Thu, Dec 20, 2012
Compartment Might Come Open In Flight
The FAA has issued a Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) regarding an issue with the door on the nose cargo compartment of Cessna 425 airplanes. The agency recommends pilots follow the emergency procedures section of the Pilot’s Operating Handbook (POH) for “Nose Baggage Door Open on Takeoff” if they experience an open nose baggage door (or avionics door, if equipped).
In August 2012, a Cessna Model 425 airplane’s nose baggage door opened during flight, and the door departed the airplane. This is the only known instance of a Model 425 airplane cargo door departing the airplane. Nose baggage doors opening in flight have been a contributing factor in accidents (some fatal) on other Cessna models with similar latches. However, flight testing was previously conducted on a 400-series aircraft which showed the open door did not affect flight characteristics or multiengine climb performance.
For the reasons stated above, the FAA recommends that pilots familiarize themselves with and follow the emergency procedures section of the POH for “Nose Baggage Door Open on Takeoff” if they experience an open nose baggage door. All pilots are reminded of their responsibility to verify that the cabin door, baggage door, avionics door (if equipped), engine cowlings, and fuel caps have been latched securely before flight. In addition, the FAA reminds operators that Cessna Service Bulletin CQB87-1, which specifies installation of secondary latches on nose baggage doors and avionics doors (if equipped), is available for all Cessna Model 425 airplanes.
The agency does not consider this a condition which warrants the issuance of an AD at this time.
(Cessna 425 image from file)
More News
Aero Linx: Model Aeronautical Association of Australia MAAA clubs are about fun flying, camaraderie and community. For over 75 years, the MAAA has been Australia’s largest fl>[...]
Touchdown Zone Lighting Two rows of transverse light bars located symmetrically about the runway centerline normally at 100 foot intervals. The basic system extends 3,000 feet alon>[...]
“Discovery and innovation are central to our mission at Virgin Galactic. We’re excited to build on our successful record of facilitating scientific experiments in subor>[...]
How To Get A Story On Aero-TV News/Feature Programming How do I submit a story idea or lead to Aero-TV? If you would like to submit a story idea or lead, please contact Jim Campbel>[...]
Student Pilot Reported That During Rotation, “All Of A Sudden The Back Of The Plane Kicked To The Right..." Analysis: The student pilot reported that during rotation, “>[...]