AD/SF340/106 Forward Engine Cowl Door (Cth)

AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVE

For the reasons set out in the background section, the CASA delegate whose signature appears below issues the following Airworthiness Directive (AD) under subregulation 39.001(1) of CASR 1998.  The AD requires that the action set out in the requirement section (being action that the delegate considers necessary to correct the unsafe condition) be taken in relation to the aircraft or aeronautical product mentioned in the applicability section: (a) in the circumstances mentioned in the requirement section; and (b) in accordance with the instructions set out in the requirement section; and (c) at the time mentioned in the compliance section.

SAAB SF340 Series Aeroplanes

AD/SF340/106 Forward Engine Cowl Door 6/2008

Applicability:

Model SF340A aircraft, serial numbers 004 through 159.

Model 340B aircraft, serial numbers 160 through 459.

Requirement:

Inspect in accordance with the requirements of SAAB Service Bulletin
SB-340-71-060 original issue, or later EASA approved revision.

If cracks, deformations or damage is detected during the inspection, before further flight, repair in accordance with the Saab 340 Structure Repair Manual, or consult SAAB for corrective action.

Within 10 days of the inspection, report the results to Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems.

Note:  EASA AD 2008-0069 refers.

Compliance:

Within 1,000 flight hours after 5 June 2008, unless already accomplished.

This Airworthiness Directive becomes effective on 5 June 2008.

Background:

Field reports were received of cracks in the frames and closing angle on the forward engine cowl door NS STA 203 and 250.  In the case of a damaged frame and/or closing angle, the forward engine cowl door can loosen during flight and depart the aircraft.  An inspection is required on four points on each of the forward engine cowl doors.

David Villiers
Delegate of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority

21 April 2008