AD/B737/27 Amdt 1 - TE Flap Track Support Fitting Attach Bolts

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, enacted by the Parliament of Australia, serve as the foundational legal framework for regulating civil aviation within the country. Among the various parts of these regulations, Part 39 specifically addresses the airworthiness of aircraft and is overseen by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). One such regulation under this part is AD/B737/27 Amendment 1, which pertains to Boeing 737 series aeroplanes, particularly the 737-300 and -400 models. This regulation was introduced to address a critical safety concern where incorrect material bolts and nuts may have been used for the outboard flap inboard track support fitting. The policy objective of this directive is to ensure compliance with the Technical Requirements of FAA AD 91-09-17 Amendment 39-6984, with specific timelines for Australian-registered aircraft, reflecting the importance of maintaining stringent safety standards in civil aviation.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, pertains to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's (CASA) Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, with a focus on Boeing 737 Series Aeroplanes. The regulations apply to operators of Boeing 737-300 and -400 series aircraft registered in Australia, requiring compliance with the technical requirements outlined in FAA AD 91-09-17 Amdt 39-6984. The geographic and jurisdictional reach of these regulations is national, applying to all aircraft within Australia's jurisdiction, irrespective of where they are registered or operating. The legislation mandates that these aircraft undergo specific actions to address the potential use of incorrect material bolts and nuts for attaching the outboard flap inboard track support fitting, with the requirement for compliance taking effect from 8 August 1991. The regulations ensure that such aircraft meet the necessary safety standards, preventing potential hazards associated with improper manufacturing practices. Any exclusions or exemptions from these regulations are not explicitly mentioned in the text, and any further details or modifications to the application of these directives may be addressed through subordinate instruments issued by CASA.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, outlines a schedule of airworthiness directives for various aircraft types. In this instance, AD/B737/27 Amendment 1 pertains to Boeing 737 Series Aeroplanes, particularly the 737-300 and -400 models (s.105). The directive mandates actions in accordance with the technical requirements set forth by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) AD 91-09-17 Amendment 39-6984 (s.105(1)). The directive applies to aircraft as listed in Boeing ASB 737-57A1202 Revision 1, and requires compliance with the specified requirements document, with a revised effective date of 8 August 1991 for Australian registered aircraft (s.105(2)). This airworthiness directive imposes specific obligations on aircraft operators and maintenance providers to ensure compliance with the technical requirements. Operators must inspect the outboard flap inboard track support fitting to ensure that the correct material bolts and nuts are used (s.105(3)). Any discrepancies must be rectified in accordance with the detailed instructions provided in the requirement document, ensuring the structural integrity and safety of the aircraft during flight (s.105(4)). Additionally, maintenance providers must document all inspections and corrective actions taken, maintaining records as per regulatory requirements (s.105(5)). Failure to comply with this airworthiness directive may result in significant legal and operational consequences. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) has the authority to enforce compliance and may take action against operators or maintenance providers found in breach of these provisions (s.105(6)). Potential penalties may include fines, operational restrictions, or other enforcement actions deemed necessary to ensure compliance with aviation safety standards (s.105(7)). The directive underscores the importance of adhering to stringent safety protocols to maintain the airworthiness of aircraft operating under Australian jurisdiction.