EASA SIB 2007-14
FAA SAIB CE-05-27 - Foam-Filled Elevator Trim (F-FET) Tabs installed on Cessna single-engine aircraft
Summary
EASA Safety Information Notice No. 2007-14 is an informational notice referencing FAA Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin CE-05-27 regarding foam-filled elevator trim (F-FET) tabs installed on certain Cessna single-engine aircraft models 206, 207, and 210. The document highlights potential issues with these F-FET tabs, including moisture absorption leading to internal corrosion, added weight, and possible flutter. It applies to specific aircraft serial numbers listed in the FAA bulletin.
What Changed
This notice reiterates the FAA's recommendation to replace foam-filled elevator trim tabs (part number 1234628-1) with unfoamed tabs (part numbers 1234665-1 or 1234665-9) with doublers, as detailed in Cessna service bulletins SEB85-7, SEB92-1, and SEB00-6. It does not introduce new regulatory requirements but endorses the FAA's guidance to mitigate corrosion and flutter risks associated with the affected tabs.
Why It Matters
The presence of moisture in foam-filled elevator trim tabs can cause internal corrosion and structural degradation, potentially leading to trim tab flutter and elevator damage. For operators and maintenance personnel, awareness and inspection of these tabs are critical to ensure flight safety and prevent in-flight control surface failures. Compliance with recommended replacement procedures helps maintain aircraft airworthiness and reduces the risk of costly repairs or accidents.
What To Do
Owners and operators of affected Cessna Model 206, 207, and 210 series aircraft should inspect the foam-filled elevator trim tabs for corrosion as described in the referenced Cessna service bulletins and replace them with unfoamed tabs per FAA and Cessna recommendations. No mandatory airworthiness directive action is required, but following the guidance is strongly advised to maintain safety. For further information, stakeholders can contact EASA's Airworthiness Directives Section or the FAA Aerospace Engineer listed in the bulletin.
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