AD/CESSNA 210/23 - Hydraulic Pressure Line/Trim Tab Chain Interference - Inspection

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, addresses the safety requirements for civil aviation through the issuance of Airworthiness Directives (ADs) by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). These regulations were enacted to ensure that all aircraft operating within Australian airspace meet the necessary safety standards and to mitigate risks associated with aircraft operation. One such directive, AD/CESSNA 210/23, pertains to Cessna 210 Series aeroplanes with serial numbers 21059503 to 21059771. This directive aims to address the specific safety issue of hydraulic pressure line and trim tab chain interference, requiring compliance within 100 hours of time in service following 31 May 1973. The overarching policy objective of these regulations is to enhance aviation safety by mandating periodic inspections and necessary maintenance actions to prevent potential hazards that could compromise the airworthiness of affected aircraft.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) under the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically within Part 39 - 105, mandates the issue of Airworthiness Directives (ADs) that are imperative for the safety of aviation operations within Australia. One such AD, AD/CESSNA 210/23, pertains to a specific series of Cessna 210 aeroplanes, identified by serial numbers ranging from 21059503 to 21059771. This directive addresses the potential interference issue between the hydraulic pressure line and the trim tab chain. Compliance with this directive is required within 100 hours of time in service after 31 May 1973, highlighting the necessity for regular inspection and maintenance to ensure the continued airworthiness of these aircraft. The directive applies to all relevant aircraft operators and maintenance personnel who must adhere to the specified inspection protocols to mitigate any safety risks associated with this identified issue.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39, contains a series of directives aimed at ensuring the airworthiness of aircraft operating in Australia. Section 39-105, within the schedule of airworthiness directives, targets the Cessna 210 series aeroplanes, focusing on an inspection requirement for hydraulic pressure lines and trim tab chains. This directive, AD/CESSNA 210/23, is applicable to all Cessna 210 models with serial numbers between 21059503 and 21059771. The requirement to comply with this directive is outlined in the Cessna SL SE73-5 document, mandating that the inspection must be conducted within 100 hours of time in service after 31 May 1973. Under this directive, the primary obligation is for the operator or owner of the affected Cessna 210 models to ensure that the specified inspection is performed. This involves a thorough examination of the hydraulic pressure lines and trim tab chains to identify any interference issues that could compromise the aircraft's safety. The inspection must be carried out by a certified individual who is qualified to perform such checks, ensuring that any identified issues are rectified promptly and in accordance with the standards set forth by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). Failure to comply with the requirements set out in this airworthiness directive may result in significant legal consequences. Section 97 of the Civil Aviation Act 1988 outlines various offences and penalties for non-compliance with airworthiness directives. The severity of the penalty can depend on the nature and extent of the breach, but in some cases, it can include substantial fines and potential imprisonment for individuals involved in the operation of the aircraft. The specific maximum penalties are not detailed within the AD/CESSNA 210/23 directive itself but are governed by the broader provisions of the Civil Aviation Act 1988, which provide a framework for enforcement and sanctions to ensure adherence to aviation safety standards.