AD/PHS/9 - Model 54H60 Pitch Lock Regulator Assembly - Inspection and Modification

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, as amended by the Legislative instrument F2006B06202, introduced a specific Airworthiness Directive to address a safety issue concerning the Hamilton Standard propeller model 54H60, particularly focusing on the pitch lock regulator assembly. This regulation was enacted by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) to ensure the continued airworthiness of these propellers, mitigating the risk of the pitch lock extension sleeve separation. The directive aligns with the overarching policy objective of maintaining high safety standards in civil aviation, which is critical for protecting both passengers and crew. The directive applies to propeller models 54H60-81, 91, 117, and 125, and requires compliance with the detailed specifications provided in the referenced Hamilton Standard Service Bulletin 54H60, No.-59 Rev. 1, as well as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) AD 75-03-05.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority's Airworthiness Directive (AD) PHS/9 pertains specifically to propellers, namely the variable pitch models 54H60-81, 91, 117, and 125 manufactured by Hamilton Standard. This directive applies to all aircraft operators who possess or are responsible for the maintenance of these propeller models, mandating compliance with the specified modifications to enhance safety. The directive is an instrument under the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, and thus operates within the regulatory framework of the Commonwealth of Australia, extending its reach to all aircraft within the national airspace. The directive, grounded in Hamilton Standard Service Bulletin 54H60, No. 59 Rev. 1, requires adherence to the outlined inspection and modification procedures to mitigate the risk of separation of the pitch lock extension sleeve. It references FAA AD 75-03-05 for additional compliance details. The modifications prescribed are intended to ensure the retention thread and surge valve housing are suitably adapted, thereby preventing potential in-flight hazards. The AD does not explicitly state exclusions or exemptions, implying that it applies universally to the specified propeller models unless otherwise noted in subordinate instruments.

Key Provisions

The main sections of the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 (Cth), Part 39 - 107, specifically the Airworthiness Directive (AD) PHS/9, concern the inspection and modification of the pitch lock regulator assembly for Hamilton Standard propeller models 54H60-81, 91, 117, and 125. Section 39.107(1) mandates that these modifications must be carried out in compliance with the requirement document Hamilton Standard SB 54H60, No.-59 Rev. 1. The directive aims to mitigate the risk of the pitch lock extension sleeve separating, which could compromise the safety of the aircraft in flight. This directive references FAA AD 75-03-05 and outlines specific tasks related to the retention thread and surge valve housing to ensure the propeller's operational integrity. The AD imposes several obligations on the parties or entities it governs. Firstly, it mandates that the inspection and modification of the pitch lock regulator assembly must be performed by authorised personnel following the detailed instructions provided in Hamilton Standard SB 54H60, No.-59 Rev. 1. This includes thorough checks of the retention thread and surge valve housing to ensure they meet the specified standards. Additionally, any modifications or repairs must be documented and logged as per regulatory requirements, ensuring traceability and compliance with safety standards. Operators of aircraft equipped with the affected propeller models must ensure that these modifications are completed within the specified timeframes to maintain airworthiness. Failure to comply with AD PHS/9 can lead to serious consequences, including potential safety hazards and regulatory penalties. Section 39.107(2) of the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 (Cth) stipulates that non-compliance with airworthiness directives is an offence. The potential penalties for breaching this directive include substantial fines and, in severe cases, imprisonment. For example, under the Civil Aviation Act 1988 (Cth), individuals or entities found guilty of failing to comply with an airworthiness directive may face a maximum penalty of up to five years' imprisonment or fines of up to $330,000 for corporations and $66,000 for individuals. These penalties underscore the importance of adhering to the AD to ensure the safety and compliance of aviation operations.