AD 87-16-10

87-16-10 SHORT BROTHERS PLC: Amendment 39-5699. Applies to Model SD3-60 airplanes, serial numbers SH3601 through SH3691 and SH3694, certificated in any category. Compliance required as indicated, unless previously accomplished.

To prevent loss of the structural integrity of the horizontal stabilizer accomplish the following:

A. Visually inspect, in accordance with the schedule listed below, the forward face of the rear spar web and the aft face of the front spar web for cracks between fuselage attach fitting at 12.5" left and right of the airplane center line, in accordance with Short Brothers Model SD3-60 Service Bulletin SD360-55-11, Revision 3, dated April 28, 1987.

1. For airplanes serial numbers SH3680 through SH3691 and SH3694, and airplanes which have used only 15 degrees flap take-off since before or upon reaching 5000 flights, inspection is required within the next 100 flights or prior to the accumulation of 12,000 flights, whichever occurs later. Repeat the inspection at intervals not to exceed 1,500 flights.

2. For all other airplanes, inspection is required within the next 100 flights or prior to the accumulation of 8,000 flights, whichever occurs later. Repeat the inspection at intervals not to exceed 1,000 flights.

B. If cracks are found, prior to further flight, modify by strengthening the horizontal stabilizer in accordance with Short Brothers Model SD3-60 Service Bulletin SD360-55-12, dated April 1986.

C. The repetitive inspections required by paragraph A., above, may be terminated following completion of the modification described in Short Brothers Model SD3-60 Service Bulletin SD360-55-12, dated April 1986.

D. An alternate means of compliance or adjustment of the compliance time, which provides an acceptable level of safety, may be used when approved by the Manager, Standardization Branch, ANM-113, FAA, Northwest Mountain Region.

E. Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with FAR 21.197 and 21.199 to operate airplanes to a base for the accomplishment of the inspections and/or modifications required by this AD.

All persons affected by this directive who have not already received the appropriate service documents from the manufacturer may obtain copies upon request to Short Brothers Aircraft, 2011 Crystal Drive, Suite 713, Arlington, Virginia 22202-3702. These documents may be examined at the FAA, Northwest Mountain Region, 17900 Pacific Highway South, Seattle, Washington, or the Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 9010 East Marginal Way South, Seattle, Washington.

This amendment becomes effective September 10, 1987.