AD/CESSNA 310/10 - Inboard Aileron Hinges - Replacement

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, enacted by the Parliament of Australia, are a comprehensive set of rules that govern all aspects of civil aviation within Australia. One of the key components of these regulations is Part 39, which includes the Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, addressing specific safety issues for various aircraft types. One such directive, AD/CESSNA 310/10, pertains to the Cessna 310 Series aeroplanes and mandates the replacement of inboard aileron hinges. This directive applies to all model 310, 310B, and 310C aircraft prior to serial number 35774. The directive was introduced to address a specific safety concern identified in the inboard aileron hinges of these aircraft, ensuring compliance forthwith as specified in Cessna Service Letter No. 310-60, Supplement No. 1. The overarching policy objective of these regulations is to maintain the highest safety standards in the Australian civil aviation industry.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, as amended, encompass a comprehensive regulatory framework designed to ensure the safety and security of civil aviation within Australian airspace. Specifically, Part 39 - 105 of the Civil Aviation (Safety) Regulations 1998, under the authority of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, includes a schedule of airworthiness directives that mandate compliance with specific safety requirements for various aircraft types. This particular directive, AD/CESSNA 310/10, applies to all Cessna 310, 310B, and 310C models prior to serial number 35774. It mandates the replacement of inboard aileron hinges to ensure the continued airworthiness of these aircraft. Compliance with this directive is required forthwith, underscoring the critical importance of maintaining safety standards within the aviation industry. The directive applies across the Commonwealth of Australia, reflecting a national commitment to stringent safety protocols. There are no stated exclusions or exemptions in this directive; all specified aircraft must adhere to the outlined requirements. Additionally, the scope of this regulation may be extended or further specified through subordinate instruments issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, detail the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Schedule of Airworthiness Directives. One such directive, AD/CESSNA 310/10, pertains to Cessna 310 series aeroplanes, specifically addressing the replacement of inboard aileron hinges (Section 7/61). This directive applies to all model 310, 310B, and 310C aircraft prior to serial number 35774. Compliance with this directive is mandated immediately, as specified in the Cessna Service Letter No. 310-60, Supplement No. 1. The directive imposes clear obligations on aircraft owners, operators, and maintenance providers. They must ensure that the inboard aileron hinges are replaced as per the requirements outlined in the directive. This includes adhering to the specifications and procedures detailed in the referenced Cessna Service Letter and Supplement. Failure to comply with these requirements can lead to significant safety risks, potentially compromising the airworthiness of the aircraft. Violations of the provisions set out in the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 can result in severe consequences. Under Section 97 of the Civil Aviation Act 1988, individuals or entities found to be in breach of an airworthiness directive may face civil penalties. The maximum penalty for such offences can be significant, with fines reaching up to $210,000 for corporations and $42,000 for individuals. Additionally, criminal penalties may apply, leading to imprisonment for up to five years. These stringent measures underscore the importance of compliance with airworthiness directives to ensure the safety and integrity of civil aviation operations in Australia.