Fuel – Cylinder Quick Shut-off Valve Mounting Flange – Inspection / Replacement
Superseded. A newer version replaces this document.
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AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Affected stakeholders must inspect all relevant fuel cylinders for leakage before further flight from the effective date of 2021-10-04. Any leaking cylinders must be removed from service immediately. Cylinders passing inspection may undergo a torque test and remain in service until 2022-01-31, by which time all must be modified by replacing the affected adaptor or valve assembly. Installation of the affected adaptor is prohibited from the effective date.
Summary
Civil Aviation Authority Emergency Airworthiness Directive G-2021-0010-E D, issued on 2021-10-01, addresses a safety issue affecting fuel cylinders Part Nos. CB2901, CB2902, and CB2903 used primarily on hot air balloons and airships manufactured by Cameron Balloons Ltd and other balloon manufacturers. The directive focuses on the inspection and replacement of the Quick Shut-Off (QSO) valve mounting flange adaptor P/N CB437 Issue F due to non-conforming thread dimensions that could cause fuel leakage.
What changed
This new Airworthiness Directive introduces mandatory one-time inspections for leakage around the threaded joint of the QSO valve adaptor flange and cylinder boss. It requires removal from service of any leaking cylinders and replacement of the affected adaptor with a serviceable part P/N CB437 Issue G or later, or replacement of the QSO valve assembly with a handwheel valve. Installation of the affected adaptor on any cylinder is prohibited from the effective date.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent uncontrolled liquid propane release, which poses a significant fire hazard and risk of forced emergency landing. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain continuing airworthiness and safety of hot air balloons and airships using these fuel cylinders. Failure to comply could result in safety incidents and regulatory violations.
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