AD/BEECH 50/29 - Powerplant Fire Detection and Extinguishing Systems

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Legislation au F2006B03953 In force Legislative Instrument

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COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA (Civil Aviation Regulations 1998), PART 39 - 105 CIVIL AVIATION SAFETY AUTHORITY

SCHEDULE OF AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

 


Beechcraft 50 (Twin Bonanza) Series Aeroplanes

 

AD/BEECH 50/29 Powerplant Fire Detection and

Extinguishing Systems


8/79

 

Applicability: All models.

 

Requirement: Install powerplant fire detection and fire extinguishing systems in accordance with ANO Part 101.4, para. 6.14.

 

Compliance: Before 1 January 1980.

 

Background:  Complementary to the recent installation of stainless steel fuel lines in wheel wells, it is now required that fire detection and fire protection systems be incorporated. It should be noted that aircraft modified to the minimum standard required by this order do not comply with the fire detection requirements for USA registered aircraft as detailed in FAA AD 78-11-01 amendment 39-3220, as amended by 39-3277.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, as amended, were enacted to ensure the safety and efficiency of civil aviation within Australia, reflecting the nation's commitment to maintaining stringent aviation standards. Among these regulations, Part 39 - 105 specifically addresses the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's (CASA) Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, focusing on the mandatory installation of powerplant fire detection and extinguishing systems for Beechcraft 50 (Twin Bonanza) Series Aeroplanes, as outlined in AD/BEECH 50/29. This directive was introduced to mitigate the risk of powerplant fires, particularly in light of recent modifications to the aircraft's fuel lines. The objective is to ensure compliance with national safety standards, even though such compliance might not align with certain foreign regulations, such as those set by the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The requirement for installation before 1 January 1980 underscores the urgency and importance of adhering to these safety directives to protect both passengers and crew from the potential hazards of powerplant fires. The directive was issued by CASA, reflecting the body's role in overseeing and enforcing civil aviation safety regulations to safeguard the aviation industry and the public.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, applies to all Beechcraft 50 (Twin Bonanza) series aeroplanes. This regulation mandates the installation of powerplant fire detection and fire extinguishing systems in compliance with ANO Part 101.4, para. 6.14. The requirement stipulates that these installations must be completed before 1 January 1980. This directive is a critical safety measure, particularly in light of recent modifications such as the installation of stainless steel fuel lines in wheel wells, which underscore the necessity for comprehensive fire detection and protection systems. It is important to note that while this regulation ensures compliance with Australian standards, it does not meet the more stringent fire detection requirements for USA registered aircraft as outlined in FAA AD 78-11-01 amendment 39-3220, as subsequently amended by 39-3277.

Key Provisions

The primary operative sections of the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, include AD/BEECH 50/29, which mandates the installation of powerplant fire detection and fire extinguishing systems for Beechcraft 50 (Twin Bonanza) series aeroplanes (section 8/79). This directive applies to all models of the aircraft and requires compliance with the Australian National Aviation Orders (ANO) Part 101.4, paragraph 6.14. The objective is to enhance safety by ensuring these systems are installed prior to 1 January 1980. The obligations imposed by this legislation require all owners and operators of Beechcraft 50 series aeroplanes to ensure that the specified fire detection and extinguishing systems are installed. This includes adhering to the detailed specifications provided in ANO Part 101.4, paragraph 6.14, which outlines the technical and operational requirements for these systems. Failure to comply with these provisions can lead to the aircraft being deemed non-airworthy, which could result in grounding or refusal of airworthiness certification. The Act also stipulates potential offences and consequences for non-compliance. Any breach of the requirements outlined in AD/BEECH 50/29 could be considered a violation of civil aviation regulations. The penalties for such violations can include fines, legal action, and potential suspension or revocation of the aircraft’s operating licence. The maximum penalties are not explicitly stated in the provided text, but they could be severe given the critical nature of the systems involved and their role in ensuring aviation safety. It is crucial to note that aircraft modified to the minimum standard required by this directive do not meet the more stringent fire detection requirements for USA-registered aircraft as detailed in FAA AD 78-11-01, amendment 39-3220, as amended by 39-3277. This discrepancy highlights the importance of understanding and complying with both Australian and international regulations to ensure comprehensive safety standards are met.

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Sourced from the Federal Register of Legislation at 26 August 2026. For the latest information on Australian Government law please go to https://www.legislation.gov.au.