AD/GAF-N22/17 Amdt 1 - Horizontal Stabiliser Trim Tab System - Inspection and Modification

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, enacted by the Parliament of Australia, provide a comprehensive framework for ensuring the safety of civil aviation in Australia. One specific aspect of this legislation is addressed in Part 39 - 105, which outlines the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's Schedule of Airworthiness Directives. These directives are essential for maintaining the airworthiness of aircraft by addressing potential safety issues through mandatory inspections and modifications. For instance, AD/GAF-N22/17 Amendment 1 pertains to the horizontal stabiliser trim tab system of GAF N22 and N24 series aeroplanes delivered before 21 September 1978, necessitating an inspection and modification within 100 hours of service after 31 January 1979 to ensure continued compliance with safety standards. This directive is designed to mitigate potential risks associated with the identified safety issue, thereby enhancing the overall safety of civil aviation within Australia.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, applies to all individuals and entities involved in the operation of GAF N22 and N24 series aeroplanes that were delivered from the factory prior to 21 September 1978. This regulation mandates that these aircraft must undergo inspection and modification of the horizontal stabiliser trim tab system in accordance with the guidelines outlined in GAF Alert SB No. AN22-55-4, Rev. 2. Compliance with this directive is required unless the specified inspection and modification have already been completed. The compliance timeframe is set at 100 hours of time in service following 31 January 1979. The regulation applies nationally across the Commonwealth of Australia and is enforced by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority. There are no stated exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds within this directive, and its application is not extended or restricted through subordinate instruments.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically under Part 39, section 105, mandate the implementation of Airworthiness Directives (ADs) that ensure the continued safe operation of aircraft. In this context, AD/GAF-N22/17 Amendment 1 pertains to the horizontal stabiliser trim tab system of GAF N22 and N24 series aeroplanes that were delivered prior to 21 September 1978. This AD requires an inspection and potential modification of the horizontal stabiliser trim tab system (Section 39.105). The directive necessitates that these inspections and modifications be completed within 100 hours of the aeroplane's time in service after 31 January 1979 to ensure compliance with the safety standards set forth by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). The obligations imposed by AD/GAF-N22/17 Amendment 1 are clear and specific. Operators of GAF N22 and N24 series aeroplanes must ensure that the horizontal stabiliser trim tab system is inspected and, if necessary, modified according to the guidelines outlined in GAF Alert SB No. AN22-55-4, Rev. 2. This involves detailed checks to identify any defects or issues within the specified timeframe to maintain the airworthiness of the aircraft. The onus is on the operator to ensure that these inspections and modifications are carried out by qualified personnel and documented appropriately. Failure to comply with AD/GAF-N22/17 Amendment 1 can result in significant legal consequences. The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 outline various offences related to non-compliance with airworthiness directives. Operators found in breach of these regulations may face civil penalties, which can include substantial fines. Additionally, the operation of an aircraft that does not meet the required airworthiness standards can lead to criminal charges, which may result in imprisonment. The severity of the penalties reflects the importance of adhering to these directives to ensure the safety of all persons on board and the integrity of the aviation system.