FAA Issues Final AD for Taylorcraft Strut Attach Fitting
EAA, VAA suggestions incorporated
The FAA has issued the final version of an Airworthiness Directive (AD) concerning the lower wing strut attach fitting (part number A-A11) for Taylorcraft A, B, and F series airplanes. The AD, number 2008-09-18, finalizes proposed FAA AD 2008-0177, calling for a one-time inspection of the attach fitting for aircraft based on land, and a repetitive inspection for seaplanes and those aircraft equipped with skis. The effective date of the AD is June 6, 2008.
The AD is the result of an investigation into the cause of the fatal crash last August of a float-equipped Taylorcraft BF-12-65. The FAA states in their findings that the aircraft suffered a corrosion-related failure of the lower wing strut attach fitting.
In their comments to the FAA concerning the proposed AD, EAA and its Vintage Aircraft Association, and four other commenters, pointed out that the Taylorcraft fuselage structure is comprised of welded steel tubing and flat plate fittings. That type of structure is well within the scope of repair practice for an Airframe and Powerplant (A & P) mechanic experienced in maintaining aircraft of that vintage. EAA and VAA commented that it is reasonable to expect an experienced mechanic to have sufficient information and means available to rebuild the fitting area with guidance from AC 43.13-1B.
In the final rule, the FAA agreed that repair of the Taylorcraft fuselage welded structure is within the scope of repair criteria and guidance provided in AC 43.13-1B. As a result, the FAA added language in paragraph (e)(3) of the AD to allow for repair of the attach fitting and the associated fuselage structure in accordance with AC 43.13-1B.
AD 2008-09-18 can be downloaded from the FAA website. Taylorcraft Service Bulletin 2007-002 cited in the AD can be downloaded at www.taylorcraft.com.
This AD is in addition to the previously issued AD concerning Taylorcraft wing lift struts. That AD, reissued on March 28, 2008 as AD 2008-4-09, removed the eddy current inspection process and added a radiographic inspection method, with modifications to the inspection interval as a result of those changes.