Why EASA Mandates Urgent Inspections for Airbus A350 Braking System
Key Points
- 1EASA AD 2025-0150 mandates inspections for the Airbus A350 Main Landing Gear (MLG) Brake Rod Center Pin and Nut Sub-Assemblies.
- 2The unsafe condition could prevent MLG extension, posing a significant risk to aircraft and occupants.
- 3Operators of certain A350-941 MSN must perform a one-time detailed inspection and replace parts if defects are found.
- 4This AD is an interim measure, signaling that further regulatory action may be forthcoming.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued a new Airworthiness Directive (AD). This AD targets certain Airbus A350 braking system components. Specifically, the directive addresses a potential issue with the Main Landing Gear (MLG) Brake Rod Center Pin and Nut. This regulatory action ensures continued safety for the widebody fleet.
Background and Unsafe Condition
EASA AD 2025-0150, effective in July 2025, supersedes a previous directive. The AD was prompted by an unsafe condition identified on certain Airbus A350 aircraft. Investigations revealed a potential issue with the MLG Brake Rod Center Pin and Nut Sub-Assemblies. If this condition is not corrected, it could prevent the extension of the MLG. This scenario could lead to significant damage to the aeroplane and pose a risk of injury to occupants.
This mandatory action applies to specific Manufacturer Serial Numbers (MSN) of the Airbus A350-941 model.
Mandatory Inspections and Fixes
To address this critical safety concern, EASA requires operators to perform mandatory inspections and fixes. The directive is based on instructions from the manufacturer, Airbus. Operators must comply with the requirements within a defined timeframe.
Key Operator Requirements
- One-Time Detailed Inspection: A detailed inspection (DET) of the affected MLG Brake Rod Center Pin and Nut Sub-Assemblies is required.
- Part Replacement: Depending on the inspection findings, the affected parts must be replaced. They must be replaced with a serviceable part.
- Interim Action: EASA considers this AD an interim action. Further AD action may follow as investigations continue.
Separately, EASA AD 2204-0157 also addressed the Airbus A350 braking system. This earlier directive mandated Master Minimum Equipment List (MMEL) restrictions. These restrictions related to the Remote Brake Control Unit and other landing gear components. This highlights the regulator's focus on the A350's landing and braking systems.
Industry Impact and Safety Regulation
Airworthiness Directives are legally binding regulations. They must be followed by all operators flying under EASA jurisdiction. This latest directive affects airlines globally that operate certain Airbus A350 aircraft. While the required action is specific, it impacts maintenance scheduling. It also affects the operational readiness of the affected fleet.
This action reinforces the stringent nature of aviation safety regulation. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency acts quickly to mitigate identified risks. Such directives are crucial for maintaining high safety standards across commercial aviation news. Airlines must integrate these A350 operator requirements into their maintenance programs immediately. This proactive approach is standard practice in the industry. For more information on regulatory developments, follow the latest commercial aviation news at flying.flights.
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Written by
Ujjwal SukhwaniAviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
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