SAIB 2024-03

FAA Aviation Safety

SPECIAL AIRWORTHINESS

INFORMATION BULLETIN SUBJ: RUDDER CONTROL SYSTEM SAIB: 2024-03 Date: April 25, 2024 This is information only. Recommendations aren’t mandatory.

Introduction

This Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin informs registered owners/operators of an airworthiness concern for Air Tractor, Inc. Model AT-802 airplanes, serial numbers 802-0001 through 802-1099 (under Type Certificate Data Sheet A19SW) configured with:

• two-seat cockpit,

• spray valve control handle, and

• rear cockpit rudder pedals installed.

At this time, the airworthiness concern is not an unsafe condition that would warrant airworthiness directive (AD) action under Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 39.

Background

The FAA was notified of an accident in which an AT-802 departed the runway during landing rollout, resulting in substantial damage to the airplane. An investigation revealed that interference between the rear left rudder pedal and spray valve control pushrod is possible when the rear rudder pedal assembly is in the forward adjustment position. Interference prevents simultaneous application of full left rudder and left brake when operated from the rear seat. This restriction in control could lead to a loss of control causing significant injury and aircraft damage.

Recommendations

The FAA recommends that affected aircraft operators modify the rear cockpit rudder pedal adjustment in accordance with Air Tractor, Inc. Service Letter #405, dated December29, 2023.

For Further Information Contact

Timothy Beauregard, Aerospace Engineer, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; phone:

(817) 222-4357; e-mail: timothy.beauregard@faa.gov.

For Related Service Information Contact

Air Tractor, Inc., P.O. Box 485, Olney, TX 76374: phone: (940) 564–5616: email:

info@airtractor.com: website: https://airtractor.com/.