AD FAA-2012-0190

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier, Inc. Model DHC-8-102, -103, and -106 airplanes. This AD requires a general visual inspection for chamfer of the upper edge of each leaf spring, and rework if necessary. This AD also requires installing a new friction brake nut. This AD was prompted by reports that it was possible to inadvertently move the power levers through the flight idle gate into the beta range due to an un-chamfered leaf spring in the friction brake that may contact the power lever latch when the friction adjusting knob is fully loosened. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct an unsafe condition where both engines can inadvertently be operated in beta mode during flight and consequently reduce controllability of the airplane.