EASA SIB CE-19-09: Mitsubishi MU-2B aeroplanes - Wing Spacer Plates Inspection

What to do

Owners and operators should perform fluorescent penetrant inspections of the wing spacer plates following the procedures in MU-2 Service Bulletin No. 245 or No. 107/57-005. If cracks are found during inspections or maintenance access, the wing spacer plates should be replaced according to the service bulletin instructions. There is no mandatory compliance deadline stated, but timely action is recommended to ensure safety.

Summary

The Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin SAIB: CE-19-09 is an FAA informational bulletin addressing wing spacer plate inspections for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. Models MU-2B series airplanes, including MU-2B, MU-2B-10, MU-2B-15, MU-2B-20, MU-2B-25, MU-2B-26, MU-2B-26A, MU-2B-30, MU-2B-35, MU-2B-36, MU-2B-36A, MU-2B-40, and MU-2B-60. It informs owners and operators about procedures to detect and correct cracks in wing spacer plates to maintain wing structural integrity.

What changed

This bulletin introduces recommendations for fluorescent penetrant inspections of wing spacer plates as detailed in Mitsubishi MU-2 Service Bulletins No. 245 and No. 107/57-005. It highlights findings of fatigue cracks in wing spacer plates and advises replacement with improved parts if cracks are detected. The bulletin does not mandate regulatory action but provides guidance to address the identified airworthiness concern.

Why it matters

This information is important for aviation professionals because undetected cracks in wing spacer plates can reduce the structural integrity of the wings, potentially compromising flight safety. Operators and maintenance organizations need to be aware of inspection and replacement procedures to prevent fatigue-related failures. Compliance with these recommendations helps maintain aircraft airworthiness and supports proactive maintenance planning.