AD/A320/83 - Slats-Flaps Control Computer

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, enacted by the Australian Parliament, are fundamental to the regulation of civil aviation in Australia. Part 39, specifically, outlines the requirements for ensuring the airworthiness of aircraft. This legislation was introduced to address safety gaps and ensure that all aircraft operating within Australia meet the required safety standards. One particular directive within this body of law is the Airworthiness Directive AD/A320/83, which pertains to the Airbus Industrie A319, A320 and A321 series aeroplanes. This directive was introduced on 19 June 1997, aiming to mitigate the risk of uncommanded retraction of slats and/or flaps due to a command sensor unit malfunction. Compliance with this directive is mandatory, ensuring that the aircraft maintain a high standard of safety and reliability in Australian airspace.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, under Part 39 - 105, specifically addresses the safety requirements for the Airbus Industrie A319, A320 and A321 series aeroplanes through the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). This regulation applies to all Airbus Industrie A320 models, including -111, -211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233, unless they have already incorporated Airbus Industrie modification No. 25094 or Airbus Industrie Service Bulletin A320-27-1096 dated 14 March 1996. Similarly, it applies to all Airbus Industrie A321 models -111, -112, and -131 unless they have Airbus Industrie modification No. 25360 or Airbus Industrie Service Bulletin A320-27-1103 dated 14 June 1996 incorporated. The directive mandates that the slats-flaps control computer standard must be modified in accordance with the specified service bulletins to prevent possible uncommanded retraction of slats and/or flaps due to a command sensor unit malfunction. Compliance with this directive is required before 19 June 1999, with the directive becoming effective on 19 June 1997. This regulation extends its reach across the Commonwealth of Australia, overseen by CASA, ensuring that the specified modifications are uniformly applied to ensure aviation safety.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of the Airworthiness Directive AD/A320/83 require specific modifications to the slats-flaps control computer on certain Airbus Industrie A320 and A321 models. Section 39-105 of the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 mandates these modifications to prevent uncommanded retraction of slats and/or flaps due to command sensor unit malfunction. The applicable Airbus A320 models include -111, -211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233, while the A321 models affected are -111, -112, and -131. These models must incorporate either Airbus Industrie modification No. 25094 or Service Bulletin A320-27-1096 for A320, and Airbus Industrie modification No. 25360 or Service Bulletin A320-27-1103 for A321. The directive became effective on 19 June 1997, and compliance was required before 19 June 1999. The obligations imposed by this directive require the affected aircraft operators to ensure that the specified modifications are made to the slats-flaps control computer. Operators must verify that the necessary Airbus Industrie modifications or service bulletins are incorporated into the aircraft’s systems. This involves following the instructions detailed in the relevant service bulletins, which include technical specifications and procedures to be executed by qualified personnel. The modifications are designed to address potential issues with the command sensor unit that could lead to uncommanded retraction of slats and/or flaps, thereby enhancing the safety of the aircraft during flight. Failure to comply with the requirements set forth in this Airworthiness Directive can lead to serious consequences. Operators who do not implement the mandated modifications may face significant penalties and legal repercussions. Non-compliance could result in the aircraft being deemed unairworthy, potentially leading to grounding of the aircraft. Additionally, operators may be subject to fines and other regulatory actions by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). The exact penalties are not specified within the directive but generally, severe non-compliance with airworthiness directives can result in substantial fines and legal action, including potential criminal charges if the non-compliance results in safety incidents. The directive also references DGAC AD 97-085-099(B) as a related regulatory measure, indicating that it is part of a broader effort to ensure the safety of Airbus Industrie A320 and A321 models. The background of the directive highlights the importance of these modifications in preventing potential safety hazards, underscoring the regulatory authority's commitment to maintaining high safety standards in civil aviation. Ensuring compliance with this directive is critical for the continued airworthiness and safety of the affected aircraft.