AD/B767/6 - Flying Controls Self Locking Nuts

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically PART 39 - 105, includes the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Schedule of Airworthiness Directives. This legislation was introduced to address safety concerns related to the operation of civil aircraft in Australia. One such directive, AD/B767/6, pertains to Boeing 767 Series aeroplanes and specifically targets the issue of flying controls self-locking nuts. The problem this directive aims to resolve is the potential for these self-locking nuts to back off, leading to actuator disconnection from control surfaces and possible loss of control over the aircraft. This was enacted to ensure the safety and reliability of Boeing 767 operations within Australia by mandating adherence to Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767-27A0064 and FAA ADT85-21-51 Paras. A and B. The policy objective underpinning this legislation is to maintain and enhance aviation safety through stringent regulatory measures, ensuring that all aircraft operating within Australia meet necessary safety standards. This is achieved by requiring compliance with specific maintenance and inspection protocols, as outlined in the relevant bulletins and directives issued by CASA. The regulatory framework thus aims to prevent incidents arising from mechanical failures, thereby protecting passengers, crew, and the general public from potential hazards associated with civil aviation.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, as part of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, specifically target Boeing 767 Series aeroplanes with line positions ranging from 2 to 121, and 124 to 126. This directive mandates compliance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767-27A0064, which includes FAA ADT 85-21-51 Paragraphs A and B, to address the issue of flying controls self-locking nuts. The directive applies to all relevant Boeing 767 models, requiring actions to be taken to prevent the reported incidents of these nuts backing off, which could potentially lead to a disconnection of actuators from control surfaces, resulting in loss of control over the aircraft. The directive does not specify any exclusions or exemptions, and compliance is required in accordance with the detailed instructions provided in the Requirement Document No. 2. The geographic reach of this legislation extends to all Boeing 767 Series aeroplanes operating within Australia, enforcing safety standards set by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority. The application of these regulations is not limited by state or territory boundaries within the Commonwealth and adheres to national aviation safety standards. This directive does not specify any particular industries or entities beyond those involved in operating the affected Boeing 767 models, and compliance is expected from all relevant parties, including airlines and maintenance providers. The directive’s application can also be extended or modified through subordinate instruments, ensuring that any further developments or discoveries in the field of aviation safety are promptly incorporated.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, under Part 39 - 105, include a specific Airworthiness Directive (AD) for Boeing 767 Series Aeroplanes, identified as AD/B767/6. This directive (paragraph 12/85TX) pertains to flying controls self-locking nuts and applies to all Model 767 aeroplanes with line positions ranging from 2 to 121, and from 124 to 126. The directive mandates compliance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767-27A0064, as referenced in FAA ADT85-21-51 Paras. A and B (paragraph 2). Compliance is further detailed in Requirement Document No. 2. The obligations imposed by this directive include ensuring that the self-locking nuts in the primary and secondary flight control systems are checked and maintained according to the specifications outlined in the referenced Boeing Alert Service Bulletin. Specifically, operators must address the potential issue of self-locking nuts backing off, which could lead to actuators disconnecting from control surfaces. This could result in a loss of control of the aircraft, posing a significant safety risk. Therefore, operators are required to perform the necessary inspections and maintenance to prevent such incidents. Failure to comply with this directive could result in serious safety hazards. The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 establish that non-compliance with airworthiness directives can lead to various consequences. Civil penalties may be imposed, which can include fines up to the statutory maximum for each day of non-compliance. Additionally, criminal penalties may apply, with potential fines and imprisonment for individuals responsible for the oversight or enforcement of the regulations. The severity of these penalties underscores the importance of adhering to the directive to maintain the safety and airworthiness of the aircraft. In summary, the AD/B767/6 requires operators to follow specific maintenance procedures to ensure the integrity of self-locking nuts in Boeing 767 aeroplanes. These obligations are critical to prevent potential safety hazards that could lead to loss of control. Non-compliance with this directive can result in significant civil and criminal penalties, highlighting the regulatory body's commitment to aviation safety.