Learjet Fall 2007

• Foreign Object Damage (FOD)
• Does AD2007-17-17 Apply to You?
• Duncan Aviation Learjet Tech Reps

Foreign Object Damage (FOD)

— Dick Hyde

Aviation experts agree that FOD inside or outside your aircraft can be extremely serious. External FOD may be nothing more than a small rivet or other object on the ramp or runway. Tire punctures are common with runway FOD. FOD also comes from objects flying or floating in the air. “Bird strikes” are common around bird fly-way areas, rivers and lakes. Other examples are blowing sand, dust or volcanic ash and wildlife on or near runways.

Internal FOD may be an object left behind after maintenance. It may be trapped behind a panel or floorboard. It may even be part of the airplane that was not returned to its proper place. Duncan Aviation technicians have found items ranging from tie-raps, avionic control buttons, pencils and even an auxiliary gear handle. FOD trapped under floorboards could be a potential hazard to the safe operation of an aircraft. Sharp objects found lying on wire bundles, hydraulic lines, pitot / static lines, etc. are especially dangerous and can have a chafing potential which can lead to catastrophic failure. Recently, Duncan Aviation technicians have seen a rise in the level of internal FOD.

Carelessness with FOD should not be tolerated and strict procedures must be adhered to. Duncan Aviation is extremely serious about FOD, and has an inspection process in place to ensure that all foreign objects, regardless of area of origination, are secured prior to panel / floor close up. Duncan Aviation advises that operators review FOD procedures at any maintenance facility you might be considering to be sure FOD is taken seriously.

Does AD2007-17-17 Apply to You?

— Dave Schiver

Duncan Aviation technicians have fielded questions in regards to the applicability of AD2007-17-17.

For the 35, 36 and 55 models, all serial numbers are applicable to AD2007-17-17 by S/B effectivity.

On the 31 and 45 models, there is a serial number effectivity range per the applicable service bulletin:

• 31 model - S/N range for SB31-54-2 is 31-001 to 31-221.
• 45 model - S/N range for SB45-54-3 is 45-001 to 45-140.

If your serial number 31 or 45 falls outside of the serial number range of the applicable service bulletin, the AD is not applicable by serial number of your aircraft.

Duncan Aviation Learjet Tech Reps

For more information about these or other topics, contact your Duncan Aviation Learjet Tech Reps:

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