Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, Inc. Airplanes

We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier, Inc. Model DHC-8-400 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by cases of on-ground failure of the screw cap or end cap of hydraulic accumulators on other airplane models, resulting in high-energy impact damage to adjacent systems and structure. This proposed AD would require inspecting for a part number and replacing the affected parking brake hydraulic accumulator, and relocating the parking brake accumulator, on the subject airplanes. We are proposing this AD to prevent failure of the screw caps and/or end caps of the parking brake hydraulic accumulator, which could result in damage to the airplane's primary structures, with potential adverse effect on the airplane's controllability.

Agency Contact: Cesar Gomez, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe and Mechanical Systems Branch, ANE-171, FAA, New York Aircraft Certification Office, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, New York 11590; telephone (516) 228-7318; fax (516) 794-5531.