AD 98-12-28 Airworthiness Directives; CASA Model C-212 Series Airplanes

Models named: C-212 series. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

All Model C-212 series airplanes, certificated in any category. Note 1: This AD applies to each airplane identified in the preceding applicability provision, regardless of whether it has been modified, altered, or repaired in the area [[Page 31608]] subject to the requirements of this AD. For airplanes that have been modified, altered, or repaired so that the performance of the requirements of this AD is affected, the owner/operator must request approval for an alternative method of compliance in accordance with paragraph (b) of this AD. The request should include an assessment of the effect of the modification, alteration, or repair on the unsafe condition addressed by this AD; and, if the unsafe condition has not been eliminated, the request should include specific proposed actions to address it.

Required as indicated, unless accomplished previously. To detect and correct cracking in the false spar of the wing, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the wing, accomplish the following: (a) Within 1,200 flight hours after the effective date of this AD, perform a detailed visual inspection for cracking in the false spar of the wing, on the left and right sides of the airplane, in accordance with CASA Product Support Document COM 212-224, dated November 28, 1990. (1) If no cracking is detected, repeat the detailed visual inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 1,200 flight hours. (2) If any cracking is detected, prior to further flight, repair in accordance with a method approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate; or the Direccion General de Aviacion (DGAC), which is the airworthiness authority for Spain (or its delegated agent). Repeat the detailed visual inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 1,200 flight hours. (b) An alternative method of compliance or adjustment of the compliance time that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used if approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116. Operators shall submit their request through an appropriate FAA Principal Maintenance Inspector, who may add comments and then send it to the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116. Note 2: Information concerning the existence of approved alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be obtained from the International Branch, ANM-116. (c) Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with sections 21.197 and 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199) to operate the airplane to a location where the requirements of this AD can be accomplished. (d) The inspections shall be done in accordance with CASA Product Support Document COM 212-224, dated November 28, 1990. 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 Construcciones Aeronauticas, S.A., Getafe, Madrid, Spain. Copies may be inspected at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC. Note 3: The subject of this AD is addressed in Spanish airworthiness directive 02/96, dated May 13, 1996. (e) This amendment becomes effective on July 15, 1998. Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 3, 1998. Darrell M. Pederson, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 98-15254 Filed 6-9-98; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-U