FAA Maintenance Alert

Diamond: DA40F; Cabin Door Separation; ATA 5210
“The aft cabin door assembly separated from the aircraft during flight,” says the submitting mechanic. “Control of the aircraft was maintained and (it) landed safely at the departure airport. The door was eventually recovered, and upon visual inspection the aft door latch pin (was observed) not engaged. The front door latch pin was properly engaged and the door latch was closed. No “door open” annunciation was indicated because the door “open” switch is actuated from the front door latch pin. Upon disassembly of the door, the aft door latch rod was (observed) detached from the latch mechanism. The attachment clip (item number 215 in the parts book) was bent, allowing the rod to become separated from the latch. A much stronger material is recommended for the attachment clip or a dual switch set-up to indicate both pins are positively engaged before flight. (Retaining attachment clip P/N not given, but indicated by parts book section 52-10, item 215, page 12, figure 6. Aft Cabin Door P/N D41-5221-00-00.) For related news