Flight Controls — Rudder Actuator Bracket — Cracked or Missing Nuts
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected DHC-8 aircraft must perform a one-time inspection of the rudder actuator bracket mounting nuts before accumulating 8,000 flight hours or within four years from October 20, 2020, whichever occurs first. Any deficiencies found must be corrected following the procedures in the applicable De Havilland service bulletin listed in the directive. Compliance must be documented and maintained to meet regulatory requirements.
Summary
Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF-2020-34 addresses a safety issue affecting De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited DHC-8 series aeroplanes, including models DHC-8-102 through DHC-8-315 and DHC-8-400 series. The directive mandates inspection of the rudder actuator bracket mounting nuts for cracks or missing nuts that could compromise the rudder control system. This AD aims to ensure continued safe flight operations by preventing potential loss of directional control.
What changed
This new Airworthiness Directive introduces a one-time inspection requirement for the rudder actuator bracket mounting nuts on specified DHC-8 aircraft models. It requires operators to inspect and, if necessary, repair or replace any cracked or missing nuts in accordance with the applicable service bulletin. The AD sets a compliance timeframe of before 8,000 flight hours or within four years from the effective date.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because failure to address cracked or missing rudder actuator bracket nuts can lead to a disconnect between the rudder actuator and the vertical stabilizer, resulting in loss of directional control. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure timely inspections and corrective actions to maintain aircraft airworthiness and comply with Canadian Aviation Regulations.
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