SAIB CE-08-48

FAA Aircraft Certification Service

SPECIAL AIRWORTHINESS

INFORMATION BULLETIN SAIB: CE-08-48 SUBJ: AIR - Engine Intake Ducting Date: September 9, 2008 This is information only. Recommendations aren’t mandatory.

Introduction

This Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin informs you of an airworthiness concern for Alpha Aviation (formerly Robin) Model R2100 (including Model R2160) airplanes.

Background

When the carburetor heat is selected, there have been instances where the carburetor duct collapsed, which resulted in restricted engine airflow and an associated loss of power.

The Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand (NZCAA) has issued Continuing Airworthiness Notice (CAN) number 75-001, dated August 6, 2008, and has provided this information to the FAA as airplanes of these types are registered in the United States. A copy of this CAN is attached for reference. The CAN is based on Alpha Aviation Service Bulletin number AA-SB-71-003, but also has additional information in it relevant to inspecting the carburetor ducting. This service bulletin specifies the inspection and possible replacement of certain carburetor ducting.

At this time, this airworthiness concern is not an unsafe condition that would warrant AD action under 14 CFR part 39.

Recommendations

We recommend all owners and operators comply with actions outlined in NZCAA Continuing Airworthiness Notice number 75-001.

For Further Information Contact

Karl Schletzbaum, Aerospace Engineer, FAA Small Airplane Directorate, Room 301, 901 Locust Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4146; facsimile: (816) 329-4090; email:

karl.schletzbaum@faa.gov

For Related Service Information Contact

Alpha Aviation (NZ) Limited Ingram Road Hamilton Airport RD2 Hamilton 3282 New Zealand Phone: 011 64 7 843 7070 Fax: 011 64 7 843 8040 http://www.alphaaviation.co.nz