On-ground safety precaution for Ka-band satellite communication system

Effectivity: Challenger and Global aircraft  

ATA: 44 

By: Jonathan Jobin – Technical Services 

Bombardier would like to remind operators and maintenance personnel about the safety precautions which must be taken with the Ka-band system when the aircraft is on the ground. 

The Ka-band systems installed on the Global and Challenger aircraft have built-in safety measures to prevent transmission when the aircraft is on the ground. All systems installed by Bombardier have a connection to the Weight-On-Wheel interface of the aircraft, which prevents transmission when the aircraft is on the ground. This can be overridden by the Ground Transmit Switch located in the cockpit. 

However, during maintenance of the aircraft, please be aware that if power is applied and the aircraft is Weight-Off-Wheel (by being on jacks or other means), the Ka-band will transmit. This can pose a serious safety risk for maintenance personnel if they are working around the aircraft.  

The illustrations below show the Ka-band system hazardous exposure area. 

As a safety precaution, Bombardier recommends that maintenance personnel working on Bombardier aircraft open the Ka-band system circuit breakers before simulating aircraft in Weight-Off-Wheel or jacking the aircraft.  

See the following list of Ka-band LRUs whose respective circuit breakers should be opened. Refer to your aircraft’s specific documentation for the circuit breaker locations. 

• MODMAN 

• KANDU 

• KRFU 

The system must not be enabled on the ground during aircraft de-icing operations. 

Please contact your Bombardier Field Service Representative (FSR) or the Customer Response Centre (CRC) team 24/7 if you require more information on the Ka-band systems.