AD/A320/62 - Elevator Aileron Computer

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, administered by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, include the Airbus Industrie A319, A320, and A321 Series Aeroplanes Airworthiness Directive (AD/A320/62). This legislation was introduced to address the issue of ensuring the airworthiness of specific Airbus aircraft models by requiring the installation of a modified Elevator Aileron Computer (ELAC). The policy objective is to enhance flight safety by incorporating improved lateral control laws through the installation of a software-modified ELAC, in accordance with Airbus Industrie Service Bulletin A320-27-1082 Revision 1 dated 6 September 1995. Compliance with this directive was mandatory for the specified aircraft models prior to 31 October 1997. This legislative instrument is part of the broader regulatory framework aimed at maintaining high safety standards in civil aviation, ensuring that the aircraft meet the necessary airworthiness criteria to prevent potential hazards. The directive references DGAC AD 95-203-072(B) dated 11 October 1995, highlighting the coordinated international approach to aircraft safety standards.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically PART 39 - 105, governs the safety standards for civil aviation operations within Australia. This regulation applies to all aircraft registered in Australia and to all pilots, operators, and maintenance personnel involved in civil aviation activities. The geographic and jurisdictional reach of these regulations is nationwide, applying uniformly across all states and territories of Australia. The regulations mandate the adherence to Airworthiness Directives (AD) issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). The AD for Airbus Industrie A319, A320, and A321 series aeroplanes, denoted as AD/A320/62, is one such directive that requires specific modifications to the Elevator Aileron Computer (ELAC). This directive applies to certain A320 and A321 models that have not yet incorporated specific modifications or service bulletins. The directive mandates the installation of a modified ELAC in accordance with specified industry standards, ensuring that these aircraft meet updated safety criteria. The regulation does not provide explicit exclusions or exemptions, though it does specify the compliance deadline of 31 October 1997 for the mentioned modifications. The application of these regulations can be further detailed or restricted through subordinate instruments issued by CASA.

Key Provisions

The key operative sections of this Airworthiness Directive (AD/A320/62) pertain to the applicability and the specific requirements for Airbus Industrie A319, A320, and A321 series aeroplanes. According to section 1, this directive applies to certain A320 and A321 aircraft models, specifically those without Modification 24917 or Airbus Industrie Service Bulletin A320-27-1082 incorporated. Section 2 outlines the requirement to install a modified Elevator Aileron Computer (ELAC) in accordance with Airbus Industrie Service Bulletin A320-27-1082 Revision 1 dated 6 September 1995. This directive references DGAC AD 95-203-072(B) dated 11 October 1995 for further context. The obligations imposed by this Airworthiness Directive require operators of the specified aircraft models to ensure that the ELAC is modified as per the service bulletin by the compliance date of 31 October 1997. This involves installing the updated software that incorporates improved lateral control laws to enhance the safety and performance of the aircraft. Operators must also ensure that the modifications are carried out by authorised personnel and that all documentation is updated to reflect the changes. Failure to comply with this Airworthiness Directive can result in serious consequences. Section 3 of the regulations indicates that non-compliance could lead to the aircraft being deemed unairworthy, potentially grounding the aeroplane until the necessary modifications are completed. In addition, operators may face civil or criminal penalties as stipulated by the Civil Aviation Act and Regulations. The maximum penalties for non-compliance can include fines and imprisonment, depending on the severity and intent of the breach. Furthermore, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority has the authority to take enforcement actions, which may include grounding the aircraft, imposing operational restrictions, or pursuing legal action against the operator.