EASA AD CF-2024-32
Electrical System Installation — Frame (FR) 51 Bulkhead Connectors - Inadequate Electrical Bonding
Summary
Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF-2024-32 addresses inadequate electrical bonding in the Frame (FR) 51 bulkhead connectors on Airbus Canada Limited Partnership (ACLP) aircraft models BD-500-1A10 and BD-500-1A11 with specified serial numbers. The directive mandates electrical bonding tests and corrective actions to ensure compliance with design limits and protect against electromagnetic interference, high-intensity radiated fields, and lightning strikes. This AD applies specifically to certain BD-500 series aircraft manufactured by ACLP.
What Changed
CF-2024-32 introduces mandatory electrical bonding tests between the feed-through connectors and the forward side of the bulkhead at FR 51 due to increased bonding resistance caused by a change in O-ring material and inadequate torque specifications. If any connectors exceed bonding resistance limits, the AD requires installation of two electrical bonding plates to restore proper bonding. This is a new regulation addressing a previously unidentified unsafe condition.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to maintain aircraft electrical system integrity and safety. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure electrical bonding levels meet design standards to prevent susceptibility to electromagnetic interference, HIRF, and lightning strikes, which can compromise aircraft systems. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and regulatory adherence under Canadian Aviation Regulations.
What To Do
Affected operators must perform electrical bonding tests on the 22 feed-through connectors at FR 51 within 9350 flight hours from the AD's effective date of 25 September 2024. If any connectors are found discrepant, two electrical bonding plates must be installed before further flight according to ACLP Service Bulletin BD500-534011. Compliance with these actions is mandatory to continue legal operation of the affected aircraft.