Airworthiness Directives; The Cessna Aircraft Company Models 208 and 208B Airplanes

The FAA adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Cessna Aircraft Company (Cessna) Models 208 and 208B airplanes. This AD requires you to install the pilot assist handle (part number (P/N) SK208-146-2) (or FAA-approved equivalent part number) and deicing boots on the cargo pod and landing gear fairings (part number (P/N) AK208-6C) (or FAA-approved equivalent part number); and make changes to the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) and FAA-approved Airplane Flight Manual (AFM). This AD results from reports of several accidents involving the affected airplanes during operations in flight and in ground icing conditions. We are issuing this AD to provide a safe method to detect ice, snow, frost, or slush adhering to the upper wing (a critical surface) prior to takeoff; and to reduce drag in-flight by shedding ice on the cargo pod and landing gear fairings. Ice adhering to the upper wing surface, cargo pod, or landing gear fairings could result in a reduction in airplane performance with the consequences that the airplane cannot perform a safe takeoff or climb.