AD FAA-2008-1214

The FAA is superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD), which applies to all BAE Systems (Operations) Limited (Jetstream) Model 4101 airplanes. That AD currently requires operators to determine the number of flight cycles accumulated on each component of the main landing gear (MLG) and the nose landing gear (NLG), and to replace each component that reaches its life limit with a serviceable component. The existing AD also requires operators to revise the Airworthiness Limitations (AWL) section of the Instructions for Continued Airworthiness (ICA) in the aircraft maintenance manual to reflect the new life limits for structurally significant items. This new AD requires a new revision of the AWL section of the ICA to incorporate revised life limits for structurally significant items, operational and functional tests of certain systems, and instructions to retain critical ignition source prevention features during configuration changes. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of certain structurally significant items, including the MLG and the NLG, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane; and to prevent fuel vapor ignition sources, which could result in fuel tank explosion and consequent loss of the airplane.