FR 2025-06062

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed a new regulatory directive regarding Bombardier airplanes, particularly affecting certain models identified as CL-600-1A11, CL-600-2A12, and some variations of the CL-600-2B16. This proposed airworthiness directive (AD) is driven by the need to introduce stricter maintenance requirements, which aim to enhance passenger and operator safety. Stakeholders and the general public are invited to submit comments until May 27, 2025, on the parameters of these proposed regulations.

Summary of the Proposal

The main aim of this document is to enforce new airworthiness limitations and enhance existing maintenance protocols. For aircraft operators, this would mean updating current maintenance or inspection schedules to align with the new or revised limitations delineated by the FAA. This reflects an ongoing commitment to aviation safety, mitigating risks, and ensuring that aircraft are maintained in a manner that prevents potential yet serious safety issues.

Potential Issues and Concerns

While the proposal underscores safety, it introduces several considerations that might pose challenges:

1. Cost Implications: Implementing changes to maintenance or inspection programs is projected to cost about $7,650 per operator. This expenditure might prove burdensome, especially for smaller operators who may struggle with such financial outlays.

2. Complexity in Compliance: The document references numerous technical terms and requirements, including alternative methods of compliance (AMOC) for operators who have already modified their aircraft. The lack of clear guidance on obtaining AMOC approvals could complicate compliance efforts.

3. Logistical Hurdles: Compliance involves referencing and incorporating various technical documents. For operators managing large fleets, this could result in logistical challenges, ensuring all information is accessible and understood by maintenance teams.

4. Diverse Normative References: The reliance on specific Bombardier maintenance publications and AD CF-2024-16 from Transport Canada might confuse stakeholders unfamiliar with international regulations and their integration into U.S. safety standards.

5. Timeline Concerns: The requirement to implement these changes within 90 days post-finalization adds pressure on operators, potentially leading to operational constraints for those unable to comply promptly.

Public and Stakeholder Impacts

Broad Public Impact

The broader public interest is inherently aligned with enhancing aviation safety, as these changes are designed to preclude safety breaches associated with older or less comprehensive maintenance schedules. Improved airworthiness directives contribute to overall confidence in air travel safety, indirectly reassuring passengers about flying on these aircraft models.

Stakeholder Impacts

Operators, primarily those managing Bombardier aircraft, will be directly impacted by these proposals. While the enhancements are in line with ensuring continued safe flight operations, the financial, logistic, and administrative burdens could pose challenges, particularly for smaller entities with limited resources. Additionally, entities responsible for maintaining conformity with international compliance may find the cross-border regulatory requirements particularly taxing.

In conclusion, the FAA's proposition reflects a proactive approach to aviation safety but necessitates consideration of implementation feasibility. While safety must remain paramount, stakeholders will need to assess the operational and financial implications this directive entails. As always, the opportunity for public commentary provides a crucial platform for these voices to be considered in refining and finalizing the regulation.

The document outlines a proposed airworthiness directive (AD) for Bombardier, Inc., airplanes and includes financial implications for operators. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) estimates the average total cost for operators to comply with this directive to be $7,650. This amount is calculated based on 90 work-hours at a rate of $85 per work-hour. While the sum represents an average, actual costs may vary depending on individual operator circumstances.

The financial allocation identified in this document is critical because it highlights the potential economic burden that compliance might impose, particularly on smaller aviation operators. The estimated cost of $7,650 per operator can become a significant expense for those with limited financial resources. This burden is compounded if the operator manages larger fleets, where costs would amplify accordingly.

Moreover, the directive requires operators to update their maintenance or inspection programs within a specific timeframe of 90 days. This requirement necessitates a prompt allocation of financial resources. Operators must evaluate their capacity to meet these obligations within the designated period, as non-compliance could further compound financial and operational challenges.

Examining the context and implications of the financial allocation, the potential issues identified include the possibility that the $7,650 cost may not fully account for additional expenses incurred in accessing proprietary Bombardier maintenance publications. Operators might also encounter logistical challenges in gathering the extensive set of documents and technical revisions required for compliance, potentially leading to unforeseen expenses.

Overall, the financial references within this document emphasize the economic impact on aviation operators, underscoring the importance of careful financial planning to ensure compliance with the proposed airworthiness directive.