AD 2020-14-06 Deals With Fuel Tank Connection Hose Deterioration

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Diamond Aircraft Industries Models DA 40, DA 40 F, and DA 40 NG airplanes.

This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as deterioration of the fuel tank connection hoses that could result in restriction of fuel flow leading to fuel starvation and reduced control of the airplane. The FAA is issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products. This AD is effective August 4, 2020.

Supplementary Information: Transport Canada, which is the aviation authority for Canada, has issued AD No. CF-2019-39, dated October 31, 2019 (referred to after this as “the MCAI”), to correct an unsafe condition for Diamond Aircraft Industries Models DA 40, DA 40 D, DA 40 F, and DA 40 NG airplanes.

The MCAI states:

• Diamond Aircraft Industries (DAI) has received reports of fuel tank connection hose deterioration on the DA 40 aeroplanes. In a number of cases, rubber parts from the hoses were found in the fuel tank and gascolator. Investigation determined that the affected connection hoses originated from two isolated batches. Some of the affected hoses were installed on aeroplanes during production, while others were sold as replacement parts.
• Deterioration of fuel tank connection hoses, if not corrected, could result in contamination of the fuel system and restriction of fuel flow, leading to fuel starvation and reduced control of the aeroplane.
• To address this unsafe condition, DAI issued Mandatory Service Bulletins (MSBs) to provide instructions for identifying and replacing the affected parts. The MSBs also provide instructions to inspect the fuel tank chambers and remove rubber parts that have detached from the hoses. This AD mandates replacement of the affected parts, associated inspections and corrective actions detailed in the MSBs.

FMI: www.regulations.gov Docket No. FAA-2020-0644