Airworthiness Directives; Learjet Model 23, 24, 24A, 24B, 24B-A, 24C, 24D, 24D-A, 24E, 24F, 24F-A, 25, 25A, 25B, 25C, 25D, and 25F Airplanes, 49210-49212 [05-16752]
Download as PDF
49210
Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 162 / Tuesday, August 23, 2005 / Proposed Rules
actions actually required by the AD.
These figures typically do not include
incidental costs, such as the time
required to gain access and close up,
planning time, or time necessitated by
other administrative actions.
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 Impact
The regulations proposed herein
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. Therefore,
it is determined that this proposal
would not have federalism implications
under Executive Order 13132.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this 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) if
promulgated, 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. A copy of the draft
regulatory evaluation prepared for this
action is contained in the Rules Docket.
A copy of it may be obtained by
contacting the Rules Docket at the
location provided under the caption
ADDRESSES.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Safety.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, pursuant to the
authority delegated to me by the
VerDate jul<14>2003
16:15 Aug 22, 2005
Jkt 205001
Administrator, the Federal Aviation
Administration proposes to amend part
39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations
(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. Section 39.13 is amended by
adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(c) 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 August
12, 2005.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 05–16751 Filed 8–22–05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Boeing: Docket 2001–NM–213–AD.
Applicability: All Model 747SP, 747SR,
747–100, –100B, –100B SUD, –200B, –200C,
–200F, and –300 series airplanes; certificated
in any category.
Compliance: Required as indicated, unless
accomplished previously.
To prevent improper deployment of the
escape slide/raft or blockage of the
passenger/crew doors in the event of an
emergency evacuation, which could result in
injury to passengers or crewmembers,
accomplish the following:
Modification
(a) Within 36 months after the effective
date of this AD: Accomplish the actions
specified in paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2) of
this AD, as applicable, in accordance with
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
747–25–3274, Revision 3, dated December
16, 2004. Previously accomplishing the
modification in accordance with Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–25–
3274, Revision 1, dated January 9, 2003; or
Revision 2, dated August 26, 2004; is
acceptable for compliance with paragraph
(a)(1) of this AD, except as specified in
paragraph 1.D, ‘Description’, of Revision 3 of
the service bulletin.
(1) For airplanes on which the actions
specified in Boeing Service Bulletin 747–25–
2666, Revision 2, dated April 24, 2003; and
Goodrich Service Bulletin 25–238, Revision
1, dated January 31, 2003, have been
accomplished: Replace cable assemblies
having part number (P/N) 69B55462–( ) with
new cable assemblies having P/N 416U6004–
1.
(2) For airplanes on which the
modification required by paragraph (a)(1) of
this AD has not been accomplished: Modify
the escape slide/raft pack assembly (includes
removing the slide packs, replacing the cover
release pin cable assemblies with new
assemblies, and removing the cable guard
bracket, as applicable).
Concurrent Modification
(b) For Groups 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14,
and 15 airplanes: Prior to or concurrently
with accomplishment of paragraph (a) of this
AD, modify the outboard cover panel of the
cable release sliders of the floor-mounted
upper deck slide pack assembly, as specified
in Figure 2 of Boeing Special Attention
Service Bulletin 747–25–3307, Revision 2,
dated July 8, 2004.
PO 00000
Frm 00011
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2005–22169; Directorate
Identifier 2005–NM–094–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Learjet
Model 23, 24, 24A, 24B, 24B–A, 24C,
24D, 24D–A, 24E, 24F, 24F–A, 25, 25A,
25B, 25C, 25D, and 25F 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 Learjet Model 23, 24, 24A, 24B,
24B–A, 24C, 24D, 24D–A, 24E, 24F,
24F–A, 25, 25A, 25B, 25C, 25D, and 25F
airplanes. This proposed AD would
require replacement of the spherical
accumulator for the main hydraulic
system with a new cylindrical
accumulator. For certain airplanes, this
proposed AD would also require
modification of the accumulator
pressure gauge. This proposed AD is
prompted by reports of the failure of
two thrust reverser accumulators (which
are similar to the main hydraulic
system’s spherical accumulator) and
fatigue cracks found on four thrust
reverser accumulators. We are
proposing this AD to prevent failure of
the spherical accumulator for the main
hydraulic system, due to fatigue
cracking on the threads, which could
result in the loss of hydraulic power,
damage to the surrounding airplane
structure, and loss of airplane control.
The failure of the accumulator could
also result in injury to any persons in
the surrounding area. The loss of
hydraulic fluid could also leak onto a
potential source of ignition and result in
a consequent fire.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by October 7, 2005.
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Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 162 / Tuesday, August 23, 2005 / Proposed Rules
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 Learjet, Inc.,
One Learjet Way, Wichita, Kansas
67209–2942.
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–
22169; the directorate identifier for this
docket is 2005–NM–094–AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Robert Busto, Aerospace Engineer,
Systems and Propulsion Branch, ACE–
116W, FAA, Wichita Aircraft
Certification Office, 1801 Airport Road,
Room 100, Mid-Continent Airport,
Wichita, Kansas 67209; telephone (316)
946–4157; fax (316) 946–4107.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
ADDRESSES:
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–
2005–22169; Directorate Identifier
2005–NM–094–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.
VerDate jul<14>2003
16:15 Aug 22, 2005
Jkt 205001
Using the search function of that
website, 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 two failures of thrust reverser
accumulators occurred, and inspections
have found four thrust reverser
accumulators with fatigue cracks. One
failure occurred during flight on a
Learjet Model 25B airplane and led to
an emergency landing. The second
failure occurred during bench testing
and resulted in injury to a person.
Detailed inspections of four thrust
reverser accumulators found fatigue
cracks on the inner threads that hold the
two halves of the accumulator together.
The spherical accumulator used for the
main airplane hydraulic system is
similar to the spherical accumulator
used for the thrust reverser hydraulic
system. Therefore, these spherical
accumulators may be subject to the
same unsafe condition. This fatigue
cracking, if not corrected, could result
in the failure of the accumulator, which
could cause loss of hydraulic fluid and
the hydraulic systems, resulting in a
loss of airplane control. The failure of
the accumulator could also result in
damage to the surrounding airplane
structure and injury to any persons in
the surrounding area. The loss of
hydraulic fluid could also leak onto a
potential source of ignition and result in
a consequent fire.
Other Relevant Rulemaking
We have published a notice of
proposed rulemaking (NPRM) in the
Federal Register on April 14, 2005 (70
FR 19718), applicable to Learjet Model
PO 00000
Frm 00012
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
49211
23, 24, 24A, 24B, 24B–A, 24D, 24D–A,
24E, 24F, 25, 25A, 25B, 25C, 25D, and
25F airplanes modified by
Supplemental Type Certificate
SA1731SW, SA1669SW, or SA1670SW;
equipped with certain Nordam thrust
reversers. That NPRM proposed to
require removing the thrust reverser
accumulator, and making the thrust
reverser hydraulic system and the thrust
reversers inoperable. The actions
proposed in that NPRM are intended to
prevent failure of the thrust reverser
accumulators, due to fatigue cracking on
the female threads, which could result
in the loss of hydraulic power and
damage to the surrounding airplane
structure.
Relevant Service Information
We have reviewed Bombardier Alert
Service Bulletin A23/24/25–29–4,
Revision 1, dated January 17, 2005. The
service bulletin describes procedures for
replacing certain spherical accumulators
with new cylindrical accumulators, and
reporting accomplishment of the service
bulletin to the manufacturer. Replacing
the accumulators may involve replacing
the supports and attachment hardware.
For certain airplanes, Bombardier
Alert Service Bulletin A23/24/25–29–4
recommends prior or concurrent
accomplishment of Learjet Service Kit
SK23–215, dated April 4, 1966. The
concurrent service bulletin describes
procedures for relocating the
accumulator pressure gauge.
Accomplishing the actions specified
in the service information is intended to
adequately address the unsafe
condition.
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 the Service Bulletin.’’
Differences Between the Proposed AD
and the Service Bulletin
Although Bombardier Alert Service
Bulletin A23/24/25–29–4, Revision 1,
dated January 17, 2005, recommends
replacing the spherical accumulator for
the main hydraulic system within 25
flight hours after the receipt of the
service bulletin, this proposed AD
specifies a compliance time of 60 days
after the effective date of the AD. In
developing an appropriate compliance
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Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 162 / Tuesday, August 23, 2005 / Proposed Rules
time for this AD, we considered the
manufacturer’s recommendation, the
degree of urgency associated with the
subject unsafe condition, the average
utilization of the affected fleet, and the
time necessary to perform the actions
required by the proposed AD. In light of
all of these factors, we find that a longer
compliance time represents an
appropriate interval of time for affected
airplanes to continue to operate without
compromising safety. This difference
has been coordinated with Learjet.
Operators should also note that,
although the Accomplishment
Instructions of the referenced service
bulletin describe procedures for
submitting a comment sheet related to
service bulletin quality and a sheet
recording compliance with the service
bulletin, this proposed AD would not
require those actions. We do not need
this information from operators.
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.
Costs of Compliance
There are about 434 airplanes of the
affected design in the worldwide fleet.
This proposed AD would affect about
242 airplanes of U.S. registry. The
proposed actions would take about 9 to
13 work hours per airplane, at an
average labor rate of $65 per work hour.
Required parts would cost about $1,336
to $1,363 per airplane. Based on these
figures, the estimated cost of the
proposed AD for U.S. operators is
$464,882 to $534,336, or $1,921 to
$2,208 per airplane.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
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
VerDate jul<14>2003
16:15 Aug 22, 2005
Jkt 205001
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):
Learjet: Docket No. FAA–2005–22169;
Directorate Identifier 2005–NM–094–AD.
Comments Due Date
(a) The Federal Aviation Administration
(FAA) must receive comments on this AD
action by October 7, 2005.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Learjet Model 23, 24,
24A, 24B, 24B–A, 24C, 24D, 24D–A, 24E,
24F, 24F–A, 25, 25A, 25B, 25C, 25D, and 25F
airplanes, certificated in any category; having
serial numbers 23–003 through 23–099
inclusive, 24–100 through 24–284 inclusive,
and 25–003 through 25–153 inclusive.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD was prompted by reports of the
failure of two thrust reverser accumulators
(which are similar to the main hydraulic
system’s accumulator) and fatigue cracks
found on four thrust reverser accumulators.
We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of
PO 00000
Frm 00013
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
the spherical accumulator for the main
hydraulic system, due to fatigue cracking on
the threads, which could result in the loss of
hydraulic power, damage to the surrounding
airplane structure, and loss of airplane
control. The failure of the accumulator could
also result in injury to any persons in the
surrounding area. The loss of hydraulic fluid
could also leak onto a potential source of
ignition and result in a consequent 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.
Replacement
(f) Within 60 days after the effective date
of this AD, replace the spherical accumulator
having part number (P/N) 2380025–( ) or P/
N 2380167–( ) with a new cylindrical
accumulator having P/N 2497202–801 in
accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Bombardier Alert Service
Bulletin A23/24/25–29–4, Revision 1, dated
January 17, 2005.
Concurrent Action
(g) For airplanes having serial numbers 23–
003 through 23–014 inclusive: Prior to or
concurrently with the actions in Bombardier
Alert Service Bulletin A23/24/25–29–4,
Revision 1, dated January 17, 2005, relocate
the accumulator pressure gauge in
accordance with Learjet Service Kit SK23–
215, dated April 4, 1966.
Parts Installation
(h) As of the effective date, no spherical
accumulator having P/N 2380025–() or P/N
2380167–() may be installed on any airplane.
Previous Actions
(i) Replacements done before the effective
date of this AD in accordance with
Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A23/24/
25–29–4, dated August 20, 2004, are
acceptable for compliance with the
requirements of paragraph (f) of this AD.
No Reporting Required
(j) Although the service bulletin referenced
in this AD specifies to submit certain
information to the manufacturer, this AD
does not include that requirement.
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(k) The Manager, Wichita Aircraft
Certification Office, 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 August
12, 2005.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 05–16752 Filed 8–22–05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
E:\FR\FM\23AUP1.SGM
23AUP1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 162 (Tuesday, August 23, 2005)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 49210-49212]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-16752]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2005-22169; Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-094-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Learjet Model 23, 24, 24A, 24B, 24B-A,
24C, 24D, 24D-A, 24E, 24F, 24F-A, 25, 25A, 25B, 25C, 25D, and 25F
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 Learjet Model 23, 24, 24A, 24B, 24B-A, 24C, 24D, 24D-A,
24E, 24F, 24F-A, 25, 25A, 25B, 25C, 25D, and 25F airplanes. This
proposed AD would require replacement of the spherical accumulator for
the main hydraulic system with a new cylindrical accumulator. For
certain airplanes, this proposed AD would also require modification of
the accumulator pressure gauge. This proposed AD is prompted by reports
of the failure of two thrust reverser accumulators (which are similar
to the main hydraulic system's spherical accumulator) and fatigue
cracks found on four thrust reverser accumulators. We are proposing
this AD to prevent failure of the spherical accumulator for the main
hydraulic system, due to fatigue cracking on the threads, which could
result in the loss of hydraulic power, damage to the surrounding
airplane structure, and loss of airplane control. The failure of the
accumulator could also result in injury to any persons in the
surrounding area. The loss of hydraulic fluid could also leak onto a
potential source of ignition and result in a consequent fire.
DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by October 7, 2005.
[[Page 49211]]
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
Learjet, Inc., One Learjet Way, Wichita, Kansas 67209-2942.
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-2005-22169; the directorate identifier for this docket is
2005-NM-094-AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Robert Busto, Aerospace Engineer,
Systems and Propulsion Branch, ACE-116W, FAA, Wichita Aircraft
Certification Office, 1801 Airport Road, Room 100, Mid-Continent
Airport, Wichita, Kansas 67209; telephone (316) 946-4157; fax (316)
946-4107.
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-2005-22169;
Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-094-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 website, 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 two failures of thrust
reverser accumulators occurred, and inspections have found four thrust
reverser accumulators with fatigue cracks. One failure occurred during
flight on a Learjet Model 25B airplane and led to an emergency landing.
The second failure occurred during bench testing and resulted in injury
to a person. Detailed inspections of four thrust reverser accumulators
found fatigue cracks on the inner threads that hold the two halves of
the accumulator together. The spherical accumulator used for the main
airplane hydraulic system is similar to the spherical accumulator used
for the thrust reverser hydraulic system. Therefore, these spherical
accumulators may be subject to the same unsafe condition. This fatigue
cracking, if not corrected, could result in the failure of the
accumulator, which could cause loss of hydraulic fluid and the
hydraulic systems, resulting in a loss of airplane control. The failure
of the accumulator could also result in damage to the surrounding
airplane structure and injury to any persons in the surrounding area.
The loss of hydraulic fluid could also leak onto a potential source of
ignition and result in a consequent fire.
Other Relevant Rulemaking
We have published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) in the
Federal Register on April 14, 2005 (70 FR 19718), applicable to Learjet
Model 23, 24, 24A, 24B, 24B-A, 24D, 24D-A, 24E, 24F, 25, 25A, 25B, 25C,
25D, and 25F airplanes modified by Supplemental Type Certificate
SA1731SW, SA1669SW, or SA1670SW; equipped with certain Nordam thrust
reversers. That NPRM proposed to require removing the thrust reverser
accumulator, and making the thrust reverser hydraulic system and the
thrust reversers inoperable. The actions proposed in that NPRM are
intended to prevent failure of the thrust reverser accumulators, due to
fatigue cracking on the female threads, which could result in the loss
of hydraulic power and damage to the surrounding airplane structure.
Relevant Service Information
We have reviewed Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A23/24/25-29-4,
Revision 1, dated January 17, 2005. The service bulletin describes
procedures for replacing certain spherical accumulators with new
cylindrical accumulators, and reporting accomplishment of the service
bulletin to the manufacturer. Replacing the accumulators may involve
replacing the supports and attachment hardware.
For certain airplanes, Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A23/24/25-
29-4 recommends prior or concurrent accomplishment of Learjet Service
Kit SK23-215, dated April 4, 1966. The concurrent service bulletin
describes procedures for relocating the accumulator pressure gauge.
Accomplishing the actions specified in the service information is
intended to adequately address the unsafe condition.
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 the Service Bulletin.''
Differences Between the Proposed AD and the Service Bulletin
Although Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A23/24/25-29-4, Revision
1, dated January 17, 2005, recommends replacing the spherical
accumulator for the main hydraulic system within 25 flight hours after
the receipt of the service bulletin, this proposed AD specifies a
compliance time of 60 days after the effective date of the AD. In
developing an appropriate compliance
[[Page 49212]]
time for this AD, we considered the manufacturer's recommendation, the
degree of urgency associated with the subject unsafe condition, the
average utilization of the affected fleet, and the time necessary to
perform the actions required by the proposed AD. In light of all of
these factors, we find that a longer compliance time represents an
appropriate interval of time for affected airplanes to continue to
operate without compromising safety. This difference has been
coordinated with Learjet.
Operators should also note that, although the Accomplishment
Instructions of the referenced service bulletin describe procedures for
submitting a comment sheet related to service bulletin quality and a
sheet recording compliance with the service bulletin, this proposed AD
would not require those actions. We do not need this information from
operators.
Costs of Compliance
There are about 434 airplanes of the affected design in the
worldwide fleet. This proposed AD would affect about 242 airplanes of
U.S. registry. The proposed actions would take about 9 to 13 work hours
per airplane, at an average labor rate of $65 per work hour. Required
parts would cost about $1,336 to $1,363 per airplane. Based on these
figures, the estimated cost of the proposed AD for U.S. operators is
$464,882 to $534,336, or $1,921 to $2,208 per airplane.
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):
Learjet: Docket No. FAA-2005-22169; Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-
094-AD.
Comments Due Date
(a) The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) must receive
comments on this AD action by October 7, 2005.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Learjet Model 23, 24, 24A, 24B, 24B-A,
24C, 24D, 24D-A, 24E, 24F, 24F-A, 25, 25A, 25B, 25C, 25D, and 25F
airplanes, certificated in any category; having serial numbers 23-
003 through 23-099 inclusive, 24-100 through 24-284 inclusive, and
25-003 through 25-153 inclusive.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD was prompted by reports of the failure of two thrust
reverser accumulators (which are similar to the main hydraulic
system's accumulator) and fatigue cracks found on four thrust
reverser accumulators. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of
the spherical accumulator for the main hydraulic system, due to
fatigue cracking on the threads, which could result in the loss of
hydraulic power, damage to the surrounding airplane structure, and
loss of airplane control. The failure of the accumulator could also
result in injury to any persons in the surrounding area. The loss of
hydraulic fluid could also leak onto a potential source of ignition
and result in a consequent 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.
Replacement
(f) Within 60 days after the effective date of this AD, replace
the spherical accumulator having part number (P/N) 2380025-( ) or P/
N 2380167-( ) with a new cylindrical accumulator having P/N 2497202-
801 in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier
Alert Service Bulletin A23/24/25-29-4, Revision 1, dated January 17,
2005.
Concurrent Action
(g) For airplanes having serial numbers 23-003 through 23-014
inclusive: Prior to or concurrently with the actions in Bombardier
Alert Service Bulletin A23/24/25-29-4, Revision 1, dated January 17,
2005, relocate the accumulator pressure gauge in accordance with
Learjet Service Kit SK23-215, dated April 4, 1966.
Parts Installation
(h) As of the effective date, no spherical accumulator having P/
N 2380025-() or P/N 2380167-() may be installed on any airplane.
Previous Actions
(i) Replacements done before the effective date of this AD in
accordance with Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A23/24/25-29-4,
dated August 20, 2004, are acceptable for compliance with the
requirements of paragraph (f) of this AD.
No Reporting Required
(j) Although the service bulletin referenced in this AD
specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD
does not include that requirement.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(k) The Manager, Wichita Aircraft Certification Office, 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 August 12, 2005.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 05-16752 Filed 8-22-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P