AD/F28/62 - Aileron Dual Input Quadrant Bracket

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, enacted by the Australian Parliament, form a comprehensive regulatory framework governing the safe operation of aircraft within Australia. The regulations cover a broad spectrum of aviation safety aspects, including airworthiness standards, pilot licensing, aircraft maintenance, and operational procedures. A significant part of these regulations is dedicated to issuing Airworthiness Directives (ADs) to ensure that aircraft meet specific safety standards. One such AD, AD/F28/62, pertains to Fokker F28 Series Aeroplanes, addressing the issue of severe pitting corrosion on the aileron dual input quadrant bracket and improper installation of bushings. This directive was introduced to rectify these specific safety concerns and ensure the continued airworthiness of affected aircraft. The policy objective is to maintain the highest possible safety standards in the operation of civil aircraft, thereby protecting passengers, crew, and the general public from aviation-related hazards. The Civil Aviation (Airworthiness) Regulations 1998, as amended, serve to implement international civil aviation safety standards within Australia, overseen by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). AD/F28/62 is a directive issued under these regulations, requiring all Fokker F28 aircraft within specified serial number ranges to adhere to Fokker Service Bulletin F28/27-177. This directive mandates compliance before 30 April 1991, unless previously fulfilled, to address issues of severe pitting corrosion and incorrect bushing installation. The directive references AD BLA 90-097, ensuring that all necessary safety measures are implemented to prevent potential safety risks associated with these identified issues.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105 under the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), mandate the adherence to Airworthiness Directives (AD) for certain aircraft types, including Fokker F28 Series Aeroplanes. This particular AD, AD/F28/62, applies to Fokker F28 aircraft with specific serial numbers, namely from 11003 through 11241, as well as 11991 and 11992. The requirement outlined in this directive necessitates compliance with Fokker Service Bulletin F28/27-177, referencing AD BLA 90-097. The directive addresses the critical issue of severe pitting corrosion on the mounting brackets and the incorrect installation of bushings, which can significantly impact the aircraft's safety and performance. Compliance with this AD is mandatory and must be achieved prior to 30 April 1991, unless the specified action has already been undertaken. This legislation, overseen by CASA, ensures that all covered aircraft meet essential safety standards to maintain airworthiness.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, addresses the airworthiness of Fokker F28 Series aeroplanes, with a focus on the aileron dual input quadrant bracket (section 39-105 AD/F28/62). This legislative instrument mandates that certain Fokker F28 aircraft, specifically those with serial numbers ranging from 11003 to 11241, 11991, and 11992, must adhere to Fokker Service Bulletin F28/27-177. This directive aims to rectify issues related to severe pitting corrosion on the mounting brackets and incorrect installation of bushings. The requirement is for compliance to be achieved prior to 30 April 1991, unless the action has already been completed. The regulations impose specific obligations on the owners and operators of the affected Fokker F28 aircraft. These parties are mandated to ensure that their aircraft meet the airworthiness standards stipulated in the directive. This includes inspecting the aileron dual input quadrant bracket for signs of corrosion or improper installation and making necessary repairs or replacements as outlined in Fokker SB F28/27-177. Failure to comply with these directives can result in the aircraft being deemed unairworthy, potentially leading to grounding and further regulatory scrutiny. Breaching the requirements set forth in this legislative instrument can result in significant civil and criminal consequences. Under the Civil Aviation Act 1988, non-compliance may lead to enforcement actions by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). The maximum penalties for contravening these regulations can include substantial fines and, in severe cases, criminal charges against individuals responsible for the oversight of the aircraft. The specific penalties are detailed in the Civil Aviation Act and are commensurate with the severity and impact of the non-compliance. CASA has the authority to take immediate action to prevent any unsafe conditions from affecting flight operations, ensuring that all aircraft meet the highest safety standards.