EASA SIB CE-09-16
Main Landing Gear Torque Tubes and Structural Inspection Document - Cessna Twin Engine Aeroplanes.
Summary
The Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin SAIB: CE-09-16 is an FAA informational bulletin addressing the inspection of main landing gear torque tubes on various Cessna twin engine aircraft models including the 310 series, 320 series, 335, 340 series, 401 series, 402 series, 411 series, 414, and 421 series. It highlights the importance of inspecting the torque tubes for fatigue cracks and ensuring proper landing gear rigging to maintain safe operation. This bulletin is not mandatory and does not constitute an airworthiness directive.
What Changed
SAIB CE-09-16 introduces a reminder and recommendation for owners and operators of affected Cessna twin engine aircraft to carefully inspect main landing gear torque tubes according to the applicable structural inspection documents and to verify proper landing gear rigging. It also references related maintenance guidance and highlights recent incidents involving torque tube fatigue cracks.
Why It Matters
This bulletin is important for aviation professionals because fatigue cracks in main landing gear torque tubes can lead to gear failure or incomplete retraction, potentially compromising flight safety. Proper inspection and rigging help prevent landing gear malfunctions, which can affect aircraft handling and safety during critical phases of flight. Maintenance and operational feedback are crucial to identifying and addressing these issues promptly.
What To Do
Owners and operators should ensure maintenance personnel review the August 2006 issue of AC43-16A for inspection guidance, clean and inspect torque tubes per the applicable Supplemental Inspection Document, and properly rig the main landing gear according to the maintenance manual. Pilots should report any gear retraction anomalies to maintenance facilities. No specific compliance deadline is stated.
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