Bombardier elevators need dusting—standard FAA fix
Published Date: 2/4/2025
Rule
Summary
If you fly Bombardier BD-700-1A10 or BD-700-1A11 planes, listen up! The FAA is updating safety rules to keep your elevator controls in top shape by adding new maintenance checks starting March 11, 2025. These changes help prevent wear and tear from dust or corrosion, keeping flights safe without breaking the bank.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Must Revise Maintenance Program Quickly
If you operate Bombardier BD-700-1A10 or BD-700-1A11 airplanes, you must revise your maintenance or inspection program to add the new airworthiness limitation within 30 days after March 11, 2025. The initial task compliance is as specified in the applicable temporary revision or within 90 days after March 11, 2025, whichever occurs later; FAA estimates this revision takes 90 work‑hours per operator (90 x $85 = $7,650).
Continue Inspections and Repairs Every 63 Months
You must keep doing general visual inspections of left and right elevator torque tube bearings and functional elevator control tests, and fix any problems before further flight. Do the initial inspection within 36 months from July 29, 2021 or within 63 months from the airplane's date of manufacture (as shown on the data plate or in the technical logbook), whichever is later, and repeat inspections at intervals not to exceed 63 months.
Credit Provided For Earlier Inspections
If you already performed the required inspections using the listed Bombardier service bulletins before July 29, 2021, or completed the initial and repetitive inspection actions before this AD's effective date using the listed temporary revisions, you get credit and do not have to repeat those actions.
No Alternate Intervals Without FAA Approval
After you revise the maintenance or inspection program as required, you may not use alternative inspection actions or intervals unless an Alternative Method of Compliance (AMOC) is approved by the FAA under 14 CFR 39.19. Previously approved AMOCs for AD 2021-10-02 remain valid for corresponding provisions.
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