Airworthiness Directives; Fokker Model F27 Mark 050 and F.28 Mark 0070 and 0100 Airplanes

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Fokker Model F27 Mark 050 and F.28 Mark 0070 and 0100 airplanes. This AD requires repetitively removing the two existing escape rope assemblies in the flight compartment and installing new escape rope assemblies. This AD results from reports of findings of small cracks in the polyester assembly block in which the cotton escape rope is stored. A test revealed that the escape ropes had deteriorated over time, and the load capability was considerably reduced. We are issuing this AD to ensure that flightcrew members safely reach the ground after exiting the flight compartment window during an emergency evacuation.