Avionics News June 2016 - 15

FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS
ADS-B
Follow-on installations of
ADS-B Out systems
The following information is quoted from
the Federal Aviation Administration March
2, 2016, memorandum titled "Installation
Approval for ADS-B Out Systems."

QUESTION:

Can ADS-B Out systems that do not meet the
requirements for installation without further
data approval be installed?

approval, or need a supplemental type certificate. Contact an
FAA field office for assistance.

Airworthiness directives

On April 27, 2016, the FAA issued a legal interpretation
on regulations applicable to airworthiness directives. This
legal interpretation responds to questions asked by an aviation rulemaking committee and is intended to resolve certain
issues for the public.
This legal interpretation addresses several regulations
in 14 CFR Part 39 applicable to airworthiness directives.
It responds to questions asked by the FAA's organization/
procedures working group of the Airworthiness Directive
Implementation Aviation Rulemaking Committee. The working group requested the agency to interpret several provisions
in Part 39 to resolve issues that have been debated within the
working group.
These issues partly result from amendments made to Part
39 in 2002. See airworthiness directives, 67 FR 47998 (July
22, 2002). The working group asked four questions:
1.	 What is the extent of an aircraft operator's
continuing obligation following the issuance of an
airworthiness directive?

ANSWER:

Yes, an ADS-B Out system that fails to meet
the requirements for installation without further
data approval must be performed using standard
data approval procedures (field approval, DER,
ODA, etc.).
A classic example of where an ADS-B Out
system would not qualify for a follow-on
installation without further data approval is
where the ADS-B Out equipment, GNSS position
sensor and interconnect wiring deviated from
the original manufacturer or STC installation
instructions. In that case, the new installation
would require a separate approval.

2.	 What is the extent of an aircraft operator's obligation
to accomplish actions referenced in an AD beyond
those actions necessary to resolve the unsafe
condition specifically identified in an AD?
3.	 What is the meaning of the term ''applicable'' in AD
2007-07-02?
4.	 What is the extent of an aircraft operator's
responsibilities when an AD requires an action that
cannot be accomplished on a particular aircraft?

Summary of comments

Some commenters stated the FAA's interpretation is wrong
because when the AD pertains to a specific part or component that has since been legally removed or pertains to a part
or such that is not installed on the aircraft, the AD no longer
applies, or represents a change from past practice or guidance.

FAA response to comments

If a change to a product makes it impossible to comply
with the requirements of an AD, then the operator must
request an AMOC approval from the FAA. Sections 39.15
Continued on following page

avionics news

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june

2016

15
Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Avionics News June 2016
