EASA AD US-2021-04-07
SUPERSEDED BY FAA AD 2021-09-02
Summary
FAA Airworthiness Directive 2021-04-07 is a final rule addressing Piper Aircraft, Inc. Models PA-46-350P (Malibu Mirage), PA-46R-350T (Malibu Matrix), and PA-46-500TP (Malibu Meridian) airplanes. It requires inspection and correction of stall warning heat control systems on certain airplanes to prevent stall warning failure due to ice formation on the stall vane during flight in icing conditions with landing gear down.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a requirement to inspect the stall warning heat control system configuration on affected Piper PA-46 models and install the proper stall warning heat control modification kit if necessary. It applies to airplanes with specific serial numbers and any airplane with a left wing replaced by a serviceable wing without the proper modification. The AD does not affect previous AD 2008-26-11 but adds inspection requirements for additional airplanes identified with nonconforming stall warning heat control systems.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk where ice can form on the stall vane, potentially causing stall warning system failure. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain safe flight operations in icing conditions. Failure to comply could result in pilots being unaware of an impending stall, increasing the risk of accidents.
What To Do
Affected operators must inspect the stall warning heat control system within 100 hours time-in-service or 12 months after March 30, 2021, whichever occurs first. If the system is nonconforming, they must install the stall warning heat control modification kit part number 8452-002 before further flight. Additionally, no wing may be installed on affected models unless it has the correct stall warning heat control system. Special flight permits are allowed only if flight into known icing conditions is avoided.
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