AD/PA-44/5 - Engine Priming System - Modification

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, enacted by the Commonwealth of Australia, provide comprehensive rules to ensure the safety and efficiency of civil aviation. Within this extensive framework, Part 39, particularly under the Civil Aviation Safety Authority Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, addresses specific safety concerns for various aircraft models. The directive AD/PA-44/5 pertains to the Piper PA-44 (Seminole) Series aeroplanes, targeting a critical issue with the engine priming system which has been found to be susceptible to cracking and breakage, posing a significant fire hazard. This directive was introduced to ensure compliance and mitigate potential risks by mandating modifications to the affected models within a specified timeframe. The policy objective is to enhance the overall safety of the aircraft in operation, thereby protecting passengers, crew, and ground personnel.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, under Part 39 - 105, applies specifically to the Piper PA-44 (Seminole) series aeroplanes, particularly the model PA-44-180 with serial numbers ranging from 44-7995001 to 44-7995190. This legislation mandates a modification to the engine priming system to address the identified issue of cracking in lines and breakage of fittings, which presents a fire hazard. The regulation requires compliance within 25 hours of the aircraft's time in service following 29 June 1979. The scope of this legislation is focused on ensuring the airworthiness and safety of the specified aircraft models, and it applies to any person or entity operating these aircraft within the jurisdiction of the Commonwealth of Australia. The regulation does not explicitly mention any exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds, but its application may be extended or restricted through subordinate instruments, such as further amendments or notifications issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39, Section 105, include an Airworthiness Directive (AD) for the Piper PA-44 (Seminole) Series Aeroplanes, identified as AD/PA-44/5. This directive mandates modifications to the engine priming system to mitigate risks associated with the cracking of lines and breakage of fittings in the fuel system, which can pose a fire hazard. The directive applies to model PA-44-180 with serial numbers ranging from 44-7995001 to 44-7995190. Compliance with this directive must be achieved within 25 hours of time in service following the issuance date of 29 June 1979. The directive references Piper Service Bulletin No. 634 or FAA AD 79-12-11, Amendment 39-3490, as the documents detailing the required modifications. Entities governed by this Act are obligated to ensure that the specified modifications are carried out on the engine priming system of the affected aircraft models within the stipulated timeframe. This involves following the procedures outlined in the referenced service bulletins or airworthiness directives. Compliance ensures that the aircraft meet the required safety standards, reducing the risk of fire hazards due to fuel system failures. The directive is clear in its applicability and requires immediate action from operators of the affected aircraft. Failure to comply with the requirements outlined in AD/PA-44/5 can result in significant legal and safety repercussions. Operators who neglect to perform the necessary modifications within the specified period may face regulatory action, including fines or other penalties as prescribed by the Civil Aviation Regulations. The seriousness of the potential fire hazard underscores the importance of strict adherence to the directive. The regulations aim to protect both the aircraft and the individuals involved, ensuring that the risks associated with the engine priming system are adequately managed. Non-compliance not only risks safety but also could lead to severe civil or criminal penalties, depending on the extent of the breach and the impact on aviation safety.