AD 2020-21-07 Requires Replacement Of Affected Passenger Oxygen Masks

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus SAS Model A350-941 and -1041 airplanes.

This AD was prompted by a report that sticking effects have been observed affecting the breathing bag on certain passenger oxygen masks. This AD requires replacement of affected passenger oxygen masks, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. This AD is effective November 18, 2020.

The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of November 18, 2020.

Supplementary Information: The EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 2020-0031, dated February 18, 2020 (“EASA AD 2020-0031”) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or “the MCAI”), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus SAS Model A350-941 and -1041 airplanes.

The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Airbus SAS Model A350-941 and -1041 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on April 27, 2020 (85 FR 23257). The NPRM was prompted by a report that sticking effects have been observed affecting the breathing bag on certain passenger oxygen masks. The NPRM proposed to require replacement of affected passenger oxygen masks, as specified in an EASA AD.

The FAA is issuing this AD to address sticking of the breathing bag on certain passenger oxygen masks, which could prevent the breathing bag from fully inflating, and possibly injure cabin occupants following a depressurization event. See the MCAI for additional background information.

FMI: www.regulations.gov