EASA AD CF-2026-04: Landing Gear — Main Landing Gear Premature Tire Failure

What to do

Operators must inspect main landing gear tires for affected Goodyear part and serial numbers immediately upon the directive's effective date of 2026-02-11. Retreaded tires with serial numbers pre 8232xxxx must be removed before 150 flight cycles or within one week/25 flight cycles if already exceeded. Non-retreaded tires must be removed before 300 flight cycles or within two weeks/50 flight cycles if exceeded. Installation of retreaded tires with affected serial numbers is prohibited from the effective date.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive CF-2026-04 addresses premature tire failures on the main landing gear of De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited model DHC-8-401 and DHC-8-402 aeroplanes. The directive targets Goodyear tires with part number 347K63-1 and serial numbers before 8232xxxx, which may have a manufacturing defect leading to early failure. It mandates inspection, removal, and replacement of affected tires to ensure safe landing performance.

What changed

This new Airworthiness Directive introduces mandatory inspections and replacement requirements for specific Goodyear main landing gear tires with serial numbers pre 8232xxxx on DHC-8-401 and DHC-8-402 aircraft. It prohibits installation of retreaded tires with these serial numbers and sets service life limits for non-retreaded tires. The directive also references a specific service bulletin for compliance procedures.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent main landing gear tire failures that could compromise braking and steering during landing. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft safety and avoid operational disruptions. It also clarifies compliance timelines and installation prohibitions, aiding maintenance planning and regulatory adherence.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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