Midcoast Aviation performing Falcon dry bay modifications per impending FAA airworthiness directive

Midcoast Aviation is assisting Falcon operators in meeting an impending FAA-issued Airworthiness Directive (AD) requiring structural modification of the wing tank fuel bay on Falcon 50, 900 and 2000 series aircraft.

This structural modification requires Midcoast technicians to seal the area between ribs four and five in front of the spar, which reduces the risk of a fuel spill. Midcoast’s second Falcon dry bay modification currently is underway. A Dassault representative provided the necessary manufacturer-required training and certification on site at the company’s St. Louis Downtown operation. Several additional dry bay modifications also have been scheduled.

“Operators have some time to complete this directive, but it is most efficient to combine this work with a major C check inspection,” notes Jim Carr, Falcon customer support manager. “Midcoast has the talent, training and tooling to support Falcon operators in meeting this AD requirement, as well as all their other maintenance and modification needs.”

The impending AD from the FAA is a result of a parallel AD to be issued by EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency). After examining several runway excursions, it was determined the aft spars were buckling, causing fuel leaks. While damage to the aircraft is minimal, the environmental and fire hazards associated with a fuel leak are enough to deem the AD necessary.