A320 A0A sensors in trouble!

Operators of Airbus SAS A320 family single-aisle jets must check probes that help determine the so- called angle of attack during flight after some devices showed malfunction, the European Aviation Safety Agency said.

The directive by EASA follows tests on the Airbus final assembly line that revealed inaccurate data because of interference from machining oil residue left over from manufacturing, according to a statement.

“This condition, if not corrected, could lead to erroneous angle-of-attack information and consequent delayed or non- activation of the angle-of-attack protection systems which, if during flight at a high angle of attack, could result in reduced control of the aeroplane,” the statement said.

The angle of attack defines the angle between air flow and the longitudinal axis of the aircraft and is a crucial component for pilots to control the aircraft. The probes that EASA identified as potentially faulty were manufactured by Thales SA (HO), according to the statement. Airlines should identify and replace Thales devices that may be affected within six months, the directive said.

Tweet