AD/AMD 20/23 - Supplementary Structural Inspection Program

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 (Cth), enacted by the Commonwealth of Australia, form a crucial part of Australia's aviation regulatory framework, specifically addressing airworthiness and safety standards. The 1998 Regulations were introduced to establish comprehensive safety measures and operational standards to protect public safety and ensure the efficient functioning of the civil aviation sector. Within this legislative instrument, Part 39 - 105 Civil Aviation Safety Authority Schedule of Airworthiness Directives provides specific directives to ensure aircraft maintain their airworthiness throughout their operational life. This includes Supplementary Structural Inspection Programs (SSIP) for various aircraft models, such as the Fan Jet Falcon (Falcon 20/Mystere-Falcon 200) Series Aeroplanes. The SSIP is a critical measure aimed at extending the operating life of the airframe by ensuring regular inspections and maintenance, thereby mitigating potential structural failures and enhancing flight safety. The enactment of the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 by the Commonwealth Parliament reflects the policy objective of maintaining the highest standards of safety and reliability in civil aviation. The specific requirement for the SSIP for the Fan Jet Falcon (Falcon 20/Mystere-Falcon 200) Series Aeroplanes under AD/AMD 20/23 underscores the commitment to proactive maintenance and compliance with international safety standards, ensuring that Australian-registered aircraft operate within stringent safety parameters.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, as amended, encompass a comprehensive framework that applies to all civil aviation activities within Australia. Specifically, Part 39 - 105 of the Regulations, which pertains to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, mandates certain operational and maintenance standards for aircraft registered in Australia. The scope of this particular directive, AD/AMD 20/23, applies to all models of the Fan Jet Falcon (Falcon 20/Mystere-Falcon 200) series aeroplanes. The directive necessitates compliance with the Technical Requirements outlined in DGAC AD 90-08-9-020 (B), dated 28 April 1990, as referenced by Dassault Aviation Service Bulletin FJF/00/26 (DA/FJF/730), revision 1 dated 12 December 1990. This requirement is intended to ensure that the supplementary structural inspection program is adhered to, thereby extending the operating life of the aircraft to either 40,000 flights or 60,000 flight hours, whichever comes first. The directive is applicable to all Australian registered aircraft with an effective date of 3 October 1991, underscoring the importance of ongoing compliance with the specified standards to maintain airworthiness.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 (Part 39 - 105) detail the requirements for the Supplementary Structural Inspection Program (SSIP) for the AMD Fan Jet Falcon (Falcon 20/Mystere-Falcon 200) series aeroplanes, specifically under AD/AMD 20/23. Section 39-105 requires aircraft to undergo a supplementary structural inspection program to ensure their continued airworthiness. The requirement is for the action to be taken in accordance with the Technical Requirements of DGAC AD 90-089-020 (B), dated 28 April 1990, and references Dassault Aviation Service Bulletin FJF/00/26 (DA/FJF/730), revision 1 dated 12 December 1990. Compliance with these directives is mandatory for all Australian registered aircraft as of 3 October 1991. The obligations imposed on the parties governed by these regulations include ensuring that all aircraft within the specified series undergo the required inspections and any necessary repairs or modifications as outlined in the DGAC AD 90-089-020 (B) and Dassault Aviation Service Bulletin. Operators must maintain detailed records of all inspections and actions taken, ensuring traceability and accountability. This is necessary to verify compliance with airworthiness standards and to extend the operating life of the aircraft to the lesser of 40,000 flights or 60,000 flight hours. Failure to comply with the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically the provisions under Part 39 - 105, can result in significant legal and financial consequences. The regulations outline specific offences and penalties for non-compliance. For instance, operating an aircraft that does not meet the airworthiness standards prescribed by the SSIP can lead to enforcement actions by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). Potential penalties may include fines, suspension, or revocation of the aircraft's certificate of airworthiness, and possible criminal charges against individuals or entities responsible for non-compliance. The exact penalties can vary depending on the severity of the breach and the discretion of the court.