EASA AD CF-2023-42
Wings — Inboard Flap Seal Plate Lost or Damaged
Summary
Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF-2023-42 addresses the issue of lost or damaged inboard flap seal plate assemblies on Bombardier Inc. BD-700-1A10 and BD-700-1A11 aircraft, specifically affecting certain serial numbers. The directive mandates inspections and replacement of the flap seal plate assemblies to prevent potential in-flight detachment and subsequent aircraft damage.
What Changed
This new Airworthiness Directive introduces mandatory detailed inspections of the left and right inboard flap seal plate assemblies for cracks, followed by replacement with redesigned, more robust components within 12 months. It also establishes inspection intervals and provides alternative inspection methods for aircraft with low flight hours and cycles.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of the flap seal plates, preventing excessive buffeting and vibration that could lead to further damage. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure timely inspections and replacements to uphold flight safety and regulatory compliance.
What To Do
Affected operators must perform initial detailed inspections within 100 or 250 flight hours depending on total accumulated hours as of July 3, 2023, and repeat inspections every 250 hours until the redesigned flap seal plate assemblies are installed. Replacement with the redesigned assemblies and inspection of related flap components must be completed within 12 months of the effective date. Any cracks found require immediate corrective action before further flight.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.