AD/PA-30/3 - Stabilator Torque Tube - Modification

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, enacted by the Parliament of Australia, is a comprehensive set of rules governing aviation safety and operations within the country. Among the various parts and regulations, Part 39 specifically addresses airworthiness directives, ensuring that all aircraft meet the necessary safety standards. One such directive, AD/PA-30/3, pertains to the stabilator torque tube modification for Piper PA-30 and 39 (Twin Comanche) series aeroplanes. This directive was introduced to address a specific safety concern identified in these aircraft models, ensuring that the stabilator torque tube is modified to prevent potential structural failures. The policy objective of this regulation is to maintain and enhance the safety of civil aviation by mandating immediate compliance with the outlined modifications.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, pertains to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's (CASA) Schedule of Airworthiness Directives. This section governs the safety standards that must be met by aircraft operating within Australia. The legislation applies to the Piper PA-30 and PA-39 (Twin Comanche) series aeroplanes with serial numbers ranging from 30-1 to 30-565. The directive mandates immediate compliance with modifications outlined in either Piper Service Bulletin No. 222A or the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airworthiness Directive 64-28-3, which concerns the stabilator torque tube. This regulation ensures that these aircraft meet the necessary safety standards to operate in Australian airspace. The directive does not specify exclusions or exemptions, implying that all relevant aircraft must adhere to the outlined modifications. The scope of this legislation is limited to the specific model and serial numbers mentioned, and its application extends across the entire Commonwealth of Australia, aligning with national aviation safety protocols.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, includes the Civil Aviation Safety Authority Schedule of Airworthiness Directives. Under this, there is a directive concerning Piper PA-30 & 39 (Twin Comanche) Series Aeroplanes (section 39-105). This directive, known as AD/PA-30/3, pertains to the stabilator torque tube modification for Model PA-30 aeroplanes with serial numbers ranging from 30-1 to 30-565 (section 3/65). The directive requires compliance with either Piper Service Bulletin No. 222A or FAA AD 64-28-3 (section 3/65). The directive imposes an obligation on the operators of the affected aircraft to ensure that the stabilator torque tube modification is carried out immediately (section 3/65). This modification is critical to maintaining the airworthiness and safety of the aircraft. The requirements are clear and unambiguous, demanding that the modifications be implemented forthwith upon the issuance of the directive. Failure to comply with this directive can result in serious consequences. The regulations do not specify a particular offence, penalty, or consequence for non-compliance in this instance. However, the overarching principle under civil aviation law is that non-compliance with an airworthiness directive can lead to the grounding of the aircraft, which could result in substantial operational disruptions and financial penalties. Additionally, such non-compliance could potentially lead to more severe legal actions if the failure to comply results in an accident or incident that endangers safety. The severity of the consequences underscores the importance of adhering to the stipulated modifications without delay.