AD 2021-09-18 Requires Modifying The Electrical Harness Routes And De-Icing Pipe Coupling Installations

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain ATR-GIE Avions de Transport Régional Model ATR72-212A airplanes.

This AD was prompted by a report of an engine electrical control #1 fault during flight caused by chafing damage on an electrical harness bundle. This AD requires modifying the electrical harness routes and de-icing pipe coupling installations, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. This AD is effective July 1, 2021.

Supplementary Information: The EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 2020-0227, dated October 19, 2020 (EASA AD 2020-0227) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or the MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition for certain ATR-GIE Avions de Transport Régional Model ATR72-212A airplanes.

The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain ATR-GIE Avions de Transport Régional Model ATR72-212A airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on February 22, 2021 (86 FR 10491). The NPRM was prompted by a report of an engine electrical control #1 fault during flight caused by chafing damage on an electrical harness bundle. The NPRM proposed to require modifying the electrical harness routes and de-icing pipe coupling installations, as specified in EASA AD 2020-0227.

The FAA is issuing this AD to address chafing damage on an electrical harness bundle, which could result in wire failure and a short circuit, an uncontrolled fire, and consequent loss of multiple systems, possibly resulting in reduced controllability of the airplane. See the MCAI for additional background information.

FMI: www.regulations.gov