AD/DH114/3 - ASI Drain Cocks - Modification

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, which were enacted by the Parliament of Australia, form part of a comprehensive regulatory framework aimed at ensuring the safety and efficiency of civil aviation in Australia. One particular legislative instrument under this Act, F2006B08940, addresses specific safety concerns related to certain models of aircraft, in this case, the DH114 (Heron) Series Aeroplanes. The instrument, AD/DH114/3, was introduced to address a safety issue concerning the ASI (Airspeed Indicator) drain cocks. The problem it was designed to resolve is the potential for water accumulation in the ASI system, which could lead to erroneous readings and compromise flight safety. The policy objective of this specific legislative instrument is to mandate modifications to the ASI drain cocks to prevent water accumulation, thereby enhancing the overall airworthiness and safety of the DH114 series aeroplanes. Compliance with this directive is mandatory for all Series 1B and 2 aeroplanes, with a compliance deadline set before 28 February 1955.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, which pertains to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, governs the applicability and compliance of the Heron Series Aeroplanes with respect to the modification of ASI Drain Cocks. This legislation applies to all Series 1B and 2 Heron aeroplanes, mandating compliance with either Document 1, DH Heron Modification No. 342, or Document 2, the Aeronautical Notice 105.1.14.17.5.3, and requires adherence to the compliance date of 28 February 1955. The regulations are set under the Commonwealth of Australia, thereby extending their jurisdictional reach across the entire nation, ensuring that all operators of the specified aircraft models meet the outlined safety requirements. This legislative instrument provides a clear directive for the modification of ASI Drain Cocks, ensuring that these aircraft maintain their airworthiness and safety standards as per the stipulated civil aviation regulations.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, Part 39 - 105, specifically pertaining to the airworthiness directive AD/DH114/3 for the DH114 (Heron) Series Aeroplanes, primarily revolve around the modification of the ASI (Airspeed Indicator) drain cocks. This directive (section 39.105) applies to all Series 1B and 2 of the DH114 aircraft. The directive mandates that the modifications must be implemented as specified in either document DH Heron Mod. No. 342 or ANO 105.1.14.17.5.3. Furthermore, compliance with these modifications must be achieved before 28 February 1955, as per the directive’s stipulations. The obligations imposed on the parties governed by this directive are clear and specific. Operators and owners of the affected DH114 (Heron) Series Aeroplanes must ensure that the ASI drain cocks are modified as per the detailed instructions provided in the referenced documents. This involves a thorough inspection and, if necessary, the replacement or alteration of the existing ASI drain cocks to meet the safety standards set forth by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). Operators must also keep comprehensive records of the modifications carried out, including dates, the personnel involved, and any parts replaced or altered. Ensuring compliance with this directive is critical for maintaining the airworthiness and safety of the aircraft. Should any party fail to comply with the airworthiness directive AD/DH114/3, there can be significant consequences. According to the regulations, non-compliance may result in civil or criminal penalties. The specific nature of the penalties can vary but typically includes substantial fines, and in severe cases, potential imprisonment for individuals responsible for the oversight. The exact penalties are not detailed within the directive itself but are governed by the broader Civil Aviation Act 1988 and associated regulations. Operators must be particularly vigilant in adhering to the directive to avoid these serious repercussions.