FAAST Blast — December 22, 2009

 
 
FAAST Blast
Notice Number: NOTC2069

FAAST Blast — December 22, 2009
Biweekly FAA Aviation News update

AD Issued for Cirrus SR22 With Anti-Ice System
FAA this month issued an Airworthiness Directive (AD) for certain Cirrus SR22 airplanes equipped with an anti-ice system approved for flight into known icing. The AD, which became effective on December 21, addresses a problem with improperly installed compression fittings on the anti-ice fluid lines. The AD requires inspection of the fittings, which, if not installed properly, can lead to a loss of ice protection fluid supply to protected surfaces. Cirrus SR22 Service Bulletin SB 2X-30-08, dated November 9, 2009, contains the information required to comply with this AD.
To view the AD, go to http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgAD.nsf/list/2009-26-01?OpenDocument.

The Silent Killer: How To Prevent CO Poisoning in Your Airplane
You can't see it, smell it, or taste it, but it's a dangerous killer that can easily find its way inside your airplane. Known as the "silent killer," carbon monoxide (CO) can have deadly consequences if not detected early enough. Although CO poisoning can wreak havoc on a cockpit anytime of the year, it's during the winter season that it most often rears its ugly head. That's because most small airplanes use exhaust systems for cabin heat and windshield defrosting, the perfect conduit for CO gases created during engine combustion to sneak in.
Pilots can learn more about CO in Barry Ballenger's article "Plane Poison: The Dangers of Carbon Monoxide," in the November/December 2009 issue of FAA Aviation News. Ballenger urges pilots to take extra time to inspect the airplane's heating and defrost system during preflight. "Look for signs of deterioration, such as cracked or distorted components, torn flexible ducting, or loose or missing hardware," adds Ballenger. "Taking a few extra minutes to preflight exhaust system components may save your life."

Happy Holidays!
We would like to wish everyone a joyous holiday season, and a happy and safe 2010! Be careful out there and remember to fly safely!
Produced by the editors, FAA Aviation News, http://www.faa.gov/news/aviation_news/
Address questions or comments to:AviationNews@faa.gov