AD 81-09-02
Applicability
| Type | Manufacturer | Model | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| aircraft | Sundance Balloons (US) | AX-6 | Airworthiness Directives; PICCARD BALLOON Model Ax-6 Series Balloon |
Unsafe Condition
Inadvertent deflation panel opening in flight due to broken hook and pile (Velcro) or deterioration caused by heat in the synthetic fastener tape of the deflation panel system.
AI-generated summary from the source AD text. Verify against the official source before acting.
Required Actions
Prior to next inflation and during each subsequent preflight inspection, check the hook and pile fastener tape for damage or deterioration, repair unserviceable areas, conduct a side shear load transfer capability check, and replace degraded tape. Install an approved mechanical latch at the balloon envelope apex. Conduct side shear load checks every 100 hours time in service or annually, whichever comes first.
AI-generated summary from the source AD text. Verify against the official source before acting.
Compliance Time
Prior to next inflation, and during each subsequent preflight inspection after the effective date of this AD. Install mechanical latch prior to next inflation. Side shear load checks at intervals not to exceed 100 hours time in service or at each annual inspection after the effective date.
AI-generated summary from the source AD text. Verify against the official source before acting.
Affected Aircraft
PICCARD BALLOON Model Ax-6 Series Balloon, certified in all categories.
AI-generated summary from the source AD text. Verify against the official source before acting.
Source: Official FAA Source ↗
Retrieved: Apr 8, 2026
Rights: U.S. Government Public Domain
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