AD/TBM 700/18 - Oxygen Generators

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, encompasses the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's (CASA) Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, including AD/TBM 700/18 which pertains to Aerospatiale (Socata) TBM 700 series aeroplanes. This directive was enacted to address the potential safety hazard associated with the oxygen generator striker pin on TBM 700 series aeroplanes, particularly those without the Socata modification No 70-099-35. The requirement to replace the striker pin and install a washer on each oxygen generator aims to ensure the reliability and safety of the oxygen generation system, thereby reducing the risk of the oxygen generator not operating due to a striker pin failure. The directive was issued by CASA, reflecting the Commonwealth of Australia's commitment to stringent aviation safety standards. The directive mandates that the required modifications be completed by the next scheduled maintenance inspection, but no later than 11 September 1998, and became effective on 12 August 1998. This proactive measure underscores CASA's policy objective to maintain and enhance aviation safety through timely and specific regulatory interventions.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 105, mandates that the Airworthiness Directives apply to all TBM 700 series aeroplanes with a serial number of 1 and above, provided that they do not have Socata modification No 70-099-35 incorporated. This regulation is enforced by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and pertains to a critical safety measure concerning the oxygen generators in these aircraft. The directive is designed to mitigate the risk associated with the striker pin of the oxygen generator failing to release, which could result in the oxygen generator not operating properly. Compliance with this directive involves replacing the striker pin and installing a washer on each oxygen generator in line with Socata Mandatory Service Bulletin 70-046-35 dated May 1998. The requirement must be fulfilled by the next scheduled maintenance inspection, but no later than 11 September 1998. This Airworthiness Directive became effective on 12 August 1998, underscoring the urgency and importance of adhering to these safety protocols.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically PART 39 - 105, include an Airworthiness Directive (AD) for Aerospatiale (Socata) TBM 700 Series aeroplanes. AD/TBM 700/18 mandates the replacement of the striker pin and the installation of a washer on each oxygen generator in accordance with Socata Mandatory Service Bulletin 70-046-35 dated May 1998. This requirement applies to TBM 700 series aeroplanes with serial numbers starting from 1, unless they have incorporated Socata modification No 70-099-35. The directive aims to mitigate the risk of the striker pin failing to release the striker, which could result in the oxygen generator not operating as intended. The compliance deadline is set for the next scheduled maintenance inspection, but no later than 11 September 1998, with the directive becoming effective on 12 August 1998. The AD imposes clear obligations on the operators of TBM 700 series aeroplanes, mandating them to replace the specified parts on the oxygen generators. This requirement is to be completed by the next scheduled maintenance inspection, ensuring that the aeroplanes are brought up to the necessary safety standards. Operators must ensure that the modification is made in accordance with Socata's specified guidelines, as outlined in Service Bulletin 70-046-35. Additionally, the directive refers to DGAC Telegraphic AD T98-195 (A), indicating that this directive aligns with or is influenced by other regulatory communications. Failure to comply with the AD/TBM 700/18 could result in serious safety implications, as the directive is designed to address a critical aspect of aeroplane safety. While the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 do not explicitly outline specific penalties for non-compliance in this instance, general non-compliance with airworthiness directives can lead to severe consequences. These may include the grounding of the aeroplane, potential criminal charges for the operators, and substantial civil penalties. The seriousness of such non-compliance underscores the importance of adhering to the specified timelines and requirements.