Valentin Taifun 17E

Airworthiness Directives; Valentin GmbH & Co. Taifun 17E Sailplanes

The FAA adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Valentin GmbH & Co. Taifun 17E sailplanes. This AD requires you to do an operational check of the front wing-locking mechanism left and right, inspect stop key movement, inspect wing and fuselage side root ribs, inspect the wing side shear force fittings, and take any corrective actions that may be required. 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 malfunction of wing-locking mechanism, which could result in failure of the wing-locking mechanism disengagement. This failure could lead to unlocking of wing in flight and consequent loss of control of the sailplane.

Airworthiness Directives; VALENTIN GmbH Model 17E Sailplanes

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to all VALENTIN GmbH (Valentin) Model 17E sailplanes. This AD requires you to inspect for, and correct, cracked or improperly installed central wing bolts; install a stronger central bolt if not already installed; and inspect for, and replace, problem telescopic rods. 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 correct improperly installed or cracked central bolts and damaged, deformed, or loose telescopic rods. This condition, if not corrected, could cause the wing to separate from the sailplane, which could cause result in control of the sailplane.