AD/CESSNA 336/7 - Rear Engine Idle Rpm - Adjustment and Placard Installation

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, enacted by the Parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia, encompass a broad range of safety requirements for civil aviation, with specific emphasis on the airworthiness of aircraft. One particular legislative instrument within this framework, F2006B08228, pertains to the Cessna 336 Series Aeroplanes, addressing a safety issue identified in the rear engine idle RPM and its adjustment. The policy objective of this directive is to enhance the operational safety of these aircraft by standardising the rear engine idle settings and mandating clear placarding to ensure pilots conduct necessary checks during taxi and take-off. The instrument was introduced to address a gap in ensuring consistent and safe engine operations across all models of the Cessna 336 series, thereby contributing to the overarching aim of maintaining high safety standards in civil aviation.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, mandates adherence to Airworthiness Directives issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority for aircraft operations within Australia. This particular directive, AD/CESSNA 336/7, pertains to all models of Cessna 336 series aeroplanes, requiring compliance with the adjustments of the rear engine idle setting and the installation of a specific placard. The directive applies to aircraft operations nationwide, encompassing both domestic and international flights originating from Australian soil. The adjustments mandated by this directive include setting the rear engine idle RPM to 650 ± 25 and readjusting the idle mixture accordingly. Additionally, a permanent placard must be installed adjacent to the tachometer, with the wording specified as "TAXI AND TAKE-OFF LEAD WITH REAR ENGINE POWER CHECK RPM AND FUEL FLOW." Non-compliance with these requirements within 100 hours of the directive's effective date following 31 March 1972 may result in operational restrictions or penalties as outlined by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, mandates certain safety directives for aircraft, with AD/CESSNA 336/7 focusing on the Cessna 336 Series Aeroplanes. The key operative sections (1.1 and 1.2) require the adjustment of the rear engine idle setting and the installation of a permanent placard. Section 1.1 stipulates that the rear engine idle must be adjusted from 600 + 25 RPM to 650 + 25 RPM, with a corresponding adjustment to the idle mixture. Section 1.2 mandates the installation of a placard next to the tachometer, indicating the necessity of a lead with rear engine power check, RPM, and fuel flow. These requirements are explicitly detailed in Cessna SL ME71-21. The obligations and requirements imposed by this Act on the parties or entities it governs include ensuring compliance with the specified engine adjustments and placard installation within the stipulated timeframe. Operators of the Cessna 336 Series Aeroplanes must adhere to these directives to maintain airworthiness standards. Compliance must be achieved within 100 hours of time in service after 31 March 1972, as outlined in the regulation. This mandates regular checks and timely adjustments to ensure that the aircraft operates within the prescribed safety parameters. Failure to comply with these provisions can lead to serious consequences. The regulations impose both civil and criminal penalties for non-compliance. The specific offences and their penalties are not detailed in the text, but it is understood that any breach of the Civil Aviation Regulations can result in severe repercussions. Operators found in violation may face substantial fines and legal actions, and in severe cases, criminal charges could be pursued. The exact penalties would depend on the nature and extent of the breach, but the potential for significant legal and financial consequences underscores the importance of strict adherence to the regulations.