AD 2004-22-14 Airworthiness Directives; Saab Model SAAB SF340A and SAAB 340B Series Airplanes

Models named: SAAB SF340A series. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

This AD applies to certain Saab Model SAAB SF340A series airplanes, line numbers 004 through 159 inclusive; and SAAB 340B series airplanes, line numbers 160 through 459 inclusive; certificated in any category.

You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the actions have already been done. Inspection and Related Investigative/Corrective Actions (f) Within 800 flight hours or 6 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever is first: Do a detailed inspection of the elevator and aileron trim-tab fittings, and all applicable related investigative and corrective actions, by accomplishing all of the actions in the Accomplishment Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 340-51-025, Revision 01, dated October 21, 2003. Any related investigative and corrective actions must be done before further flight. Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed inspection is: “An intensive examination of a specific item, installation, or assembly to detect damage, failure, or irregularity. Available lighting is normally supplemented with a direct source of good lighting at an intensity deemed appropriate. Inspection aids such as mirror, magnifying lenses, etc., may be necessary. Surface cleaning and elaborate procedures may be required.” Parts Installation (g) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install on any airplane an elevator or aileron trim-tab fitting unless it has been inspected, and any applicable corrective actions have been done, in accordance with paragraph (f) of this AD. Reporting Not Required (h) Although the service bulletin referenced in this AD specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD does not include that requirement. Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (i) The Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Related Information (j) Swedish airworthiness directive 1-194, dated October 14, 2003, also addresses the subject of this AD. Material Incorporated by Reference (k) You must use Saab Service Bulletin 340-51-025, Revision 01, dated October 21, 2003, to perform the actions that are required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. The Director of the Federal Register approves the incorporation by reference of this document in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. For copies of the service information, contact Saab Aircraft AB, SAAB Aircraft Product Support, S-581.88, Linköping, Sweden. For information on the availability of this material at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), call (202) 741-6030, or go to http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html. You may view the AD docket at the Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., room PL-401, Nassif Building, Washington, DC. Issued in Renton, Washington, on October 21, 2004. Kalene C. Yanamura, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 04-24520 Filed 11-4-04; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

This AD was prompted by reports of improperly installed rivets in the retainers located in the elevator trim-tab fittings. The retainers hold the trim-tab bearings. We are issuing this AD to prevent the elevator and aileron trim-tab bearings from coming loose, which could result in excessive play in the elevator and aileron trim systems, and reduced controllability of the airplane.