Ref: LAA Mandatory Technical Directive MTD-06-2025 – Europa Tailplane Torque Tube Clamp Mod

A recent inspection of a Europa fitted with the tailplane torque tube clamp modification, LAA MOD 10623, revealed both halves of the clamp had broken and fallen apart.  These clamps are intended to prevent relative movement between the tailplane torque tube, the tailplane drive plates and the central drive horn, on which the mass balance arm is mounted. Failure of these clamps could allow free play to develop, potentially leading to taper pin hole damage, tailplane flutter, or jamming of the pitch control mechanism.

An inspection must be carried out within the next 5 flying hours to determine whether MOD 10623 is fitted. If MOD 10623 clamps are fitted, making use of a light source and mirror as necessary, inspect the alloy clamp blocks for any signs of cracking (in particular along the sharp corner between the bolt flanges and main body), for any signs of looseness or relative movement between the parts and for any other abnormalities. If any of these are detected, the aircraft must not be flown and LAA Engineering must be contacted. This must be repeated at intervals not exceeding 25 flight-hours or the next Permit revalidation inspection, whichever occurs first, for as long as MOD 10623 remains fitted.

Please refer to the below Mandatory Technical Directive for full details, compliance times, and certification requirements.

This MTD can be found HERE and is also available below.