33 Airworthiness Directives: 22 airplane, 5 rotorcraft, 4 engine, 1 glider, 1 balloon.
AD 2013-02-09 · published Feb 1, 2013, effective Mar 8, 2013
BAE SYSTEMS (OPERATIONS) LIMITED Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all BAE SYSTEMS (OPERATIONS) LIMITED Model BAe 146, and Avro 146-RJ series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report of loss of the end caps on the anti-icing piccolo tube of the wing leading edge. This AD requires a detailed inspection of the end caps on the anti-icing piccolo tube for lost or loose end caps, and replacing or repairing the end caps if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct lost and loose end caps on the anti-icing piccolo tube, and ice accretion on the wing leading edge or run-back ice, which could lead to a reduction in the stall margin on approach and loss of controllability of the airplane.
AD 2013-02-10 · published Feb 1, 2013, effective Mar 8, 2013
Airbus Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A330-200 Freighter series airplanes; Model A330-200 and - 300 series airplanes; and Model A340-200 and -300 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report of a manufacturing defect in certain rods installed in the belly fairing, which could lead to cracks at the crimped end of the rod. This AD requires an inspection of the rods to determine the manufacturer; and for affected parts, an inspection for any cracking of the rods, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking of the rods, which could result in rupture of rods that attach the belly fairing to the airframe, leading to separation of the belly fairing from the airframe, and consequent damage to airplane structure and airplane systems.
AD 2013-02-11 · published Feb 1, 2013, effective Mar 8, 2013
Airbus Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A310-203 airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report of an analysis that demonstrated a reduced fatigue life for the side link bolts, center sway link bolts, and thrust link bolts on the forward engine mounts. This AD requires repetitive replacement of those bolts. We are issuing this AD to prevent deterioration of the structural integrity of the bolts, which could result in possible damage to an engine or wing.
AD 2013-02-12 · published Feb 1, 2013, effective Mar 8, 2013
EADS CASA (Type Certificate Previously Held by Construcciones Aeronáuticas, S.A.) Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all EADS CASA (Type Certificate previously held by Construcciones Aeron[aacute]uticas, S.A.) Model CN-235, CN-235-100, CN-235-200, and CN-235-300 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of incorrect electrical polarity connections on engine fire extinguishing discharge cartridges. This AD requires a one-time inspection to identify the correct polarity for each pair of electrical connectors on each engine fire extinguisher cartridge, and repair if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct incorrect polarity connections, which could prevent the actuation of the discharge cartridge in case of automatic fire detection or manual initiation during a potential engine fire, and could result in damage to the airplane and injury to passengers.
AD 2013-02-08 · published Feb 4, 2013, effective Mar 11, 2013
Bombardier, Inc. Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Bombardier, Inc. Model CL-600-2B19 (Regional Jet Series 100 & 440) airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report that the safe life limit and inspection requirements for the horizontal stabilizer trim actuator (HSTA) attachment pins and trunnions were not listed in the Airworthiness Limitations Section of the maintenance program. This AD requires inspecting the trunnions and upper and lower pins for gouges, scratches, and corrosion, and replacing the trunnions if necessary; and adding serial numbers and new part numbers to certain trunnions, and upper and lower pins. This AD also requires revising the maintenance program to incorporate the information specified in certain temporary revisions of the limitations section. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking, gouges, scratches, and corrosion of the HSTA attachment pins and trunnions, which could result in failure of these pins and trunnions and consequent disconnection of the horizontal stabilizer and subsequent loss of controllability of the airplane.
AD 2013-02-13 · published Feb 4, 2013, effective Mar 11, 2013
Piper Aircraft, Inc.
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Piper Aircraft, Inc. (type certificate previously held by The New Piper Aircraft Inc.) PA-28, PA-32, PA-34, and PA-44 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of control cable assembly failures that may lead to failure of the horizontal stabilator control system and could result in loss of pitch control. This AD requires inspections of the stabilator control system and replacement of parts as necessary. We are issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these products.
AD 2013-03-11 · published Feb 11, 2013, effective Mar 18, 2013
Airbus Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A300 B4-600, B4-600R, and F4-600R series airplanes, and Model A300 C4-605R Variant F airplanes (collectively called A300-600 series airplanes); and Model A310 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of cracking through the honeycomb core closed with phenolic resin. This condition could result in extended debonding and could adversely affect the structural integrity of the rudder. This AD requires inspecting to determine the serial number of a certain rudder and replacing the rudder with a new or serviceable rudder if necessary. We are issuing this AD to prevent extended de-bonding, which could result in loss of the rudder and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane.
AD 2013-03-01 · published Feb 12, 2013, effective Mar 19, 2013
Pacific Aerospace Limited Airplanes
We are superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for all Pacific Aerospace Limited Models FU24-954 and FU24A-954 airplanes. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as aircraft operating outside the aircraft aft center of gravity (C of G) limits during parachute-drop operations. Exceeding C of G limits could result in loss of control of the aircraft. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.
AD 2013-03-04 · published Feb 12, 2013, effective Mar 19, 2013
Schweizer Aircraft Corporation
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the Schweizer Aircraft Corporation (Schweizer) Model 269D and Model 269D Configuration A helicopters. The type certificate for these models is currently held by Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky). This AD requires inspecting the aft fuselage assembly in the area around the attachment point of the horizontal stabilizer, including the paint, for a crack. This AD also requires inspecting the tailboom interior support structure, and if necessary, installing an inspection panel kit in the aft fuselage assembly, and installing doublers in the stabilizer support brackets. This AD is prompted by reports of loose horizontal stabilizers and cracks in the stabilizer support structure for the extruded tailboom. The actions are intended to prevent separation of the horizontal stabilizer from the helicopter and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
AD 2013-03-05 · published Feb 12, 2013, effective Mar 19, 2013
Airbus Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A300 B4-600, B4-600R, and F4-600R series airplanes, and Model A300 C4-605R Variant F airplanes (collectively called Model A300- 600 series airplanes); and Airbus Model A310 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by fuel system reviews conducted by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This AD requires modifying the electrical control circuits of the inner, center, and trim tank pumps, as applicable. We are issuing this AD to reduce the potential of ignition sources inside fuel tanks, which, in combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result in fuel tank explosions and consequent loss of the airplane.
AD 2013-03-07 · published Feb 12, 2013, effective Mar 19, 2013
Hawker Beechcraft Corporation (Type Certificate Previously Held by Raytheon Aircraft Company; Beech Aircraft Corporation) Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Hawker Beechcraft Corporation (Type Certificate previously held by Raytheon Aircraft Company; Beech Aircraft Corporation) Model 400A airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report that the wiring for the 5- volt direct current (DC) system is undersized and does not have adequate circuit protection for the smaller gauge wire. This AD requires installing an in-line fuse in the 5-volt DC system for each of the five instrument lighting control power supplies. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the wiring, which could result in smoke in the cockpit, loss of cockpit lighting, and potential damage to surrounding wiring for other cockpit equipment such as the stick shaker function or angle-of-attack indicators.
AD 2013-03-08 · published Feb 12, 2013, effective Mar 19, 2013
Bombardier, Inc. Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier, Inc. Model CL-600-1A11 (CL-600), CL-600-2A12 (CL-601), and CL-600-2B16 (CL-601-3A, CL-601-3R, & CL-604 Variants) airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of cracking found on the upper and lower Web of the engine support beam. This AD requires revising the maintenance program. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking of the engine support beam, which could result in failure of the engine support beam and affect the structural integrity of the airplane.
AD 2013-03-12 · published Feb 12, 2013, effective Mar 19, 2013
Dassault Aviation Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Dassault Aviation Model Mystere-Falcon 50 airplanes. This AD was prompted by a manufacturer revision to the airplane maintenance manual (AMM) that introduces new or more restrictive maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations. This AD requires revising the maintenance program to incorporate new or revised maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations. We are issuing this AD to prevent reduced structural integrity of the airplane.
AD 2013-03-13 · published Feb 12, 2013, effective Mar 19, 2013
Embraer S.A. Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Embraer S.A. Model ERJ 170 and ERJ 190 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of the cockpit door falling off the hinges when it is being opened or closed. This AD requires replacing the striker and quick- release pin of the passive lock of the cockpit door, and replacing the upper and lower hinges of the cockpit door. We are issuing this AD to prevent the cockpit door from falling off the hinges, which could cause injury to airplane occupants.
AD 2013-03-15 · published Feb 12, 2013, effective Mar 19, 2013
Cessna Aircraft Company Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Cessna Aircraft Company Models 172R and 172S airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of chafing of a new configuration of the fuel return line assembly, which was caused by the fuel return line assembly rubbing against the right steering tube assembly during rudder pedal actuation. This AD requires you to install the forward and aft fuel return line support clamps and brackets; inspect for a minimum clearance between the fuel return line assembly and the steering tube assembly and clearance between the fuel return line assembly and the airplane structure; and, if any damage is found, replace the fuel return line assembly. We are issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these products.
AD 2013-03-19 · published Feb 14, 2013, effective Mar 21, 2013
The Boeing Company Airplanes
We are superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 707 airplanes, and Model 720 and 720B series airplanes. That AD currently requires replacing wiring for the fuel boost pumps and override pumps with new wiring, installing Teflon sleeving on the wiring, and doing associated actions; and doing repetitive inspections to detect damage of the wiring or evidence of a fuel leak. This new AD reduces the repetitive inspection interval. This AD was prompted by a determination that an inspection interval must be reduced. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct damaged wiring for the fuel boost pumps and override pumps, which could cause electrical arcing that could puncture the conduit containing the wire, and result in a fuel tank explosion or a fire adjacent to the fuel tank.
AD 2012-26-16 · published Feb 19, 2013, effective Mar 26, 2013
Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Airplanes
We are superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for all Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Models PC-12, PC-12/45, PC-12/47, and PC- 12/47E airplanes. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as a need to incorporate new revisions into the Limitations section, Chapter 4, of the FAA-approved maintenance program (e.g., maintenance manual). We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.
AD 2013-03-20 · published Feb 19, 2013, effective Mar 26, 2013
The Boeing Company Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Boeing Company Model 757 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of fuel leaking from the front spar of the wing through the slat track housing. This AD requires a detailed inspection of the inboard and outboard main slat track downstop assemblies and a torque application to the main track downstop assembly nuts of slat numbers 1 through 10, excluding the outboard track of slats 1 and 10; a detailed inspection of all slat track housings for foreign object debris (FOD) and visible damage; and corrective actions if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct incorrectly installed main slat track downstop assemblies, which, when the slat is retracted, could cause a puncture in the slat track housing and lead to a fuel leak and potential fire.
AD 2013-03-23 · published Feb 19, 2013, effective Mar 26, 2013
Gulfstream Aerospace LP (Type Certificate Previously Held by Israel Aircraft Industries, Ltd.) Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Gulfstream Aerospace LP (Type Certificate Previously Held by Israel Aircraft Industries, Ltd.) Model Gulfstream G150 airplanes. This AD was prompted by a review that determined that the runway slope and anti-ice corrections to V<INF>1</INF> and take-off distances in the Gulfstream G150 Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) were presented in a non-conservative manner. This AD requires revising the performance section of the AFM to include procedures to advise the flightcrew of certain runway slope and anti-ice corrections and take-off distance values. We are issuing this AD to prevent the use of published non-conservative data, which could result in the inability to meet the required take-off performance, with consequent hazard to safe operation during performance-limited take-off operations.
AD 2013-04-02 · published Feb 21, 2013, effective Mar 28, 2013
Reims Aviation S.A. Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Reims Aviation S.A. Model F406 airplanes. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as improper material used in nose landing gear (NLG) attachment brackets could lead to failure of the NLG bracket with consequent damage to the airplane while landing. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.
AD 2013-04-05 · published Feb 21, 2013, effective Mar 28, 2013
The Boeing Company Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 737-200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of cracks in the skin and surrounding structure under the number 3 very high frequency (VHF) antenna on the lower external surface of the airplane at buttock line 0.0, aft of the main landing gear wheel well. This AD requires inspecting for cracking and corrosion under the number 3 VHF antenna, and corrective actions if necessary; and, for certain airplanes, replacing bonded skin panels with solid skin panels if not previously accomplished. This AD also provides an optional preventive modification (which would terminate the inspection requirements for certain airplanes). We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks and corrosion of the skin and surrounding structure under the number 3 VHF antenna, which could result in separation of the antenna from the airplane, and rapid depressurization of the airplane.
AD 2013-02-51 · published Feb 22, 2013, effective Feb 22, 2013
The Boeing Company Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Boeing Company Model 787-8 airplanes. This emergency AD was sent previously to all known U.S. owners and operators of these airplanes. This AD requires modification of the battery system, or other actions. This AD was prompted by recent incidents involving lithium ion battery failures that resulted in release of flammable electrolytes, heat damage, and smoke. We are issuing this AD to correct damage to critical systems and structures, and the potential for fire in the electrical compartment.
AD 2013-01-04 · published Feb 4, 2013, effective Mar 11, 2013
Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc., Helicopters
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc. (Bell), Model 412 and 412EP helicopters. This AD requires creating a component history card or equivalent record and begin counting and recording the number of accumulated landings for each high aft crosstube assembly (crosstube). Also, this AD requires installing "caution" decals regarding towing of a helicopter at or above 8,900 pounds. This AD also requires confirming the crosstube is within the horizontal deflection limits and replacing it if it is not. This AD also requires a recurring fluorescent penetrant inspection (FPI) of each crosstube and upper center support for a crack, any corrosion, nick, scratch, dent, or any other damage. This AD requires repairing damaged crosstubes and upper center supports that are within acceptable limits, reworking crosstubes by bonding on abrasion strips, and replacing each unairworthy crosstube with an airworthy crosstube. This AD was prompted by analysis of the crosstubes conducted as a result of recent field failures and corrosion problems of the affected crosstubes. The actions are intended to prevent failure of a crosstube, collapse of the landing gear, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
AD 2013-01-05 · published Feb 4, 2013, effective Mar 11, 2013
Eurocopter France Helicopters
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Model AS350B3 and EC130B4 helicopters. This AD requires revising the Limitations section of the Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) to reduce the starter generator operating current to 180 amperes (amps) and installing a placard in the instrument panel indicating the revised limitation. This AD was prompted by the determination that the manufacturer-installed Aircraft Parts Corporation (APC) starter generator has exceeded the shaft horse power extractions allowed for Turbomeca engines. The actions of this AD are intended to prevent the engine surge margin being reduced, which can result in engine failure.
AD 2013-03-03 · published Feb 8, 2013, effective Mar 15, 2013
MD Helicopters, Inc., Helicopters
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for MD Helicopters, Inc. (MDHI) Model 500N, 600N and MD900 helicopters to require determining the cure date for each NOTAR fan blade tension- torsion strap (T-T strap), establishing a calendar-time retirement life for certain T-T straps, reducing the retirement life of certain T-T straps, marking each T-T strap with the expiration date, creating a component record card for each T-T strap, and revising the airworthiness limitations section of the maintenance manual to reflect the changes to the retirement life. This AD was prompted by a report from the T-T strap manufacturer that, over a period of time, moisture may reduce the strength of a T-T strap. The actions are intended to prevent failure of a T-T strap, loss of directional control and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
AD 2013-03-02 · published Feb 12, 2013, effective Feb 27, 2013
Eurocopter France Helicopters
We are superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Model EC 155B, EC155B1, SA-365N1, AS-365N2 and AS 365 N3 helicopters. That AD currently requires inspecting certain tail rotor hubs (TRH) for a crack and removing any cracked TRH. This AD requires the same actions but adds more part numbers to the list of affected TRHs. This AD is prompted by further analysis that indicates that additional part-numbered TRHs must be inspected for cracks. The actions specified by this AD are intended to detect a crack in the TRH and prevent the tail rotor from jamming, which could lead to reduced or loss of control of the helicopter.
AD 2013-03-16 · published Feb 12, 2013, effective Feb 27, 2013
Bell Helicopter Textron Helicopters
We are superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for the Bell Helicopter Textron (Bell) Model 212 helicopters and adopting requirements for Bell Model 204B, 205A, 205A-1, 205B and 210 helicopters with certain part-numbered main rotor hub inboard strap fittings (fittings). This AD requires magnetic particle inspecting (MPI) the fittings for a crack, and if a crack exists, replacing the fittings with airworthy fittings. This AD is prompted by reports of additional cracked fittings and the determination that additional part-numbered fittings may not have been manufactured in accordance with approved manufacturing processes and controls. These actions are intended to identify a crack in the fitting, which may lead to the fitting's failure, loss of a main rotor blade, and subsequent loss of helicopter control.
AD 2013-03-17 · published Feb 14, 2013, effective Mar 21, 2013
Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG Turbofan Engines
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (RRD) BR700-710A1-10 and BR700- 710A2-20 turbofan engines, and certain BR700-710C4-11 model engines. This AD was prompted by RRD performing an evaluation that determined that certain high-pressure turbine (HPT) stage 1 and stage 2 discs from a specific supplier may contain steel inclusions that may cause the discs to fail before they reach their current life limits. This AD requires reducing the life limits for certain HPT stage 1 and stage 2 discs. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the HPT stage 1 and stage 2 discs, which could result in uncontained failure of the engine and damage to the airplane.
AD 2013-03-14 · published Feb 19, 2013, effective Mar 26, 2013
Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp Turboshaft Engines
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp. (P&WC) PT6C-67C turboshaft engines. This AD requires initial and repetitive borescope inspections to verify the presence of a retaining ring securing the power turbine (PT) baffle located near the second stage PT disk. If the engine fails the inspection, this AD also requires removing the engine from service before further flight. This AD was prompted by five reported incidents of second stage PT disk damage. We are issuing this AD to prevent damage to the PT disk which, if undetected, could cause uncontained PT disk failure and loss of control of the helicopter.
AD 2013-03-21 · published Feb 19, 2013, effective Mar 26, 2013
Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp. Turboshaft Engines
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain serial number Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp. PW206B, PW206B2, PW206C, PW207C, PW207D, PW207D1, PW207D2, and PW207E turboshaft engines. This AD was prompted by the discovery that certain power turbine (PT) disks were made to specific heat codes that may not achieve the maximum in- service life. This AD requires re-identification of the PT disk to a part number (P/N) with a lower life limit. We are issuing this AD to prevent possible uncontained PT disk failure and loss of helicopter control.
AD 2013-04-01 · published Feb 21, 2013, effective Mar 8, 2013
Rolls-Royce plc Turbofan Engines
We are superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for all Rolls-Royce plc (RR) RB211-524 series turbofan engines. That AD currently requires removal and repair of certain thrust reverser units (TRUs) prior to reinstallation. This AD requires the same actions for an expanded population of TRUs and extends the compliance time for repairing certain TRUs. This AD was prompted by additional engineering evaluation of TRUs, as a result of a translating cowl gearbox stubshaft failure and subsequent repair. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the attachment rivets, which may result in release of the TRU from the engine.
AD 2013-03-09 · published Feb 12, 2013, effective Mar 19, 2013
DG Flugzeugbau GmbH Gliders
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for DG Flugzeugbau GmbH Model DG-1000T gliders equipped with Solo Kleinmotoren Model 2350 C engines. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as a material defect of the propeller shaft, most likely caused by a manufacturing error. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.
AD 2013-03-10 · published Feb 12, 2013, effective Mar 19, 2013
Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd Appliances
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd female ACME threaded hose connectors, part numbers HS6139 and HS6144, installed on balloons. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as insufficient tightness of the threaded hose connector in the assembly area that could result in fuel leakage. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.
