EASA AD US-2020-11-04
Engine Exhaust - Thrust Reverser Voice Command Warning System - Installation
Summary
Federal Register Volume 85, Number 99 (May 21, 2020) is a final rule airworthiness directive issued by the FAA addressing certain Learjet Inc. Model 60 airplanes. It mandates the installation of a thrust reverser Voice Command Warning System (VCWS) to alert flight crews of thrust reverser malfunctions that could cause unintended acceleration during reverse thrust commands.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive requires operators of affected Learjet Model 60 airplanes to install a thrust reverser VCWS. The system provides an aural voice command warning to the crew if the thrust reverser doors are not properly deployed when reverse thrust is commanded, mitigating the risk of acceleration instead of deceleration. This AD introduces a design change aimed at improving pilot awareness and response to thrust reverser malfunctions.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk that could lead to runway overruns or excursions due to thrust reverser failures. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to prevent accidents caused by inadvertent forward thrust during reverse thrust commands. The installation of the VCWS enhances flight safety by providing timely warnings, thereby supporting safer rejected takeoffs and landing rollouts.
What To Do
Affected Learjet Model 60 operators must install the thrust reverser VCWS according to Bombardier Learjet 60 Service Bulletin SB 60-78-9 dated June 25, 2018. Compliance with this AD is mandatory by June 25, 2020. Operators should coordinate with Learjet Inc. or authorized maintenance providers to schedule and complete the installation within the specified timeframe.
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