13 June 2024
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has revoked the Emergency Airworthiness Directive (EAD) imposed on certain Robin DR400 aircraft after problems with the wingspar.
“All operational limitations are therefore also cancelled and all of the affected DR400 aircraft are restored to their full flight envelope,” said a statement from CEAPR, owner of Robin Aircraft.
The EAD was originally issued in December 2022 after a routine check of wingspar production on new aircraft identified some discrepancies. EASA said at the time, “This condition, if not corrected, could lead to reduced structural strength of the wing, possibly resulting in wing structural failure.”
However, as EASA explains, “After that AD was issued, further investigation results determined that possibly more aeroplanes than initially identified could be affected by the unsafe condition addressed by that AD, and that the required operational limitations needed adjustment and/or some additional clarification.
“It was also determined that the aeroplanes which had been prohibited to fly could be allowed to resume operation, provided the amended limitations are implemented.”
Robin DR401
The ‘clarification’ resulted in a second EAD from EASA, 2023-0048-E. This require amendment of the aircraft flight manual to introduce new (amended) operational limitations, installation of a placard indicating the reduced maximum structural cruising speed (VNO), and to remove the prohibition to fly for certain aeroplanes.
In EASA’s cancellation of the second EAD, the agency said, “Since that AD was issued, further investigations carried out have shown that the bonding of the main wing spars, defined in this AD as affected parts, is acceptable and does not constitute an unsafe condition.
“For the reasons described above, EASA Emergency AD 2023-0048-E is no longer necessary, and therefore this AD Cancellation Notice is issued.”
CEAPR added, “We thank all our customers and pilots for the patience that they have shown, the authorities for their support, and the CEAPR staff for their expertise and loyalty.
“CEAPR is now concentrating on its R&D projects, on manufacturing new aircraft, and continuing to supply spare parts.”
Steve Bailey of UK agent Mistral Aviation said, ” Our congratulations to CEAPR! This is very welcome news that finally brings calm to what was really a ‘storm in a teacup’.”
