AD/AMD 20/12 - Horizontal Stabiliser Trim Control Switch Connections

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, enacted by the Australian Parliament, were introduced to ensure the safe operation of civil aircraft within Australian airspace. This comprehensive regulatory framework governs numerous aspects of civil aviation, including aircraft maintenance and airworthiness. One particular legislative instrument under this act, F2006B02350, focuses on the airworthiness directives for specific aircraft models, such as the Fan Jet Falcon (Falcon 20/Mystere-Falcon 200) series aeroplanes. This directive aims to address safety concerns related to the horizontal stabiliser trim control switch connections, ensuring that all applicable aircraft models comply with specific maintenance requirements to avoid potential safety hazards. The objective of this regulation is to mandate corrective actions in accordance with specified service bulletins and maintain compliance within a defined timeframe, thereby enhancing overall aviation safety.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically under Part 39 - 105 and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, govern the safety standards and operational protocols for civil aviation within Australia. The Act applies to all models of the Fan Jet Falcon (Falcon 20/Mystere-Falcon 200) series aeroplanes that are equipped with an automatic pilot or any optional circuit that connects to the horizontal trim control switch normally closed contacts. This includes both the aircraft themselves and the entities operating these aircraft, such as airlines or private owners. The regulation mandates compliance with specific action directives outlined in AMD SB 568, Rev. 2 (27-74), with a reference to Bureau Veritas 76-219-13 (B). Compliance is required within 200 hours of time in service after 30 April 1977, ensuring that the aircraft meet necessary safety standards to operate within Australian airspace. The scope of the Act extends across the Commonwealth, ensuring a uniform standard of aircraft safety across the nation. No exclusions or exemptions are specified within this directive, and its application is reinforced through the subordinate instrument mentioned, ensuring that all covered aircraft adhere to the stipulated safety requirements.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, Part 39, specifically section 39-105, mandates certain airworthiness directives for the Falcon 20/Mystere-Falcon 200 series aeroplanes. The directive AD/AMD 20/12 focuses on the horizontal stabiliser trim control switch connections. This directive applies to all models of these aeroplanes that are fitted with an automatic pilot or any optional circuit that connects to the horizontal trim control switch's normally closed contacts (section 39-105(4/77)). The directive requires compliance with the actions outlined in AMD SB 568, Revision 2, dated 27-74. Additionally, it references Bureau Veritas 76-219-13 (B) for further technical guidance. Compliance with these requirements must be achieved within 200 hours of time in service after 30 April 1977. The obligations imposed by this directive are primarily focused on ensuring that the specified modifications are implemented correctly. Operators and owners of the affected aircraft must ensure that the horizontal stabiliser trim control switch connections adhere to the guidelines provided in the referenced service bulletin (AMD SB 568, Rev. 2). This involves carrying out any necessary modifications or repairs to meet the safety standards set forth by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority. Operators must also ensure that the aircraft's maintenance records are updated to reflect compliance with this directive. Failure to comply with the airworthiness directive AD/AMD 20/12 could result in significant legal and operational consequences. The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 outline penalties for non-compliance with airworthiness directives, which can include substantial fines and potential grounding of the aircraft until the required modifications are completed. The specific penalties and enforcement actions are detailed in other sections of the Civil Aviation Act 1988 and the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, but the overarching principle is that non-compliance poses a risk to the safety of the aircraft and its occupants, and is therefore taken very seriously by the regulatory authorities.