AD 98-13-36 Airworthiness Directives; Saab Model SAAB SF340A, SAAB 340B, and SAAB 2000 Series Airplanes

Models named: SAAB SF340A series, SAAB 340B series. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

Model SAAB SF340A series airplanes, serial numbers -004 through -159, inclusive; Model SAAB 340B series airplanes, serial numbers -160 and subsequent; and SAAB 2000 series airplanes, serial numbers -005 and -007 through -009, inclusive; equipped with a mechanical elevator control system (MECS); 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 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 prevent uncommanded movement of the right-hand elevator trim- tab to a maximum deflection position, which could lead to structural overload of the horizontal stabilizers at speeds above 180 knots, and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane, accomplish the following: (a) Within 150 hours time-in-service after the effective date of this AD, perform an operational test of the pitch trim system that moves the elevator trim-tab of the flight control unit to ensure that the system operates correctly, in accordance with Saab Service Bulletins 340-27-079 (for Model SAAB SF340A and SF340B series airplanes); or 2000-27-018 (for Model SAAB 2000 series airplanes); both dated December 22, 1995; as applicable. (1) If no discrepancy is found, repeat the operational test of the pitch trim system thereafter at intervals not to exceed 150 hours time-in-service. (2) If any discrepancy is found, prior to further flight, accomplish repairs in accordance with a method approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, or the Luftfartsverket (LFV), or its delegated agent. Note 2: Accomplishment of the repair required by paragraph (a)(2) of this AD, in accordance with Saab 340 Aircraft Maintenance Manual 27-32-30, dated January 1, 1998, is considered acceptable for compliance with the applicable action specified in this AD. (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 requests through an appropriate FAA Principal Maintenance Inspector, who may add comments and then send it to the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116. Note 3: 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 operational test shall be done in accordance with Saab Service Bulletin 340-27-079, dated December 22, 1995, or Saab Service Bulletin 2000-27-018, dated December 22, 1995, as applicable. This incorporation by reference was previously 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 SAAB Aircraft AB, SAAB Aircraft Product Support, S-581.88, Linkoping, Sweden. 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 4: The subject of this AD is addressed in Swedish airworthiness directive SAD No. 1-083, Revision 1, dated January 2, 1996. (e) This amendment becomes effective on July 30, 1998. Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 17, 1998. Darrell M. Pederson, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 98-16697 Filed 6-24-98; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-U