AD/CESSNA 185/30 Amdt 2 - Vented Fuel Caps

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, includes the Airworthiness Directive (AD) for Cessna 185 series aeroplanes, which was enacted to address safety concerns related to fuel tank venting. This legislation was introduced to ensure that the specified models of Cessna 185 and A185 aeroplanes, with serial numbers ranging from 185-00001 to 185-01896, are equipped with vented fuel caps in accordance with Cessna Service Letter SE77-6. This requirement aims to prevent potential issues such as obstructed primary vents or sticking fuel tank vent valves, which could lead to hazardous situations. The policy objective behind this directive is to enhance the safety standards in civil aviation by mandating the installation of appropriate vented fuel caps within 100 hours of time in service after 31 August 1979. Furthermore, it clarifies that placards cannot be used as an alternative to the installation of these essential components.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105 concerning the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, addresses the safety requirements for certain aircraft models, including the Cessna 185 Series Aeroplanes. This legislation applies to all Cessna 185 and A185 models with serial numbers ranging from 185-00001 to 185-01896. The primary focus of this directive is to mandate the installation of vented fuel caps as specified in Cessna Service Letter SE77-6, ensuring that these aircraft meet stringent safety standards to prevent potential issues such as obstructed primary vents or sticking of the fuel tank vent valve. Compliance with this directive must be achieved within 100 hours of the aircraft being in service after 31 August 1979, and it is explicitly stated that the installation of a placard does not constitute acceptable compliance. The directive is an extension of the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) AD 79-10-14, Amendment 39-3475, further clarifying the applicable serial numbers through an amendment.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, under Part 39 - 105, specifically address the airworthiness directives for certain Cessna 185 series aeroplanes. In this context, the primary requirement outlined in AD/CESSNA 185/30 Amendment 2 pertains to the installation of vented fuel caps on models 185 and A185 with serial numbers ranging from 185-00001 to 185-01896 (section 39 - 105). The directive mandates that vented fuel caps must be installed in accordance with Cessna Service Letter SE77-6, referencing FAA AD 79-10-14, Amendment 39-3475. Importantly, the installation of a placard is not accepted as an alternative to the required vented fuel caps. Compliance with these directives must be achieved within 100 hours of the aeroplane being in service after 31 August 1979. The obligations imposed by these regulations are clear and specific. Owners or operators of the affected Cessna 185 and A185 models must ensure that the vented fuel caps are correctly installed as per the specified service letter. This requirement is designed to prevent issues such as obstructed primary vents or sticking fuel tank vent valves, which could compromise the safety of the aircraft. The directive further clarifies that any attempt to circumvent the requirement by installing a placard is not permissible. The compliance timeframe of 100 hours of service post the specified date underscores the urgency and importance of adhering to these safety measures. Failure to comply with these airworthiness directives can lead to serious consequences. The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 stipulate that non-compliance with airworthiness directives can result in penalties under the Civil Aviation Act 1988. While the specific penalties for breaching these directives are not detailed in the provided text, the general legislative framework indicates that violations can lead to both civil and criminal penalties. Civil penalties may include fines, while criminal penalties could result in imprisonment, reflecting the serious nature of ensuring air safety through such regulatory measures.