AD/CESSNA 400/83 - Up Elevator Stop Bolt - Inspection and Replacement

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, a cornerstone of aviation safety in Australia, were enacted by the Parliament of Australia to ensure the safety of civil aviation operations. One particular legislative instrument under this act, F2006B08367, pertains to the Cessna 400 Series Aeroplanes, specifically addressing the issue of the up elevator stop bolt through Airworthiness Directive AD/CESSNA 400/83. This directive was introduced to tackle the problem of potential elevator malfunctions in certain Cessna 400 Series models, which could compromise flight safety. The policy objective of this directive is to mandate regular inspections and necessary replacements of the up elevator stop bolt to prevent any safety issues arising from inadequate security of the stop bolt adjustment. The directive, as outlined in the Cessna Customer Care Alert SL PJ 81-8, requires an initial inspection before further flight for specified model numbers and serial ranges, followed by regular inspections at intervals not exceeding 25 hours of time in service until the bolt is replaced. Furthermore, a replacement must be carried out within 300 hours of time in service after 7 October 1981. This proactive approach aims to ensure the continued airworthiness and safety of the affected aircraft by addressing potential structural vulnerabilities in a timely manner.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105 concerning the Civil Aviation Safety Authority Schedule of Airworthiness Directives for Cessna 400 Series Aeroplanes, applies to certain models of the Cessna 400 Series, particularly those identified by specific serial numbers. The regulation mandates an inspection and replacement procedure for the up elevator stop bolt, as detailed in Cessna Customer Care Alert SL PJ 81-8. This directive applies to models 425 with serial numbers ranging from 425-0002 to 425-0049. The requirement is to initially inspect the specified elevator stop bolt before further flight and then at intervals not exceeding 25 hours of time in service until the bolt is replaced according to the provided alert. Additionally, the replacement must be completed within 300 hours of time in service after 7 October 1981. This regulation is issued under the Commonwealth of Australia and applies nationally, ensuring compliance across all states and territories. The regulations do not specify any exclusions or exemptions and are enforced through subordinate instruments as necessary.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, outlines the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Schedule of Airworthiness Directives for the Cessna 400 Series Aeroplanes. One of the critical directives, AD/CESSNA 400/83, pertains to the inspection and replacement of the up elevator stop bolt. This directive applies to all models 425 with specific serial numbers ranging from 425-0002 to 425-0004, 425-0016 to 425-0018, 425-0020 to 425-0033, 425-0035 to 425-0043, and 425-0049 (sections 1 and 2). The document that provides detailed compliance instructions is the Cessna Customer Care Alert SL PJ 81-8. Under this directive, the primary requirement is to inspect the up elevator stop bolt before the aircraft is flown further and then at intervals not exceeding 25 hours of time in service until the bolt is replaced (section 1(1)). This initial inspection must be carried out prior to the aircraft's continued operation. Additionally, the bolt must be replaced within 300 hours of time in service following 7 October 1981 (section 1(2)). The replacement is to be performed in accordance with the instructions detailed in the referenced Cessna Customer Care Alert. The obligations imposed by this directive include ensuring that the specified Cessna 400 Series Aeroplanes undergo the mandated inspections and replacements. Operators of these aircraft must adhere to the timing and frequency of inspections and replacements as stipulated. Failure to comply with these directives can result in serious safety risks, as the up elevator stop bolt is a critical component for the safe operation of the aircraft. Failure to comply with these airworthiness directives can have significant legal and safety implications. According to the regulations, non-compliance may result in various penalties and consequences. Specifically, the Civil Aviation Regulations may impose fines, and in severe cases, the aircraft may be grounded or operations restricted until compliance is achieved. The exact penalties are not explicitly stated in this particular directive but typically follow the broader penalties outlined within the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, which can include fines up to a substantial amount depending on the severity and impact of the non-compliance.