EASA AD CF-2021-13
Ice and Rain Protection — Potable Water Line Ribbon Heater Fire Risk
Summary
Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF-2021-13 addresses a fire risk related to the potable water line ribbon heater on Bombardier Inc. CL-600-1A11, CL-600-2A12, and CL-600-2B16 aircraft equipped with Cox & Co. 3043 or 3044 series ribbon heaters. The directive mandates inspection and corrective actions to prevent potential onboard fires caused by faulty heater installations. It applies to specific Bombardier aircraft models and aims to enhance safety by mitigating this electrical fire hazard.
What Changed
This new Airworthiness Directive introduces mandatory inspections of potable water line ribbon heater installations for insulation and heater damage. It requires replacement of damaged components, identification of lead wires, and installation of a fuse on the power lead to prevent continuous heating conditions that could lead to fire. The directive also provides guidance for aircraft not listed in the referenced service bulletins through direct contact with Bombardier Engineering.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a latent fire hazard that could compromise aircraft safety during flight. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure affected aircraft are inspected and corrected to prevent potential onboard fires. Compliance with this directive helps maintain airworthiness and regulatory conformity, reducing risk to passengers and crew.
What To Do
Operators of Bombardier CL-600-1A11, CL-600-2A12, and CL-600-2B16 aircraft equipped with Cox & Co. 3043 or 3044 series ribbon heaters must inspect the potable water line ribbon heater installations within six years of April 15, 2021. They must perform required repairs, replace damaged insulation and heaters, identify lead wires, and install fuses as specified in the applicable Bombardier Service Bulletins or approved revisions. For aircraft not covered by these bulletins, operators should contact Bombardier Engineering for inspection and corrective instructions.
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