Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes, 1593-1595 [2016-31868]
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1593
Rules and Regulations
Federal Register
Vol. 82, No. 4
Friday, January 6, 2017
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER
contains regulatory documents having general
applicability and legal effect, most of which
are keyed to and codified in the Code of
Federal Regulations, which is published under
50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.
The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by
the Superintendent of Documents. Prices of
new books are listed in the first FEDERAL
REGISTER issue of each week.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2016–9117; Directorate
Identifier 2016–NM–095–AD; Amendment
39–18775; AD 2017–01–08]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Airbus Model A330–200 Freighter, –200
and –300 series airplanes; and Airbus
Model A340–200, –300, –500, and –600
series airplanes. This AD was prompted
by reports of certain hydraulic
reservoirs (HRs) becoming
depressurized due to air leakage from
the HR pressure relief valve (PRV). This
AD requires repetitive inspections of the
hydraulic fluid levels and nitrogen gas
pressure in the HR for each hydraulic
circuit, and if necessary, adjustment of
the fluid level(s) and nitrogen pressure
in affected HRs. We are issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD is effective February 10,
2017.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of February 10, 2017.
ADDRESSES: For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office—
EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte,
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France;
telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33
5 61 93 45 80; email: airworthiness.
A330-A340@airbus.com; Internet:
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES
SUMMARY:
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:18 Jan 05, 2017
Jkt 241001
https://www.airbus.com. You may view
this referenced service information at
the FAA, Transport Airplane
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,
Renton, WA. For information on the
availability of this material at the FAA,
call 425–227–1221. It is also available
on the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
9117.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
9117; or in person at the Docket
Management Facility between 9 a.m.
and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this AD, the regulatory
evaluation, any comments received, and
other information. The street address for
the Docket Office (telephone 800–647–
5527) is Docket Management Facility,
U.S. Department of Transportation,
Docket Operations, M–30, West
Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140,
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA
98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1138;
fax 425–227–1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to certain A330–200 Freighter,
–200 and –300 series airplanes; and
Airbus Model A340–200, –300, –500,
and –600 series airplanes. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
October 3, 2016 (81 FR 67937) (‘‘the
NPRM’’). The NPRM was prompted by
reports of certain HRs becoming
depressurized due to air leakage from
the HR PRV. The NPRM proposed to
require repetitive inspections of the
hydraulic fluid levels and nitrogen gas
pressure in the HR for each hydraulic
circuit, and if necessary, adjustment of
the fluid level(s) and nitrogen pressure
in affected HRs. We are issuing this AD
to detect and correct air leakage from an
HR PRV, which could lead to the loss
PO 00000
Frm 00001
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
of one or more hydraulic systems, with
the possible result of loss of control of
the airplane.
The European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Union, has issued EASA AD 2016–0107,
dated June 7, 2016, to correct an unsafe
condition for certain Airbus Model
A330–200 Freighter, –200 and –300
series airplanes; and Airbus Model
A340–200, –300, –500, and –600 series
airplanes. The MCAI states:
Some events of depressurisation of
hydraulic reservoirs have been reported, due
to air leakage from the HR PRV [hydraulic
reservoir pressure relief valve]. The results of
the investigations revealed that the air
leakage was due to the extrusion of the Oring seal from the HR PRV. This may have
happened during HR maintenance, testing or
during flight, if HR over-filling was
performed, as a result of which hydraulic
fluid could pass through the PRV, causing
[the] PRV seal to migrate from its nominal
position, leading to loss of HR pressurisation.
This condition, if not detected and
corrected, could lead to the loss of one or
more hydraulic systems, possibly resulting in
loss of control of the aeroplane.
Prompted by these findings, Airbus issued
Alert Operators Transmission (AOT)
A29L005–16 [dated January 28, 2016] to
provide inspection instructions.
For the reasons described above, this
[EASA] AD requires repetitive inspections of
the HR fluid level of each hydraulic circuit
and, depending on findings, accomplishment
of applicable corrective action(s). This
[EASA] AD also requires actions when
maintenance action is accomplished on
hydraulic reservoirs.
This [EASA] AD is considered as interim
action and further [EASA] AD action may
follow.
Required actions include repetitive
inspection of the hydraulic fluid levels
and nitrogen gas pressure in the HR for
each hydraulic circuit, and if necessary,
adjustment of the fluid level(s) and
nitrogen pressure in affected HRs. You
may examine the MCAI in the AD
docket on the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
9117.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to
participate in developing this AD. We
received no comments on the NPRM or
on the determination of the cost to the
public.
E:\FR\FM\06JAR1.SGM
06JAR1
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 4 / Friday, January 6, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
Conclusion
We reviewed the relevant data and
determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting this AD
as proposed except for minor editorial
changes. We have determined that these
minor changes:
• Are consistent with the intent that
was proposed in the NPRM for
correcting the unsafe condition; and
• Do not add any additional burden
upon the public than was already
proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
We reviewed Airbus Alert Operators
Transmission (AOT) A29L005–16,
Revision 01, dated June 28, 2016. This
service information describes
procedures for inspecting hydraulic
fluid levels and nitrogen gas pressure in
certain HRs, and adjustment of the fluid
level(s) and nitrogen pressure in
affected HRs. This service information is
reasonably available because the
interested parties have access to it
through their normal course of business
or by the means identified in the
ADDRESSES section.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 101
airplanes of U.S. registry.
We estimate the following costs to
comply with this AD:
ESTIMATED COSTS
Action
Labor cost
Parts cost
Inspection .........
1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85
per inspection cycle.
We estimate the following costs to do
any necessary servicing that will be
Cost per product
$0
Cost on U.S. operators
$85 per inspection cycle ...............
required based on the results of the
required inspection. We have no way of
$8,585 per inspection cycle.
determining the number of airplanes
that might need this servicing:
ON-CONDITION COSTS
Action
Labor cost
Adding or removing hydraulic fluid or nitrogen gas .....
1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ...............................
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under
the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
General requirements.’’ Under that
section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
air commerce by prescribing regulations
for practices, methods, and procedures
the Administrator finds necessary for
safety in air commerce. This regulation
is within the scope of that authority
because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on
products identified in this rulemaking
action.
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES
We determined that this AD will not
have federalism implications under
Executive Order 13132. This AD will
not have a substantial direct effect on
the States, on the relationship between
the national government and the States,
or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
17:18 Jan 05, 2017
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
Regulatory Findings
VerDate Sep<11>2014
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
Alaska; and
4. Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
Jkt 241001
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
■
PO 00000
Frm 00002
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Cost per
product
Parts cost
$0
$85
2017–01–08 Airbus: Amendment 39–18775;
Docket No. FAA–2016–9117; Directorate
Identifier 2016–NM–095–AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective February 10, 2017.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Model A330–
201, –202, –203, –223, –223F, –243, –243F,
–301, –302, –303, –321, –322, –323, –341,
–342 and –343 airplanes; and Model A340–
211, –212, –213, –311, –312, –313, –541, and
–642 airplanes; certificated in any category,
fitted with a hydraulic reservoir (HR)
pressure relief valve (PRV) part number (P/
N) 42F0026 installed on TECHSPACE HR
having P/N 42F1005, 42F1203, 42F1304,
42F1412, 42F1512, or 42F1607.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 29, Hydraulic power.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by reports of
certain hydraulic reservoirs (HRs) becoming
depressurized due to air leakage from the HR
PRV. We are issuing this AD to detect and
correct air leakage from the HR PRV, which
could lead to the loss of one or more
hydraulic systems, with the possible result of
loss of control of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 4 / Friday, January 6, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
(g) Inspection of Fluid Level and Nitrogen
Pressure in HR
Within the compliance time defined in
table 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD, as
applicable, inspect the HR fluid level and
nitrogen pressure of each hydraulic circuit,
in accordance with the instructions of
paragraph 4.2.2.1 of Airbus Alert Operators
Transmission (AOT) A29L005–16, Revision
01, dated June 28, 2016. Repeat the
inspection thereafter at intervals not to
exceed 1,600 flight hours.
TABLE 1 TO PARAGRAPH (g) OF THIS
AD—INITIAL INSPECTION COMPLIANCE TIME
Compliance Time
(A or B, whichever occurs later)
A ...........
B ...........
Before accumulating 1,600 flight
hours since first flight of the airplane.
Within 1,000 flight hours or 3
months, whichever occurs first
after the effective date of this
AD.
(h) Corrective Action
If, during any inspection required by
paragraph (g) of this AD, any unacceptable
pressure or fluid level is identified, before
further flight, do the actions in paragraphs
(h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD, as applicable, for
each unacceptable pressure or fluid level that
is discovered. Accomplishment of these
actions on an airplane does not constitute
terminating action for the repetitive
inspections as required by paragraph (g) of
this AD for that airplane.
(1) Add or remove hydraulic fluid, as
applicable, in accordance with the
instructions of paragraph 4.2.2.2 of Airbus
Alert Operators Transmission (AOT)
A29L005–16, Revision 01, dated June 28,
2016.
(2) Add or remove nitrogen gas, as
applicable, in accordance with the
instructions of paragraph 4.2.2.2 of Airbus
AOT A29L005–16, Revision 01, dated June
28, 2016.
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES
(i) Servicing Hydraulic Reservoir
Concurrent with the initial inspection
specified in paragraph (g) of this AD, revise
the maintenance or inspection program, as
applicable, to incorporate the hydraulic
reservoir servicing actions specified in
paragraph 4.2.2.2 of Airbus AOT A29L005–
16, Revision 01, dated June 28, 2016.
(j) No Alternative Actions and Intervals
After accomplishing the revision required
by paragraph (i) of this AD, no alternative
actions (e.g., inspections) and intervals may
be used unless the actions and intervals are
approved as an alternative method of
compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the
procedures specified in paragraph (l)(1) of
this AD.
(k) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for actions
required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD,
if those actions were performed before the
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:18 Jan 05, 2017
Jkt 241001
effective date of this AD using Airbus
AOTA29L005–16, dated January 28, 2016.
(l) Other FAA AD Provisions
The following provisions also apply to this
AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): The Manager, International
Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane
Directorate, FAA, has the authority to
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your
request to your principal inspector or local
Flight Standards District Office, as
appropriate. If sending information directly
to the International Branch, send it to ATTN:
Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356;
telephone 425–227–1138; fax 425–227–1149.
Information may be emailed to: 9–ANM–116–
AMOC–REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using
any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal
inspector, the manager of the local flight
standards district office/certificate holding
district office.
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
actions from a manufacturer, the action must
be accomplished using a method approved
by the Manager, International Branch, ANM–
116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or
the European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA); or Airbus’s EASA Design
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by
the DOA, the approval must include the
DOA-authorized signature.
(m) Related Information
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD
2016–0107, dated June 7, 2016, for related
information. This MCAI may be found in the
AD docket on the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for and
locating Docket No. FAA–2016–9117.
(2) Service information identified in this
AD that is not incorporated by reference is
available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (n)(3) and (n)(4) of this AD.
(n) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Airbus Alert Operators Transmission
(AOT) A29L005–16, Revision 01, dated June
28, 2016.
(ii) Reserved.
(3) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness
Office—EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte,
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33
5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; email:
airworthiness.A330–A340@airbus.com;
Internet: https://www.airbus.com.
(4) You may view this service information
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For
PO 00000
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Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
1595
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
(5) You may view this service information
that is incorporated by reference at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call
202–741–6030, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on
December 23, 2016.
Thomas Groves,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2016–31868 Filed 1–5–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2016–7420; Directorate
Identifier 2015–NM–017–AD; Amendment
39–18774; AD 2017–01–07]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Dassault
Aviation Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Dassault Aviation Model FAN JET
FALCON airplanes; Model FAN JET
FALCON SERIES C, D, E, F, and G
airplanes; Model MYSTERE-FALCON
200 airplanes; Model MYSTEREFALCON 20–C5, 20–D5, 20–E5, and 20–
F5 airplanes; and MYSTERE-FALCON
50 airplanes. This AD was prompted by
a report that, during approach for
landing, the main entry door detached
from an airplane. This AD requires a
functional test or check of the main
entry door closure and warning system,
and applicable door closing inspections,
adjustments, operational tests, and
corrective actions if necessary. We are
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective February 10,
2017.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in this AD
as of February 10, 2017.
ADDRESSES: For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
Dassault Falcon Jet Corporation,
Teterboro Airport, P.O. Box 2000, South
Hackensack, NJ 07606; telephone 201–
440–6700; Internet https://
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\06JAR1.SGM
06JAR1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 4 (Friday, January 6, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 1593-1595]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-31868]
========================================================================
Rules and Regulations
Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents
having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed
to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published
under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.
The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents.
Prices of new books are listed in the first FEDERAL REGISTER issue of each
week.
========================================================================
Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 4 / Friday, January 6, 2017 / Rules
and Regulations
[[Page 1593]]
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2016-9117; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-095-AD;
Amendment 39-18775; AD 2017-01-08]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Airbus Model A330-200 Freighter, -200 and -300 series airplanes; and
Airbus Model A340-200, -300, -500, and -600 series airplanes. This AD
was prompted by reports of certain hydraulic reservoirs (HRs) becoming
depressurized due to air leakage from the HR pressure relief valve
(PRV). This AD requires repetitive inspections of the hydraulic fluid
levels and nitrogen gas pressure in the HR for each hydraulic circuit,
and if necessary, adjustment of the fluid level(s) and nitrogen
pressure in affected HRs. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective February 10, 2017.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of February 10,
2017.
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule,
contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96;
fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; email: airworthiness. A330-A340@airbus.com;
Internet: https://www.airbus.com. You may view this referenced service
information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind
Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221. It is also available on the
Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating
Docket No. FAA-2016-9117.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-
9117; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and
other information. The street address for the Docket Office (telephone
800-647-5527) is Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor,
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1138;
fax 425-227-1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain A330-200 Freighter,
-200 and -300 series airplanes; and Airbus Model A340-200, -300, -500,
and -600 series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register
on October 3, 2016 (81 FR 67937) (``the NPRM''). The NPRM was prompted
by reports of certain HRs becoming depressurized due to air leakage
from the HR PRV. The NPRM proposed to require repetitive inspections of
the hydraulic fluid levels and nitrogen gas pressure in the HR for each
hydraulic circuit, and if necessary, adjustment of the fluid level(s)
and nitrogen pressure in affected HRs. We are issuing this AD to detect
and correct air leakage from an HR PRV, which could lead to the loss of
one or more hydraulic systems, with the possible result of loss of
control of the airplane.
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD
2016-0107, dated June 7, 2016, to correct an unsafe condition for
certain Airbus Model A330-200 Freighter, -200 and -300 series
airplanes; and Airbus Model A340-200, -300, -500, and -600 series
airplanes. The MCAI states:
Some events of depressurisation of hydraulic reservoirs have
been reported, due to air leakage from the HR PRV [hydraulic
reservoir pressure relief valve]. The results of the investigations
revealed that the air leakage was due to the extrusion of the O-ring
seal from the HR PRV. This may have happened during HR maintenance,
testing or during flight, if HR over-filling was performed, as a
result of which hydraulic fluid could pass through the PRV, causing
[the] PRV seal to migrate from its nominal position, leading to loss
of HR pressurisation.
This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to the
loss of one or more hydraulic systems, possibly resulting in loss of
control of the aeroplane.
Prompted by these findings, Airbus issued Alert Operators
Transmission (AOT) A29L005-16 [dated January 28, 2016] to provide
inspection instructions.
For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires
repetitive inspections of the HR fluid level of each hydraulic
circuit and, depending on findings, accomplishment of applicable
corrective action(s). This [EASA] AD also requires actions when
maintenance action is accomplished on hydraulic reservoirs.
This [EASA] AD is considered as interim action and further
[EASA] AD action may follow.
Required actions include repetitive inspection of the hydraulic
fluid levels and nitrogen gas pressure in the HR for each hydraulic
circuit, and if necessary, adjustment of the fluid level(s) and
nitrogen pressure in affected HRs. You may examine the MCAI in the AD
docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-9117.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing
this AD. We received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of
the cost to the public.
[[Page 1594]]
Conclusion
We reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety and
the public interest require adopting this AD as proposed except for
minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:
Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the
NPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and
Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was
already proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
We reviewed Airbus Alert Operators Transmission (AOT) A29L005-16,
Revision 01, dated June 28, 2016. This service information describes
procedures for inspecting hydraulic fluid levels and nitrogen gas
pressure in certain HRs, and adjustment of the fluid level(s) and
nitrogen pressure in affected HRs. This service information is
reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it
through their normal course of business or by the means identified in
the ADDRESSES section.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 101 airplanes of U.S. registry.
We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection................. 1 work-hour x $85 per $0 $85 per inspection $8,585 per inspection
hour = $85 per cycle. cycle.
inspection cycle.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We estimate the following costs to do any necessary servicing that
will be required based on the results of the required inspection. We
have no way of determining the number of airplanes that might need this
servicing:
On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per
Action Labor cost Parts cost product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adding or removing hydraulic fluid or nitrogen 1 work-hour x $85 per hour = $85 $0 $85
gas.
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Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications
under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct
effect on the States, on the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order
12866;
2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and
4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
2017-01-08 Airbus: Amendment 39-18775; Docket No. FAA-2016-9117;
Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-095-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective February 10, 2017.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, -
223F, -243, -243F, -301, -302, -303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342
and -343 airplanes; and Model A340-211, -212, -213, -311, -312, -
313, -541, and -642 airplanes; certificated in any category, fitted
with a hydraulic reservoir (HR) pressure relief valve (PRV) part
number (P/N) 42F0026 installed on TECHSPACE HR having P/N 42F1005,
42F1203, 42F1304, 42F1412, 42F1512, or 42F1607.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 29, Hydraulic
power.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by reports of certain hydraulic reservoirs
(HRs) becoming depressurized due to air leakage from the HR PRV. We
are issuing this AD to detect and correct air leakage from the HR
PRV, which could lead to the loss of one or more hydraulic systems,
with the possible result of loss of control of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
[[Page 1595]]
(g) Inspection of Fluid Level and Nitrogen Pressure in HR
Within the compliance time defined in table 1 to paragraph (g)
of this AD, as applicable, inspect the HR fluid level and nitrogen
pressure of each hydraulic circuit, in accordance with the
instructions of paragraph 4.2.2.1 of Airbus Alert Operators
Transmission (AOT) A29L005-16, Revision 01, dated June 28, 2016.
Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 1,600
flight hours.
Table 1 to Paragraph (g) of This AD--Initial Inspection Compliance Time
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Compliance Time
(A or B, whichever occurs later)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
A...................................... Before accumulating 1,600
flight hours since first
flight of the airplane.
B...................................... Within 1,000 flight hours or 3
months, whichever occurs first
after the effective date of
this AD.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(h) Corrective Action
If, during any inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD,
any unacceptable pressure or fluid level is identified, before
further flight, do the actions in paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of
this AD, as applicable, for each unacceptable pressure or fluid
level that is discovered. Accomplishment of these actions on an
airplane does not constitute terminating action for the repetitive
inspections as required by paragraph (g) of this AD for that
airplane.
(1) Add or remove hydraulic fluid, as applicable, in accordance
with the instructions of paragraph 4.2.2.2 of Airbus Alert Operators
Transmission (AOT) A29L005-16, Revision 01, dated June 28, 2016.
(2) Add or remove nitrogen gas, as applicable, in accordance
with the instructions of paragraph 4.2.2.2 of Airbus AOT A29L005-16,
Revision 01, dated June 28, 2016.
(i) Servicing Hydraulic Reservoir
Concurrent with the initial inspection specified in paragraph
(g) of this AD, revise the maintenance or inspection program, as
applicable, to incorporate the hydraulic reservoir servicing actions
specified in paragraph 4.2.2.2 of Airbus AOT A29L005-16, Revision
01, dated June 28, 2016.
(j) No Alternative Actions and Intervals
After accomplishing the revision required by paragraph (i) of
this AD, no alternative actions (e.g., inspections) and intervals
may be used unless the actions and intervals are approved as an
alternative method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the
procedures specified in paragraph (l)(1) of this AD.
(k) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for actions required by
paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD, if those actions were performed
before the effective date of this AD using Airbus AOTA29L005-16,
dated January 28, 2016.
(l) Other FAA AD Provisions
The following provisions also apply to this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR
39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information
directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Vladimir
Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton,
WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1138; fax 425-227-1149. Information
may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any
approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight
standards district office/certificate holding district office.
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD
to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International
Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval
must include the DOA-authorized signature.
(m) Related Information
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information
(MCAI) EASA AD 2016-0107, dated June 7, 2016, for related
information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet
at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket
No. FAA-2016-9117.
(2) Service information identified in this AD that is not
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (n)(3) and (n)(4) of this AD.
(n) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Airbus Alert Operators Transmission (AOT) A29L005-16,
Revision 01, dated June 28, 2016.
(ii) Reserved.
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96;
fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; email: airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com;
Internet: https://www.airbus.com.
(4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call
425-227-1221.
(5) You may view this service information that is incorporated
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on December 23, 2016.
Thomas Groves,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-31868 Filed 1-5-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P