AD/TB10/19 - Autopilot Master Switch

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, as amended by the legislative instrument F2006B07286, addresses specific safety concerns associated with the Aerospatiale (Socata) TB9 and TB10 (Tobago) series aeroplanes. Enacted by the Commonwealth of Australia, this legislation aims to mitigate potential risks to air safety by mandating corrective actions for certain model TB10 aircraft series. Specifically, the legislation targets aircraft with serial numbers between 275 and 1222 equipped with particular autopilot switch options, requiring compliance with Aerospatiale SOCATA Service Bulletin No 60 to prevent short circuits at the autopilot master switch. The policy objective is to enhance overall aviation safety through timely and effective maintenance directives, ensuring that aircraft remain airworthy and compliant with established safety standards.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) has issued an airworthiness directive under the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, which applies specifically to Aerospatiale (Socata) TB10 series aeroplanes with serial numbers between 275 and 1222, and certain specific model options including 668, G668, 669, G669, 670, and G670. This directive mandates compliance with Aerospatiale SOCATA Service Bulletin No 60 to mitigate the risk of a short circuit at the "A/P Master" switch. The action required must be completed before the next Maintenance Release following 28 February 1992. This regulation is a Commonwealth legislative instrument and applies nationally across Australia, encompassing all operators of the specified aircraft models. The directive does not specify exclusions or exemptions, but compliance is mandatory for the identified aircraft within the jurisdiction of CASA. The implementation and enforcement of this directive may be further detailed through subordinate instruments, ensuring consistent application and oversight.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, includes provisions related to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's (CASA) Schedule of Airworthiness Directives. One such directive is AD/TB10/19 concerning the Aerospatiale (Socata) TB9 and TB10 (Tobago) series aeroplanes, particularly focusing on the autopilot master switch (section 2/92). This directive applies to all model TB10 aircraft series with serial numbers ranging from 275 to 1222 that are equipped with one of the specified options: 668, G668, 669, G669, 670, or G670. The requirement is to take action in accordance with Aerospatiale SOCATA Service Bulletin No 60, with reference to DGAC AD 91-145A. Under this directive, the key requirement is to implement the specified actions to mitigate the risk of a short circuit at the "A/P Master" switch. Compliance with this directive must be achieved prior to the next Maintenance Release following 28 February 1992. This ensures that the specified modifications or checks are performed to address the identified safety concern. The obligations imposed on the parties or entities governed by this directive are clear and specific. Owners or operators of the affected aircraft must ensure that the modifications or checks outlined in Aerospatiale SOCATA Service Bulletin No 60 are carried out by a certified maintenance provider. This involves inspecting the autopilot master switch, making necessary repairs, or implementing any recommended changes to prevent a short circuit. Compliance must be verified and documented to demonstrate adherence to the directive. Failure to comply with this airworthiness directive can lead to significant consequences. The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 stipulate that non-compliance may result in enforcement actions by CASA. In the event of a breach, the maximum penalty includes fines up to $52,500 for individuals and $262,500 for corporations, as well as potential grounding of the aircraft. These penalties underscore the importance of adhering to the directive to maintain the airworthiness and safety of the aircraft in question.