AD/F28/74 - Control Column Aileron Chain - Replacement

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, amended by the Legislative instrument F2006B09808, introduced specific safety directives under Part 39 to address the operational safety of Fokker F28 Series Aeroplanes. This legislation was enacted to mitigate the risks associated with the premature failure of control column aileron chains, which had been reported in incidents where pilots lost aileron control. The problem identified was the potential for fatigue failure of these chains due to improper initial adjustment of flight control cables, a defect that cannot be reliably detected after installation. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority, as the enforcing body, mandated a one-time replacement of all specified aileron chains to ensure the continued safety of these aircraft, with compliance required by 1 March 1995. The overarching policy objective is to enhance the reliability and safety of civil aviation through proactive regulatory measures.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, mandates the application of airworthiness directives issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). This particular legislative instrument, AD/F28/74, pertains to the Fokker F28 Series Aeroplanes, specifically those with serial numbers 11003 through 11241, 11991, and 11992, excluding the Mk 0100 model. The directive requires the replacement of all control column aileron chains P/N KH-2212-AF-(X)21 with new units of the same part number, as outlined in Fokker Service Bulletin F28/27-181. The directive was issued following incidents where premature failure of the aileron chain led to loss of aileron control, attributed to fatigue caused by improper initial adjustment of the flight control cables. Compliance with this directive is mandatory, with all aileron chains needing replacement before 1 March 1995. The directive became effective from 18 August 1994, underscoring the urgency and importance of adhering to the specified safety measures to ensure the continued airworthiness and safety of the affected aircraft.

Key Provisions

The key operative sections of the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically under Part 39 - 105, include sections concerning Airworthiness Directives (AD) issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). For Fokker F28 Series Aeroplanes, AD/F28/74 mandates the replacement of all control column aileron chains P/N KH-2212-AF-(X)21 with new units of the same part number. This directive is in accordance with Fokker Service Bulletin F28/27-181, which references RLD AD 93-004(A). This requirement applies to all F28 aircraft (except Mk 0100) with serial numbers ranging from 11003 through 11241, 11991, and 11992. The directive is effective from 18 August 1994, and compliance must be achieved by replacing all aileron chains before 1 March 1995. The obligations imposed by the Act on the parties and entities it governs include the necessity to replace the specified aileron chains on the affected Fokker F28 aircraft. Operators of these aircraft are required to ensure that all specified control column aileron chains are replaced with new units of the same part number, as detailed in Fokker Service Bulletin F28/27-181. This is a critical safety measure following reported incidents where the premature failure of aileron chains resulted in loss of aileron control. The directive is clear in its requirement and the timeframe for compliance, emphasising the importance of adhering to the safety measures outlined to prevent potential safety hazards. Failure to comply with the Airworthiness Directive AD/F28/74 can result in severe consequences. The Act stipulates that non-compliance with CASA's directives can lead to various penalties. The specific consequences for breach are not detailed within the text, but it is understood that CASA has the authority to enforce compliance through civil or criminal actions. The exact penalties can include fines or other civil actions for non-compliance, and in severe cases, criminal charges may apply. The maximum penalties for such breaches are determined by the broader legislative framework governing civil aviation safety, which may include substantial financial penalties and potential imprisonment for individuals responsible for non-compliance.