AD/PA-38/6 - Rear Spar Attach Fittings - Inspection

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, enacted by the Parliament of Australia, were established to provide a comprehensive regulatory framework governing all aspects of civil aviation within Australia, including the operation of aircraft and the maintenance of airworthiness. This particular legislative instrument, F2006B05971, pertains to Part 39 - 105 and addresses specific airworthiness directives for certain aircraft types, including the Piper PA-38 (Tomahawk) series aeroplanes. The problem or gap this directive addresses is the need for regular inspections of the rear spar attach fittings in specified model PA-38-112 aircraft to ensure ongoing airworthiness and safety standards are met. The policy objective, as outlined in the directive, is to mandate compliance with these safety inspections within a specified period to mitigate potential risks associated with structural integrity.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically under Part 39 - 105 and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, govern the airworthiness of certain aircraft, including Piper PA-38 (Tomahawk) series aeroplanes. This regulation applies to all model PA-38-112 aircraft with serial numbers as referenced in Service Bulletin No. 618, requiring an inspection of the rear spar attach fittings. The directive mandates that compliance with this inspection must be achieved within 10 hours of time in service following the directive's issuance on 6 October 1978. The legislation is applicable nationally, overseen by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, ensuring that the specified aircraft meet necessary safety standards to maintain airworthiness. The directive does not extend to other aircraft types or serial numbers not listed in the referenced service bulletin, and compliance must be strictly adhered to by the aircraft operators or owners as a regulatory requirement under Australian law.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically in Part 39 - 105 and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, include a directive concerning the Piper PA-38 (Tomahawk) Series Aeroplanes, with AD/PA-38/6 focusing on the rear spar attach fittings. According to section 11/78, this directive applies to all model PA-38-112 aircraft with specific serial numbers as detailed in Piper Service Bulletin No. 618. The directive mandates compliance within 10 hours of time in service following the directive's effective date of 6 October 1978. The directive requires that the rear spar attach fittings of the specified aeroplanes undergo an inspection. This inspection is mandatory and must be carried out in accordance with the guidelines and specifications outlined in Piper Service Bulletin No. 618. The purpose of this inspection is to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the aeroplanes, thereby mitigating any potential risks associated with the rear spar attach fittings. The inspection must be completed by qualified personnel who are certified to perform such tasks under the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations. The obligations imposed by this directive extend to all operators and owners of the specified aeroplanes. These parties must ensure that the required inspection is conducted within the stipulated timeframe, and that any necessary repairs or modifications are carried out to maintain compliance with the safety standards set by CASA. Failure to comply with this directive can result in significant safety risks, potentially leading to aircraft grounding and other enforcement actions by regulatory authorities. Non-compliance with AD/PA-38/6 may lead to serious consequences, including both civil and criminal penalties. Civil penalties can include fines, and in severe cases, the aircraft may be grounded until the required inspections and repairs are completed. Under the Civil Aviation Act 1988, individuals or entities found in breach of the regulations may face prosecution, leading to criminal penalties. The exact penalties depend on the severity of the breach and the discretion of the court, but they can include substantial fines and, in some cases, imprisonment. It is crucial for all involved parties to adhere strictly to the requirements set forth in this directive to avoid these potential repercussions.