The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) CE-11-21, addressing cracking in the flap nose rib. This SAIB echoes Hawker Beechcraft Safety Communique 313 amendment 1, which was previously reported in ABS NEWS.

In addition to recommendation in the Safety Communique, the SAIB suggests pilots and technicians:

• Pay particular attention to this area during pre-flight inspections.
• Inspect the up-stop bumper for proper rigging and nose rib cracks during the annual inspection.
• Since the right-hand flap nose rib assembly is located in close proximity to the wing walk area...avoid stepping on the flap to reduce the stress on the nose rib [note: ABS has suggested this for some time].

For full details read HBC Safety Communique 313 amendment 1 and SAIB CE-11-21. Procedures for inspecting and repairing the flap nose rib are contained in the ABS Air Safety Foundation Flight Controls, Flaps and Trim System Inspection, Repair and Rigging Guide.