AD/DART/10 - Low Torque Switch

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, as amended by F2006B08697, are a critical component of Australia's aviation safety framework, providing the legal basis for the implementation of Airworthiness Directives (ADs). This particular legislative instrument, issued under the authority of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), addresses a specific safety concern with the Dart Series of Rolls Royce Turbine Engines, particularly those of the RDa-6 and RDa-7 models. The problem it seeks to resolve involves the low torque switch, which has been subject to safety concerns requiring immediate action to ensure continued airworthiness. The policy objective, as indicated by the reissue of AD/RRT/22B, is to mandate corrective actions that are in alignment with Rolls Royce Service Bulletin Da 61-12 Rev 2 or the referenced AD/RRT/22B, with the directive taking effect immediately upon issuance.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, as amended, specifically address the safety and airworthiness of aircraft and their components, including Rolls Royce turbine engines, under the jurisdiction of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). Within this regulatory framework, Part 39 - 106 pertains to Airworthiness Directives (ADs) that are essential for maintaining the safety standards of aircraft operations. The particular AD/DART/10 concerns the low torque switch for all Dart RDa-6 and RDa-7 series engines. This directive applies to any person or entity that operates or maintains these engines, ensuring that all necessary actions are undertaken in accordance with specified Rolls Royce Service Bulletins or other referenced ADs to maintain the engine's airworthiness. The directive is effective immediately, mandating compliance with the stipulated requirements without any stated exclusions or exemptions, and extends to all relevant entities operating within the Commonwealth of Australia. The scope of this regulation is further extended or refined through subordinate instruments, ensuring comprehensive coverage and enforcement of safety standards across the aviation industry.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically in Part 39, detail provisions regarding the airworthiness of aircraft and related components. Under this Part, AD/DART/10 (Rolls Royce Turbine Engines - Dart Series) addresses the airworthiness directive for low torque switches on Dart RDa-6 and RDa-7 series engines (section 106). This directive mandates that engine holders must take specific actions to ensure compliance with safety standards. The directive provides two pathways for compliance: either by following Rolls Royce Service Bulletin SB Da 61-12 Rev 2 or by adhering to AD/RRT/22B (section 1). The obligations imposed by AD/DART/10 require engine holders to implement the specified corrective actions without delay. The directive explicitly states that the required actions must be completed forthwith (section 1). This immediacy underscores the critical nature of the safety measures to be adopted. Engine holders must ensure that all applicable engines are modified or inspected according to the provided guidelines to maintain compliance with airworthiness standards. These actions are integral to preventing potential hazards associated with the low torque switch functionality in these engine models. Failure to comply with the provisions outlined in AD/DART/10 can result in significant consequences. Non-compliance with airworthiness directives can lead to the grounding of affected aircraft, which in turn can disrupt flight schedules and result in financial penalties. Furthermore, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) has the authority to take enforcement actions against entities that fail to adhere to these safety directives. While specific penalties are not detailed in the directive itself, non-compliance can lead to severe repercussions, including fines and potential criminal charges under the Civil Aviation Act 1988. The seriousness of these potential outcomes reinforces the necessity for engine holders to act promptly and thoroughly in addressing the requirements of AD/DART/10.