All operators and maintainers of aircraft fitted with Mode S Transponders.
This Continuing Airworthiness Notice (CAN) is issued to highlight the potential problems associated with Mode S transponders and provide guidance for the testing and inspection of transponders.
The CAA is aware of incidents where complete or intermittent loss of detection has been experienced by Mode S SSR interrogators, and incidents of aircraft operating with an incorrect ICAO 24-bit aircraft address code. A safe navigation environment in transponder mandatory airspace relies on accurate and reliable surveillance information transmitted by Mode S transponders. Incorrect of missing transponder data can result in increased controller and/or flight crew work load which may develop into a hazardous situation.
EASA and Eurocontrol have identified similar incidents with aircraft operating in the European airspace and EASA subsequently issued Safety Information Bulletin (SIB) 2011-15 dated 4 July 2011.
In addition to the requirements in NZCAA rule 91.605 (e)(3) the CAA recommends the checks contained in EASA Safety Information Bulletin (SIB) 2011-15. These checks are in the interest of aviation safety and the SIB provides guidance for the ground testing of Mode S transponders to ensure acceptable transponder performance.
If you become aware, or are notified of a transponder deficiency affecting your aircraft, the CAA recommends that you initiate an unscheduled maintenance action to correct any deficiencies.
A copy of EASA SIB No: 2011-15 can be obtained from: http://ad.easa.europa.eu/search/advanced/(external link)
