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)

FMI: SAIB