EASA AD CF-2023-21
Oxygen — Portable Protective Breathing Equipment (PBE) — Missing PBE in the Forward Area of the Aeroplane
Summary
Airworthiness Directive CF-2023-21 addresses the absence of Portable Protective Breathing Equipment (PBE) in the forward area of certain Bombardier Inc. CL-600-2B16 aircraft. This directive mandates inspection and installation of PBE devices marked with Technical Standard Order (TSO) C116 or C116a if missing. The affected aircraft are specific serial numbers of the Bombardier CL-600-2B16 model.
What Changed
This new Airworthiness Directive introduces a requirement to inspect the forward area of applicable Bombardier CL-600-2B16 aeroplanes for the presence of portable PBEs. If the PBE is missing, it mandates installation of a compliant PBE and associated placard following Bombardier Service Bulletin 604-35-008, Revision 2. No prior directive addressed this specific equipment omission.
Why It Matters
Ensuring the presence of portable PBEs is critical for crew safety during fire emergencies in the cabin. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to meet Canadian Aviation Regulations and maintain airworthiness certification. Failure to comply could result in regulatory penalties and increased risk to crew safety during in-flight fire events.
What To Do
Operators of affected Bombardier CL-600-2B16 aircraft must inspect the left-hand side forward wardrobe, cockpit, or passenger cabin area within 12 months from April 13, 2023, to verify PBE installation. If no compliant PBE is found, they must install a portable PBE marked with TSO C116 or C116a and the required placard as per Bombardier Service Bulletin 604-35-008, Revision 2 or later approved revisions. No further action is required if a compliant PBE is already installed.
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