AD 2022-01-06

final rule
Data completeness: 90%

Airworthiness Directives; Cameron Balloons Ltd. Fuel Cylinders

AD Number
2022-01-06
Status
final_rule
Effective Date
Product Category
aircraft
Docket
Docket No. FAA-2021-1171
FR Citation
87 FR 29

Applicability

TypeManufacturerModelDetails
aircraft Aviat Various Airworthiness Directives; Cameron Balloons Ltd. Fuel Cylinders

Unsafe Condition

Certain Cameron Hot Air Balloon fuel cylinders are supplied with liquid offtakes that consist of a quarter turn ball valve mounted on a flanged adaptor ([part number] P/N CB437, see [CAA AD] figure 1). Two recent batches of these adaptors have been manufactured with non-conforming (undersize) threads. In certain cases, when the minimum sized adaptors are combined with cylinder bosses at maximum tolerance dimension and assembled to fuel cylinders, the thread can impinge (``bottom out'') on the cylinder boss. Although the required tightening torque value can be achieved at installation, the torque required to unscrew the flange could be below the minimum value. In extreme cases the adaptor may be unscrewed by hand. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could result in an uncontrolled release of liquid propane which in turn could result in a fire hazard that could damage the balloon and its envelope, ultimately leading to a forced emergency landing, during which balloon occupants and persons on the ground could be injured.

AI-generated summary from the source AD text. Verify against the official source before acting.

Required Actions

Inspect each affected fuel cylinder for leakage around the threaded joint between the QSO valve adaptor flange and the cylinder boss and, depending on findings, remove from service of the affected fuel cylinder. Modify each fuel cylinder by replacement of the affected part with a serviceable part. Torque test fuel cylinders and replace the handwheel valve or flange adapter if necessary.

AI-generated summary from the source AD text. Verify against the official source before acting.

Compliance Time

Before further flight

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Affected Aircraft

Cameron fuel cylinders P/Ns CB2901, CB2902, and CB2903; stainless steel fuel cylinder P/Ns CB426, CB497, CB599, CB959, CB2088, V20, V30, and V40; titanium fuel cylinder P/Ns CB2380, CB2383, CB2385, CB2387, and T30 (CY-050-A-001); and Worthington aluminum fuel cylinder P/N CB250.

AI-generated summary from the source AD text. Verify against the official source before acting.

Source: Official FAA Source ↗

Retrieved: Apr 4, 2026

Rights: U.S. Government Public Domain

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