AD 2021-15-02 Prompted By Reports Of Deficiencies In The Primary Flight Control Computer (PFCC) Software

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Canada Limited Partnership Model BD-500-1A10 and BD-500-1A11 airplanes.

This AD was prompted by reports of deficiencies in the primary flight control computer (PFCC) software and the remote electronics unit (REU) software. This AD requires installation of a software update to correct deficiencies in the PFCC and REU software, as specified in a Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. This AD is effective September 9, 2021.

Supplementary Information: TCCA, which is the aviation authority for Canada, has issued TCCA AD CF-2020-36, dated October 8, 2020 (TCCA AD CF-2020-36) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or the MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus Canada Limited Partnership Model BD-500-1A10 and BD-500-1A11 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 Airbus Canada Limited Partnership Model BD-500-1A10 and BD500-1A11 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on February 24, 2021 (86 FR 11178). The NPRM was prompted by reports of deficiencies in the PFCC and REU software. The NPRM proposed to require installation of a software update to correct deficiencies in the PFCC and REU software, as specified in TCCA AD CF-2020-36.

The FAA is issuing this AD to address software deficiencies that, if not corrected, could impact flight control functions, which could prevent continued safe flight and landing. See the MCAI for additional background information.

FMI: www.regulations.gov