AD/CESSNA 170/50 - Aileron Hinge Pin

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, enacted by the Australian Parliament, provide a comprehensive framework for the regulation of civil aviation within Australia. A specific part of this regulation, Part 39, includes detailed safety directives to ensure the airworthiness of aircraft. The legislative instrument F2006B04978, which pertains to the Cessna 170, 172, F172, FR172, and 175 Series Aeroplanes, was introduced to address a critical safety issue identified with the aileron hinge pin of these aircraft models. The problem arose from potential migration and loss of the aileron hinge pin due to incorrectly located retaining split pin holes, which could compromise the aircraft's structural integrity and flight safety. The policy objective behind this directive is to mandate corrective actions to ensure compliance with the specified safety instructions and prevent any associated risks. The Airworthiness Directive AD/CESSNA 170/50, applicable to specific serial numbers of the aforementioned aircraft models, requires adherence to the Cessna S.I.L. SE83-18 and FAA AD 83-22-06 guidelines. The directive stipulates that corrective actions must be taken either within 100 hours of time in service after 31 January 1984 or during the next scheduled inspection, whichever comes later, unless these actions have already been completed. This directive underscores the commitment to maintaining high safety standards in the operation of civil aircraft within Australia.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, pertains to the airworthiness directives issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). This legislation applies to specific models of Cessna aeroplanes, including the 170, 172, F172, FR172, and 175 series, and it mandates that certain actions be taken regarding aileron hinge pins to ensure safety. The directive applies to aeroplanes with serial numbers within defined ranges, and it is mandatory for these aircraft to comply with the directive unless they have already fulfilled the requirements within 100 hours of service after 31 January 1984 or at the next scheduled inspection. The directive is a Commonwealth regulation, thereby extending its application across the entire nation, ensuring a uniform approach to aviation safety. The legislation does not explicitly mention exclusions or exemptions, but it does refer to the need for compliance with specified Service Instructions and FAA directives, suggesting that adherence to these standards is critical for compliance.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, under Part 39 - 105, includes specific Airworthiness Directives (AD) for various aircraft models, such as the Cessna 170, 172, F172, FR172 and 175 series aeroplanes. One such directive, AD/CESSNA 170/50, pertains to the aileron hinge pin, specifically for certain serial numbers within these models (section 1). The directive mandates that action be taken in accordance with Cessna Service Information Letter (S.I.L.) SE83-18, referencing FAA AD 83-22-06 for additional context (section 2). The requirement is that the specified action must be completed unless it has already been performed within 100 hours of time in service after 31 January 1984 or at the next scheduled inspection for Maintenance Release issue after the same date, whichever is later (section 3). Entities governed by these regulations, including aircraft operators, maintenance organisations, and individuals responsible for the upkeep of these aircraft, must ensure compliance with the AD. This involves verifying that the aileron hinge pin installation adheres to the specifications outlined in the referenced documents. The primary obligation is to prevent the migration and potential loss of the aileron hinge pin, which could occur if the retaining split pin holes are incorrectly positioned (section 4). Maintenance records must be updated to reflect compliance, and any necessary modifications must be logged accurately to ensure traceability and adherence to regulatory standards (section 5). Failure to comply with the AD may result in significant consequences. Non-compliance can lead to the aircraft being deemed unairworthy, potentially resulting in grounding until the issue is rectified. From a legal standpoint, operators and maintenance personnel could face regulatory action, including fines and penalties. The maximum penalties for non-compliance with civil aviation regulations can include substantial financial penalties, and in severe cases, criminal charges. It is crucial for all involved parties to understand and adhere to the specified requirements to avoid these repercussions (section 6).