AD/JT8D-200/4 - Number 4-1/2 Bearing Spacer

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 106, addresses the safety standards for civil aviation in Australia by establishing a schedule of airworthiness directives. One such directive, AD/JT8D-200/4, pertains to Pratt and Whitney Turbine Engines of the JT8D-200 Series, focusing on the number 4-1/2 bearing spacer for JT8D-219, -217, -217A, -217C and -219 turbofan engines. This directive was introduced to ensure the safety and reliability of these engines by aligning with the technical requirements set out in the FAA Airworthiness Directive 91-24-14. The primary objective of this regulation, as enacted by the Australian Government, is to mandate the review of the purchase source for the number 4-1/2 bearing spacer to prevent potential safety issues. Compliance with this directive is effective from 17 September 1992, ensuring that all relevant engines meet the required safety standards.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, specifically AD/JT8D-200/4, pertains to Pratt and Whitney turbine engines of the JT8D-200 Series, including JT8D-219, -217, -217A, and -217C turbofan engines. This legislation applies to aircraft operators and maintenance providers who are responsible for ensuring the airworthiness of these engines. The directive mandates a review of the number 4-1/2 bearing spacer purchase source to meet the technical requirements outlined in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airworthiness Directive 91-24-14. Compliance with these requirements is mandatory, with an effective date of 17 September 1992, and must be adhered to across the Commonwealth of Australia. This regulatory framework is instrumental in maintaining the safety standards for civil aviation, ensuring that all relevant parties conform to the specified technical criteria to avoid any safety issues related to these engines.

Key Provisions

The key operative sections of this Civil Aviation Regulation (Part 39 - 106) address the applicability and compliance requirements of Pratt and Whitney Turbine Engines, specifically the JT8D-200 Series, in relation to the number 4-1/2 bearing spacer. Section (1) specifies the applicable engines, including the JT8D-209, -217, 217A, 217C, and -219 turbofan engines. Section (2) mandates compliance with the technical requirements outlined in the FAA Airworthiness Directive 91-24-14, with an effective date set for 17 September 1992. These sections serve to ensure that the specified engines meet the necessary safety standards and operational requirements set forth by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). The obligations imposed by this Act include a thorough review of the purchase source for the number 4-1/2 bearing spacer as per the technical requirements of the FAA Airworthiness Directive 91-24-14. Operators and owners of the specified Pratt and Whitney engines must ensure that their engines comply with these requirements, which involve scrutinising the source of the bearing spacer to ensure it meets the specified standards. This review and compliance process is critical for maintaining the airworthiness of the engines and ensuring the safety of all flights using these engines. Failure to comply with the directives set forth in this Civil Aviation Regulation can lead to significant consequences. Section (3) of the regulation does not specify particular penalties but implies that non-compliance could result in actions by CASA, including potential enforcement actions, fines, or grounding of non-compliant aircraft. Additionally, civil and criminal penalties may apply under broader aviation safety laws, including hefty fines and imprisonment for serious violations that result in accidents or endanger public safety. The exact penalties would depend on the severity of the breach and the specific regulations under which enforcement is pursued.