Airbus Pilots Get New Leak-Check Steps from FAA
Published Date: 3/18/2025
Rule
Summary
The FAA is updating rules for Airbus Canada BD-500-1A10 and BD-500-1A11 airplanes after finding a software glitch that could hide big engine leaks. Pilots will now follow new manual steps in the flight manual to handle these leaks safely. This change kicks in April 22, 2025, and helps keep flights safe without big costs for airlines.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Flightmanual change to prevent dual engine failure
You must update the airplane flight manual (AFM) to add crew procedures to manually isolate the opposite engine if there is a large engine bleed duct leak. The change is intended to address a software protection logic impairment on Pratt & Whitney PW1500G engines that could otherwise lead to dual engine failure.
Small one-time paperwork cost for operators
The FAA estimates updating the AFM takes 1 work-hour at $85 per airplane. The rule affects 132 U.S.-registered airplanes, for a total estimated cost to U.S. operators of $11,220.
Who and when this rule applies
This AD applies to all Airbus Canada Model BD-500-1A10 and BD-500-1A11 airplanes certificated in any category and incorporates Transport Canada AD CF-2024-30 (dated August 27, 2024) by reference. The AD is effective April 22, 2025, and compliance must follow the times specified in the incorporated Transport Canada AD.
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