Airworthiness DirectiveEASA AD US-2023-11-09

Flight Controls - Flight Control Computer Software - Update

Published: Jun 14, 2023
Effective: Jul 18, 2023
Deadline: Oct 16, 2023
Replaces: 2020-02-18
Replaces: 2022-10-05

AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.

What to do

Operators of Gulfstream GVII-G500 airplanes with serial numbers 72001 through 72111 and GVII-G600 airplanes with serial numbers 73001 through 73106 must update the flight control computer software within 90 days after July 18, 2023. Compliance can be achieved by following the procedures in Gulfstream ASC No. 039A or ASC No. 029A. Completing the software update terminates the requirements of AD 2020-02-18 and AD 2022-10-05 for the affected airplane.

Summary

Federal Aviation Administration Airworthiness Directive 2023-11-09 is a final rule addressing certain Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation Model GVII-G500 and GVII-G600 airplanes. It mandates updating the flight control computer software to prevent unsafe alpha limiter engagement during landing flare, which has caused high rate of descent landings and airplane damage. This directive aims to enhance flight safety by correcting this critical flight control issue.

What changed

This new airworthiness directive requires operators to update the flight control computer software on affected Gulfstream GVII-G500 and GVII-G600 airplanes. It incorporates Gulfstream Technical Bulletins ASC No. 039A and ASC No. 029A as approved methods for compliance. The directive also revises applicability to exclude production airplanes with software version 9.5 or later and clarifies terminating actions for previous related ADs.

Why it matters

This directive is crucial for aviation professionals because it addresses a flight control software issue that can limit pilot pitch authority during landing, potentially leading to loss of control and damage. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain airworthiness and avoid operational restrictions imposed by earlier ADs. It also provides clear guidance on acceptable service information and compliance methods, reducing ambiguity in maintenance procedures.

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