AD/F50/57 - NLG Hinge Point

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically under PART 39 - 105, incorporate the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, addressing issues pertinent to the safety and operational integrity of aircraft. One such directive, AD/F50/57, pertains to Fokker F50 (F27 Mk 50) series aeroplanes, particularly focusing on the nose landing gear hinge point. This directive was introduced to mitigate the risk of difficulties in extending the nose landing gear in flight, which had been reported in an incident involving the F50 model. The objective of this directive is to ensure that the specified models, serial numbers 20103 through 20243, undergo necessary inspections and adjustments in line with Fokker Service Bulletin F50-32-023, with compliance required prior to 1 January 1993. This legislative instrument is an essential measure to enhance aviation safety by addressing identified technical issues through authoritative regulatory action. The enactment of these regulations by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority is aimed at maintaining high standards of aircraft safety and operational reliability. By issuing specific directives such as AD/F50/57, the authority ensures that any potential hazards are proactively managed, thereby protecting both the aircraft and its occupants. This directive reflects the authority's commitment to continuous safety improvements and the enforcement of necessary modifications to rectify identified risks, ensuring the continued safe operation of Fokker F50 series aeroplanes within the Australian aviation sector.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically PART 39 - 105, pertains to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's (CASA) Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, which are binding regulations designed to ensure the safety and airworthiness of aircraft. The scope of this particular directive, AD/F50/57, applies to Fokker F50 (F27 Mk 50) Series aeroplanes, specifically those with serial numbers ranging from 20103 to 20243. The directive mandates actions in accordance with Fokker Service Bulletin F50-32-023, referencing RLD AD 92-100, following an incident where a F50 aircraft experienced difficulties in extending the nose landing gear in flight under normal conditions. Compliance with this directive is required before 1 January 1993, necessitating inspection and, if necessary, adjustment of the nose landing gear pintle and bush to ensure safe operation. This regulation is applicable across the Commonwealth of Australia, enforcing compliance through CASA and extending its reach to any relevant entities operating within this jurisdiction.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, sets out the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Schedule of Airworthiness Directives for various aircraft, including Fokker F50 (F27 Mk 50) Series Aeroplanes. This particular directive, AD/F50/57, pertains to the nose landing gear (NLG) hinge point of the Fokker F50 aircraft with serial numbers ranging from 20103 through 20243 (section 39 - 105). The directive mandates actions in accordance with Fokker Service Bulletin F50-32-023 to address an incident where a F50 aircraft experienced difficulties when extending the nose landing gear in flight in the NORMAL mode. This incident highlights the need for a specific inspection and adjustment of the nose landing gear pintle and bush, as referenced in RLD AD 92-100. Under this directive, operators of the specified Fokker F50 aircraft must ensure that the required actions are taken in line with the Fokker Service Bulletin F50-32-023 (section 39 - 105). This includes conducting a thorough inspection of the nose landing gear pintle and bush, and making any necessary adjustments to ensure safe operation. The directive requires that these actions are completed before 1 January 1993 (section 39 - 105). Failure to comply with this directive could result in the aircraft being deemed unairworthy, thereby preventing its operation until the necessary actions are taken. The obligations imposed by this directive are clear and must be adhered to by all operators of the specified Fokker F50 aircraft. These obligations include the inspection and, if required, the adjustment of the nose landing gear components as outlined in the Fokker Service Bulletin F50-32-023. Operators must ensure that these actions are completed prior to the specified date to comply with the regulatory requirements. The directive underscores the importance of maintaining the airworthiness of the aircraft through regular inspections and necessary adjustments to prevent any operational issues. Failure to comply with the provisions of this Airworthiness Directive can lead to serious consequences. Under the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, operators found in breach of these requirements may face enforcement actions. The penalties for non-compliance could include fines, enforcement notices, and in severe cases, the grounding of the aircraft. The maximum penalties for contravening these regulations can vary, but they are intended to ensure that operators adhere to the necessary safety standards to protect the public and maintain the integrity of the aviation system.