AD/ANSON/10 - Fuel Crossfeed Cock - Inspection

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, as amended by F2006B02407, introduce specific safety measures for civil aviation through the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) under the Commonwealth of Australia. This legislative instrument aims to address potential safety hazards associated with the operation of Avro Anson and Avro 19 series aeroplanes, particularly focusing on the inspection of the fuel crossfeed cock. The primary policy objective is to ensure that these aircraft maintain the highest safety standards by preventing any impediments that could compromise the functionality of the fuel crossfeed system, which is crucial for the safe operation of these aircraft. CASA’s directive requires that the fuel crossfeed cock be inspected whenever it is disturbed to ensure that the stop ring is not positioned in a manner that would obstruct the cock from being moved to the ‘OFF’ position, thereby mitigating the risk of fuel-related incidents during flight.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority's Schedule of Airworthiness Directives under the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 governs the maintenance and operation of specific aircraft, including the Avro Anson and Avro 19 Series Aeroplanes. Specifically, Airworthiness Directive AD/ANSON/10 mandates that operators of these aircraft must inspect the fuel crossfeed cock and ensure that the stop ring is not positioned in a manner that would impede the cock from being moved to the ‘OFF’ position. This directive applies to any instance where the fuel crossfeed cock is disturbed. The regulation is designed to maintain the airworthiness of these aircraft, ensuring compliance with safety standards set forth by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority. The directive applies to the Commonwealth of Australia, covering all entities and persons operating Avro Anson and Avro 19 Series Aeroplanes within the jurisdiction. The scope of this directive is not limited by any specific exclusions or thresholds, and it extends to all relevant aircraft operations governed by the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, contain a Schedule of Airworthiness Directives which governs the maintenance and operational requirements of various aircraft types, including the Avro Anson and Avro 19 series aeroplanes. Among these, AD/ANSON/10 pertains to the fuel crossfeed cock, an essential component that allows the transfer of fuel between the aeroplane's tanks. Section 3/52 mandates that the fuel crossfeed cock be inspected to ensure that the stop ring is not positioned in a manner that would impede the cock from being moved to the 'OFF' position. This is critical for ensuring the safety and proper operation of the aircraft. Compliance with these directives imposes several obligations on aircraft operators and maintenance personnel. Under section ANO 105.1.31.4.6.2, the inspection must occur whenever the fuel crossfeed cock is disturbed. This means that any time the cock is handled or adjusted, it must be checked to ensure it can be moved to the 'OFF' position without obstruction. This requirement ensures that the aeroplane’s fuel system is always in a safe and operational state, preventing potential hazards during flight. Failure to comply with these provisions can result in serious consequences. While the specific penalties are not detailed within the text provided, non-compliance with airworthiness directives generally can lead to severe civil and criminal penalties. In Australia, breaches of aviation regulations can result in fines, suspension or revocation of operating licences, and potential criminal charges for those responsible. Such penalties are designed to enforce the importance of adhering to safety standards to protect both the aircraft and its occupants.