EASA SIB CE-18-11
M7 Aerospace LLC SA226 and SA227 Airplanes - Flight Controls / Elevator Control System
Summary
The Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin SAIB: CE-18-11 is an FAA informational bulletin addressing flight control concerns specifically related to the elevator control system on M7 Aerospace LLC Models SA226-AT/-TC/-T(B)/T and SA227-AC(C-26A)/-AT/-BC(C-26A)/-CC/-DC(C-26B)/-TT airplanes. It provides inspection procedures and maintenance recommendations for elevator quadrant bearings and bores to address corrosion issues. This bulletin is not a mandatory directive but serves to inform operators of potential airworthiness concerns.
What Changed
This bulletin introduces inspection and maintenance guidance following reports of excessive corrosion on elevator quadrant bearings and bores in the affected M7 Aerospace SA226 and SA227 series airplanes. It references service bulletins issued by M7 Aerospace that specify corrosion inspection procedures, rework limits, and crack detection methods. The FAA has not issued an airworthiness directive but recommends voluntary compliance with these inspection and replacement procedures.
Why It Matters
This information is important for aviation professionals because corrosion in elevator quadrant bearings can affect flight control integrity and safety. Operators and maintenance organizations need to be aware of the potential for corrosion and cracking to ensure continued airworthiness and prevent possible control system failures. Early detection and corrective action can reduce maintenance costs and improve operational safety.
What To Do
Operators of the specified M7 Aerospace SA226 and SA227 airplane models should perform initial and periodic visual inspections of the elevator quadrant bearings and bores as outlined in the referenced M7 Aerospace service bulletins. If corrosion exceeds specified limits or cracks are found, the elevator quadrants should be replaced. Operators are also encouraged to voluntarily report any corrosion findings to the FAA contact provided. There are no mandatory compliance deadlines stated.