AD FAA-2012-0293

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier, Inc. Model CL-600-2C10 (Regional Jet Series 700, 701, & 702) airplanes, Model CL-600-2D15 (Regional Jet Series 705) airplanes, and Model CL-600-2D24 (Regional Jet Series 900) airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of a bleed air leak from the high pressure ducts which was not immediately detected by the bleed leak detection system. This AD requires installing new sensing elements in the main landing gear wheel well and the overwing area, protective blankets on the upper surface of the wing box and fuel tubes, and protective shields on the rudder quadrant support-beam in the aft equipment compartment. We are issuing this AD to prevent an undetected bleed air leak which can cause loss of rudder control, can lead to degradation of structural integrity, and could be a potential heat source that can lead to fuel being ignited.