EASA SIB 2011-26
Bombardier (formerly Canadair) CL-600-2B19 - Heading Deviations
Summary
EASA Safety Information Bulletin SIB No: 2011-26 is an advisory document addressing possible heading deviations in Bombardier (formerly Canadair) CL-600-2B19 Regional Jet aircraft caused by surface magnetic anomalies. It references FAA Safety Alert for Operators SAFO 11006 and applies to all serial numbers of the CL-600-2B19. The bulletin highlights the risk of heading discrepancies during surface operations in areas with known or suspected magnetic field anomalies and supports FAA recommendations to mitigate these risks.
What Changed
This bulletin introduces awareness and procedural recommendations for operators of Bombardier CL-600-2B19 aircraft to manage heading deviations caused by magnetic anomalies. It encourages operators to develop and implement specific procedures, including using DG mode for takeoff in affected areas, updating training programs, and maintaining lists of airports with known magnetic anomalies. The document does not mandate changes but strongly supports FAA guidance to improve operational safety.
Why It Matters
Heading deviations due to magnetic anomalies can lead to pilot disorientation and navigation errors, especially at busy airports with parallel operations. For aviation professionals, understanding and mitigating these deviations is critical to maintaining safe ground and flight operations. Operators, training managers, and safety directors must address these risks to prevent incidents and ensure compliance with best safety practices.
What To Do
Operators should develop and implement procedures for operating in areas with known or suspected magnetic anomalies, including training flightcrews on causes, recognition, and procedures. Flightcrews should use DG mode during takeoff in affected areas and verify heading indicators as recommended. Operators must maintain and update lists of affected airports, enable reporting of suspected anomalies, and dispatchers should alert crews when departing from such locations. No explicit compliance deadline is stated.