AD 2003-13-02 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A321-131 Series Airplanes; Equipped with International Aero Engines (IAE) V25()()-A5 Series Engines

Models named: A321-131 series. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

All Model A321-131 series airplanes; certificated in any category; equipped with International Aero Engines (IAE) V25()()-A5 series engines.

Required as indicated, unless accomplished previously. To require the flightcrew to follow the procedures necessary to prevent smoke caused by an oil filter clog from entering the cabin during flight, accomplish the following: Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) Revision (a) Within 7 days after the effective date of this AD, revise the Limitations section of the Airbus A321 AFM to include the following statements (this may be accomplished by inserting a copy of this AD into the AFM): “Procedure for Oil Filter Clog ECAM Caution The ECAM does not require any pilot action in case of ENG 1(2) OIL FILTER CLOG ECAM warning. However, to minimize the risk of air conditioning system contamination by oil fumes, systematically apply the following procedure in any event of oil filter clog: ENG 1(2) OIL FILTER CLOG In-service reports have shown that this ECAM warning is frequently a symptom of engine bearing damage that could potentially lead to smoke entering the cabin via the pack of the affected side. This procedure aims to avoid air conditioning smoke, while continuing normal engine operation. ENG BLEED (affected side)—OFF (Prevents possible bleed contamination by engine oil.) PACK (affected side)—OFF (Switching off one pack enables the remaining pack to operate at 120 percent without any risk of remaining bleed misbehavior. Keep the pack on in case of an MEL dispatch with one pack inoperative. The pack that has been switched off remains available with the crossbleed valve open. Therefore, switch it on in case of a subsequent independent malfunction affecting the operating pack.) CROSSBLEED—OPEN (Opening the crossbleed valve enables the wing anti-ice to be used when needed.) CLOSELY MONITOR ENGINE PARAMETERS FOR SURGE/STALL, OIL PRESSURE FLUCTUATIONS, OR ABNORMAL ENGINE VIBRATIONS; AND, WHEN NECESSARY, APPLY THE ASSOCIATED PROCEDURE. If, after the oil filter clog, the engine experiences or has already experienced a surge/stall possibly accompanied by a yaw-effect on the aircraft: ENG (AFFECTED) THRUST LEVER—IDLE— (Reducing the thrust of the affected engine minimizes further damage to the engine rotary machinery, but will not necessarily prevent more oil from entering the gas path. Maintain engine at idle, and consider engine shutdown if high vibration occurs or oil quantity/oil pressure drops low.) “Oil Filter Clog” ECAM warnings occurring on the ground during engine start are frequently due to low oil viscosity and may be self-recoverable. In the event of an “Oil Filter Clog” warning during engine start, please refer to FCOM 3.02.70 page 2.” Alternative Methods of Compliance (b) In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, is authorized to approve alternative methods of compliance for this AD. Effective Date. (c) This amendment becomes effective on July 8, 2003. Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 16, 2003. Kalene C. Yanamura, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 03-15595 Filed 6-20-03; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P