AD/CESSNA 210/17 - Front Seat Restraint Installations - Modification

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, amended through the Legislative instrument F2006B08067, specifically address the safety of front seat restraint installations in Cessna 210 series aeroplanes. Enacted by the Parliament of Australia, this regulation was introduced to tackle the safety gaps associated with inadequate restraint systems in front seats of these aircraft models, aiming to ensure the safety of pilots and passengers. The regulation's policy objective is to enhance aviation safety by mandating modifications to front seat restraint installations, requiring the fitting of approved safety harnesses. This legislative instrument underscores the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's commitment to stringent safety standards in civil aviation, ensuring compliance by a specified deadline.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, under the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, applies to all models of Cessna 210 series aeroplanes. This legislation mandates that each front seat restraint installation must be modified by fitting a safety harness that conforms to a scheme approved by the Secretary. The directive requires compliance before 1 September 1972, ensuring that the specified modifications are implemented to maintain airworthiness standards. The regulations are applicable across the Commonwealth of Australia, covering all relevant entities operating within this jurisdiction. There are no stated exclusions or exemptions within this specific Airworthiness Directive, and the requirements are clear and definitive, leaving no room for interpretation or variation through subordinate instruments.

Key Provisions

The primary operative section of the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically within Part 39 - 105, pertains to the Authority's Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, more precisely AD/CESSNA 210/17 (section 10/71). This directive applies to all models within the Cessna 210 Series Aeroplanes and mandates that each front seat restraint installation must be modified. The required modification involves fitting a safety harness, which must comply with a scheme approved by the Secretary (section 10/71). Compliance with this directive is mandatory and must be achieved before 1 September 1972. The obligations imposed by this regulation are straightforward yet critical. Owners or operators of Cessna 210 Series Aeroplanes must ensure that the specified modifications are made to the front seat restraint installations by the stipulated deadline. This involves selecting a safety harness that meets the approval criteria set by the Secretary and having it installed by qualified personnel. Failure to adhere to these requirements could result in the aircraft being deemed non-compliant and therefore unsafe to operate. It is imperative that records of these modifications are maintained and can be produced upon request by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) or other authorised personnel. Should any party fail to comply with the requirements set out in AD/CESSNA 210/17, there are significant consequences. The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 outline various offences that could be applicable, including breaches related to airworthiness and safety. For instance, operating an aircraft that does not meet the mandated safety standards can result in substantial penalties. Under the regulations, the maximum penalties for such breaches can include fines and, in severe cases, imprisonment. Additionally, non-compliance may lead to the suspension or revocation of the aircraft's certificate of airworthiness, effectively grounding the aircraft until the necessary modifications are completed and verified.