Bombardier Q400 Inspection Procedures On Main Landing Gear

Last week, Bombardier issued an All-Operators Message (AOM) providing Q400 operators with detailed inspection procedures to address Transport Canada’s airworthiness directive related to the aircraft’s recent main landing gear issue. These inspection procedures were developed by Goodrich, the landing gear manufacturer, and approved by Bombardier. The document issued to Q400 aircraft operators includes highly detailed procedures on how to inspect, repair the retract actuator if necessary or replace it as follows:
* Disassemble the retract actuator and visually determine if any corrosion exists;
* If corrosion is found, options are available to operators to allow them to return the aircraft to revenue service. These range from removal of light corrosion and repairs of the affected unit, to the replacement of the retract actuator. All procedures require a thorough application of corrosion-inhibiting compound.

Furthermore, the document provides guidance for continued inspections of the retract actuator unit. Airlines are currently utilizing these procedures to inspect and return aircraft back into service. "We have been in constant communication with airlines around the world and are aware that they are working diligently to inspect their fleets of Bombardier Q400 aircraft. As these inspections continue, Q400 aircraft are returning to service," said Steven Ridolfi, president, Bombardier Regional Aircraft. For related news