December 26, 2008 Check Your Cessna's Alternate Static Port |
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By Glenn Pew, Contributing Editor, Video Editor
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 A new airworthiness directive from the FAA applies to certain Cessna 172, 175, 177, 180, 182, 185, 188, 206, 207, 208, 210, 303, 336, and 337 series airplanes. The AD requires operators to check the alternate static air source selector valve to assure that the alternate static air source selector valve port is not obstructed by a part number identification placard. The FAA has been notified that several aircraft have been found with blocked ports as the result of "improper installation of the part number identification placard on the alternate static air source selector valve." The agency hopes to identify affected ports and prevent the condition from providing pilots with incorrect flight information that could lead to loss of control. The agency is asking operators to check the port, determine whether a placard-induced obstruction exists and removing the placard if it does. Those finding an obstruction are asked to report it to the FAA. This AD is a direct-to-final rule action that goes into effect Jan. 5, while it is accepting comments through Feb. 23.
Full details are available online, here. You'll want to check the full list of models to see if your aircraft is affected. The FAA issues direct-to-final ADs when it believes the rule addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop.
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