Landing Gear Retraction / Extension System
- Published
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Owners, operators, and maintenance personnel of the affected Twin Commander aircraft should inspect each main landing gear assembly for signs of a fractured clevis mounting boss. Inspection results should be reported to the manufacturer following the procedures outlined in Twin Commander Service Letter 376 dated April 25, 2000. There are no mandatory compliance deadlines specified, but timely inspection is recommended to ensure safety.
Summary
The Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin SAIB: 2023-14 is an FAA informational bulletin addressing a potential fractured clevis mounting boss on the main landing gear strut of Twin Commander Aircraft LLC models 500A, 500B, 500S, 500U, 560-F, 680F, 680F(P), 680FL, 680FL(P), 680T, 680V, 680W, 681, 685, 690, 690A, 690B, 690C, 690D, 695, 695A, and 695B airplanes. It alerts owners, operators, and maintenance personnel about this issue without mandating regulatory action. The bulletin highlights a previous incident involving a Twin Commander 500S where the right main landing gear failed to fully extend due to this fractured component.
What changed
SAIB: 2023-14 introduces an advisory notice regarding the inspection of the main landing gear clevis mounting boss on specified Twin Commander aircraft models. It does not impose mandatory requirements but recommends inspections in accordance with Twin Commander Service Letter 376. This bulletin does not issue an airworthiness directive or regulatory mandate but serves as a safety alert.
Why it matters
This bulletin is important for aviation professionals because it highlights a potential mechanical failure that could prevent the main landing gear from extending and locking properly, posing a safety risk during landing. Operators and maintenance teams need to be aware of this issue to prevent incidents and ensure continued airworthiness. Early detection through inspection can mitigate risks and avoid operational disruptions.
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