We're sharing the following safety alert, that has been published on the Zenith Aircraft website builder and owner resources, to better circulate it with the Zenith flying community.

• Horizontal-Stabilizer-inspection-mandatory-Jan-2017.pdf

The safety alert is based on the Transportation Safety Board of Canada's AVIATION SAFETY ADVISORY A1600137-D1-A1 Zenair Zodiac CH601A - Risk of structural failure of the horizontal stabilizer.

As you read this safety alert, keep in mind that the problem identified was for non-conforming construction or repairs, and is something that can be found in many makes and models of aircraft both certified and non-certified.

Inspections are important as is knowledge of materials and common practices when someone builds an aircraft from a kit or plans, or makes repairs to an existing aircraft.

If you don't know, find someone who does. A second set of eyeballs can help find problems before safety is compromised.

Problems like those shown [in the attached safety alert] can be found on many aircraft from any manufacturer and can be a result of improper construction or of normal or abnormal wear and tear. Make sure your inspections are thorough.

(The above comments are from the editors of UPAC's Light Flight publication, January 2017).