EASA AD CF-2020-50
Navigation — Flight Instruments - Unreliable Air Data in the Cockpit
Summary
The Airworthiness Directive CF-2020-50 issued by Transport Canada addresses unreliable air data in the cockpit for Bombardier Inc. BD-700-1A10 and BD-700-1A11 aeroplanes, specifically serial numbers 9002 through 9998 and 60001 through 60027. This directive mandates updates to the Airplane Flight Manual to include procedures that help crews manage loss of air data system information caused by high altitude icing. The goal is to ensure continued safe flight and landing under such conditions.
What Changed
This new Airworthiness Directive introduces mandatory incorporation of specific Airplane Flight Manual sections and supplements that provide procedures for handling unreliable airspeed instruments due to air data system failures. It requires operators to amend their manuals and inform flight crews accordingly. The directive targets the BD-700 series aircraft to mitigate risks associated with high altitude ice crystal contamination.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk that can lead to loss of air data information, potentially compromising flight safety. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to prevent incidents related to unreliable airspeed indications. Compliance helps maintain regulatory adherence and enhances crew preparedness for managing air data failures in flight.
What To Do
Operators of affected Bombardier BD-700-1A10 and BD-700-1A11 aircraft must amend their Transport Canada approved Airplane Flight Manuals by incorporating the specified emergency procedures within 30 days of the effective date. Flight crews must be informed of these changes and operate the aircraft according to the updated procedures. The effective date of this directive is December 4, 2020.
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