AD 98-07-18

98-07-18 PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD: Amendment 39-10438; Docket No. 97-CE-119-AD.

Applicability: Models PC-12 and PC-12/45 airplanes, serial numbers MSN 101 through MSN 153, certificated in any category.

NOTE 1: This AD applies to each airplane identified in the preceding applicability provision, regardless of whether it has been modified, altered, or repaired in the area subject to the requirements of this AD. For airplanes that have been modified, altered, or repaired so that the performance of the requirements of this AD is affected, the owner/operator must request approval for an alternative method of compliance in accordance with paragraph (d) of this AD. The request should include an assessment of the effect of the modification, alteration, or repair on the unsafe condition addressed by this AD; and, if the unsafe condition has not been eliminated, the request should include specific proposed actions to address it.

Compliance: Required as indicated in the body ofthis AD, unless already accomplished.

To prevent improper operation of the propeller de-icing controller caused by electromagnetic interference (EMI), which could result in ice build-up on the propeller with possible airplane controllability problems, accomplish the following:

(a) Within the next 9 calendar months after the effective date of this AD, accomplish the following in accordance with the instructions in Pilatus Service Bulletin No. 30-002, dated August 19, 1996:

(1) Identify the serial number of the affected propeller de-icing controller, part number (P/N) 968.29.13.223 (BFG 4E3163-1) (or FAA-approved equivalent part number);

(2) For those airplanes with a propeller de-icing controller, P/N 968.29.13.223 (BFG 4E3163-1) (or FAA-approved equivalent part number), with a serial number of U999 or lower that does not have "SB30-1" marked on it, replace it with a P/N 500.50.12.109 (BFG SB4E3163-1-30-1) (or FAA-approved equivalent part number) propeller de-icing controller.

NOTE 2: The airplanes affected by this AD could have propeller de-icing controllers installed that have Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA). For those airplanes having PMA parts that are equivalent (PMA by equivalency) to those referenced in this AD, the phrase "or FAA-approved equivalent part number" means that this AD applies to airplanes with PMA by equivalency propeller de-icing controllers installed.

(b) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install, on any affected airplane, a propeller de-icing controller, P/N 968.29.13.223 (BFG 4E3163-1) (or FAA-approved equivalent part number), with a serial number of U999 or lower that does not have "SB30-1" marked on it.

(c) Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with sections 21.197 and 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199) to operate the airplane to a location where the requirements of this AD can be accomplished.

(d) An alternative method of compliance or adjustment of the compliance times that provides an equivalent level of safety may be approved by the Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, 1201 Walnut, suite 900, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. The request shall be forwarded through an appropriate FAA Maintenance Inspector, who may add comments and then send it to the Manager, Small Airplane Directorate.

NOTE 3: Information concerning the existence of approved alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be obtained from the Small Airplane Directorate.

(e) Questions or technical information related to Pilatus Service Bulletin No. 30-002, dated August 19, 1996, should be directed to Pilatus Aircraft Ltd., Marketing Support Department, CH-6370 Stans, Switzerland; telephone: +41 41-6196 233; facsimile: +41 41-6103 351. This service information may be examined at the FAA, Central Region, Office of the Regional Counsel, Room 1558, 601 E. 12th Street, Kansas City, Missouri.

(f) The identification and replacement required by this AD shall be done in accordance with Pilatus Service Bulletin No. 30-002, dated August 19, 1996. This incorporation by reference was approved by the Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies may be obtained from Pilatus Aircraft Ltd., Marketing Support Department, CH-6370 Stans, Switzerland. Copies may be inspected at the FAA, Central Region, Office of the Regional Counsel, Room 1558, 601 E. 12th Street, Kansas City, Missouri, or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW, suite 700, Washington, DC.

(g) This amendment becomes effective on April 28, 1998.