FR 2025-03456

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a new airworthiness directive (AD) concerning Bombardier, Inc., Model BD-700-2A12 airplanes. This directive arises from concerns that certain navigation scenarios might inadvertently lead to unsafe conditions. Specifically, under certain conditions involving weight, altitude, and temperature, a partial loss of engine thrust could result in unintended descents during crucial navigation phases.

Summary of the Document

The directive mandates an update to the airplane's flight manual. This update involves incorporating revised tables related to weight, altitude, and temperature (WAT) to ensure safer operations during required navigation performance authorization required (RNP-AR) approaches. The rule is slated to take effect on April 8, 2025, and seeks to enhance the overall safety of these aircraft by refining operational guidelines in potentially hazardous conditions.

Significant Issues and Concerns

1. Cost and Economic Impact:

   • The document briefly mentions that the directive will not significantly impact the economy or small entities, but it lacks detailed analysis or estimates on the costs of compliance. Providing more specific financial implications could enhance understanding of the directive's economic impact.

2. Jargon and Technical Language:

   • The document makes use of technical and legal language, which might be challenging for individuals without expertise in the field to grasp fully. An effort to simplify language could benefit a broader audience, ensuring greater accessibility and comprehension.

3. Clarity on Abbreviations and Foreign Standards:

   • There is frequent reference to 'MCAI,' without explaining this abbreviation. A brief clarification would assist readers unfamiliar with aviation or regulatory acronyms.

4. Conflict of Interest Concerns:

   • The document does not address potential conflicts of interest or any financial relationships between the FAA and Bombardier, Inc. Clarification on these aspects could strengthen the document’s transparency and neutrality.

5. AMOC Procedures:

   • Instructions on obtaining alternative methods of compliance could be simplified. While procedures are outlined, clearer guidance would provide significant benefit, particularly to operators needing to understand compliance variations.

Broad Public Impact

The newly issued directive has broader public implications aimed at improving aviation safety. Enhanced guidance in the airplane flight manual will help prevent incidents resulting from loss of thrust during critical navigation phases. The public can gain confidence in flying aboard these aircraft, knowing that safety measures are continually updated and refined.

Impact on Stakeholders

1. Aircraft Operators and Airlines:

   • Operators of the Bombardier Model BD-700-2A12 airplanes will need to revise their flight manuals and possibly adjust their training procedures in line with the new directive. While the document suggests the economic burden will not be increased, additional training and administrative updates require time and effort.

2. Aircraft Manufacturer (Bombardier, Inc.):

   • The directive implies further collaboration with regulatory authorities to ensure continued compliance. No direct negative impacts are noted, though Bombardier may be expected to support operators through this transition.

3. Regulatory Bodies:

   • For regulatory bodies, the directive illustrates diligence in responding to potential safety gaps, promoting operational safety with updated, informed guidance.

Overall, through this airworthiness directive, the FAA emphasizes its commitment to aviation safety by mandating essential updates and provides a structured protocol to manage potential risks associated with engine performance under specific conditions. Nonetheless, efforts to simplify the language used and expanding on compliance costs could improve the directive's accessibility and transparency.