EASA AD CF-2024-23
Fire Protection — Fire Extinguisher — Defective Cargo Fire Extinguisher Bottles
Summary
Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF-2024-23 addresses defective cargo fire extinguisher bottles on Airbus Canada Limited Partnership BD-500-1A10 and BD-500-1A11 aircraft. The directive targets specific Low Rate Discharge (LRD) bottles with part numbers 475086-1, 475124-1, and 475087-1 that may have a manufacturing defect causing loss of extinguishing agent. This AD mandates inspection, replacement, and installation restrictions to ensure fire protection system reliability.
What Changed
CF-2024-23 introduces mandatory actions including verification of aircraft records, inspection, removal, and replacement of affected LRD bottles and discharge lines on Group 1 aircraft within 24 months. It also prohibits installation of affected parts on all BD-500-1A10 and BD-500-1A11 aircraft from the effective date. This is a new directive addressing a previously unregulated unsafe condition.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent in-flight cargo fire extinguisher failures that have caused diversions. Compliance ensures the integrity of the cargo fire suppression system, reducing safety risks and potential operational disruptions. It also provides clear guidance on parts management and maintenance procedures to maintain airworthiness.
What To Do
Operators of affected BD-500-1A10 and BD-500-1A11 aircraft must verify technical records or inspect LRD bottles within 24 months of July 2, 2024, and replace defective bottles and discharge lines as specified in ACLP Service Bulletin BD500-262010. Additionally, installation of affected LRD bottles is prohibited from the effective date. Maintenance teams should follow the service bulletin instructions for corrective actions.