Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier Model DHC-8-100, -200, and -300 Series Airplanes

The FAA is superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD), which applies to certain Bombardier Model DHC-8-100, -200, and - 300 series airplanes. That AD currently requires modification of the flight compartment door; repetitive inspections for wear of the flight compartment door hinges following modification; and repair or replacement of the hinges with new hinges if necessary. This new AD requires using revised procedures for modifying and inspecting the flight compartment door and reduces the applicability of the existing AD. This AD results from a determination that certain cockpit doors are no longer subject to the existing requirements. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the alternate release mechanism of the flight compartment door, which could delay or impede the evacuation of the flightcrew during an emergency. This failure also could result in the flightcrew not being able to assist passengers in the event of an emergency.