AD 97-08-02 R1

On April 1, 1997, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued AD 97-08-02, Amendment 39-9990 (62 FR 16667, April 8, 1997), which applies to certain Schempp-Hirth Models Standard-Cirrus, Nimbus-2, Nimbus-2B, Mini-Nimbus HS-7, Mini-Nimbus B, Discus a, and Discus b sailplanes. That AD requires accomplishing a load test of the elevator control system, and replacing the elevator vertical actuating tube either immediately or at a certain time period depending on the results of the load test.

Accomplishment of the test and replacement is required in accordance with Schempp-Hirth Technical Note No. 278-33, 286-28, 295-22, 328-10, 349-16, 360-9, 373-5, dated November 19, 1992, and the Appendix to this technical note.

AD 97-08-02 resulted from reported incidents of corrosion found in the elevator because of water entering the elevator control rod. The actions required by that AD are intended to prevent corrosion in the elevator caused by water entering the elevator control rod, which could result in elevator failure and consequent loss of control of the sailplane.

Need for the Correction The FAA inadvertently included the Schempp-Hirth Models Nimbus 2, Mini-Nimbus HS-7, and Standard Cirrus sailplanes in the Applicability of AD 97-08-02. These sailplane models are not equipped with elevator control systems, and should not be affected by the current AD.

Correction of Publication This document eliminates from the Applicability of AD 97-08-02 those sailplanes that are not equipped with elevator control systems.

The AD is being reprinted in its entirely for the convenience of affected operators.

Since this action only clarifies the FAA s original intent, it has no adverse economic impact and imposes no additional burden on any person. Therefore, the FAA has determined that notice and public procedures are unnecessary.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety.

Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the Federal Aviation Administration amends part 39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) as follows:

PART 39 - AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.

39.13 [Amended] 2. Section 39.13 is amended by removing AD 97-08-02, Amendment 39-9990 (62 FR 16667, April 8, 1997), and by adding a new airworthiness directive (AD) to read as follows: