FAA Patches Bombardier Flap Manual Goof
Published Date: 3/26/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants to fix a mistake in the flight manual for certain Bombardier BD-700 airplanes that could confuse pilots during specific wing flap situations. They’re asking Bombardier to update the manual with the right info to keep flights safe. Owners need to comment by May 12, 2025, and the fix won’t cost much but is super important for safe flying.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Corrects unsafe slat-flap procedure errors
The AD fixes incorrect approach speed adders and landing distance factors in AFM tables used for certain slat-flap failure situations. The FAA says correcting these AFM tables addresses an unsafe condition that could otherwise increase flightcrew workload, cause possible stick shaker activation (stall warning), or increase landing distance.
AFM update required for specified Bombardier jets
If you operate a Bombardier Model BD-700-1A10 or BD-700-1A11 with serial numbers listed (9002 through 60086 inclusive, 60088 through 60091 inclusive, 60098, 60100, 60105, 60107, and 60111), you must revise the existing airplane flight manual (AFM) to incorporate the corrected slat-flap procedures. The revision must be done within 30 days after the effective date of the airworthiness directive.
Estimated compliance cost: $85 per airplane
The FAA estimates the required AFM revision will take 1 work-hour at $85 per airplane, with no parts cost. The FAA estimates this AD would affect 476 U.S.-registered airplanes, giving a total estimated cost on U.S. operators of $40,460.
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