AD/PA-34/9 - Rudder Servo Trim Tab - Inspection

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, enacted by the Parliament of Australia, encompass a broad framework designed to ensure the safety and efficiency of civil aviation within Australia. One specific legislative instrument under this act is the Civil Aviation Safety Authority Schedule of Airworthiness Directives for the Piper PA-34 (Seneca) Series Aeroplanes. This particular directive, identified as AD/PA-34/9, was introduced to address issues related to the rudder servo trim tab. The problem it was designed to resolve involves the need for regular inspections to maintain airworthiness, ensuring that the rudder servo trim tab is properly functioning to maintain control and stability of the aircraft. The directive aims to enhance aviation safety by mandating specific inspection intervals, thereby mitigating potential risks associated with the identified component.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, which includes the Civil Aviation Safety Authority Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, pertains to the Piper PA-34 (Seneca) Series Aeroplanes, and more specifically, Airworthiness Directive AD/PA-34/9 concerning the rudder servo trim tab. This legislation applies to all Piper PA-34 models not incorporating the modification kit P/N 760 800 V. The directive mandates a compliance schedule whereby inspections must be conducted within 10 hours of time in service after the directive's issuance date of 25 June 1973 and subsequently at intervals not exceeding 100 hours of time in service. This regulation operates within the national jurisdiction of the Commonwealth of Australia, ensuring that all specified aircraft maintain airworthiness standards as determined by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority. The directive does not explicitly state exclusions or exemptions, but its applicability is confined to the specified models of Piper PA-34 aeroplanes, thereby excluding any other aircraft or models not mentioned in the directive. The regulation's scope can potentially be extended or refined through subordinate instruments issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 (CARs) pertaining to the Piper PA-34 (Seneca) Series Aeroplanes require specific inspections of the rudder servo trim tab. According to section 39-105 (6/73) of the AD/PA-34/9, this applies to all models that do not incorporate modification kit P/N 760 800 V. The regulation mandates that this inspection must be carried out within 10 hours of time in service after 25 June 1973 and subsequently at intervals not exceeding 100 hours of time in service. This inspection is referenced in Piper Service Bulletin No. 390A, which provides detailed guidance on the procedures to be followed. The Act imposes several obligations on the parties and entities it governs. Operators of Piper PA-34 (Seneca) Series Aeroplanes must ensure that the rudder servo trim tab is inspected according to the specified intervals, as outlined in section 39-105 (6/73). This involves maintaining records of each inspection and ensuring that the aircraft remains airworthy throughout its operation. The requirement to adhere to these intervals is critical to maintaining safety standards in line with the CARs. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to significant consequences. Section 39-105 (6/73) does not explicitly state the penalties for non-compliance, but non-compliance with CARs generally can result in civil or criminal penalties. Civil penalties may include fines, while criminal penalties could involve imprisonment or both, depending on the severity and impact of the breach. The exact penalties are determined by the courts and can vary based on the circumstances of the violation. It is essential for operators to adhere to these regulations to avoid any potential legal repercussions.