EASA AD CF-2023-44
Navigation — Minimum Equipment List (MEL) Item Prohibition in the Presence of 5G C-Band Wireless Broadband Interference
Summary
Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF-2023-44 addresses navigation Minimum Equipment List (MEL) item prohibitions related to 5G C-Band wireless broadband interference for Bombardier Inc. BD-700-1A10 and BD-700-1A11 aircraft. It updates previous directives by refining operational restrictions in U.S. airspace where 5G interference affects radio altimeters. The directive clarifies conditions under which dispatch is prohibited based on aircraft radio altimeter tolerance and airport 5G deployment status.
What Changed
CF-2023-44 removes the previous requirement to amend the Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM) limiting the use of the automatic flight control system and autothrottle due to 5G interference. It retains the prohibition on dispatch under a specific MEL item when combined with 5G interference could cause inadvertent ground spoiler deployment. The directive also updates the applicability of the MEL prohibition to align with the new U.S. 5G environment, distinguishing between radio altimeter tolerant and non-tolerant aircraft and identifying 5G mitigated airports.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance teams to ensure safe flight operations in U.S. airspace affected by 5G C-Band interference. It impacts dispatch decisions and MEL compliance, particularly for Bombardier BD-700 series aircraft, by preventing operations that could lead to unsafe conditions such as inadvertent spoiler deployment. Understanding the updated requirements helps maintain regulatory compliance and operational safety amid evolving 5G deployments.
What To Do
Operators of Bombardier BD-700-1A10 and BD-700-1A11 aircraft must comply with the MEL dispatch prohibitions effective from July 1, 2023, based on their aircraft's radio altimeter tolerance and the 5G status of airports. They should verify whether airports are designated as 5G C-Band mitigated and adjust dispatch accordingly. Alternative means of compliance approved under previous related ADs remain valid until June 30, 2023.
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