AD 2021-04-14 Requires A Onetime Detailed Inspection Of The Seat Tracks Between Certain Frames

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus SAS Model A350-941 and A350-1041 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports that suitable corrosion protection treatment had not been applied to certain areas of the seat track.

This AD requires a onetime detailed inspection of the seat tracks between certain frames for suitable corrosion protection or presence of corrosion, and on-condition actions if necessary, 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 April 9, 2021.

Background: The EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 2020-0166, dated July 27, 2020 (EASA AD 2020-0166) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or the MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus SAS Model A350-941 and A350-1041 airplanes.

The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Airbus SAS Model A350-941 and A350-1041 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on December 4, 2020 (85 FR 78279). The NPRM was prompted by reports that suitable corrosion protection treatment had not been applied to certain areas of the seat track. The NPRM proposed to require a one-time detailed inspection of the seat tracks between certain frames for suitable corrosion protection or presence of corrosion, and on-condition actions if necessary, as specified in EASA AD 2020-0166.

The FAA is issuing this AD to address a potential structural deficiency at certain seat track locations, providing insufficient resistance to environmental damage. This condition, if not addressed, could lead to seat or monument detachment during an emergency landing, possibly resulting in injury to occupants and preventing safe evacuation from the airplane. See the MCAI for additional background information.

FMI: www.regulations.gov