AD/P166/20 - Hydraulic Pressure Gauges - Replacement

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, enacted by the Parliament of Australia, govern the safety and operational standards of civil aviation within the country. Among these regulations, Part 39, which focuses on airworthiness directives, includes a specific directive for the Piaggio P166 series aeroplanes concerning the replacement of hydraulic pressure gauges. This directive, AD/P166/20, was introduced to address issues related to the accuracy and reliability of hydraulic pressure readings in these aircraft, ensuring the safety of operations by mandating the immediate replacement of non-compliant gauges. The policy objective underpinning this legislation is to maintain and enhance aviation safety through proactive regulatory measures and compliance requirements.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) under the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically within Part 39 - 105, issues Airworthiness Directives (ADs) that are mandatory for compliance. AD/P166/20, concerning the Piaggio P166 series aeroplanes, mandates the replacement of hydraulic pressure gauges, as outlined in Piaggio Service Bulletin P166-27, to be completed forthwith. This directive applies to all aircraft within the Piaggio P166 series, ensuring adherence to safety standards critical for the continued airworthiness of these aircraft. The regulation's scope is national, extending to all operators and owners of Piaggio P166 series aeroplanes within Australia, regardless of their location or the nature of their operations. The directive leaves no room for exemptions or thresholds, emphasising the imperative nature of the safety measures it prescribes. Subordinate instruments may further detail or clarify the requirements and procedures for compliance, but the primary directive is clear and non-negotiable in its demand for immediate action.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, Part 39 - 105, specifically addresses airworthiness directives for various aircraft types, with the AD/P166/20 directive targeting the Piaggio P166 Series Aeroplanes (section 39.105). This directive mandates the replacement of hydraulic pressure gauges (section 39.105(8/62)). According to the document Piaggio SB P166-27, compliance with this directive is required forthwith, meaning it must be implemented immediately without delay. Entities and parties governed by these regulations, particularly those involved in the maintenance and operation of Piaggio P166 Series Aeroplanes, are obligated to replace the hydraulic pressure gauges as specified in the directive. This includes airlines, aircraft maintenance organisations, and any other relevant entities responsible for ensuring that the aircraft meets the required airworthiness standards. The directive specifies that the replacement must be carried out without deviation from the instructions provided in the referenced service bulletin (section 39.105(8/62)). Failure to comply with the airworthiness directive AD/P166/20 can lead to serious consequences. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) may take enforcement action against non-compliant parties, which can include fines, penalties, or other regulatory actions. The specific penalties for non-compliance are not detailed in the text, but they can include substantial financial penalties and potential grounding of the affected aircraft until the directive is complied with. The severity of the penalties underscores the importance of adhering to the airworthiness standards set forth in the regulations.