AD/B747/18 - Lower Cargo Doorway Lower Sill Truss and Latch Support Fitting - Inspection

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically within Part 39 - 105, contains the Civil Aviation Safety Authority Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, which includes AD/B747/18 concerning the Boeing 747 Series Aeroplanes. This directive was enacted to address the issue of corrosion, cracking, and blocked drainage paths in the 7079-T6 truss and related 7079-T6 latch support fittings on the lower sill of the forward and lower cargo doorways. This problem was identified overseas and requires immediate attention to ensure the continued airworthiness and safety of the aircraft. The Federal Parliament enacted these regulations under the Civil Aviation Act 1988, with the overarching objective of enhancing aviation safety by ensuring that aircraft meet stringent airworthiness standards. The policy objective of this specific airworthiness directive is to mandate regular inspections and necessary repairs or replacements of the affected components to prevent potential failures, which could compromise the structural integrity of the aircraft and pose a significant risk to flight safety. This directive is a critical measure to uphold the high safety standards set by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, ensuring that all commercial aircraft operating within Australian airspace meet the required safety criteria.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, mandate the compliance of airworthiness directives issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) for all aircraft registered in Australia, including Boeing 747 series aeroplanes. AD/B747/18 focuses on the inspection of the lower cargo doorway lower sill truss and latch support fittings, addressing issues such as corrosion, cracking, and blocked drainage paths identified in overseas operations. This directive applies universally to all models of the Boeing 747 series aeroplanes. CASA's requirements are derived from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) AD 79-17-02, Amendment 39-3526, and Boeing Service Bulletin 747-53-2200, which are referenced as the compliance documents. The geographic reach of this regulation is national, ensuring that all aircraft within Australia's jurisdiction adhere to the stipulated safety standards. There are no stated exclusions or exemptions within the scope of this directive, and it extends its application through the referenced subordinate instruments.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, Part 39, specifically Section 39.105, outlines the requirements for the airworthiness directives (AD) related to Boeing 747 Series aeroplanes. Section 11/79 of this part mandates that all models of Boeing 747 aircraft must undergo inspection of the lower cargo doorway lower sill truss and latch support fittings. This inspection requirement is derived from the FAA AD 79-17-02, Amendment 39-3526, and Boeing Service Bulletin 747-53-2200. These documents provide the technical details and procedures necessary to ensure the structural integrity of the specified parts. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) imposes specific obligations on aircraft operators and maintenance personnel under this regulation. Operators must ensure that the inspections are conducted according to the procedures outlined in the referenced documents. This includes visual inspections, measuring for corrosion and cracks, and ensuring that drainage paths are unobstructed. Maintenance personnel must be adequately trained to perform these inspections and to carry out any necessary repairs or replacements. The regulations require that any deficiencies identified during the inspection must be rectified before the aircraft can return to service. Failure to comply with the airworthiness directive can result in severe consequences. Under the Civil Aviation Act 1988, non-compliance with CASA regulations can lead to civil penalties, including fines. Specifically, the maximum penalty for non-compliance with airworthiness directives can be significant, depending on the severity of the breach. In addition to financial penalties, operators may face criminal charges if the non-compliance results in a safety incident or if it is found to be a deliberate act. Such breaches can also lead to the grounding of the aircraft until the required inspections and repairs are completed, causing operational disruptions and financial losses for the airline.