SAIB Issued for Dual-Seat AT-802 Rear Rudder Pedal Interference

The FAA has issued a Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) for dual-seat Air Tractor AT-802 airplanes, serial numbers 802-0001 through 802-1099. 

In September 2023, a dual-seat AT-802 being used for an instructional flight was substantially damaged when it departed the runway during landing rollout. An NTSB investigation found that when the instructor applied full left rudder and attempted to apply left brake, the top of the pedal contacted the spray valve control pushrod and full brake could not be applied. 

Further investigation revealed that interference between the rear left rudder pedal and spray valve control pushrod is possible when the rear rudder pedal assembly is in the forward adjustment position. The FAA recommends that affected aircraft operators modify the rear cockpit rudder pedal adjustment in accordance with Air Tractor Service Letter #405, dated December 29, 2023. 

View the SAIB here.