Grob

Airworthiness Directives; Fiberglas-Technik Rudolf Lindner GmbH & Co. KG (Type Certificate Previously Held by GROB Aircraft AG, Grob Aerospace GmbH i.l., Grob Aerospace GmbH, Burkhart Grob Luft- und Raumfahrt GmbH & Co. KG) Gliders

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Fiberglas-Technik Rudolf Lindner GmbH & Co. KG Model G103 TWIN II, G103A TWIN II ACRO, G103C TWIN III ACRO, and G 103 C TWIN III SL gliders. This AD was prompted by a report of corrosion on the inner sides of the welded steel rudder drive plate. This AD requires repetitive inspections and a one-time detailed inspection of the rudder drive plate for corrosion and water entry and a modification of the rudder drive plate to improve corrosion protection, as applicable. This AD also requires replacement of the rudder if corrosion is found during the inspections that exceed light surface rust. This AD also requires applying additional sealing to the rudder drive plate, which constitutes terminating action for the repetitive inspections. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Airworthiness Directives; GROB Aircraft SE (Type Certificate Previously Held by GROB Aircraft AG) Airplanes

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all GROB Aircraft SE (type certificate previously held by GROB Aircraft AG) (GROB) Model G 115EG airplanes. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI identifies the unsafe condition as in-flight detachment of a rudder actuator hinge bracket. This AD requires repairing the support structure at the attachment to the attachment bolts on certain flight control surfaces, inspecting the support structure at the attachment bolts of all flight control surfaces, and taking corrective actions if discrepancies are detected. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Airworthiness Directives; Fiberglas-Technik Rudolf Lindner GmbH & Co. KG (Type Certificate Previously Held by GROB Aircraft AG, Grob Aerospace GmbH i.l., Grob Aerospace GmbH, Burkhart Grob Luft-und Raumfahrt GmbH & Co. KG) Gliders

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Fiberglas-Technik Rudolf Lindner GmbH & Co. KG (type certificate previously held by GROB Aircraft AG, Grob Aerospace GmbH i.l., Grob Aerospace GmbH, Burkhart Grob Luft--und Raumfahrt GmbH & Co. KG) Model G102 ASTIR CS, G103 TWIN ASTIR, G103 TWIN II, G103A TWIN II ACRO, G103C TWIN III ACRO, and G 103 C TWIN III SL gliders. This AD was prompted by mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as corrosion on the elevator control pushrod. This AD requires inspecting the elevator control pushrod for water and corrosion and replacing the pushrod if necessary. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Airworthiness Directives; GROB Aircraft AG Gliders

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for GROB Aircraft AG Models GROB G 109 and GROB G 109B gliders. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as broken pivots of the tail wheel mounting bracket resulting from corrosion and damage due to wear. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Airworthiness Directives; GROB Aircraft AG Airplanes

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for GROB Aircraft AG Model G115EG airplanes. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as cracks in the bonded joint of the rear horizontal stabilizer frame. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Airworthiness Directives; GROB-WERKE Airplanes

We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2014-26-04 for certain GROB-WERKE Models G115EG and G120A airplanes. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as a defective starter solenoid. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Airworthiness Directives; Fiberglas-Technik Rudolf Lindner GmbH & Co. KG Gliders

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Fiberglas-Technik Rudolf Lindner GmbH & Co. KG (type certificates formerly held by GROB-WERKE GMBH & CO KG and BURKHART GROB LUFT- UND RAUMFAHRT GmbH & CO KG) Models G102 STANDARD ASTIR III, G102 CLUB ASTIR III, G102 CLUB ASTIR IIIb, G103 TWIN II, G103A TWIN II ACRO, G103C TWIN III ACRO, and G 103 C Twin III SL gliders. This AD revises AD 2014-15- 02, which required inspection of the rudder control unit for installation of plastic cable pulleys and replacement of plastic cable pulleys with aluminum cable pulleys. This AD retains the actions of AD 2014-15-02 but clarifies the suffixes of serial numbers (S/Ns) in paragraph (c) Applicability. This AD was prompted by reports of plastic control cable pulleys developing cracks due to aging, which could lead to breaking of the pulley and potentially jamming the rudder control unit, possibly resulting in loss of control. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Airworthiness Directives; GROB-WERKE GMBH & CO KG Gliders

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for GROB- WERKE GMBH & CO KG Models G102 STANDARD ASTIR III, G102 CLUB ASTIR III, and G102 CLUB ASTIR IIIb gliders and BURKHART GROB LUFT--UND RAUMFAHRT GmbH & CO KG Models G103 TWIN II, G103A TWIN II ACRO, G103C TWIN III ACRO, and G 103 C Twin III SL gliders. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as plastic control cable pulleys developing cracks due to aging. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Airworthiness Directives; GROB-WERKE Airplanes

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain GROB-WERKE Models G115EG and G120A airplanes. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as cracks in the left hand elevator flange. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Airworthiness Directives; Grob-Werke Airplanes

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Grob- Werke Model G115EG airplanes. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as cracks in the elevator trim tab arms on several Grob G 115 airplanes, which could result in failure of the part and consequent loss of control. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Airworthiness Directives; Burkhart GROB Luft- und Raumfahrt GmbH Sailplanes

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Burkhart GROB Luft- und Raumfahrt GmbH Models GROB G 109 and GROB G 109B sailplanes. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as corrosion and/or cracking of the elevator control rod that could lead to failure of the elevator control rod with consequent loss of control. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Airworthiness Directives; Burkhart GROB Luft- und Raumfahrt GmbH Powered Sailplanes

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Burkhart GROB Luft- und Raumfahrt GmbH Models GROB G 109 and GROB G 109B powered sailplanes. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as excessive corrosion on the nose plate in the vertical stabilizer, which could cause the vertical stabilizer nose plate to fail. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Airworthiness Directives; BURKHART GROB LUFT-UND Model G 103 C Twin III SL Gliders

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as:

Airworthiness Directives; GROB-WERKE GMBH & CO KG Models G102 ASTIR CS, G102 CLUB ASTIR III, G102 CLUB ASTIR IIIb, and G102 STANDARD ASTIR III Gliders

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as:

Airworthiness Directives; GROB-WERKE (Type Certificate Previously Held by BURKHART GROB Luft- und Raumfahrt) Models G115C, G115D and G115D2 Airplanes

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as:

Airworthiness Directives; GROB-WERKE GMBH & CO KG Models G102 ASTIR CS and G102 STANDARD ASTIR III Gliders

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as:

Airworthiness Directives; GROB-Werke Model G120A Airplanes

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as:

Airworthiness Directives; BURKHART GROB LUFT-UND RAUMFAHRT GmbH & CO KG G103 Series Gliders

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as:

Airworthiness Directives; GROB-WERKE GMBH & CO KG Models G102 CLUB ASTIR III, G102 CLUB ASTIR IIIb, and G102 STANDARD ASTIR III Gliders

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as:

Airworthiness Directives; GROB-WERKE GMBH & CO KG Model G102 ASTIR CS Sailplanes

The FAA supersedes Airworthiness Directive (AD) 84-09-05, which applies to certain GROB-WERKE GMBH & CO KG (previously identified as BURKHART-GROB FLUGZEUGBAU INDUSTRIESTRABE) Model G102 ASTIR CS sailplanes. AD 84-09-05 requires you to install a modified spherical locking bolt and nut in the forward horizontal stabilizer connection to the vertical stabilizer and install new locking pins in the aft connecting plate for the horizontal stabilizer. Since we issued AD 84- 09-05, fatigue cracks were found in the modified spherical locking bolt. Consequently, this AD requires you to replace the modified spherical locking bolt, the retaining pins (collar bolts), and associated hardware; add a life limit on the spherical locking bolt and the retaining pins; and repetitively inspect the front and rear horizontal stabilizer attachment. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. We are issuing this AD to prevent cracks in the spherical locking bolt, which could result in failure of the horizontal stabilizer connection. This failure could lead to loss of control.

Airworthiness Directives; BURKHART GROB LUFT-UND-RAUMFAHRT GmbH & Co. KG, Model G 103 C Twin III SL Sailplanes

The FAA adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) that supersedes AD 97-24-09, which applies to certain BURKHART GROB LUFT- UND-RAUMFAHRT GmbH & Co. KG (Grob) Model G 103 C Twin III SL sailplanes. AD 97-24-09 currently requires repetitively inspecting the propeller bearing and upper pulley wheel for increased play and, if increased play is found, modifying the propeller bearing and pulley wheel. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. Consequently, this AD requires you to modify the propeller bearing and upper pulley wheel by installing a new securing plate and tightening the grooved nut to the new torque values. We are issuing this AD to prevent loss of the sailplane propeller caused by increased play in the current design propeller bearing and upper pulley wheel. This could result in loss of control of the sailplane.

Airworthiness Directives; BURKHARDT GROB LUFT-UND RAUMFA HRT GmbH & CO KG Model G103 TWIN ASTIR Sailplanes

The FAA adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all BURKHARDT GROB LUFT-UND RAUMFAHRT GmbH & CO KG (Burkhardt Grob) Model G103 TWIN ASTIR sailplanes. This AD requires you to replace the elevator lever, part number (P/N) 103-3521, with an improved design part, P/N 103-3523. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. We are issuing this AD to prevent cracks in the elevator lever, which could cause the elevator lever to fail. This failure could result in loss of control of the sailplane.

Airworthiness Directives; BURKHARDT GROB LUFT-UND RAUMFAHRT GmbH & CO KG Models G103 TWIN ASTIR, G103 TWIN II, G103A TWIN II ACRO, G103C TWIN III ACRO, and G 103 C Twin III SL Sailplanes

The FAA adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) to supersede AD 2004-08-13, which applies to certain BURKHARDT GROB LUFT-UND RAUMFAHRT GmbH & CO KG (Burkhardt Grob) Models G103 TWIN ASTIR, G103 TWIN II, G103 TWIN III ACRO, and G103 C Twin III SL sailplanes. AD 2004-08-13 currently requires you to replace the center of gravity (CG) release hook attachment brackets with brackets of improved design. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. This AD retains all the actions required in AD 2004-08-13 and adds Model G103A TWIN II ACRO sailplanes to the applicability. We are issuing this AD to prevent abnormal or uncontrolled sailplane release due to cracked CG release hook attachment brackets. This condition could result in reduced or loss of sailplane control.

Airworthiness Directives; GROB-WERKE Model G120A Airplanes

The FAA adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all GROB-WERKE Model G120A airplanes. This AD requires you to inspect for signs of any chafing damage to the attachment cables of the switch panels below the left-hand instrument panel, any damaged switch below the switch panels of the left-hand instrument panel, any damaged (that is, sharp) edge of the support tray for the attachment cables of the switch panels below the left-hand instrument panel; correct any damage found during the inspection; and apply a layer of anti-rub (protective padding) strips to the edge of the support tray. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. We are issuing this AD to detect, correct, and prevent chafing of the cables against the rear lip of the tray that holds the switch panels. Chafing of the electrical cables could result in smoke or fire in the cockpit.

Airworthiness Directives; BURKHART GROB LUFT-UND RAUMFAHRT GmbH & CO KG Models G103 TWIN ASTIR, G103A TWIN II ACRO, and G103C TWIN III ACRO Sailplanes

The FAA is revising Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2003-19-14 R1, which applies to certain BURKHART GROB LUFT--UND RAUMFAHRT GmbH & CO KG (GROB) Models G103 TWIN ASTIR, G103A TWIN II ACRO, and G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes. AD 2003-19-14 R1 requires you to modify the airspeed indicators, install flight speed reduction and aerobatic maneuver restrictions placards (as applicable), and revise the flight and maintenance manuals. AD 2003-19-14 R1 approves simple aerobatic maneuvers for Model G103A TWIN II ACRO sailplanes and provides an option for modifying the rear fuselage for Models G103A TWIN II ACRO and G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes to terminate the flight limitation restrictions for aerobatic maneuvers. This AD retains all the actions from AD 2003-19-14 R1 for Models G103A TWIN II ACRO and G103C TWIN III ACRO and reinstates certain operating limits for Model G103 TWIN ASTIR sailplanes. We are issuing this AD to prevent damage to the fuselage during limit load flight, which could result in reduced structural integrity. This condition could lead to loss of control of the sailplane.

Airworthiness Directives; GROB-WERKE Model G120A Airplanes

The FAA adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain GROB-WERKE Model G120A airplanes. This AD requires you to replace the main landing gear (MLG) up-lock hook assembly. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. We are issuing this AD to prevent the MLG from becoming jammed and not extending, which could result in loss of control of the airplane during landing. During the comment period for the notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) regarding this action, we received a comment recommending the incorporation of service information to install connecting bolts secured with cotter pins instead of connecting bolts secured with snap rings. All U.S.- registered airplanes currently have these actions incorporated so these actions do not impose an additional burden over that proposed in the NPRM and prior public comment is not necessary. However, we are reopening the comment period to allow the public the chance to comment on these additional actions.

Airworthiness Directives; GROB-WERKE Model G120A Airplanes

The FAA adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all GROB-WERKE (GROB) Model G120A airplanes. This AD requires you to repetitively inspect the nose landing gear (NLG) assembly, paying special attention to the NLG swivel tube and the engine truss in the area of the NLG attachment, for cracks and damaged (defective) welding seams. If you find cracks or defects during any inspection, this AD requires you to replace the cracked or defective part. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks and defects in the NLG assembly, which could result in failure of the NLG. This failure could lead to a hard landing and/or loss of control of the airplane during landing operations.

Airworthiness Directives; GROB-WERKE Model G120A Airplanes

The FAA adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all GROB-WERKE (GROB) Model G120A airplanes. This AD requires you to replace the main landing gear front and rear spherical bearings with improved spherical bearings. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. We are issuing this AD to replace front and rear main landing gear bearings that are susceptible to damage when exposed to high axial loads, which could result in failure of the landing gear bearing. This failure could lead to loss of control on landing.

Airworthiness Directives; GROB-WERKE Model G120A Airplanes

The FAA adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all GROB-WERKE (GROB) Model G120A airplanes. This AD requires you to repetitively inspect visually the area between the vertical stabilizer main spar and the nearby vertical stabilizer skin for any disbonding/ crack; repair any disbonding/crack found; and calculate weight and balance after any repair. This AD is the result of mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct any disbonding/crack in the area between the vertical stabilizer main spar and nearby stabilizer skin, which could result in possible structural failure. This failure could lead to difficulty in airplane flight control.

Airworthiness Directives; Grob-Werke Gmbh & Co KG Models G102 CLUB ASTIR III, G102 CLUB ASTIR IIIb, and G102 STANDARD ASTIR III Sailplanes

The FAA supersedes Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2001-26-25, which applies to all Grob-Werke Gmbh & Co KG (Grob) Models G102 CLUB ASTIR III, G102 CLUB ASTIR IIIb, and G102 STANDARD ASTIR III sailplanes. AD 2001-26-25 currently requires you to apply a red mark and install a placard on the airspeed indicator to restrict the Vne airspeed. This AD requires you to install additional mass balance in the elevator and ailerons and determine resultant empty weight and empty weight center of gravity; incorporate a revision in the sailplane maintenance manual; and remove the red mark and the red placard on the airspeed indicator (both required by AD 2001-26-25). This AD is the result of mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. We are issuing this AD to prevent elevator flutter, which could cause structural damage. Such damage could result in loss of control of the sailplane.

Airworthiness Directives; BURKHART GROB LUFT-UND RAUMFAHRT GmbH & CO KG Models G103 TWIN ASTIR, G103A TWIN II ACRO, and G103C TWIN III ACRO Sailplanes

The FAA revises Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2003-19-14 which applies to all BURKHART GROB LUFT--UND RAUMFAHRT GmbH & CO KG (GROB) Models G103 TWIN ASTIR, G103 TWIN II, G103A TWIN II ACRO, and G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes. AD 2003-19-14 currently requires you to modify the airspeed indicators, install flight speed reduction and aerobatic maneuver restrictions placards (as applicable), and revise the flight and maintenance manual. This AD retains all the actions in AD 2003-19-14 for all Model G103 TWIN ASTIR sailplanes, removes Model G103 TWIN II from the applicability, and retains the aerobatic maneuver restriction for Model G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes. This AD also requires you to revise the modification to airspeed indicators, install a revised flight speed reduction placard, and revise the flight and maintenance manual for certain Models G103A TWIN II ACRO, and G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes. Simple Aerobatic maneuvers are also re- approved for Model G103A TWIN II ACRO sailplanes. An option for modifying the rear fuselage for Models G103A TWIN II ACRO and G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes that terminates the flight limitation restrictions for aerobatic maneuvers is also included in this AD.

Airworthiness Directives; Burkhart Grob Luft-und Raumfahrt GmbH & CO KG Models G103 Twin Astir, G103 Twin II, G103A Twin II Acro, and G103C Twin III Acro Sailplanes

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all BURKHART GROB LUFT--UND RAUMFAHRT GmbH & CO KG (GROB) Models G103 TWIN ASTIR, G103 TWIN II, G103A TWIN II ACRO, and G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes. This AD requires you to modify the airspeed indicators and install a flight speed reduction placard and an aerobatic maneuver restriction placard (as applicable). This AD also requires you to revise the flight and maintenance manual. This AD is the result of mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. We are issuing this AD to prevent the possibility of damage to the fuselage during limit load flight due to inadequate safety margins designed into the fuselage. Such a condition could result in reduced structural integrity of the fuselage and lead to loss of control of the sailplane.

Airworthiness Directives; Grob-Werke Model G120AA Airplanes

The FAA adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all GROB-WERKE (GROB) Model G120A airplanes. This AD requires you to modify the flight control system operating levers. This AD is the result of mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of a ball bearing in the flight control system operating levers. Such failure could lead to reduced control or loss of control of the airplane.

Airworthiness Directives; Burkhart Grob Luft-Und Raumfahrt GmbH & CO KG Models G103 TWIN II and G103A TWIN II ACRO Sailplanes

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to certain Burkhart Grob Luft-Und Raumfahrt GmbH & CO KG (Grob) Models G103 TWIN II and G103A TWIN II ACRO sailplanes. This AD requires accomplishing preflight checks of the fastening (knurled) nut at the rear control stick for cracks, and replacing the nut with one made of stainless steel either immediately or at a certain time period depending on whether a crack(s) is found. The checks are no longer required after the knurled nut is replaced. This AD is the result of mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent the inability to use the rear control stick because of a cracked knurled nut, which could result in loss of control of the sailplane during flight instruction operations.

Airworthiness Directives; Grob Luft-und Raumfahrt, GmbH Models G 109 and G 109B Sailplanes

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to certain Grob Luft-und Raumfahrt (Grob) Models G 109 and G 109B sailplanes. This AD requires inspecting the radius of the landing gear retaining bars, installing additional supportive parts, and replacing the retaining bars if the retaining bars' chamfer radius is less than 3.0 millimeters (mm). This AD also requires inspecting the landing gear legs for cracks and proper thickness, and either polishing out the cracks or replacing the landing gear legs with parts of improved design depending on the crack length. This AD is the result of mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. The actions specified by this AD are intended to detect and correct fatigue cracking of the landing gear legs, which could result in landing gear failure with consequent loss of control of the sailplane during landing operations.

Airworthiness Directives; Burkhart Grob Luft-und Raumfahrt Models G115, G115A, G115B, G115C, G115C2, G115D, and G115D2 Airplanes

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to all Burkhart Grob Luft-und Raumfahrt (Grob) Models G115, G115A, G115B, G115C, G115C2, G115D, and G115D2 airplanes. This AD requires inspecting the area of the elevator trim tab hinges for cracks and a secure fit, and repairing any elevator trim tab hinges with cracks or where a proper secure fit is not found. This AD is the result of mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent structural damage of the trim tab hinges caused by cracks, which could result in trim tab failure with consequent loss of control of the airplane.

Airworthiness Directives; Burkhart GROB Luft-und Raumfahrt GmbH Model G 109B Gliders

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to certain Burkhart GROB Luft-und Raumfahrt GmbH (Grob) Model G 109B gliders. This AD requires inspecting the elevator and trim tab for water, and assuring that the necessary drain holes are installed and existing drain holes are open. This AD also requires drilling any necessary drain holes and opening any existing drain holes that are closed; and, if a significant amount of water (more than \1/2\ liter) is found in the elevator, assuring that the elevator's weight and residual momentum and the glider's center of gravity (C.G.) are within the limits specified in the flight manual, and adjusting the elevator's weight and residual momentum and the glider's C.G., as needed. This AD is the result of mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent water from penetrating the elevator and trim tab because of inadequate drainage, which could result in a delaminated elevator and trim tab structure with consequent elevator imbalance and flutter.

Airworthiness Directives; Burkhart GROB Luft-und Raumfahrt GmbH Model G 109B Gliders

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to all Burkhart GROB Luft-und Raumfahrt GmbH (Grob) Model G 109B gliders. This AD requires inspecting the engine mounting frame for paint scratches and damage (abrasions, notches, or chafing); and repairing any paint scratches, and repairing or replacing any engine mounting frame that is found damaged. This AD is the result of mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. The actions specified by this AD are intended to detect and correct damage to the engine mounting frame, which could result in failure of the engine mount structure with consequent loss of the engine.

Airworthiness Directives; Burkhart Grob Luft-und Raumfahrt Models G115C, G115C2, G115D, and G115D2 Airplanes

This amendment supersedes Airworthiness Directive (AD) 96-19- 07, which currently requires the following on Burkhart Grob Luft-und Raumfahrt (Grob) Models G115C, G115C2, G115D, and G115D2 airplanes: installing a placard that restricts the never exceed speed (Vne) of the affected airplane models from 184 knots to 160 knots; installing on the airspeed indicator glass a red line at 296 km/h (160 knots); installing a placard that prohibits aerobatic maneuvers; and placing a copy of the AD in the Limitations Section of the airplane flight manual. This AD will temporarily retain the flight restrictions that are currently required by AD 96-19-07; and will eventually require accomplishing certain inspections and modifications, as terminating action for these flight restrictions. This AD is the result of mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent loss of control of the airplane caused by excessive speed or aerobatic maneuvers.

Airworthiness Directives; Burkhart Grob, Luft-und Raumfahrt, GmbH. Model G102 Astir CS Sailplanes

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to Burkhart Grob, Luft-und Raumfahrt, GmbH. (Grob) Model G102 Astir CS sailplanes. This action requires replacing the elevator control lever with an improved elevator control lever. The discovery of cracks in the elevator control lever during a routine inspection of a Grob Model G102 Astir CS sailplane prompted this action. This AD is the result of mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent failure of the elevator control lever, which could result in loss of control of the sailplane.

Airworthiness Directives; Burkhardt Grob Luft-und Raumfahrt, GmbH. Model G 103 Twin Astir Sailplanes

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to Burkhardt Grob Luft-und Raumfahrt, GmbH. (Grob) Model G 103 Twin Astir sailplanes. This action requires replacing the airbrake over-center lever and installing new inspection holes. The AD is the result of cracked airbrake over-center levers found during routine inspections. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent an asymmetrical airbrake deployment, which could result in an uncontrollable roll and possible loss of control of the sailplane.

Airworthiness Directives; Burkhart Grob, Luft- und Raumfahrt, Model G 109 Sailplanes

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to certain Burkhart Grob, Luft- und Raumfahrt (Grob) Model G 109 sailplanes. This action requires installing a damper and new bell crank lever on the rudder, in addition to adjusting the weight and balance of the sailplane, to correct the tendency of flutter at specific excitation frequencies. For those Grob Model G 109 sailplanes that have previously accomplished this installation, a modification to the damper and bell crank lever, and adjustment to the weight and balance is required. These actions are prompted by the discovery of rudder vibration problems during testing of two Grob Model G 109 sailplanes. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent vibration of the rudder, which could result in structural damage and eventual loss of control of the sailplane.

Airworthiness Directives; Burkhart Grob Luft-und Raumfahrt Models G115C, G115C2, G115D, and G115D2 Airplanes

This document publishes in the Federal Register an amendment adopting Airworthiness Directive (AD) 96-19-07, which was sent previously to all known U.S. owners and operators of Burkhart Grob Luft-und Raumfahrt (Grob) Models G115C, G115C2, G115D, and G115D2 airplanes. This AD requires installing a placard that restricts the never exceed speed (Vne) of the affected airplane models from 184 knots to 160 knots; installing on the airspeed indicator glass a red line at 296 km/h (160 knots); installing a placard that prohibits aerobatic maneuvers; and placing a copy of this AD in the Limitations Section of the airplane flight manual. An in-flight breakup of a Grob Model G115D airplane prompted priority letter AD 96-19-07. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent loss of control of the airplane caused by excessive speed or aerobatic maneuvers.

Airworthiness Directives; Grob Luft Und Raumfahrt Models G102 Astir CS, Club Astir IIb, Twin Astir, Speed Astir, Standard Astir II, and Speed Astir IIb Sailplanes

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to certain Grob Luft Und Raumfahrt (Grob) Models G102 Astir CS, Club Astir IIb, Twin Astir, Speed Astir, Standard Astir II, and Speed Astir IIb sailplanes. This action requires inspecting all elevator and rudder hinges for damage (delamination, cracks, corrosion, or buckling), and repairing any damaged parts. Several occurrences of inner elevator hinges separating during flight operation prompted this AD action. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent these hinges from separating, which could result in sailplane flutter and eventual loss of control of the sailplane.

Airworthiness Directives; B. Grob Flugzeugbau Model G109B Gliders

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to B. Grob Flugzeugbau (Grob) Model G109B gliders. This action requires replacing the elevator inner hinges with hinges of improved design. Two occurrences where the elevator inner hinges separated from the elevator prompted the required action. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent failure of these hinges because of delamination or corrosion, which, if not detected and corrected, could lead to loss of control of the glider.