Flight Controls - Rudder Flight Control Cables and the Emergency Power Supply Wiring - Inspection / Replacement
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AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected Piper PA-34-220T airplanes must inspect the rudder flight control cables and emergency power supply wiring within 50 flight hours or 6 months from the effective date of January 5, 2021, whichever occurs first. Any damaged cables or wiring must be replaced before further flight, and the emergency power supply wiring harness must be re-routed according to the specified service bulletin instructions. Alternative methods of compliance may be approved by the FAA upon request.
Summary
Federal Register Volume 85, Number 231 (December 1, 2020) is a final rule airworthiness directive issued by the FAA addressing certain Piper Aircraft, Inc. Model PA-34-220T airplanes. The directive focuses on inspecting and replacing rudder flight control cables and emergency power supply wiring, and re-routing the wiring harness to prevent damage caused by inadequate clearance. This AD aims to ensure the continued airworthiness and safety of the affected Piper PA-34-220T aircraft.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory inspections of the rudder flight control cables and emergency power supply wiring for damage, requires replacement of any damaged components, and mandates re-routing the emergency power supply wiring harness to maintain proper clearance from the rudder cables. It establishes compliance requirements and procedures based on Piper Service Bulletin No. 1337 dated February 15, 2019.
Why it matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals because damage to the rudder flight control cables and emergency power supply wiring can cause electrical arcing and potential failure of the rudder control system. Such failure could lead to loss of yaw control and compromise safe flight, especially during engine-out operations. Operators and maintenance teams must address this unsafe condition promptly to maintain aircraft safety and regulatory compliance.
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