AD/DC4/9 - Hydraulic Hand Pump - Modification

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 (Cth), as amended by the Legislative Instrument F2006B08852, address the need for consistent and rigorous safety standards in civil aviation. This legislative instrument, enacted by the Commonwealth of Australia, aims to ensure the airworthiness of aircraft operating within Australian airspace, specifically targeting modifications and compliance for the Douglas DC4 Series Aeroplanes. The primary objective is to mitigate risks associated with the hydraulic systems of these aircraft, ensuring they meet the stringent safety benchmarks set by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority. By incorporating directives from relevant authorities such as the Federal Aviation Administration and aligning with Australian National Standards, the legislation seeks to enhance safety and operational reliability for all civil aviation activities.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, applies to all persons or entities involved in the operation and maintenance of Douglas DC4 Series aeroplanes within Australia, encompassing the geographic jurisdiction of the Commonwealth. This Act mandates compliance with airworthiness directives, including the requirement for a hydraulic hand pump modification outlined in AD/DC4/9, as detailed in the referenced documents. The legislation does not explicitly state any exclusions or exemptions, implying that all Douglas DC4 Series aeroplanes within the regulatory scope must adhere to the specified modifications. Furthermore, the Act allows for the extension or restriction of its application through subordinate instruments, ensuring that regulatory measures can be adapted to address specific circumstances or emerging safety concerns.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 (CAR 1998) pertaining to the Douglas DC4 Series Aeroplanes' hydraulic hand pump modification are found in the Schedule of Airworthiness Directives (ADs). Specifically, AD/DC4/9 focuses on the modification of the hydraulic hand pump for the Douglas DC4 Series Aeroplanes. This AD mandates that operators of Douglas DC4 aeroplanes must modify their hydraulic hand pumps to ensure compliance with safety standards (AD/DC4/9). The requirement is clearly outlined in the AD and references several documents, including the Douglas SB (DC4) No. 3 revised 8 June 1948, FAA AD 47-2-6, and ANO 105.1.16.2.5.8, which detail the necessary modifications and procedures. The obligations imposed by AD/DC4/9 on the parties or entities it governs are primarily concerned with the maintenance and modification of the hydraulic hand pump in Douglas DC4 Series Aeroplanes. Operators of these aircraft must ensure that the hydraulic hand pump modifications are completed in accordance with the specified directives and documents. This involves adhering to the technical specifications and instructions provided by the referenced documents to maintain the airworthiness of the aircraft. Failure to comply with these obligations may result in the aircraft being deemed non-compliant with airworthiness standards, potentially leading to grounding or other regulatory actions. Breach of the requirements set out in AD/DC4/9 can lead to several consequences. Firstly, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) may take enforcement action against operators who fail to comply with the AD. This can include fines, suspension of air operator certificates, or other regulatory penalties. Furthermore, failure to modify the hydraulic hand pump as required can result in the aircraft being deemed airworthy, which can lead to significant safety risks. In severe cases, non-compliance could result in civil or criminal liability for the operator, including potential prosecution under relevant aviation safety legislation. The maximum penalties for such offences can include substantial fines and, in cases of criminal negligence, imprisonment.