EASA AD CF-2023-22
Landing Gear — Nose Landing Gear and Doors — Loss of Pivot Pin Retention Bolt
Summary
Airworthiness Directive CF-2023-22 is issued by Transport Canada and applies to De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited model DHC-8-401 and DHC-8-402 aeroplanes, serial numbers 4001 and 4003 through 4633. The directive addresses the loss of the pivot pin retention bolt on the nose landing gear and associated doors, which could lead to loss of directional control or tire rupture during take-off or landing. It mandates specific inspections, replacements, and maintenance actions to ensure continued airworthiness.
What Changed
This directive supersedes AD CF-2009-29R4 and introduces the removal and replacement of certain pivot pin and tow fitting assemblies with new parts that do not require a retention bolt. It maintains previous requirements for bolt replacement and lubrication until the new pivot pin assemblies are installed, which serve as terminating actions to earlier mandates.
Why It Matters
The loss of the pivot pin retention bolt can cause critical failures such as nose landing gear trailing arm detachment or nose wheel steering loss, posing safety risks during take-off and landing. Compliance ensures the structural integrity of the nose landing gear and prevents incidents that could lead to accidents or costly repairs. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must adhere to these requirements to maintain regulatory approval and aircraft safety.
What To Do
Operators must perform specified modifications and replacements of the pivot pin retention bolts and assemblies within defined flight cycles or calendar timeframes, including lubrication tasks at regular intervals. The final replacement of pivot pin and tow fitting assemblies must be completed within 8000 flight hours or 48 months from the directive's effective date. Installation of obsolete pivot pin parts is prohibited from the effective date onward.
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