AD/PA-23/25 - Starter Solenoid Circuit Protector

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, enacted by the Commonwealth of Australia, serve as a comprehensive framework to ensure the safety and efficiency of civil aviation within the country. Part 39, specifically Section 105, addresses airworthiness directives, aiming to maintain the airworthiness of aircraft by prescribing standards and procedures. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) oversees the enforcement of these regulations, ensuring that aircraft meet stringent safety requirements. One such directive, AD/PA-23/25, pertains to the Piper PA-23 (Apache and Aztec) series aeroplanes, mandating compliance with specific safety measures for models PA-23 and PA-23-160 with serial numbers ranging from 23-747 to 23-1534. The directive, which references Piper Service Bulletin No. 175 or FAA AD 60-3-7, requires adherence before 30 September 1961 to address potential safety issues related to the starter solenoid circuit protector. This legislative instrument underscores the commitment to aviation safety by requiring compliance with established safety directives to mitigate risks and ensure the reliability of aircraft operations.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority Schedule of Airworthiness Directives (AD/PA-23/25) applies to specific models of Piper PA-23 aeroplanes, namely the PA-23 and PA-23-160 with serial numbers ranging from 23-747 to 23-1534. These directives are mandated by the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically under Part 39, and govern the airworthiness of these aircraft. The directive applies to the starter solenoid circuit protector, a critical component that must comply with either Piper Service Bulletin No. 175 or Federal Aviation Administration Advisory Directive 60-3-7, and must have been completed prior to 30 September 1961. The scope of the legislation extends to ensuring the safety and airworthiness of these aircraft, and it applies nationally under the Commonwealth of Australia, administered by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority. This legislative instrument does not specify exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds but relies on the referenced documents for compliance details. Additionally, the application and enforcement of these directives may be extended or clarified through subordinate instruments issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, Part 39, Schedule 105, specifically addresses the airworthiness directives for the Piper PA-23 (Apache and Aztec) series aeroplanes, with a focus on the starter solenoid circuit protector as outlined in AD/PA-23/25 (6/61). This directive applies to Piper PA-23 and PA-23-160 models with serial numbers ranging from 23-747 to 23-1534. Compliance with this directive is to be demonstrated through adherence to Piper Service Bulletin No. 175 or FAA AD 60-3-7, with the compliance deadline set before 30 September 1961. Under the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, the relevant parties, primarily owners and operators of the affected Piper PA-23 aeroplanes, have the obligation to ensure that the modifications or checks specified in the airworthiness directive are completed before the compliance deadline. This includes verifying that the starter solenoid circuit protector is correctly installed and functioning as required by the Piper SB No. 175 or FAA AD 60-3-7. The regulations mandate that these aircraft must meet the specified safety standards to be deemed airworthy, and failure to comply with these requirements could result in the aircraft being grounded or denied operation. Failure to comply with the airworthiness directive AD/PA-23/25 (6/61) can lead to significant consequences. The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 stipulate that non-compliance with airworthiness directives is an offence. The potential penalties for breaching these regulations include fines and, in severe cases, the potential for criminal charges. The maximum penalties can vary depending on the severity of the breach but may include substantial financial penalties and possible imprisonment for those responsible for the aircraft's operation. It is crucial for operators and owners to adhere to these directives to avoid legal repercussions and ensure the safety of their operations.