Federal Register #FAA20267201

FAA Proposed Airworthiness Directives for Airbus SAS A330 and AHD EC135 Aircraft

This opportunity involves proposed airworthiness directives (ADs) issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for Airbus SAS A330 series airplanes and Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) EC135 series helicopters. - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation - OEMs Mentioned: - Airbus SAS (A330 series airplanes) - Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) (EC135 series helicopters) - Products/Services Requested: - For Airbus SAS A330-243, A330-243F, A330-341, A330-342, and A330-343 airplanes: - Modification and repetitive special detailed inspections (SDIs) of nacelle inlet cowls and affected parts to address cracked and broken restraint brackets of the anti-ice piccolo tube - Prohibition of specific repairs (e.g., FRSZ026) and installation limitations for affected parts - Compliance with EASA AD 2025-0164 - For AHD EC135 series helicopters: - Repetitive inspections and removal/replacement of tail rotor blade assemblies (Part Numbers: L642A2002111, L642A2002112, L642A2002121) due to risk of intergranular corrosion - Compliance with EASA AD 2026-0031 - Unique or Notable Requirements: - Mandatory compliance with referenced EASA airworthiness directives - Prohibition on certain repairs and installation of affected parts unless modified - Focus on safety-critical inspections and modifications for both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft - No specific quantities provided; requirements apply to all affected aircraft and parts

Description

The FAA proposes a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus SAS Model A330-243, A330-243F, A330-341, A330-342, and A330-343 airplanes. This AD addresses reports of cracked and broken restraint brackets of the anti-ice piccolo tube found during maintenance on certain nacelle inlet cowls. The directive requires modification of affected parts and repetitive special detailed inspections for discrepancies, with prohibitions on certain repairs and installation limitations. The goal is to prevent thermal anti-ice feed pipe disengagement, which could lead to ice build-up, engine damage, and reduced airplane control.

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