CASA has extended its immediate grounding of some Beechcraft models until required inspections are carried out to include the twin engine Baron.
The earlier directives were issued this weekend after a private pilot in Victoria discovered a snapped front elevator cable prior to takeoff. CASA is requiring operators immediately inspect control cables and replace any that are found frayed. Cables older than 15 years must be replaced within 60 days.
The directive applies to several older variants of Beechcraft aircraft using the ‘single-pole’ design control system, where the pilot’s control yokes are supported by a single shaft moving in and out of the instrument panel for elevator control. Some 370 Bonanzas, Debonairs and Barons are registered in Australia, mostly as private aircraft, CASA says.
Models requiring inspection include:
- Beechcraft 50 series Twin Bonanza,
- Beechcraft 36 Bonanza,
- Beechcraft 35 Bonanza,
- Beechcraft 33 and 35-33 Debonair/Bonanza,
- Beechcraft 56TC Turbo Baron,
- Beechcraft 55, 58 and 95-55 Baron.
