Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 767-400ER Series Airplanes; and Model 777-200 and -300 Series Airplanes, 38632-38636 [05-13139]
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Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 127 / Tuesday, July 5, 2005 / Proposed Rules
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD was prompted by a report of
a restriction in the pilots’ elevator input
control system. We are issuing this AD to
prevent loss of elevator control and
consequent reduced controllability of the
airplane.
Compliance
(e) You are responsible for having the
actions required by this AD performed within
the compliance times specified, unless the
actions have already been done.
Modification
(f) Within 60 months after the effective
date of this AD: Modify the elevator input
torque tube assembly by doing all the actions
in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of the applicable service bulletin
in Table 1 of this AD.
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(g) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft
Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if
requested in accordance with the procedures
found in 14 CFR 39.19.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 17,
2005.
Michael J. Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 05–13136 Filed 7–1–05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2005–21713; Directorate
Identifier 2005–NM–085–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing
Model 767–400ER Series Airplanes;
and Model 777–200 and –300 Series
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a
new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Model 767–400ER series
airplanes; and Model 777–200 and –300
series airplanes. This proposed AD
would require, for certain airplanes,
repetitive testing of the fill and safety
fittings of the fire extinguishing bottles
in the forward cargo compartment for
leaks; and repetitive application of a
corrosion inhibiting compound (CIC) or
replacement of the fire extinguishing
bottles with reworked fire extinguishing
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bottles, as necessary. For all airplanes,
this proposed AD would require
replacement of the fire extinguishing
bottles with reworked fire extinguishing
bottles, which would end the repetitive
tests and CIC applications if applicable.
This proposed AD is prompted by
failure of the safety fittings for the fire
extinguishing bottles. We are proposing
this AD to prevent failure of the safety
fittings for the fire extinguishing bottles
due to corrosion, which could result in
leakage of extinguishing agent. If a fire
occurs in the cargo bay, the fire
extinguishing bottles could have less
than enough extinguishing agent to
control a fire.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by August 19, 2005.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following
addresses to submit comments on this
proposed AD.
• DOT Docket Web site: Go to
https://dms.dot.gov and follow the
instructions for sending your comments
electronically.
• Government-wide rulemaking Web
site: Go to https://www.regulations.gov
and follow the instructions for sending
your comments electronically.
• Mail: Docket Management Facility,
U.S. Department of Transportation, 400
Seventh Street SW., Nassif Building,
Room PL–401, Washington, DC 20590.
• By fax: (202) 493–2251.
• Hand Delivery: Room PL–401 on
the plaza level of the Nassif Building,
400 Seventh Street SW., Washington,
DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
For service information identified in
this proposed AD, contact Boeing
Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707,
Seattle, Washington 98124–2207.
You can examine the contents of this
AD docket on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov, or in person at the Docket
Management Facility, U.S. Department
of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street
SW., Room PL–401, on the plaza level
of the Nassif Building, Washington, DC.
This docket number is FAA–2005–
21713; the directorate identifier for this
docket is 2005–NM–085–AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Barbara Mudrovich, Aerospace
Engineer, Cabin Safety and
Environmental Systems Branch, ANM–
150S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification
Office, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98055–4056; telephone
(425) 917–6477; fax (425) 917–6590.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
We invite you to submit any relevant
written data, views, or arguments
regarding this proposed AD. Send your
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comments to an address listed under
Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–
2005–21713; Directorate Identifier
2005–NM–085–AD’’ in the subject line
of your comments. We specifically
invite comments on the overall
regulatory, economic, environmental,
and energy aspects of the proposed AD.
We will consider all comments
submitted by the closing date and may
amend the proposed AD in light of those
comments.
We will post all comments we
receive, without change, to https://
dms.dot.gov, including any personal
information you provide. We will also
post a report summarizing each
substantive verbal contact with FAA
personnel concerning this proposed AD.
Using the search function of that Web
site, anyone can find and read the
comments in any of our dockets,
including the name of the individual
who sent the comment (or signed the
comment on behalf of an association,
business, labor union, etc.). You can
review DOT’s complete Privacy Act
Statement in the Federal Register
published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR
19477–78), or you can visit https://
dms.dot.gov.
ADDRESSES.
Examining the Docket
You can examine the AD docket on
the Internet at https://dms.dot.gov, or in
person at the Docket Management
Facility office between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The Docket
Management Facility office (telephone
(800) 647–5227) is located on the plaza
level of the Nassif Building at the DOT
street address stated in the ADDRESSES
section. Comments will be available in
the AD docket shortly after the Docket
Management System (DMS) receives
them.
Discussion
We have received a report indicating
that failed safety fittings of the fire
extinguishing bottles for the forward
cargo compartment were found during
fleet inspection of Model 777 series
airplanes. Investigation revealed that
corrosion of the burst disc inside the
safety fitting caused failure of the safety
fittings. This condition, if not corrected,
could result in leakage of fire
extinguishing agent. If a fire occurs in
the cargo bay, the fire extinguishing
bottles could have less than enough
extinguishing agent to control a fire.
Fire extinguishing bottles having a
certain part number on certain Model
767–400ER series airplanes are identical
to those on the affected 777–200 and
–300 series airplanes. Therefore, all of
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Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 127 / Tuesday, July 5, 2005 / Proposed Rules
these models may be subject to the same
unsafe condition.
Relevant Service Information
We have reviewed the following
service bulletins:
Boeing model–
Service bulletin
767–400ER series airplanes .................................................
777–200 and –300 series airplanes ......................................
For certain airplanes, Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 767–26–0124
and 777–26–0033 describe the following
procedures:
• Repetitively testing the fill and
safety fittings of the fire extinguishing
bottles in the forward cargo
compartment for leaks.
• If no leak is found or if the leak rate
is below the calibrated rate specified in
the service bulletin, applying a
corrosion inhibiting compound (CIC) to
the burst disc of the safety fitting and
reidentifying the fire extinguishing
bottle.
• If any leak above the calibrated rate
specified in the service bulletin is
found, replacing and reidentifying the
fire extinguishing bottle.
Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 767–26–0125 and Boeing
Service Bulletin 777–26–0034 describe
procedures for replacing the existing fire
extinguishing bottles with reworked fire
extinguishing bottles. Accomplishing
the replacement would end the
repetitive tests and CIC applications if
necessary.
Accomplishing the actions specified
in the service information is intended to
adequately address the unsafe
condition.
Additional Sources of Service
Information
Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 767–26–0124 refers to Kidde
Aerospace Service Bulletin 473876–26–
454 as an additional source of service
information for testing and reidentifying
the fire extinguishing bottles.
Operators should note that Revision 1,
dated March 12, 2003, is the latest
version of Kidde Aerospace Service
Bulletin 473876–26–454.
Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 767–26–0125 refers to Kidde
Aerospace Service Bulletin 473876–26–
453, dated January 22, 2004, as an
additional source of service information
for reworking the fire extinguishing
bottles.
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Boeing
Boeing
Boeing
Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 767–26–0124 ....
Special Attention Service Bulletin 767–26–0125. ...
Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–26–0033 ....
Service Bulletin 777–26–0034, Revision 1 .............
Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 777–26–0033 refers to the
following service bulletins as additional
sources of service information for
testing and reidentifying the fire
extinguishing bottles: Kidde Aerospace
Service Bulletin 473474–26–442,
473475–26–443, 473854–26–444, and
473876–26–445.
Operators should note that the latest
version of these Kidde Aerospace
service bulletins are all Revision 1, all
dated March 12, 2003.
Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 777–26–0034 refers to the
following service bulletins as additional
sources of service information for
reworking the fire extinguishing bottles:
Kidde Aerospace Service 473474–26–
450; 473475–26–451; 473854–26–452;
473876–26–453; all dated January 22,
2004.
FAA’s Determination and Requirements
of the Proposed AD
We have evaluated all pertinent
information and identified an unsafe
condition that is likely to exist or
develop on other airplanes of this same
type design. Therefore, we are
proposing this AD, which would require
accomplishing the actions specified in
the service information described
previously, except as discussed under
‘‘Differences Between the Proposed AD
and Service Bulletins.’’
Differences Between the Proposed AD
and Service Bulletins
Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletins 767–26–0124 and 777–26–
0033 specify that operators may replace
the fire extinguishing bottles in
accordance with the applicable Boeing
Airplane Maintenance Manual (AMM),
or an ‘‘operator’s equivalent procedure.’’
However, this proposed AD only would
allow an ‘‘operator’s equivalent
procedure’’ if approved as an alternative
method of compliance according to
paragraph (k) of this AD. Operators
should also note that Boeing Special
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Date
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December 5, 2002.
January 22, 2004.
December 5, 2002.
July 1, 2004.
Attention Service Bulletin 767–26–0124
references the incorrect chapter of the
Boeing 767 AMM for the proposed
replacement. This proposed AD
specifies that operators may use chapter
26–23–02/401 of the Boeing 767 AMM
as one approved method for the
proposed replacement.
Although Boeing Special Attention
Service Bulletin 767–26–0125 and
Boeing Service Bulletin 777–26–0034,
Revision 1, recommend accomplishing
the replacement ‘‘at the next required
hydrostatic test for the fire
extinguishing bottles,’’ we have
determined that this imprecise
compliance time would not address the
identified unsafe condition in a timely
manner. In developing an appropriate
compliance time for this AD, we
considered not only the manufacturer’s
recommendation, but also the degree of
urgency associated with addressing the
subject unsafe condition, the average
utilization of the affected fleet, and the
time necessary to perform the
replacement. In light of all of these
factors, we find a compliance time of 60
months for completing the required
actions to be warranted, in that it
represents an appropriate interval of
time for affected airplanes to continue to
operate without compromising safety.
Clarification of Inspection Terminology
The ‘‘inspection’’ specified in Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 767–
26–0124 and 777–26–0033 is referred to
as a leak test in this proposed AD. These
Boeing service bulletins refer to certain
Kidde Aerospace service bulletins as
additional sources of service
information for performing the leak test.
Costs of Compliance
There are about 322 airplanes of the
affected design in the worldwide fleet.
The following table provides the
estimated costs, at an average labor rate
of $65 per hour, for U.S. operators to
comply with this proposed AD.
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Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 127 / Tuesday, July 5, 2005 / Proposed Rules
ESTIMATED COSTS
Airplanes
Model 767–400 series
airplanes (for all 4 fire
extinguishing bottles).
Action
Work hours
Parts
Number of
U.S.–registered airplanes
Cost per airplane
Fleet cost
4
None ........
$260, per testing cycle
36
$9,360, per testing
cycle.
Replacement ...............
Leak test, per testing
cycle.
8
5
$2,800 .....
None ........
3,320 ...........................
325, per testing cycle ..
36
130
119,520.
42,250, per testing
cycle.
Replacement ...............
Model 777–200 and
–300 series airplanes
(for all 5 fire extinguishing bottles).
Leak test, per testing
cycle.
10
3,400 .......
4,050 ...........................
131
530,550.
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 have determined that this
proposed AD would not have federalism
implications under Executive Order
13132. This proposed AD would 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 the proposed regulation:
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); and
3. 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.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation
of the estimated costs to comply with
this proposed AD. See the ADDRESSES
section for a location to examine the
regulatory evaluation.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Safety.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA proposes to amend 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.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
Boeing: Docket No. FAA–2005–21713;
Directorate Identifier 2005–NM–085–AD.
Comments Due Date
(a) The Federal Aviation Administration
(FAA) must receive comments on this AD
action by August 19, 2005.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to the airplanes listed
in Table 1 of this AD, certificated in any
category:
TABLE 1.—APPLICABILITY
Boeing model—
As identified in—
767–400ER series airplanes ....................................................................
Special Attention Service Bulletin 767–26–0125, dated January 22,
2004.
Boeing Service Bulletin 777–26–0034, Revision 1, dated July 1, 2004.
777–200 and –300 series airplanes .........................................................
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD was prompted by failure of the
safety fittings for the fire extinguishing bottle.
We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of
the safety fittings for the fire extinguishing
bottles due to corrosion, which could result
in leakage of extinguishing agent. If a fire
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occurs in the cargo bay, the fire extinguishing
bottles could have less than enough
extinguishing agent to control a fire.
Compliance
(e) You are responsible for having the
actions required by this AD performed within
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the compliance times specified, unless the
actions have already been done.
Service Bulletin References
(f) The term ‘‘service bulletin,’’ as used in
this AD, means the Accomplishment
Instructions of the service bulletins identified
in Table 2 of this AD, as applicable:
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TABLE 2.—SERVICE BULLETIN REFERENCES
For model—
Boeing—
For the—
767–400ER series airplanes
Special Attention Service Bulletin 767–26–0124, dated
December 5, 2002.
Special Attention Service Bulletin 767–26–0125, dated
January 22, 2004.
Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–26–0033, dated
December 5, 2002.
Service Bulletin 777–26–0034, Revision 1, dated July
1, 2004.
Test specified in paragraph (g) of this AD
777–200 and –300 series
airplanes.
Repetitive Testing of Fire Extinguishing
Bottles
(g) For Model 767–400ER series airplanes;
and Model 777–200 and –300 series airplanes
identified in Boeing Special Attention
Service Bulletin 777–26–0033, dated
December 5, 2002: Within 18 months or
6,000 flight hours after the effective date of
this AD, whichever is first, test the fill and
safety fittings of the fire extinguishing bottles
in the forward cargo compartment for leaks,
in accordance with the service bulletin.
Repeat the test thereafter at intervals not to
exceed 18 months or 6,000 flight hours,
whichever is first, in accordance with the
service bulletin, until the replacement
Replacement specified in paragraph (h) of this AD.
Test specified in paragraph (g) of this AD.
Replacement specified in paragraph (h) of this AD.
required by paragraph (h) of this AD is
accomplished.
(1) If no leak is found or if the leak rate
is below the calibrated rate specified in the
service bulletin, before further flight, apply
the corrosion inhibiting compound (CIC) to
the burst disc of the safety fitting and
reidentify the fire extinguishing bottle, in
accordance with the service bulletin.
(2) If any leak above the calibrated rate
specified in the service bulletin is found,
before further flight, replace and reidentify
the fire extinguishing bottle with new or
reworked fire extinguishing bottles, in
accordance with the service bulletin; except
where the service bulletin specifies that the
replacement may be accomplished according
to an operator’s ‘‘equivalent procedure,’’
replace in accordance with a method
approved by the Manager, Seattle Aircraft
Certification Office (ACO). Chapter 26–23–
02/401 of Boeing 767 Airplane Maintenance
Manual (AMM) or Chapter 26–23–01/401 of
Boeing 777 AMM, as applicable, is one
approved method.
Note 1: The Boeing service bulletins listed
in Table 3 of this AD refer to certain Kidde
Aerospace service bulletins, as applicable, as
additional sources of service information for
testing and reidentifying the fire
extinguishing bottles.
TABLE 3.—ADDITIONAL SERVICE INFORMATION FOR TESTING
For model—
Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin—
Refers to Kidde Aerospace Service Bulletin—
767–400ER series airplanes ............
767–26–0124, dated December 5,
2002.
777–26–0033, dated December 5,
2002.
473876–26–454. Revision 1, dated
version of this service bulletin.
473474–26–442. Revision 1, dated
version of this service bulletin.
473475–26–443. Revision 1, dated
version of this service bulletin.
473854–26–444. Revision 1, dated
version of this service bulletin.
473876–26–445. Revision 1, dated
version of this service bulletin.
777–200 and –300 series airplanes
Replacement of Fire Extinguishing Bottles
(h) For all airplanes: Within 60 months
after the effective date of this AD, replace the
existing fire extinguishing bottles with
reworked fire extinguishing bottles, in
accordance with the service bulletin.
Replacement of a fire extinguishing bottle
with a reworked fire extinguishing bottle
terminates the repetitive tests and CIC
applications required by paragraph (g) of this
AD for that fire extinguishing bottle only.
March 12, 2003, is the latest
March 12, 2003, is the latest
March 12, 2003, is the latest
March 12, 2003, is the latest
March 12, 2003, is the latest
Note 2: The Boeing service bulletins listed
in Table 4 of this AD refer to certain Kidde
Aerospace service bulletins, as applicable, as
additional sources of service information for
reworking the fire extinguishing bottles.
TABLE 4.—ADDITIONAL SERVICE INFORMATION FOR REPLACEMENT
For model—
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin—
Refers to Kidde Aerospace Service Bulletin–
767–400ER series airplanes ..............................
777–200 and –300 series airplanes ...................
767–26–0125, dated January 22, 2004 ...........
777–26–0034, dated January 22, 2004 ...........
473876–26–453,
473474–26–450,
473475–26–451,
473854–26–452,
473876–26–453,
Parts Installation
(i) For all airplanes: As of the effective date
of this AD, no person may install a fire
extinguishing bottle, part number (P/Ns)
473474–1 and –2, P/Ns 473475–1 and –2, P/
Ns 473854–1 and –2, and P/Ns 473876–1 and
–2, on any airplane, unless the initial test
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dated
dated
dated
dated
dated
January
January
January
January
January
22,
22,
22,
22,
22,
2004.
2004.
2004.
2004.
2004.
required by paragraph (g) of this AD is
accomplished.
2004, are acceptable for compliance with the
corresponding requirements of this AD.
Credit for Previous Service Bulletin
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(j) For Model 777–200 series airplanes:
Actions done before the effective date of this
AD in accordance with Boeing Service
Bulletin 777–26–0034, dated January 22,
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Sfmt 4702
(k) The Manager, Seattle ACO, FAA, has
the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD,
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Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 127 / Tuesday, July 5, 2005 / Proposed Rules
if requested in accordance with the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 17,
2005.
Michael J. Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 05–13139 Filed 7–1–05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2005–21714; Directorate
Identifier 2005–NM–065–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing
Model 737–600, –700, –700C, –800, and
–900 Series Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a
new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Boeing Model 737–600, –700,
–700C, –800, and –900 series airplanes.
This proposed AD would require
modification of certain wire bundles
located above the center fuel tank. This
proposed AD is prompted by the results
of fuel system reviews conducted by the
manufacturer. We are proposing this AD
to prevent chafed wire bundles near the
center fuel tank, which could cause
electrical arcing through the tank wall
and ignition of fuel vapor in the fuel
tank, and result in a fuel tank explosion.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by August 19, 2005.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following
addresses to submit comments on this
proposed AD.
• DOT Docket Web site: Go to
https://dms.dot.gov and follow the
instructions for sending your comments
electronically.
• Government-wide rulemaking Web
site: Go to https://www.regulations.gov
and follow the instructions for sending
your comments electronically.
• Mail: Docket Management Facility,
U.S. Department of Transportation, 400
Seventh Street SW., Nassif Building,
Room PL–401, Washington, DC 20590.
• By fax: (202) 493–2251.
• Hand Delivery: Room PL–401 on
the plaza level of the Nassif Building,
400 Seventh Street SW., Washington,
DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
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15:08 Jul 01, 2005
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For service information identified in
this proposed AD, contact Boeing
Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707,
Seattle, Washington 98124–2207.
You can examine the contents of this
AD docket on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov, or in person at the Docket
Management Facility, U.S. Department
of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street
SW., room PL–401, on the plaza level of
the Nassif Building, Washington, DC.
This docket number is FAA–2005–
21714; the directorate identifier for this
docket is 2005–NM–065–AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Binh Tran, Aerospace Engineer, Systems
and Equipment Branch, ANM–130S,
FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification
Office, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98055–4056; telephone
(425) 917–6485; fax (425) 917–6590.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
We invite you to submit any relevant
written data, views, or arguments
regarding this proposed AD. Send your
comments to an address listed under
ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–
2005–21714; Directorate Identifier
2005–NM–065–AD’’ in the subject line
of your comments. We specifically
invite comments on the overall
regulatory, economic, environmental,
and energy aspects of the proposed AD.
We will consider all comments
submitted by the closing date and may
amend the proposed AD in light of those
comments.
We will post all comments we
receive, without change, to https://
dms.dot.gov, including any personal
information you provide. We will also
post a report summarizing each
substantive verbal contact with FAA
personnel concerning this proposed AD.
Using the search function of that Web
site, anyone can find and read the
comments in any of our dockets,
including the name of the individual
who sent the comment (or signed the
comment on behalf of an association,
business, labor union, etc.). You can
review DOT’s complete Privacy Act
Statement in the Federal Register
published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR
19477–78), or you can visit https://
dms.dot.gov.
Examining the Docket
You can examine the AD docket on
the Internet at https://dms.dot.gov, or in
person at the Docket Management
Facility office between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The Docket
Management Facility office (telephone
(800) 647–5227) is located on the plaza
PO 00000
Frm 00025
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
level of the Nassif Building at the DOT
street address stated in the ADDRESSES
section. Comments will be available in
the AD docket shortly after the Docket
Management System (DMS) receives
them.
Discussion
We have examined the underlying
safety issues involved in recent fuel
tank explosions on several large
transport airplanes, including the
adequacy of existing regulations, the
service history of airplanes subject to
those regulations, and existing
maintenance practices for fuel tank
systems. As a result of those findings,
we issued a regulation titled ‘‘Transport
Airplane Fuel Tank System Design
Review, Flammability Reduction and
Maintenance and Inspection
Requirements’’ (67 FR 23086, May 7,
2001). In addition to new airworthiness
standards for transport airplanes and
new maintenance requirements, this
rule included Special Federal Aviation
Regulation No. 88 (‘‘SFAR 88,’’
Amendment 21–78, and subsequent
Amendments 21–82 and 21–83).
Among other actions, SFAR 88
requires certain type design (i.e., type
certificate (TC) and supplemental type
certificate (STC)) holders to substantiate
that their fuel tank systems can prevent
ignition sources in the fuel tanks. This
requirement applies to type design
holders for large turbine-powered
transport airplanes and for subsequent
modifications to those airplanes. It
requires them to perform design reviews
and to develop design changes and
maintenance procedures if their designs
do not meet the new fuel tank safety
standards. As explained in the preamble
to the rule, we intended to adopt
airworthiness directives to mandate any
changes found necessary to address
unsafe conditions identified as a result
of these reviews.
In evaluating these design reviews, we
have established four criteria intended
to define the unsafe conditions
associated with fuel tank systems that
require corrective actions. The
percentage of operating time during
which fuel tanks are exposed to
flammable conditions is one of these
criteria. The other three criteria address
the failure types under evaluation:
Single failures, single failures in
combination with another latent
condition(s), and in-service failure
experience. For all four criteria, the
evaluations included consideration of
previous actions taken that may mitigate
the need for further action.
Based on this process, we have
determined that the actions identified in
this proposed AD are necessary to
E:\FR\FM\05JYP1.SGM
05JYP1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 127 (Tuesday, July 5, 2005)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 38632-38636]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-13139]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2005-21713; Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-085-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 767-400ER Series
Airplanes; and Model 777-200 and -300 Series Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD)
for certain Model 767-400ER series airplanes; and Model 777-200 and -
300 series airplanes. This proposed AD would require, for certain
airplanes, repetitive testing of the fill and safety fittings of the
fire extinguishing bottles in the forward cargo compartment for leaks;
and repetitive application of a corrosion inhibiting compound (CIC) or
replacement of the fire extinguishing bottles with reworked fire
extinguishing bottles, as necessary. For all airplanes, this proposed
AD would require replacement of the fire extinguishing bottles with
reworked fire extinguishing bottles, which would end the repetitive
tests and CIC applications if applicable. This proposed AD is prompted
by failure of the safety fittings for the fire extinguishing bottles.
We are proposing this AD to prevent failure of the safety fittings for
the fire extinguishing bottles due to corrosion, which could result in
leakage of extinguishing agent. If a fire occurs in the cargo bay, the
fire extinguishing bottles could have less than enough extinguishing
agent to control a fire.
DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 19, 2005.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on
this proposed AD.
DOT Docket Web site: Go to https://dms.dot.gov and follow
the instructions for sending your comments electronically.
Government-wide rulemaking Web site: Go to https://
www.regulations.gov and follow the instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
Mail: Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of
Transportation, 400 Seventh Street SW., Nassif Building, Room PL-401,
Washington, DC 20590.
By fax: (202) 493-2251.
Hand Delivery: Room PL-401 on the plaza level of the
Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street SW., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m.
and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle, Washington 98124-
2207.
You can examine the contents of this AD docket on the Internet at
https://dms.dot.gov, or in person at the Docket Management Facility,
U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street SW., Room PL-401,
on the plaza level of the Nassif Building, Washington, DC. This docket
number is FAA-2005-21713; the directorate identifier for this docket is
2005-NM-085-AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Barbara Mudrovich, Aerospace Engineer,
Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Branch, ANM-150S, FAA, Seattle
Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98055-4056; telephone (425) 917-6477; fax (425) 917-6590.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
We invite you to submit any relevant written data, views, or
arguments regarding this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address
listed under ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2005-21713;
Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-085-AD'' in the subject line of your
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the proposed AD. We will
consider all comments submitted by the closing date and may amend the
proposed AD in light of those comments.
We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://
dms.dot.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will
also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact with FAA
personnel concerning this proposed AD. Using the search function of
that Web site, anyone can find and read the comments in any of our
dockets, including the name of the individual who sent the comment (or
signed the comment on behalf of an association, business, labor union,
etc.). You can review DOT's complete Privacy Act Statement in the
Federal Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477-78), or you
can visit https://dms.dot.gov.
Examining the Docket
You can examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov, or in person at the Docket Management Facility office
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal
holidays. The Docket Management Facility office (telephone (800) 647-
5227) is located on the plaza level of the Nassif Building at the DOT
street address stated in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be
available in the AD docket shortly after the Docket Management System
(DMS) receives them.
Discussion
We have received a report indicating that failed safety fittings of
the fire extinguishing bottles for the forward cargo compartment were
found during fleet inspection of Model 777 series airplanes.
Investigation revealed that corrosion of the burst disc inside the
safety fitting caused failure of the safety fittings. This condition,
if not corrected, could result in leakage of fire extinguishing agent.
If a fire occurs in the cargo bay, the fire extinguishing bottles could
have less than enough extinguishing agent to control a fire.
Fire extinguishing bottles having a certain part number on certain
Model 767-400ER series airplanes are identical to those on the affected
777-200 and -300 series airplanes. Therefore, all of
[[Page 38633]]
these models may be subject to the same unsafe condition.
Relevant Service Information
We have reviewed the following service bulletins:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Boeing model- Service bulletin Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
767-400ER series airplanes.............. Boeing Special Attention December 5, 2002.
Service Bulletin 767-26-0124.
Boeing Special Attention January 22, 2004.
Service Bulletin 767-26-0125..
777-200 and -300 series airplanes....... Boeing Special Attention December 5, 2002.
Service Bulletin 777-26-0033.
Boeing Service Bulletin 777-26- July 1, 2004.
0034, Revision 1.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For certain airplanes, Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
767-26-0124 and 777-26-0033 describe the following procedures:
Repetitively testing the fill and safety fittings of the
fire extinguishing bottles in the forward cargo compartment for leaks.
If no leak is found or if the leak rate is below the
calibrated rate specified in the service bulletin, applying a corrosion
inhibiting compound (CIC) to the burst disc of the safety fitting and
reidentifying the fire extinguishing bottle.
If any leak above the calibrated rate specified in the
service bulletin is found, replacing and reidentifying the fire
extinguishing bottle.
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 767-26-0125 and Boeing
Service Bulletin 777-26-0034 describe procedures for replacing the
existing fire extinguishing bottles with reworked fire extinguishing
bottles. Accomplishing the replacement would end the repetitive tests
and CIC applications if necessary.
Accomplishing the actions specified in the service information is
intended to adequately address the unsafe condition.
Additional Sources of Service Information
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 767-26-0124 refers to
Kidde Aerospace Service Bulletin 473876-26-454 as an additional source
of service information for testing and reidentifying the fire
extinguishing bottles.
Operators should note that Revision 1, dated March 12, 2003, is the
latest version of Kidde Aerospace Service Bulletin 473876-26-454.
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 767-26-0125 refers to
Kidde Aerospace Service Bulletin 473876-26-453, dated January 22, 2004,
as an additional source of service information for reworking the fire
extinguishing bottles.
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-26-0033 refers to the
following service bulletins as additional sources of service
information for testing and reidentifying the fire extinguishing
bottles: Kidde Aerospace Service Bulletin 473474-26-442, 473475-26-443,
473854-26-444, and 473876-26-445.
Operators should note that the latest version of these Kidde
Aerospace service bulletins are all Revision 1, all dated March 12,
2003.
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-26-0034 refers to the
following service bulletins as additional sources of service
information for reworking the fire extinguishing bottles: Kidde
Aerospace Service 473474-26-450; 473475-26-451; 473854-26-452; 473876-
26-453; all dated January 22, 2004.
FAA's Determination and Requirements of the Proposed AD
We have evaluated all pertinent information and identified an
unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on other airplanes
of this same type design. Therefore, we are proposing this AD, which
would require accomplishing the actions specified in the service
information described previously, except as discussed under
``Differences Between the Proposed AD and Service Bulletins.''
Differences Between the Proposed AD and Service Bulletins
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletins 767-26-0124 and 777-26-
0033 specify that operators may replace the fire extinguishing bottles
in accordance with the applicable Boeing Airplane Maintenance Manual
(AMM), or an ``operator's equivalent procedure.'' However, this
proposed AD only would allow an ``operator's equivalent procedure'' if
approved as an alternative method of compliance according to paragraph
(k) of this AD. Operators should also note that Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 767-26-0124 references the incorrect chapter
of the Boeing 767 AMM for the proposed replacement. This proposed AD
specifies that operators may use chapter 26-23-02/401 of the Boeing 767
AMM as one approved method for the proposed replacement.
Although Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 767-26-0125 and
Boeing Service Bulletin 777-26-0034, Revision 1, recommend
accomplishing the replacement ``at the next required hydrostatic test
for the fire extinguishing bottles,'' we have determined that this
imprecise compliance time would not address the identified unsafe
condition in a timely manner. In developing an appropriate compliance
time for this AD, we considered not only the manufacturer's
recommendation, but also the degree of urgency associated with
addressing the subject unsafe condition, the average utilization of the
affected fleet, and the time necessary to perform the replacement. In
light of all of these factors, we find a compliance time of 60 months
for completing the required actions to be warranted, in that it
represents an appropriate interval of time for affected airplanes to
continue to operate without compromising safety.
Clarification of Inspection Terminology
The ``inspection'' specified in Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 767-26-0124 and 777-26-0033 is referred to as a leak test in
this proposed AD. These Boeing service bulletins refer to certain Kidde
Aerospace service bulletins as additional sources of service
information for performing the leak test.
Costs of Compliance
There are about 322 airplanes of the affected design in the
worldwide fleet. The following table provides the estimated costs, at
an average labor rate of $65 per hour, for U.S. operators to comply
with this proposed AD.
[[Page 38634]]
Estimated Costs
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of U.S.-
Airplanes Action Work hours Parts Cost per airplane registered Fleet cost
airplanes
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Model 767-400 series airplanes Leak test, per 4 None............... $260, per testing 36 $9,360, per testing
(for all 4 fire extinguishing testing cycle. cycle. cycle.
bottles).
Replacement.......... 8 $2,800............. 3,320............... 36 119,520.
Model 777-200 and -300 series Leak test, per 5 None............... 325, per testing 130 42,250, per testing
airplanes (for all 5 fire testing cycle. cycle. cycle.
extinguishing bottles).
Replacement.......... 10 3,400.............. 4,050............... 131 530,550.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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 have determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would 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 the proposed
regulation:
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); and
3. 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.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to
comply with this proposed AD. See the ADDRESSES section for a location
to examine the regulatory evaluation.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Safety.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 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.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new
airworthiness directive (AD):
Boeing: Docket No. FAA-2005-21713; Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-
085-AD.
Comments Due Date
(a) The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) must receive
comments on this AD action by August 19, 2005.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to the airplanes listed in Table 1 of this
AD, certificated in any category:
Table 1.--Applicability
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Boeing model-- As identified in--
------------------------------------------------------------------------
767-400ER series airplanes............. Special Attention Service
Bulletin 767-26-0125, dated
January 22, 2004.
777-200 and -300 series airplanes...... Boeing Service Bulletin 777-26-
0034, Revision 1, dated July
1, 2004.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD was prompted by failure of the safety fittings for
the fire extinguishing bottle. We are issuing this AD to prevent
failure of the safety fittings for the fire extinguishing bottles
due to corrosion, which could result in leakage of extinguishing
agent. If a fire occurs in the cargo bay, the fire extinguishing
bottles could have less than enough extinguishing agent to control a
fire.
Compliance
(e) You are responsible for having the actions required by this
AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the
actions have already been done.
Service Bulletin References
(f) The term ``service bulletin,'' as used in this AD, means the
Accomplishment Instructions of the service bulletins identified in
Table 2 of this AD, as applicable:
[[Page 38635]]
Table 2.--Service Bulletin References
------------------------------------------------------------------------
For model-- Boeing-- For the--
------------------------------------------------------------------------
767-400ER series airplanes.. Special Attention Test specified in
Service Bulletin paragraph (g) of
767-26-0124, dated this AD
December 5, 2002.
Special Attention Replacement
Service Bulletin specified in
767-26-0125, dated paragraph (h) of
January 22, 2004. this AD.
777-200 and -300 series Special Attention Test specified in
airplanes. Service Bulletin paragraph (g) of
777-26-0033, dated this AD.
December 5, 2002.
Service Bulletin 777- Replacement
26-0034, Revision specified in
1, dated July 1, paragraph (h) of
2004. this AD.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Repetitive Testing of Fire Extinguishing Bottles
(g) For Model 767-400ER series airplanes; and Model 777-200 and
-300 series airplanes identified in Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 777-26-0033, dated December 5, 2002: Within 18 months or
6,000 flight hours after the effective date of this AD, whichever is
first, test the fill and safety fittings of the fire extinguishing
bottles in the forward cargo compartment for leaks, in accordance
with the service bulletin. Repeat the test thereafter at intervals
not to exceed 18 months or 6,000 flight hours, whichever is first,
in accordance with the service bulletin, until the replacement
required by paragraph (h) of this AD is accomplished.
(1) If no leak is found or if the leak rate is below the
calibrated rate specified in the service bulletin, before further
flight, apply the corrosion inhibiting compound (CIC) to the burst
disc of the safety fitting and reidentify the fire extinguishing
bottle, in accordance with the service bulletin.
(2) If any leak above the calibrated rate specified in the
service bulletin is found, before further flight, replace and
reidentify the fire extinguishing bottle with new or reworked fire
extinguishing bottles, in accordance with the service bulletin;
except where the service bulletin specifies that the replacement may
be accomplished according to an operator's ``equivalent procedure,''
replace in accordance with a method approved by the Manager, Seattle
Aircraft Certification Office (ACO). Chapter 26-23-02/401 of Boeing
767 Airplane Maintenance Manual (AMM) or Chapter 26-23-01/401 of
Boeing 777 AMM, as applicable, is one approved method.
Note 1: The Boeing service bulletins listed in Table 3 of this
AD refer to certain Kidde Aerospace service bulletins, as
applicable, as additional sources of service information for testing
and reidentifying the fire extinguishing bottles.
Table 3.--Additional Service Information for Testing
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Boeing Special Attention
For model-- Service Bulletin-- Refers to Kidde Aerospace Service Bulletin--
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
767-400ER series airplanes......... 767-26-0124, dated December 473876-26-454. Revision 1, dated March 12,
5, 2002. 2003, is the latest version of this service
bulletin.
777-200 and -300 series airplanes.. 777-26-0033, dated December 473474-26-442. Revision 1, dated March 12,
5, 2002. 2003, is the latest version of this service
bulletin.
473475-26-443. Revision 1, dated March 12,
2003, is the latest version of this service
bulletin.
473854-26-444. Revision 1, dated March 12,
2003, is the latest version of this service
bulletin.
473876-26-445. Revision 1, dated March 12,
2003, is the latest version of this service
bulletin.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacement of Fire Extinguishing Bottles
(h) For all airplanes: Within 60 months after the effective date
of this AD, replace the existing fire extinguishing bottles with
reworked fire extinguishing bottles, in accordance with the service
bulletin. Replacement of a fire extinguishing bottle with a reworked
fire extinguishing bottle terminates the repetitive tests and CIC
applications required by paragraph (g) of this AD for that fire
extinguishing bottle only.
Note 2: The Boeing service bulletins listed in Table 4 of this
AD refer to certain Kidde Aerospace service bulletins, as
applicable, as additional sources of service information for
reworking the fire extinguishing bottles.
Table 4.--Additional Service Information for Replacement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Boeing Special Refers to Kidde
For model-- Attention Service Aerospace Service
Bulletin-- Bulletin-
------------------------------------------------------------------------
767-400ER series airplanes.. 767-26-0125, dated 473876-26-453, dated
January 22, 2004. January 22, 2004.
777-200 and -300 series 777-26-0034, dated 473474-26-450, dated
airplanes. January 22, 2004. January 22, 2004.
473475-26-451, dated
January 22, 2004.
473854-26-452, dated
January 22, 2004.
473876-26-453, dated
January 22, 2004.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Parts Installation
(i) For all airplanes: As of the effective date of this AD, no
person may install a fire extinguishing bottle, part number (P/Ns)
473474-1 and -2, P/Ns 473475-1 and -2, P/Ns 473854-1 and -2, and P/
Ns 473876-1 and -2, on any airplane, unless the initial test
required by paragraph (g) of this AD is accomplished.
Credit for Previous Service Bulletin
(j) For Model 777-200 series airplanes: Actions done before the
effective date of this AD in accordance with Boeing Service Bulletin
777-26-0034, dated January 22, 2004, are acceptable for compliance
with the corresponding requirements of this AD.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(k) The Manager, Seattle ACO, FAA, has the authority to approve
AMOCs for this AD,
[[Page 38636]]
if requested in accordance with the procedures found in 14 CFR
39.19.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 17, 2005.
Michael J. Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 05-13139 Filed 7-1-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
