A321 flight crew reported an MEL deferral on a flight control computer was incorrectly performed by maintenance.
Synopsis
A321 flight crew reported an MEL deferral on a flight control computer was incorrectly performed by maintenance.
Narrative
Aircraft had MEL for ELAC 1 Pitch Fault in Aircraft Maintenance Logbook (AML). On preflight; FO identified that ELAC 1 Fault ECAM was displayed instead of ELAC 1 Pitch Fault. CA called Maintenance Control to report the failure; as it was not what was MEL'd. Maintenance Control proceeded to explain that the indication is normal due to the deactivation of ELAC 1; that MEL still applied; and that no other procedures need be performed. CA and FO discussed the explanation and then decided it was acceptable; performed the prescribed procedures and executed the flight without event. Upon landing; crew received ACARS to call Dispatch. Upon calling Dispatch; CA was connected to Maintenance Control Supervisor who confessed that improper maintenance had been performed and that circuit breakers had been improperly pulled and collared; resulting in an improper aircraft configuration (ELAC 1 should have been partially operable instead of being entirely deactivated)."Cause: Improper maintenance resulting from lack of understanding of procedure. The Supervisor informed me that this keeps happening with this particular MEL.Suggestions: Maintenance training; debrief; and potential publication revision"
Second reporter narrative
Prior to our flight aircraft had a ELAC 1 PITCH FAULT and was written up under MEL. During preflight we noticed the ECAM: ELAC 1 FAULT. not sure if this was the same MEL; CA called Maintenance Control to verify the proper procedure. we were told that the ELAC was deactivated for the pitch fault; and this was an expected ECAM; and we should still apply the procedure for the MEL. We departed and completed the flight to ZZZ1 uneventfully. After arrival we received a message to call Dispatch. CA talked to Maintenance Control supervisor and was told that the improper maintenance procedure was applied and that the ELAC should not have been deactivated fully.Cause: Misunderstanding between maintenance and the proper procedure. Misunderstanding between pilots and maintenance while explaining our concerns.Suggestions: Careful review of proper maintenance procedures
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Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.