AD NUMBER: 2012-05-09

PRODUCT: All Mooney Aviation Company (Mooney) Models M20B, M20C, M20D, M20E, M20F, M20G, M20J, M20K, M20L, M20M, M20R, M20S, and M20TN airplanes.
SUBJECT: Airworthiness Directive 2012-05-09
ACTION: Final Rule, request for comments.

SUMMARY: The FAA is issuing an airworthiness directive (AD) for all Mooney Aviation Company (Mooney) Models M20B, M20C, M20D, M20E, M20F, M20G, M20J, M20K, M20L, M20M, M20R, M20S, and M20TN airplanes that supersedes an existing AD that is applicable to certain Model M20R and M20TN airplanes. The existing AD currently requires inspecting the tail pitch trim assembly for correct positioning and proper attachment and inspecting the Huck Bolt fasteners for proper security with repair as necessary for certain Models M2 R and M20TN.

That AD also requires sending the inspection results to the FAA and Mooney. This AD retains all of the actions, except the reporting requirement from the previous AD and adds airplane models to the applicability.

This AD was prompted by a report of an incident on a Mooney Model M20TN airplane regarding failure of the tail pitch trim assembly, which could result in loss of control. The FAA is issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective March 20, 2012.

FMI: AD