SAFO 08009: Possible separation from aircraft of Air Conditioning Ground Service Connection Cover, Bombardier Aerospace Canada Regional Jet, CRJ-200 (CL-600-2B191)

SAFOSafety Alert for Operators

U.S. Department SAFO 08009

of Transportation DATE 03/07/08

Federal Aviation

Administration Flight Standards Service

Washington, DC http://www.faa.gov/other_visit/aviation_industry/airline_operators/airline_safety/safo A SAFO contains important safety information and may include recommended action. SAFO content should be especially valuable to air carriers in meeting their statutory duty to provide service with the highest possible degree of safety in the public interest. Besides the specific action recommended in a SAFO, an alternative action may be as effective in addressing the safety issue named in the SAFO.

Subject: Possible separation from aircraft of Air Conditioning Ground Service Connection Cover, Bombardier Aerospace Canada Regional Jet, CRJ-200 (CL-600-2B191)

Purpose: This SAFO emphasizes to operators of CRJ-200s the importance of ensuring the integrity of the ground service connection cover and the pip pin and to train ground personnel on the proper installation and security of the cover and outside access panel.

Discussion: On February 3, 2007, a metal cover measuring 10-inches in diameter was found in the middle of the runway at Jackson International Airport (JAN). The cover, Bombardier part number 601R96173-35/01, is located on the fuselage below the right engine. The cover is installed by placing it at the mouth of the servicing point, rotating it clockwise until the 4 metal hooks on the cover engage the receptacle. The cover has a ¼ inch hole that aligns with a matching hole in the receptacle. A metal pip pin (attached to a lanyard) is inserted in the hole to secure the cover to the receptacle. An outside panel with two thumb latches allows access to the servicing point and cover.

Recommended action: Directors of safety and trainers should be made aware of this safety concern that is caused by the loss of the cover on taxiways or runways due to improper pip pin installation and/or failure to close the outside access panel. Training on the proper procedures for the installation and removal of the ground air-conditioning supply and security of the ground connection access cover and door should be provided to all responsible ground service personnel. Direct any questions regarding the content of this SAFO to the Aircraft Maintenance Division, AFS-300 at (202) 267-3546.

Approved by: AFS-200 OPR AFS-300