Regional Jet 700 ER/LR (CRJ700)
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Distraction; Troubleshooting
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
General Maintenance Action
Incorrect / Not Installed / Unavailable Part; Aircraft
During preflight it was noticed that left wing had nine static wicks instead of seven. Or a total of 29 instead of 27.Aircraft was brought in to get a new winglet installed. After new winglet was installed the manufacturer installed nine static wicks because that is how the majority of CRJ 700's are configured. I made numerous phone calls to MOD of MOC; and it was decided that the flight could depart under part 91 flight rules.I have since secured phone numbers to reach personnel from flight department in the event of after hours issues.
The aircraft was at the CKB facility for repair to the Left Hand (LH) winglet. The damage was significant and required many hours of structural work which was all documented and approved (ref. ERS-CR-5700-530 & KCC670-15000 Kit Dwg). After the repairs; while final preparations and sign-offs were being made supervisor called me at MOC. He wanted to let me know the LH winglet had 2 extra static wicks installed on it. We discussed it and I determined this new configuration must be approved since it just finished repair at the facility. I didn't know all the details of how the repair was accomplished but; I did hear from coworkers that it was extensive to include parts availability was a major obstacle. I suggested to him that we let the aircraft depart.A few moments later I received a call from our maintenance Pilot. He also was concerned with extra static wicks installed on the LH winglet. I explained to him I already was aware of the issue and as far as I knew the aircraft was legal to fly. He agreed and accepted the aircraft.
The Captain of a regional jet reported that 2 extra static wicks were installed on a recently replaced winglet. After consulting with maintenance personnel it was determined that the aircraft was airworthy and was dispatched under a Part 91 ferry permit.