AD 2004-13-21 Airworthiness Directives; Short Brothers Model SD3-60 SHERPA Series Airplanes

Models named: SD3-60 SHERPA series. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

All Short Brothers Model SD3-60 SHERPA series airplanes, certificated in any category.

Required as indicated, unless accomplished previously. To detect and correct loose bolts that attach the vertical stabilizer to the horizontal stabilizer, and pulled or loose rivets in the upper shear angles, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the vertical stabilizer, accomplish the following: Repetitive Inspections and Torque Tests and Related Investigative Action (a) Prior to the accumulation of 1,500 total flight hours, or within 2 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later: Perform a detailed inspection, including a torque test, to detect discrepancies in the bolts or bolt holes that attach the vertical stabilizer to the horizontal stabilizer; and to detect loose or pulled rivets in the upper shear angles. Repeat the detailed inspection and torque test at intervals not to exceed 1,500 flight hours. If any discrepancy is found in the bolts or bolt holes, do the related investigative action before further flight. Accomplish all actions in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Short Brothers Service Bulletin SD3-60 Sherpa-55-1, dated June 6, 2003. Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed inspection is defined as: “An intensive visual examination of a specific structural area, system, installation, or assembly to detect damage, failure, or irregularity. Available lighting is normally supplemented with a direct source of good lighting at intensity deemed appropriate by the inspector. Inspection aids such as mirror, magnifying lenses, etc., may be used. Surface cleaning and elaborate access procedures may be required.” Related Corrective Actions (b) If any discrepancy is found during any inspection or torque test required by paragraph (a) of this AD: Before further flight, repair in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Short Brothers Service Bulletin SD3-60 Sherpa-55-1, dated June 6, 2003. Where the service bulletin specifies to contact the manufacturer for disposition of certain repair conditions: Before further flight, repair per a method approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate; or the Civil Aviation Authority or its delegated agent. No Reporting Requirement (c) Although the service bulletin referenced in this AD specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD does not include such a requirement. Alternative Methods of Compliance (d) In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, the Manager, International Branch, is authorized to approve alternative methods of compliance for this AD. Incorporation by Reference (e) Unless otherwise specified in this AD, the actions shall be done in accordance with Short Brothers Service Bulletin SD3-60 Sherpa-55-1, dated June 6, 2003. This incorporation by reference was approved by the Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies may be obtained from Short Brothers, Airworthiness & Engineering Quality, P.O. Box 241, Airport Road, Belfast BT3 9DZ, Northern Ireland. Copies may be inspected at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call (202) 741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html. Note 2: The subject of this AD is addressed in British airworthiness directive 001-06-2003. Effective Date (f) This amendment becomes effective on August 3, 2004. Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 16, 2004. Ali Bahrami, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 04-14572 Filed 6-28-04; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P