EASA release emergency directive regarding A330/A340 Goodrich pitot tubes

WestjetterO · 09-22-2009, 04:34 PM

By Simon Hradecky, created Tuesday, Sep 22nd 2009 07:22Z, last updated Tuesday, Sep 22nd 2009 07:25Z

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have released an emergency airworthiness directive (EAD) regarding all Airbus A330 and A340 Goodrich pitot tubes (part number 0851HL, serial numbers 267328 through 270714 inclusive) after several cases of loose pneumatic quick-disconnect unions were detected. This condition could lead to an air leak resulting in incorrect pressure measurement and incorrect air speed indication.

Current assumption is, that the problem is the result of mis-torque of the affected unions at equipment manufacturing level.

The EAD therefore requires all operators to perform a torque check of all mentioned pitot probes' quick-disconnect unions within 5 days and - depending on findings - apply according corrective action before next flight. The findings - even if no anomalies are detected - are to be reported to Airbus within 10 days.

Interesting to say the least, but I'm not surprised...

MarinerOne · 09-22-2009, 07:50 PM

Man ... them A330 and A340 pitot tubes seem jinxed ... no matter who makes 'em they have serious concerns that could lead to problems with airspeed, etc.!

A Tupolev · 09-22-2009, 10:34 PM

Leads me to believe the pitot tubes are just a symptom of another problem.

MarinerOne · 09-23-2009, 02:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by A Tupolev

Leads me to believe the pitot tubes are just a symptom of another problem.

Good one Tupe ... excellent graphical support as well ... B+!!!

WestjetterO · 09-23-2009, 04:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by A Tupolev

Leads me to believe the pitot tubes are just a symptom of another problem.

haha! Coudn't have said it better Myself