EASA SIB SAIB-2023-02
Landing Gear System - Operation / Maintenance
Summary
The Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin SAIB: 2023-02 is an FAA informational bulletin addressing landing gear system operation and maintenance for Mooney International Corporation Model M20 series airplanes, including variants M20, M20A through M20V. It highlights ongoing airworthiness concerns related to landing gear failures but does not mandate regulatory action. The bulletin provides guidance on proper inspection, maintenance, and operation of both manual and electric landing gear systems.
What Changed
SAIB 2023-02 updates previous recommendations by reaffirming compliance with Mooney Service Instruction M20-122 and introduces additional guidance from Mooney Service Bulletin M20-344 issued in 2022. It responds to new incidents of landing gear failures and gear-up landings by emphasizing proper rigging, lubrication, and tensioning of landing gear components, especially for airplanes equipped with Johnson Bar landing gear systems.
Why It Matters
This bulletin is important for aviation professionals because it addresses recurring landing gear reliability issues that can affect flight safety and aircraft operability. Operators and maintenance personnel must be aware of the recommended maintenance practices to prevent gear failures and unintentional gear-up landings. Following these guidelines helps ensure continued airworthiness and reduces the risk of costly repairs or accidents.
What To Do
Owners and operators of Mooney M20 series airplanes should continue to follow the Mooney 100-Hour Inspection Guide and Service and Maintenance Manual as outlined in SI M20-122. They should also review and implement the maintenance and operational procedures detailed in Service Bulletin M20-344. For aircraft with Johnson Bar landing gear, ensure correct tensioning, lubrication, and rigging during routine maintenance and repainting. Additionally, any gear-up landing events should be reported to the FAA with specified aircraft and maintenance details.