When is an Airworthiness Directive (AD) typically issued for a product?

An Airworthiness Directive (AD) is issued specifically when an unsafe condition is identified in an aircraft product. This regulatory requirement serves to notify owners and operators about potential safety issues that could affect the performance of the product and ensure that necessary corrective actions are taken to mitigate risks to flight safety.

The main purpose of an AD is to address safety concerns that could lead to an incident or accident if not rectified, which is why it is crucial for maintaining the airworthiness of an aircraft. This response mechanism is part of a strict safety oversight framework governing aviation products, striving to prevent accidents caused by known hazards.

In contrast, inadequate packing or service instructions, the occurrence of product failure before an AD is issued, or the mere age of a product do not intrinsically trigger the need for an AD. These scenarios might warrant attention or further investigation but do not meet the criteria for issuing an AD, which strictly focuses on identified unsafe conditions.