Airworthiness Directive (AD) is a legal requirement issued by aviation authorities to mandate corrective actions or inspections on aircraft, engines, or components to address safety concerns.
An AD is a means for aviation authorities to ensure the airworthiness of an aircraft, which basically means its safety for operation. These directives can be issued based on findings from accident investigations, airworthiness concerns, or manufacturer recommendations, among other factors.
The AD recommends corrective actions or inspections that must be taken within a given timeframe, or before a certain number of flight hours, to ensure the continued airworthiness of the aircraft. Compliance with an AD is mandatory, and failure to comply can result in legal consequences.
ADs can be issued for a variety of reasons, including defects in aircraft design or manufacturing processes, issues with specific models of engines or components, or concerns arising from emerging technologies. The objective behind issuing ADs is always focused on ensuring that aviation safety is maintained at all times, and that any potential safety hazards are addressed in a timely and effective manner.
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