Accident G-CDFK

It is recommended that the UK Civil Aviation Authority mandate a suitable life limit for the carburettor to plenum chamber coupling, Jabiru part number 4691084 (or equivalent parts), to ensure the couplings are removed from use before a crack can propagate.

Further to our initial response, CAA have been liaising with the BMAA and LAA and we asked them to review their current policies and procedures in relation to life limited components. This review is ongoing and once we have agreed the necessary revisions to these policies and procedures, the CAA, BMAA and LAA will further consult with the A8-1 and A8-21 microlight manufacturers regarding whether they also align with the updated policies. The CAA is still of the opinion that it may be acceptable to exceed manufacturer life limits for some components if an assessment has been conducted and a suitable justification is recorded in the continuing airworthiness record system. The present thinking from the LAA is that they may introduce method(s) to enable an owner to actively record where parts have exceeded the manufacturer's recommended life and the justification for doing so. This may be by amending 'generic maintenance schedules' to include sections to prompt for these records and/or a stand-alone form to insert into the logbook. We are aware the BMAA has comprehensive guidance on this subject in BMAA TIL044. However further evolution of this technical information leaflet may be appropriate after further discussions with CAA.

Partially Adequate Open

August 2025

It is recommended that the UK Civil Aviation Authority consider mandating a suitable life limit for components used in similar applications to the Jabiru carburettor to plenum chamber coupling on other engine and aircraft types, to ensure the components are removed from use before their condition deteriorate beyond an airworthy condition.

Further to our initial response, CAA have been liaising with the BMAA and LAA and we asked them to review their current policies and procedures in relation to life limited components. This review is ongoing and once we have agreed the necessary revisions to these policies and procedures, the CAA, BMAA and LAA will further consult with the A8-1 and A8-21 microlight manufacturers regarding whether they also align with the updated policies. The CAA is still of the opinion that it may be acceptable to exceed manufacturer life limits for some components if an assessment has been conducted and a suitable justification is recorded in the continuing airworthiness record system. The present thinking from the LAA is that they may introduce method(s) to enable an owner to actively record where parts have exceeded the manufacturer's recommended life and the justification for doing so. This may be by amending 'generic maintenance schedules' to include sections to prompt for these records and/or a stand-alone form to insert into the logbook. We are aware the BMAA has comprehensive guidance on this subject in BMAA TIL044. However further evolution of this technical information leaflet may be appropriate after further discussions with CAA.

Partially Adequate Open

August 2025