AD/P166/31 - Main Landing Gear Retraction Jack Pivot - Modification

Overview

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority, through the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, has introduced specific safety directives to address potential risks associated with the main landing gear retraction jack pivot in the Piaggio P166 series aeroplanes. This legislative instrument, numbered F2006B05325 and documented as AD/P166/31, mandates modifications to the main landing gear retraction jack pivot of all models P166 and P166B. The directive, which was issued in response to identified safety concerns as outlined in Piaggio Service Bulletin No. 166-49, requires immediate compliance to ensure continued airworthiness and operational safety of these aircraft. The policy objective of this legislation is to mitigate risks related to the main landing gear retraction system, thereby enhancing the overall safety standards within the civil aviation sector.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, applies to all Piaggio P166 and P166B series aeroplanes, mandating compliance with the Airworthiness Directives concerning the main landing gear retraction jack pivot. This legislation is enacted by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority and is applicable across the Commonwealth of Australia, thereby affecting any person or entity operating these aircraft within Australian airspace. The directive mandates immediate compliance with the specifications outlined in Piaggio Service Bulletin No. 166-49, which details the required modifications to the main landing gear retraction jack pivot. This regulatory requirement ensures that all specified aircraft meet the necessary safety standards and operational criteria set forth by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority. The scope of this legislation is limited to the specified models and does not extend to other aircraft types or modifications not covered by the referenced service bulletin.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, particularly AD/P166/31 concerning the Piaggio P166 Series Aeroplanes, focus on the modification of the main landing gear retraction jack pivot. Section 39-105 of the legislation mandates that all models P166 and P166B must undergo this modification. The directive is applicable immediately, as stipulated in the Piaggio Service Bulletin No. 166-49, requiring compliance forthwith. This modification aims to enhance the safety and reliability of the aircraft's landing gear system, ensuring it meets the stringent standards set by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). The obligations imposed by this Act on the parties or entities it governs are clear and precise. Owners and operators of Piaggio P166 and P166B aeroplanes are required to ensure that the main landing gear retraction jack pivot is modified according to the specifications detailed in Piaggio SB No. 166-49. This includes adhering to the timeline set forth, which necessitates immediate action upon the issuance of the directive. Additionally, maintenance and repair personnel must be properly trained and qualified to perform the modification, ensuring it is carried out to the required safety standards. Failure to comply with the provisions outlined in AD/P166/31 can result in significant legal consequences. The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 impose both civil and criminal penalties for non-compliance. Civil penalties may include fines up to the statutory maximum, while criminal penalties can lead to imprisonment. Specifically, individuals or corporations found in breach of these safety directives can face fines of up to $210,000 for corporations and $42,000 for individuals, along with potential imprisonment terms. These stringent penalties underscore the importance of adhering to the safety directives to prevent any risk to aviation safety.