AD 2022-12-06 Requires Repetitively Inspecting The Trim Tab Trailing Edge To Determine If Free Play Exists

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Costruzioni Aeronautiche Tecnam S.P.A. Model P2012 Traveller airplanes.

This AD was prompted by mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as free play in the trim tab actuator and trim tab surface. This AD requires repetitively inspecting the trim tab trailing edge to determine if free play exists and taking corrective actions as needed. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.  This AD is effective July 19, 2022.

Supplementary Information: The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain serial-numbered Costruzioni Aeronautiche Tecnam S.P.A. Model P2012 Traveller airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on March 7, 2022 (87 FR 12627). The NPRM was prompted by MCAI originated by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union. EASA issued AD 2021-0119, dated April 30, 2021 (referred to after this as “the MCAI”), to address the unsafe condition on Costruzioni Aeronautiche Tecnam S.P.A. Model P2012 Traveller airplanes with serial numbers (S/Ns) 002 through 030 inclusive.

The MCAI states:

• Occurrences have been reported of vibration in the horizontal stabiliser control yoke and pedals, both sides. The subsequent investigation identified free play in the trim tab actuator and trim tab surface. 
• This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to a significant free play on the trim tab connection, with consequent increase in dynamic loads and vibrations, possibly resulting in reduced control of the aeroplane. 
• To address this potential unsafe condition, TECNAM issued the [Service Bulletin] SB to provide inspection instructions.
• For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires repetitive inspections of the trim tab trailing edge and, depending on findings, accomplishment of applicable corrective action(s).

You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2022-0151. 

In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require repetitively inspecting the trim tab trailing edge to determine if free play exists and taking corrective actions as needed. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent reduced airplane control.

FMI: www.regulations.gov