AD/PC-6/22 - Wing Fixed Spoilers - Installation

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, enacted by the Parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia, play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of civil aviation operations across the nation. This legislation, administered by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, was introduced to address the need for comprehensive regulation and oversight of civil aviation activities. A specific instance of this regulation is seen in Part 39 - 105, which pertains to airworthiness directives. This section aims to ensure that all aircraft meet the required safety standards through specific directives, such as AD/PC-6/22 concerning the installation of wing fixed spoilers on Pilatus Porter PC-6 Series aeroplanes. The directive applies to all models prior to serial number 656, mandating compliance before 1 April 1968, as outlined in Pilatus Service Bulletin No. 76, thereby aiming to enhance flight safety by standardising essential modifications.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, encompasses the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's (CASA) schedule of airworthiness directives, including AD/PC-6/22 for Pilatus Porter PC-6 Series Aeroplanes. This legislation applies to all Pilatus Porter PC-6 Series aeroplanes with serial numbers prior to 656, mandating the installation of wing fixed spoilers. The directive is grounded in safety standards and aims to ensure the airworthiness of these aircraft, requiring compliance before 1 April 1968 as outlined in Pilatus Service Bulletin No. 76. The regulation extends to the Commonwealth level, thereby imposing mandatory safety standards on all relevant aircraft operating within Australian airspace. It does not explicitly state exclusions or exemptions, but compliance is necessary for the continued airworthiness and operational certification of the specified aircraft models.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, under Part 39 - 105, specifically addresses the installation of wing fixed spoilers on Pilatus Porter PC-6 Series aeroplanes, as outlined in AD/PC-6/22. This regulation applies to all models of the aircraft series prior to Serial Number 656, as detailed in Pilatus Service Bulletin No. 76. It mandates the installation of wing fixed spoilers to ensure compliance with airworthiness standards. The requirement for compliance with these directives must be met before 1 April 1968, establishing a clear timeline for the implementation of this safety measure. The obligations imposed by these regulations are primarily on the operators and owners of the Pilatus Porter PC-6 Series aeroplanes affected by this directive. They are required to ensure that the wing fixed spoilers are installed in accordance with the specifications provided in Pilatus SB No. 76. This involves following the detailed instructions and procedures set out in the service bulletin to guarantee that the modifications are carried out correctly and safely. Failure to adhere to these obligations could result in the aircraft not meeting the necessary airworthiness criteria, potentially leading to operational restrictions or prohibitions. The consequences for non-compliance with the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically AD/PC-6/22, can be significant. In cases where the required installation of wing fixed spoilers is not completed by the specified deadline, the aircraft may be deemed non-compliant with airworthiness standards. This could result in the aircraft being grounded, preventing it from being operated until the necessary modifications are made. Furthermore, operators and owners found in breach of these regulations may face penalties, which can include fines and other administrative actions. The precise nature and extent of the penalties are determined by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, but the potential for significant financial and operational repercussions underscores the importance of timely compliance.