EASA AD CF-2026-47R1
Wing – Wing Access Panels with Un-trimmed Stiffeners and/or Reduced Thickness - Inspection
Summary
Airworthiness Directive CF-2026-47R1 addresses inspection and modification requirements for wing access panels with un-trimmed stiffeners and/or reduced thickness on De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited model DHC-8 series 100, 200, and 300 aircraft. The directive focuses on ensuring that the right-hand wing access panel stiffener is trimmed and that correct thickness panels are installed to prevent potential ignition sources in the wing fuel tank. It applies to all serial numbers of the specified models.
What Changed
CF-2026-47R1 corrects an error in the superseded AD number referenced in the French version of the previous AD CF-2026-47 while maintaining all existing requirements. It continues to mandate inspection, modification, and parts installation prohibitions related to wing access panels and stiffeners as outlined in earlier directives and service bulletins.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to mitigate the risk of fuel tank ignition caused by contact between wing access panel stiffeners and incorrectly installed fuel line couplings. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and safety of affected DHC-8 aircraft, preventing potential lightning strike hazards. Maintenance and compliance teams must verify proper panel configurations and modifications to avoid operational restrictions.
What To Do
Operators must inspect and, if necessary, modify both left-hand and right-hand outer wing access panels within 8000 flight hours or 48 months from 16 July 2025, whichever occurs first, following De Havilland SB 8-57-50 Rev. A or later approved revisions. Installation of prohibited panel part numbers is forbidden from the effective date of this AD. For aircraft previously modified under the initial service bulletin, a verification inspection and possible rework are required within the same compliance timeframe.
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