operators and maintenance organizations need to be aware that some SZD-9 bis 1E sailplanes may have unapproved parts installed or shock absorbers exceeding the recommended replacement interval. Identifying and managing these parts is important to maintain compliance with airworthiness standards and ensure continued safe operation of the sailplanes.
What To Do
EASA recommends that owners, operators, and maintenance organizations inspect the main landing gear shock absorbers on SZD-9 bis 1E sailplanes to verify if approved parts are installed. If unapproved parts are found, they should be quarantined to prevent reinstallation. There is no mandatory compliance deadline stated in the bulletin.
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