AD 2010-04-16

Manufacturer: Type H1-10 AIR Halon 1211 (BCF) portable fire extinguishers manufactured by SICLI, having part number P/N) 1708337B4

Subject: To prevent reduced fire suppression due to contaminated portable fire extinguishers

Effective Date: 03/08/2010

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as:

The Civil Aviation Authority of the United Kingdom (UK) has informed EASA [European Aviation Safety Agency] that significant quantities of Halon 1211 gas, determined to be outside the required specification, have been supplied to the aviation industry for use in fire extinguishing equipment.

This Halon 1211 has subsequently been used to fill P/N [part number] 1708337B4 portable fire extinguishers that are now likely to be installed in or carried on board aircraft.

The contaminated nature of this gas, when used against a fire, may provide reduced fire suppression, endangering the safety of the aircraft and its occupants. In addition, extinguisher activation may lead to release of toxic fumes, possibly causing injury to aircraft occupants.

This AD requires actions that are intended to address the unsafe condition described in the MCAI.

FMI: http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgAD.nsf/0/1FC398B353C8727E862576CF004E2851?OpenDocument