EASA SIB CE-09-46
Cirrus SR20 and SR22 Aeroplanes - Nose Landing Gear Cracking
Summary
The Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin SAIB: CE-09-46 is an FAA informational bulletin addressing nose landing gear cracking concerns on Cirrus Design Corporation Models SR20 and SR22 airplanes. It highlights observed cracking and nose gear collapses in SR20 training aircraft and cracking in SR22 models, although no collapses have occurred on the latter. The bulletin is intended to alert owners and installers but does not mandate regulatory action.
What Changed
This bulletin introduces awareness of potential nose landing gear cracking issues in Cirrus SR20 and SR22 airplanes, based on recent findings and incidents. It does not impose mandatory requirements but recommends compliance with specific Cirrus service bulletins to address the concern. No airworthiness directive or regulatory mandate is issued under 14 CFR Part 39.
Why It Matters
This information is important for aviation professionals, including operators and maintenance organizations, because nose landing gear integrity is critical for safe ground operations and training activities. Early detection and repair of cracks can prevent gear collapse incidents, reducing safety risks and potential aircraft downtime. Compliance with recommended service bulletins supports continued airworthiness and operational reliability.
What To Do
Owners and operators of Cirrus SR20 and SR22 airplanes should review and comply with Cirrus Design Corporation service bulletins SB 2X-32-18 R4 and SB 2X-32-19 as applicable. They should inspect the nose landing gear assemblies for cracking, especially in the areas identified, and perform repairs or replacements as recommended. No specific compliance deadline is provided, but timely action is advised to mitigate risks.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.