SAIB CE-13-39

FAA Aviation Safety

SPECIAL AIRWORTHINESS

INFORMATION BULLETIN SUBJ: Flight Controls: Rudder Pedals and Rudder Cable SAIB: CE-13-39 Date: June 28, 2013 This is information only. Recommendations aren’t mandatory.

Introduction

This Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin informs you of an airworthiness concern on Jonker Sailplanes Models JS1A and JS1B sailplanes.

These sailplanes are not type certificated in the United States and, therefore, the condition is not addressed by Federal Aviation Administration airworthiness directive (AD) action. However, these sailplanes could be operating in the United States with an experimental airworthiness certificate or other means.

Background

In a recent accident of a Model JS1B sailplane, the pilot reported a loss of rudder control. In response, Jonker Sailplanes has issued Service Bulletin SB.JS-007 as a precautionary measure. This service bulletin specifies an inspection of the rudder cables in the cockpit area and the security of the rudder pedal position locking before each flight. It is understood that this action may be superseded by later service information pending final resolution of the investigation into the recent accident.

Recommendations

We recommend all owners and operators comply with the actions outlined in Jonker Sailplanes Service Bulletin SB.JS-007, dated May 9, 2012.

For Further Information Contact

Jim Rutherford, Aerospace Engineer, FAA Small Airplane Directorate, Room 301, 901 Locust Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; phone: (816) 329-4165; fax: (816) 329-4090; e-mail:

Jim.Rutherford@faa.gov.

For Related Service Information Contact

Jonker Sailplanes P.O. Box 1575 Potchefstroom, 2520 South Africa Phone: +27 (0) 18 285 1035 Email: info@jonkersailplanes.co.za