Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2012L00411:body:0:p2
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2012L00411
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 2811–4545

to take-off.  The elevator remained firmly in the full 'down' position due to system spring tension.

             A second aircraft was inspected at the owner's request immediately following the discovery of the failed cable.  The forward elevator cable in this aircraft was found to be extensively frayed in the same location as the failed cable.

             Since the original issue of this AD, CASA has received reports of 5 more cables found to be unserviceable.

             This AD required immediate inspection of the forward elevator cable and replacement for elevator cables over 15 years old, and required continuing inspections of the entire elevator control system to preclude the unanticipated failure of the elevator flight control system which may result in loss of control of the aircraft.

             Requirements for repeat inspections and the mandatory removal of cables in excess of 15 years in service have been removed from this AD following the publication of Instructions for Continuing Airworthiness (ICA) by the manufacturer.  Those ICA are considered satisfactory to ensure the failure of the elevator cable does not occur provided that the ICA is adhered to during the inspection process.

             This Amendment clarifies the applicability section of the AD by introducing additional criteria (Figure 1) to assist the registered operator in determining whether this AD is applicable to their aircraft.

             The original issue of this AD became effective on 16 January 2012.

             Figure 1 - Forward Elevator Control Cable - Adapted
             from Beechcraft Illustrated Parts Catalogue.

Peter Boyd
Delegate of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority

23 February 2012