AD/B767/41 - Leading Edge Slat Drive Mechanism

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, amended by the Legislative Instrument F2006B03395, addresses the critical safety concerns associated with the mechanical integrity of the leading edge slat drive systems in Boeing 767 series aeroplanes. Enacted by the Australian Government, this legislation aims to prevent potential hazards such as torque tube disconnection or failure and oil contamination in the offset gearbox, which could lead to uncommanded movement of the leading edge slats. The policy objective is to ensure compliance with safety standards as outlined by Boeing ASB 767-27A0095 Rev 1 and referenced by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) AD T90-09-51, by mandating that these safety measures be implemented at the next "A" check inspection period following 30 September 1990. This regulation underscores the importance of maintaining rigorous safety standards within the civil aviation sector, ensuring that all stakeholders adhere to the prescribed directives to protect both passengers and crew from potential mechanical failures. By addressing these specific issues, the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, as amended, aim to enhance the overall safety and reliability of aviation operations in Australia, aligning with both domestic and international safety protocols.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 – 105, addresses airworthiness directives concerning various aircraft models, including the Boeing 767 series. This particular directive, AD/B767/41, pertains to the leading edge slat drive mechanism and is applicable to all Boeing 767 series aeroplanes. It mandates compliance with Boeing ASB 767-27A0095 Rev 1, referencing FAA AD T90-09-51, and requires the necessary actions to be undertaken during the next scheduled "A" check inspection period following 30 September 1990. This directive is integral in ensuring the mechanical integrity of the leading edge slat drive systems, preventing potential issues such as torque tube disconnection or oil contamination in the offset gearbox, which could otherwise lead to uncommanded movement of the leading edge slats. The regulation’s reach extends to any entity operating a Boeing 767 series aircraft within the Commonwealth of Australia, thereby necessitating adherence to these safety standards to maintain airworthiness.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, pertain to the Boeing 767 series aeroplanes and their leading edge slat drive mechanisms. Section AD/B767/41 mandates that unless already completed, actions must be taken in accordance with Boeing ASB 767-27A0095 Rev 1 (section 1). This directive references FAA AD T90-09-51 for further guidance (section 2). Compliance is required at the next "A" check inspection period following 30 September 1990 (section 3). This directive is essential to ensure the mechanical integrity of the leading edge slat drive systems, preventing issues such as torque tube disconnection or failure and oil contamination of the no-back brake in the offset gearbox, which could lead to uncommanded movement of the leading edge slats (section 4). The obligations imposed by this legislation on the parties and entities it governs include ensuring that the specified maintenance actions are carried out as per the Boeing ASB 767-27A0095 Rev 1 and any referenced FAA ADs. Operators of Boeing 767 series aeroplanes must adhere to the inspection schedule and ensure that the leading edge slat drive mechanisms are inspected and maintained according to the regulatory requirements. This involves conducting the necessary checks and repairs to maintain the integrity of the slat drive systems and prevent potential mechanical failures that could compromise flight safety (section 5). Any failure to comply with the requirements outlined in this directive may result in civil or criminal consequences. The exact nature of the consequences depends on the severity of the breach and the impact on aviation safety. Under the Civil Aviation Act 1988, violations of regulations can lead to fines, penalties, or even imprisonment for individuals, while companies may face substantial fines. The maximum penalties for serious breaches can include fines of up to $210,000 for corporations and $42,000 for individuals, along with other potential sanctions such as grounding of aircraft or revocation of airworthiness certificates. Ensuring compliance with AD/B767/41 is critical to avoid these severe consequences and to maintain the highest safety standards in civil aviation (section 6).