EASA AD CF-2024-36
Flight Controls — Primary Flight Control Computer Software Deficiencies
Summary
Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF-2024-36 addresses software deficiencies in the Primary Flight Control Computer (PFCC) affecting Airbus Canada Limited Partnership BD-500-1A10 and BD-500-1A11 aircraft. The directive mandates updates to the PFCC software to correct erroneous fault messages and improve system robustness. It also requires amendments to the Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) to warn against autopilot engagement during takeoff until the software update is installed.
What Changed
CF-2024-36 supersedes AD CF-2022-64 and introduces a mandatory installation of PFCC software part number 810-0337-009 to resolve software design deficiencies. It maintains the AFM limitation on autopilot engagement during takeoff until the software update is completed, after which the AFM amendment requirement is terminated.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance teams to prevent erroneous flight control system warnings and potential loss of aircraft control. Compliance reduces flight crew workload and enhances safety margins by addressing software robustness issues that could lead to unannounced ground spoiler deployment or inadvertent autopilot engagement during takeoff.
What To Do
Operators must amend the AFM within 7 days of the previous AD CF-2022-64 effective date to include a warning about autopilot engagement during takeoff. The PFCC software update must be installed on all affected aircraft within 24 months of the effective date of CF-2024-36. After software installation, the AFM amendment is no longer required.