EASA SIB CE-11-42
Piper PA-28, PA-32, PA-34 and PA-44 Series - Flight Control Cable/Pulley Inspections
Summary
The Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin SAIB: CE-11-42 is an FAA informational bulletin addressing a potential airworthiness issue with flight control cables and pulleys on Piper PA-28, PA-32, PA-34, and PA-44 series airplanes. It highlights a manufacturing flaw in pulleys that can cause aileron control cables to fail, potentially resulting in loss of aileron control. The bulletin applies to all serial numbers of the specified Piper models and provides inspection guidance but does not mandate regulatory action.
What Changed
SAIB: CE-11-42 introduces awareness of a manufacturing defect in the aileron control cable pulleys on certain Piper aircraft models. It provides recommended inspection procedures based on Piper Service Letter No. 1135 to detect cable wear or damage. This bulletin does not impose mandatory requirements but advises operators to conduct inspections at 100-hour intervals to mitigate risk.
Why It Matters
This bulletin is important for aviation professionals because failure of aileron control cables can lead to loss of control authority, posing a safety risk. Operators and maintenance organizations need to be vigilant in inspecting flight control cables and pulleys to identify wear, corrosion, or cracking early. Proactive inspections help maintain aircraft airworthiness and prevent potential in-flight control failures.
What To Do
Operators of affected Piper PA-28, PA-32, PA-34, and PA-44 series airplanes should review and follow the inspection procedures outlined in Piper Service Letter No. 1135 dated October 19, 2010. Inspections of flight control cables, pulleys, and fittings should be performed every 100 hours of flight time. Any signs of damage, corrosion, or cracking require immediate replacement of the affected components.
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