EAA Meets With Small Airplane Directorate on T-34 AD
The FAA has approved an alternative methods of compliance (AMOC) submitted by the T-34 Association regarding revised airworthiness directive (AD) 2001-13-18 R1 that deals with T-34 wing spar failures. The revised AD recently invalidated previous AMOCs approved for the original AD because FAA feels they do not address all four critical areas prone to fatigue cracks in the aircraft’s wing spar assemblies. However, the T-34 Association submitted new AMOCs that incorporate inspection of the rear spars.
In support of the T-34 Association and all T-34 owners, EAA met with both Manager Dorenda Baker and Deputy Manager Dave Showers of the FAA Small Airplane Directorate on Tuesday, March 9. EAA articulated the need for the quick review of the T-34 Association’s proposed AMOCs so that there is a reasonable alternative to keep T-34s flying safely before the new AD effective date of Monday, March 15. Baker committed to making the review of submitted AMOCs a priority, and she committed to help keep the T-34s safe and flying.
As proof of Baker’s commitment to prudently review the proposed new AMOCs, the Directorate completed its review and approved the first new AMOC submitted by the T-34 Association on Thursday, March 11.
Without approved AMOCs, a large number of the aircraft will effectively be grounded when the revised AD goes into effect this Monday, March 15. Affected aircraft include Raytheon Aircraft Corp. Beech Models 45 (YT-34), A45 (T-34A, B-45), and D45 (T-34B).
EAA continues to work with the T-34 Association to develop additional alternatives to the new AD that provide added relief to T-34 owners. Also, EAA reminds T-34 owners that the FAA has verified T-34 owners may obtain ferry permits to move their aircraft to a location that can complete the required rear spar inspection. |
