EASA SIB CASA-2023-07_02
Degraded Anti-Skid Performance when Landing on a Contaminated Runway
Summary
The Transport Canada Civil Aviation Safety Alert CASA 2023-07 Issue No. 02 addresses degraded anti-skid performance when landing on contaminated runways for Airbus Canada Limited Partnership A220 series aeroplanes, specifically models BD-500-1A10 and BD-500-1A11. The alert highlights the risk of transient locked wheels due to low friction conditions, which can lead to reduced braking effectiveness and directional control issues during landing. It reinforces existing guidance and mitigation measures recommended by Airbus Canada to enhance safety during operations on contaminated surfaces.
What Changed
This revision of CASA 2023-07 updates and reinforces awareness of the degraded anti-skid performance issue on contaminated runways for A220 aircraft, following new in-service events reported during the 2023-2024 winter season. It emphasizes that the locked wheel protection may be inhibited below certain wheel speeds despite aircraft speed, leading to wheel lock conditions. The document reiterates the importance of applying Airbus Canada's recommended operational procedures and reporting requirements.
Why It Matters
This alert is critical for aviation professionals as degraded anti-skid performance can cause asymmetric or symmetric wheel lock, resulting in compromised braking and directional control, especially in crosswind conditions on contaminated runways. Operators and maintenance teams must be vigilant to prevent potential runway excursions and tire damage. Compliance with recommended procedures and timely reporting of incidents supports ongoing safety monitoring and corrective action by regulatory authorities.
What To Do
Owners and operators should ensure flight crews are fully trained on and adhere to Airbus Canada's operational guidelines in the specified Flight Operators Transmissions documents. They must also enforce compliance with Airplane Flight Manual and Flight Crew Operating Manual procedures related to contaminated runway operations. Additionally, all occurrences of degraded anti-skid performance must be reported via Service Difficulty Reports to Transport Canada or the relevant local authority without delay.