Federal Register #2026-15410

FAA Airworthiness Directives for Airbus A330-841/A330-941 and Stemme S 12 Aircraft

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is mandating new airworthiness directives (ADs) for specific Airbus and Stemme aircraft models to address safety concerns. - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) - OEMs Involved: - Airbus SAS (A330-841 and A330-941 airplanes) - Stemme GmbH (Stemme S 12 gliders) - Products/Services Requested: - For Airbus SAS A330-841 and A330-941: - Repetitive inspections of the external surface of each sloping rib and each slat 1 inboard seal for cracks, dents, and corrosion - Corrective actions including repair and seal replacement as needed - Compliance with EASA AD 20250179 - Estimated 37 aircraft affected - For Stemme GmbH S 12 gliders: - Repetitive visual checks of the fuel system for leaks around copper sealing rings - Replacement of affected copper sealing rings - Prohibition of installation of affected parts - Compliance with EASA AD 20250155 - Unique/Notable Requirements: - No specific parts or purchase quantities are listed; the focus is on inspection, maintenance, and safety compliance - Repairs must follow OEM or EASA-approved procedures - Ongoing, repetitive compliance is required for continued airworthiness - References: - EASA AD 20250179 (Airbus) - EASA AD 20250155 (Stemme)

Description

The FAA is issuing a final rule airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus SAS Model A330-841 and Model A330-941 airplanes due to reports of cracks on the sloping rib. The AD mandates repetitive inspections of the external surface of each sloping rib and each slat 1 inboard seal, along with applicable corrective actions to address the unsafe condition. This directive aims to prevent reduced controllability of the airplane caused by the cracking. The AD is effective September 3, 2026, and incorporates by reference the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 20250179 dated August 13, 2025.

View original listing