The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a new airworthiness directive (AD 2024-26-06), replacing AD 2022-16-06, applicable to certain Airbus aircraft models. The measure follows tests revealing that the trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA) may not display failure indications when the upper secondary load path (SLP) is activated, potentially leading to loss of aircraft control.
Affected aircraft and required modifications
The directive applies to the Airbus A330-200, -300, -900, and the A340-200 and -300. The new regulation maintains the actions established in the previous directive, including modifications to the THSA installation, implementation of the electrical load sensing device (ELSD), and activation of the system. It also introduces revised procedures and new actions for certain aircraft.
The directive incorporates the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Airworthiness Directive 2024-0016, which includes additional instructions for ELSD installation and wiring adjustments. Operators must complete these modifications by March 11, 2025.
Industry feedback and compliance costs
The FAA received comments from the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), which supported the measure without modifications. Delta Air Lines requested clarification on possible changes related to Revision 03 of Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3237, which could require additional work. The FAA stated it will assess whether further regulation is needed if EASA mandates additional modifications.
The directive is expected to affect 120 U.S.-registered aircraft, with compliance costs estimated at up to $72,236 per aircraft, depending on the modifications required. Some costs may be covered under manufacturer warranties.
Issued under the authority of Title 49 of the U.S. Code, the FAA affirms that this regulation will not have a significant impact on small businesses or intrastate aviation in Alaska.
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