AL 2002-04
15 July 2002
P/N B97E51655 installed on Airbus A310 and possibly other large aircraft.
An operator has reported severe corrosion of the fuel shut-off valves on both engines of an Airbus A310 aircraft. (see attached photos).
The corrosion was discovered as a result of a leak check carried out in conjunction with a routine engine removal and reinstallation. The component was corroded to the extent that the application of light pressure resulted in the penetration of the valve body material.
Severe corrosion of this valve could result in a catastrophic fuel leak, endangering the aircraft and its occupants.
To ensure integrity of the fuel shut-off-values, Transport Canada strongly recommends that operators of aircraft similarly equipped, at their earliest opportunity, perform a detailed visual inspection to ensure corrosion is not present on the valve body or connecting pipes. If no defects are found, Transport Canada recommends operators amend their maintenance programs to include a specific visual inspection of this component at each "C" check or equivalent.
Any defects or further occurrences of this nature to be reported to Transport Canada, Continuing Airworthiness, Ottawa via the Service Difficulty Reporting program.
For further information contact a Transport Canada Center, or call Mr. Paul Jones, Continuing Airworthiness, Ottawa, telephone (613) 952-4431, facsimile (613) 996-9178 or e-mail jonesp@tc.gc.ca.
For Director, National Aircraft Certification
B. Goyaniuk
Chief, Continuing Airworthiness
