Regional Jet 900 (CRJ900)
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe
Air Traffic Control Issued New Clearance; Flight Crew Overcame Equipment Problem
Aircraft
While cruising at FL340 and approximately 40 minutes from arriving to our destination the FO noticed a little crack on the center lower portion of RH side windshield. Due to the position of the crack it was difficult for us to determine if the crack was on the outer or inner layers of the windshield. We followed the procedure outlined on the QRH for windshield cracked and decided to request a lower altitude from ATC as a precaution. FO was following the steps outlined in the procedures and I was flying the aircraft. As we started descending from FL340 to FL250 the windshield crack increased in size substantially so I decided to request even a lower altitude just in case the windshield completely failed. We informed the flight attendants and asked [them] to take their seats. ATC asked if we needed 'priority handling' we answered yes so ATC cleared us to 11000 feet and direct [destination]. At that point due to the crack being bigger in size we were able to determine that the windshield had cracked in the outer layer. We messaged Dispatch and Maintenance control informing them [of the] situation and requested fuel burns at 11000. Fuel on board at the time was 6600 pounds and we were approximately 36 minutes from the airport. I decided the condition of the flight was safe and we had enough fuel and good weather to continue to destination. We continued the flight at 11000 feet and 250 kts for fuel economy. We safely landed with over 4000 pounds of fuel.
CRJ-900 Captain reported they descended to a lower altitude after noticing the First Officer's windshield had developed a crack in the outer pane.