Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes, 15118-15120 [2017-05231]

Download as PDF 15118 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 57 / Monday, March 27, 2017 / Rules and Regulations 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/ibrlocations.html. Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 14, 2017. Dionne Palermo, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2017–05524 Filed 3–24–17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2016–9051; Directorate Identifier 2016–NM–035–AD; Amendment 39–18828; AD 2017–06–04] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: pmangrum on DSK3GDR082PROD with RULES VerDate Sep<11>2014 12:21 Mar 24, 2017 Jkt 241001 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– 9051; 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: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–2125; fax 425–227–1149; email dan.rodina@ faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A300 B4–603, B4–620, and B4–622 airplanes; Model A300 B4– 605R and A300 B4–622R airplanes; and Model A300 C4–605R Variant F airplanes. This AD was prompted by an in-service detection of cracks in the fuselage skin lap joints. This AD requires an ultrasonic inspection of certain skin lap joints, and repair if necessary. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective May 1, 2017. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of May 1, 2017. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office— EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@ 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. SUMMARY: 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–2016–9051. Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Airbus Model A300 B4–603, B4–620, and B4–622 airplanes; Model A300 B4–605R and A300 B4–622R airplanes; and Model A300 C4–605R Variant F airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on August 30, 2016 (81 FR 59530) (‘‘the NPRM’’). The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2016–0057, dated March 18, 2016 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A300 B4–603, B4–620, and B4– 622 airplanes; Model A300 B4–605R and A300 B4–622R airplanes; and Model A300 C4–605R Variant F airplanes. The MCAI states: Prompted by in-service detection on Airbus A300–600 aeroplanes of cracks in certain fuselage skin lap joints, several studies were launched to understand the phenomenon and provide the corrective actions. More recently, new analyses were PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 performed and the results identified that a new area has to be inspected at the skin lap joint below Stringer (STR) 28 at Frame (FR) 72 to FR 76. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could result in reduced structure integrity of the aeroplane. To address this unsafe condition, Airbus published Service Bulletin (SB) A300–53– 6184 [dated November 12, 2015] to introduce [ultrasonic] inspections and applicable corrective actions for the affected areas. For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD requires repetitive Special Detail Inspections (SDI) of the affected skin lap joint and, depending on findings, accomplishment of applicable corrective action(s) [repairs]. 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– 9051. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA’s response to each comment. Request To Make the Reporting Requirement Optional FedEx requested that the reporting requirements in Airbus Service Bulletin A300–53–6184, dated November 12, 2015, be specified in the AD as optional. FedEx stated that Airbus has received these reports regularly in the past and they have not provided industry statistics or benefits to the operators. We agree that reporting is not necessary in this AD. The report in Airbus Service Bulletin A300–53–6184, dated November 12, 2015, is designed to report crack findings. Crack findings are addressed by paragraph (h) of this AD. Because reporting is specified within the procedures of Airbus Service Bulletin A300–53–6184, dated November 12, 2015, we have revised this AD by adding paragraph (i) to specify no reporting is required. We have redesignated subsequent paragraphs accordingly. Request To Include Inspection as an Airworthiness Limitation FedEx stated the inspection is best fitted for a maintenance program and should be included in an airworthiness limitation document. We do not agree with the commenter. Airbus Service Bulletin A300–53–6184, dated November 12, 2015, has been issued to address in-service findings, which can lead to an unsafe condition. For this case, no airworthiness limitation instructions were introduced by Airbus. To delay this action until airworthiness limitations were E:\FR\FM\27MRR1.SGM 27MRR1 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 57 / Monday, March 27, 2017 / Rules and Regulations developed would be inappropriate, since we have determined that an unsafe condition exists and that inspections must be conducted to ensure continued safety. We have not changed this AD in this regard. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this AD with the changes described previously and 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. We also determined that these changes will not increase the economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this AD. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Airbus Service Bulletin A300–53–6184, dated November 12, 15119 2015. The service information describes procedures for an ultrasonic inspection of the skin lap joint below STR 28 at FR 72 to FR 76, and repair if necessary. 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 29 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Ultrasonic inspection ........... 6 work-hours × $85 per hour = $510 per inspection cycle. We have no way to determine the costs to do any necessary repairs that will be required based on the results of the inspection. We have no way of determining the number of airplanes that might need these repairs. 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. $510 per inspection cycle 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 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. Regulatory Findings pmangrum on DSK3GDR082PROD with RULES Cost per product § 39.13 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: ■ VerDate Sep<11>2014 12:21 Mar 24, 2017 Jkt 241001 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): 2017–06–04 Airbus: Amendment 39–18828; Docket No. FAA–2016–9051; Directorate Identifier 2016–NM–035–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective May 1, 2017. (b) Affected ADs None. PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Cost on U.S. operators $14,790 per inspection cycle. (c) Applicability This AD applies to all Airbus Model A300 B4–603, B4–620, and B4–622 airplanes; Model A300 B4–605R and A300 B4–622R airplanes; and Model A300 C4–605R Variant F airplanes, certificated in any category. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by an in-service detection of cracks in the fuselage skin lap joints. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks in the skin lap joint below stringer (STR) 28 at frame (FR) 72 to FR 76. Such cracking could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Repetitive Inspections Before 29,500 flight cycles since the first flight of the airplane, or within 2,000 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later, do an ultrasonic inspection for cracks of the skin lap joint below STR 28 at FR 72 to FR 76 and do all applicable repairs before further flight, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instruction of Airbus Service Bulletin A300– 53–6184, dated November 12, 2015, except as required by paragraph (h) of this AD. Repeat the ultrasonic inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 5,400 flight cycles. (h) Exceptions to Service Information Specified in Paragraph (g) of This AD Where Airbus Service Bulletin A300–53– 6184, dated November 12, 2015, specifies to contact Airbus for repair instructions, and specifies that action as ‘‘RC’’ (Required for Compliance), this AD requires repair before further flight using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (j) of this AD. E:\FR\FM\27MRR1.SGM 27MRR1 15120 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 57 / Monday, March 27, 2017 / Rules and Regulations (i) No Reporting Requirement Although Airbus Service Bulletin A300– 53–6184, dated November 12, 2015, specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, and specifies that action as RC, this AD does not include that requirement. pmangrum on DSK3GDR082PROD with RULES (j) 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: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–2125; fax 425–227–1149; email dan.rodina@faa.gov. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOCREQUESTS@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. (3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except as required by paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD: If any service information contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended. Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the operator’s maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests identified as RC require approval of an AMOC. (k) Related Information Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD 2016–0057, dated March 18, 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–2016–9051. (l) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference VerDate Sep<11>2014 12:21 Mar 24, 2017 Jkt 241001 (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 Service Bulletin A300–53–6184, dated November 12, 2015. (ii) Reserved. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office—EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@ 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/ibrlocations.html. Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 8, 2017. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2017–05231 Filed 3–24–17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2016–9291; Directorate Identifier 2016–SW–004–AD; Amendment 39–18840; AD 2017–07–02] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) Model 269D and Model 269D Configuration A helicopters. This AD requires reducing the life limit of and inspecting certain drive shafts. This AD is prompted by four incidents involving failure of a drive shaft. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent the unsafe condition on these products. SUMMARY: This AD becomes effective April 11, 2017. DATES: PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 We must receive comments on this AD by May 26, 2017. ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: Send comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590–0001. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to the ‘‘Mail’’ address between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. 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– 9291; or in person at the Docket Operations Office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the economic evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations Office (telephone 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. For service information identified in this final rule, contact Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Customer Service Engineering, 124 Quarry Road, Trumbull, CT 06611; telephone 1–800– Winged–S or 203–416–4299; email: wcs_cust_service_eng.gr-sik@lmco.com. You may review the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Michael Schwetz, Aviation Safety Engineer, Boston Aircraft Certification Office, Engine & Propeller Directorate, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, Massachusetts 01803; telephone (781) 238–7761; email michael.schwetz@ faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety, and we did not provide you with notice and an opportunity to provide your comments prior to it becoming effective. However, we invite you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting written comments, data, or views. We also invite comments relating to the E:\FR\FM\27MRR1.SGM 27MRR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 57 (Monday, March 27, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 15118-15120]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-05231]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2016-9051; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-035-AD; 
Amendment 39-18828; AD 2017-06-04]
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 all 
Airbus Model A300 B4-603, B4-620, and B4-622 airplanes; Model A300 B4-
605R and A300 B4-622R airplanes; and Model A300 C4-605R Variant F 
airplanes. This AD was prompted by an in-service detection of cracks in 
the fuselage skin lap joints. This AD requires an ultrasonic inspection 
of certain skin lap joints, and repair if necessary. We are issuing 
this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective May 1, 2017.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of May 1, 2017.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice 
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax 
+33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@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-
9051.

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-
9051; 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: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-2125; 
fax 425-227-1149; email dan.rodina@faa.gov.

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 all Airbus Model A300 B4-
603, B4-620, and B4-622 airplanes; Model A300 B4-605R and A300 B4-622R 
airplanes; and Model A300 C4-605R Variant F airplanes. The NPRM 
published in the Federal Register on August 30, 2016 (81 FR 59530) 
(``the NPRM'').
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA 
Airworthiness Directive 2016-0057, dated March 18, 2016 (referred to 
after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or 
``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A300 
B4-603, B4-620, and B4-622 airplanes; Model A300 B4-605R and A300 B4-
622R airplanes; and Model A300 C4-605R Variant F airplanes. The MCAI 
states:

    Prompted by in-service detection on Airbus A300-600 aeroplanes 
of cracks in certain fuselage skin lap joints, several studies were 
launched to understand the phenomenon and provide the corrective 
actions. More recently, new analyses were performed and the results 
identified that a new area has to be inspected at the skin lap joint 
below Stringer (STR) 28 at Frame (FR) 72 to FR 76.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could result in 
reduced structure integrity of the aeroplane.
    To address this unsafe condition, Airbus published Service 
Bulletin (SB) A300-53-6184 [dated November 12, 2015] to introduce 
[ultrasonic] inspections and applicable corrective actions for the 
affected areas.
    For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD requires 
repetitive Special Detail Inspections (SDI) of the affected skin lap 
joint and, depending on findings, accomplishment of applicable 
corrective action(s) [repairs].

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-
9051.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and 
the FAA's response to each comment.

Request To Make the Reporting Requirement Optional

    FedEx requested that the reporting requirements in Airbus Service 
Bulletin A300-53-6184, dated November 12, 2015, be specified in the AD 
as optional. FedEx stated that Airbus has received these reports 
regularly in the past and they have not provided industry statistics or 
benefits to the operators.
    We agree that reporting is not necessary in this AD. The report in 
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-6184, dated November 12, 2015, is 
designed to report crack findings. Crack findings are addressed by 
paragraph (h) of this AD.
    Because reporting is specified within the procedures of Airbus 
Service Bulletin A300-53-6184, dated November 12, 2015, we have revised 
this AD by adding paragraph (i) to specify no reporting is required. We 
have redesignated subsequent paragraphs accordingly.

Request To Include Inspection as an Airworthiness Limitation

    FedEx stated the inspection is best fitted for a maintenance 
program and should be included in an airworthiness limitation document.
    We do not agree with the commenter. Airbus Service Bulletin A300-
53-6184, dated November 12, 2015, has been issued to address in-service 
findings, which can lead to an unsafe condition. For this case, no 
airworthiness limitation instructions were introduced by Airbus. To 
delay this action until airworthiness limitations were

[[Page 15119]]

developed would be inappropriate, since we have determined that an 
unsafe condition exists and that inspections must be conducted to 
ensure continued safety. We have not changed this AD in this regard.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, 
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting 
this AD with the changes described previously and 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.
    We also determined that these changes will not increase the 
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this AD.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    We reviewed Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-6184, dated November 
12, 2015. The service information describes procedures for an 
ultrasonic inspection of the skin lap joint below STR 28 at FR 72 to FR 
76, and repair if necessary. 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 29 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                         Labor cost             Cost per product     Cost on U.S. operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ultrasonic inspection..............  6 work-hours x $85 per hour  $510 per inspection     $14,790 per inspection
                                      = $510 per inspection        cycle.                  cycle.
                                      cycle.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We have no way to determine the costs to do any necessary repairs 
that will be required based on the results of the inspection. We have 
no way of determining the number of airplanes that might need these 
repairs.

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):

2017-06-04 Airbus: Amendment 39-18828; Docket No. FAA-2016-9051; 
Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-035-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective May 1, 2017.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all Airbus Model A300 B4-603, B4-620, and B4-
622 airplanes; Model A300 B4-605R and A300 B4-622R airplanes; and 
Model A300 C4-605R Variant F airplanes, certificated in any 
category.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by an in-service detection of cracks in the 
fuselage skin lap joints. We are issuing this AD to detect and 
correct cracks in the skin lap joint below stringer (STR) 28 at 
frame (FR) 72 to FR 76. Such cracking could result in reduced 
structural integrity of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) Repetitive Inspections

    Before 29,500 flight cycles since the first flight of the 
airplane, or within 2,000 flight cycles after the effective date of 
this AD, whichever occurs later, do an ultrasonic inspection for 
cracks of the skin lap joint below STR 28 at FR 72 to FR 76 and do 
all applicable repairs before further flight, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instruction of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-6184, 
dated November 12, 2015, except as required by paragraph (h) of this 
AD. Repeat the ultrasonic inspection thereafter at intervals not to 
exceed 5,400 flight cycles.

(h) Exceptions to Service Information Specified in Paragraph (g) of 
This AD

    Where Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-6184, dated November 12, 
2015, specifies to contact Airbus for repair instructions, and 
specifies that action as ``RC'' (Required for Compliance), this AD 
requires repair before further flight using a method approved in 
accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (j) of this 
AD.

[[Page 15120]]

(i) No Reporting Requirement

    Although Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-6184, dated November 
12, 2015, specifies to submit certain information to the 
manufacturer, and specifies that action as RC, this AD does not 
include that requirement.

(j) 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: Dan Rodina, 
Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-
3356; telephone 425-227-2125; fax 425-227-1149; email 
dan.rodina@faa.gov. 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.
    (3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except as required by 
paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD: If any service information 
contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those 
procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any 
procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended. 
Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be 
deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the 
operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining 
approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as 
RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy 
condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests 
identified as RC require approval of an AMOC.

(k) Related Information

    Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) 
EASA AD 2016-0057, dated March 18, 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-
2016-9051.

(l) 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 Service Bulletin A300-53-6184, dated November 12, 
2015.
    (ii) Reserved.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice 
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; 
fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@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 March 8, 2017.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-05231 Filed 3-24-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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