Summary
We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Piaggio Aero Industries S.p.A. Model P-180 airplanes. This proposed AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as:
One event of in-flight baggage door opening occurred on an in- service aeroplane due to a defective locking mechanism or installation thereof; the BAG DOOR warning light went on properly before the event, but was ignored by the pilot, who misinterpreted it as a false warning.
NOTE: False in-service BAG DOOR warnings had occurred on other P.180 aeroplanes, and Piaggio Aero Industries (PAI) had issued Service Bulletin (SB) No. 80-0223 revision 1 to improve the installation of the baggage door warning microswitch and to modify the locking mechanism if necessary.
This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to in- flight detachment of the door, which could hit and damage the left propeller and/or the vertical or horizontal stabilizer, possibly resulting in loss of control of the aeroplane, or in injuries to persons or damage to property on the ground.
Instances of the baggage door open light illuminating have occurred when the baggage door was not open. This condition, if not corrected, could result in the pilot disregarding a valid warning. The proposed AD would require actions that are intended to address the unsafe condition described in the MCAI.