AD/A320/26 Amdt 1 - Fuel Quantity Probes

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically under Part 39 - 105, includes a Schedule of Airworthiness Directives that address various safety concerns for aircraft, including the Airbus Industrie A319, A320, and A321 series aeroplanes. This legislative instrument was enacted by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and serves to ensure the continued airworthiness of these aircraft by addressing specific safety issues that may arise. The problem this legislation aims to address is the potential for arcing between fuel quantity probes and fuel tank structures, particularly in the event of a lightning strike, which could compromise the safety of the aircraft. The policy objective is to mandate corrective actions in accordance with the specified Airbus Industrie Service Bulletin to ensure compliance with safety standards. Amendment 1 to Airworthiness Directive AD/A320/26, reflecting the revision to Requirement Document Airbus Industrie Service Bulletin A320-28-1040 Revision 1 dated 3 April 1992, was introduced to update the requirements for compliance. This amendment ensures that all applicable A320 series aircraft, specifically those without Airbus Industrie modifications 22647 and 22855, take necessary actions to mitigate the risk of arcing. The compliance deadline for this directive was set prior to 21 February 1993, highlighting the urgency and importance of the safety measures being implemented.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, apply to all A320 series aircraft that do not have Airbus Industrie modifications 22647 and 22855. This regulation is aimed at ensuring the safety of the aircraft by addressing potential issues with fuel quantity probes and their interaction with fuel tank structures in the event of a lightning strike. Compliance with this directive is mandatory for the specified aircraft and must be achieved in accordance with Airbus Industrie Service Bulletin A320-28-1040 Revision 1 dated 3 April 1992, with a compliance deadline set prior to 21 February 1993. The directive is applicable within the Commonwealth of Australia, overseen by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, and is an integral part of maintaining airworthiness standards. This regulatory measure ensures that the identified safety issues are mitigated, thereby protecting the aircraft and its occupants.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of the Airbus Industrie A319, A320 and A321 Series Aeroplanes AD/A320/26 Amendment 1 (sections 39-105(1) to 39-105(6)) specify the applicability of the Airworthiness Directive to all A320 series aircraft that have not been modified by Airbus Industrie modifications 22647 and 22855. The directive mandates that these aircraft must take action in accordance with Airbus Industrie Service Bulletin A320-28-1040 Revision 1 dated 3 April 1992 to prevent arcing between fuel quantity probes and fuel tank structures in the event of a lightning strike. It is important to note that compliance with this directive must be achieved before 21 February 1993, as per the requirement outlined in section 39-105(3). The obligations and requirements imposed by the Act are clear and specific. Operators of A320 series aircraft that have not undergone the mentioned Airbus modifications must ensure that the aircraft adhere to the Service Bulletin A320-28-1040 Revision 1. This involves implementing the necessary changes to prevent arcing between the fuel quantity probes and the fuel tank structures. The directive is referenced to DGAC AD 92-048-024(B), indicating that it aligns with the standards set by the French Civil Aviation Authority. Operators must ensure that their aircraft comply with these standards to maintain airworthiness and safety. Failure to comply with the provisions of this Airworthiness Directive can lead to serious consequences. The Act does not explicitly state any offences, penalties, or consequences for non-compliance within the provided text; however, non-compliance with airworthiness directives is generally taken very seriously by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). In the broader context of aviation regulations, non-compliance can result in severe penalties, including fines, suspension or revocation of aircraft operating certificates, and potential criminal charges against the responsible parties. These penalties are designed to ensure that all aircraft remain in a safe and airworthy condition, thereby protecting the public and maintaining the integrity of the aviation system. It is essential for operators to understand that the directive is not merely a recommendation but a mandatory requirement. Ignoring or delaying compliance could lead to significant risks, including the possibility of catastrophic failure in the event of a lightning strike. Ensuring that the aircraft adhere to the Service Bulletin is not only a legal obligation but a critical step in safeguarding the safety of passengers and crew. The directive underscores the importance of timely and thorough action to address potential safety hazards in commercial aviation. In summary, the key provisions of this Airworthiness Directive focus on preventing arcing between fuel quantity probes and fuel tank structures in A320 series aircraft that have not undergone specific modifications. Compliance with Airbus Industrie Service Bulletin A320-28-1040 Revision 1 is mandatory for all affected aircraft, with a strict deadline of 21 February 1993. While the specific penalties for non-compliance are not detailed in the provided text, it is clear that failure to adhere to this directive can result in significant regulatory and legal repercussions. Operators must prioritise compliance to ensure the highest standards of safety and airworthiness are maintained.