EASA AD CF-2023-40
Equipment / Furnishings — Pilot and Co-pilot Seats — Fore/Aft Adjustment Mechanism Inoperative
Summary
The Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF-2023-40 addresses an issue with the fore/aft adjustment mechanism of pilot and co-pilot seats on Airbus Canada Limited Partnership BD-500-1A10 and BD-500-1A11 aircraft. This directive mandates corrective action to prevent seat blockage caused by a broken split pin in the seat base linkage. The affected aircraft are those with serial numbers 50010 to 50067 for the BD-500-1A10 model and 55003 to 55233, 55235, 55236, and 55238 for the BD-500-1A11 model.
What Changed
CF-2023-40 introduces a mandatory replacement of the existing split pin or self-locking nut in the seat base linkage with a smaller split pin to eliminate interference with the seat rail. This replaces a previous factory design solution that used a self-locking nut but did not meet regulatory friction braking requirements. The directive requires modification of the pilot and co-pilot seats according to Airbus Canada Service Bulletin BD500-251006, edition 001 or later approved revisions.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for maintaining safe aircraft operation by preventing the pilot or co-pilot seat from becoming stuck in the fore/aft position, which can significantly increase crew workload during flight and landing. Compliance ensures that operators avoid potential safety hazards related to seat adjustment failures. Maintenance and compliance teams must implement the corrective measures to meet Canadian aviation regulatory standards and maintain airworthiness.
What To Do
Operators of affected Airbus Canada BD-500-1A10 and BD-500-1A11 aircraft must replace the split pin or self-locking nut in the pilot and co-pilot seat base linkage with a smaller split pin as specified in Airbus Canada Service Bulletin BD500-251006, edition 001 or later approved revisions. This modification must be completed within 9,350 flight hours from the directive's effective date of June 27, 2023, unless already accomplished.
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