Summary
This document proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) that would apply to certain Schempp-Hirth K.G. (Schempp-Hirth) Models Standard-Cirrus, Nimbus-2, Nimbus-2B, Mini-Nimbus HS-7, Mini- Nimbus B, Discus a, and Discus b sailplanes. The proposed action would require 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. The proposed action results from reported incidents of corrosion found in the elevator because of water entering the elevator control rod. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to prevent corrosion in the elevator caused by water entering the elevator control rod, which could result in elevator failure and subsequent loss of control of the sailplane.