Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330-200, A330-300, A340-200, and A340-300 Series Airplanes; and Model A340-541 and -642 Airplanes, 50166-50168 [05-16896]
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50166
Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 165 / Friday, August 26, 2005 / Rules and Regulations
Washington, DC 20590–0001, on the Internet
at https://dms.dot.gov; or 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/federalregister/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on
August 17, 2005.
Richard Noll,
Acting Manager, Engine and Propeller
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 05–16834 Filed 8–25–05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2005–22196; Directorate
Identifier 2005–NM–170–AD; Amendment
39–14239; AD 2005–17–18]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model
A330–200, A330–300, A340–200, and
A340–300 Series Airplanes; and Model
A340–541 and –642 Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule; request for
comments.
AGENCY:
Discussion
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Airbus Model A330–200, A330–300,
A340–200, and A340–300 series
airplanes; and Model A340–541 and
–642 airplanes. This AD requires
repetitively resetting the display units
(DUs) for the electronic instrument
system (EIS) either by switching them
off and back on again or by performing
a complete electrical shutdown of the
airplane. This AD results from an
incident in which all of the DUs for the
EIS went blank simultaneously during
flight. We are issuing this AD to prevent
automatic reset of the DUs for the EIS
during flight and consequent loss of
data from the DUs, which could reduce
the ability of the flightcrew to control
the airplane during adverse flight
conditions.
DATES: This AD becomes effective
September 12, 2005.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in the AD
as of September 12, 2005.
We must receive comments on this
AD by October 25, 2005.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following
addresses to submit comments on this
AD.
VerDate Aug<18>2005
16:11 Aug 25, 2005
Jkt 205001
• 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.
• 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.
Contact Airbus, 1 Rond Point Maurice
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France,
for service information identified in this
AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tim
Backman, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116, FAA,
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601
Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington
98055–4056; telephone (425) 227–2797;
fax (425) 227–1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
´ ´
The Direction Generale de l’Aviation
Civile (DGAC), which is the
airworthiness authority for France,
notified us that an unsafe condition may
exist on certain Airbus Model A330–
200, A330–300, A340–200, and A340–
300 series airplanes; and A340–541 and
–642 airplanes. The DGAC advises of an
incident that occurred on a Model A330
series airplane, in which all six of the
liquid crystal display units (DUs) for the
electronic instrument system (EIS)
(which is equipped with the EIS2
software standard) went blank
simultaneously during flight. The DUs
recovered automatically after
approximately 40 seconds. This
incident was attributed to an automatic
reset function of the DUs. (After the DUs
have been continuously powered for
more than 6 days, an internal timer
automatically resets them.) This
condition, if not corrected, could result
in loss of data from the DUs, which
could reduce the ability of the
flightcrew to control the airplane during
adverse flight conditions.
Relevant Service Information
Airbus has issued All Operator
Telexes (AOTs) A330–31A3092 (for
Model A330–200 and –300 series
airplanes), A340–31A4102 (for Model
A340–200 and –300 series airplanes),
and A340–31A5023 (for Model A340–
541 and –642 airplanes), all dated
PO 00000
Frm 00018
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
August 1, 2005. The AOTs are effective
for airplanes of the identified models on
which the EIS is equipped with the EIS2
software standard, version L4–1 or L–5.
The AOTs describe procedures for
resetting the DUs for the EIS by
switching them off, waiting 5 seconds or
longer, then switching the DUs back on
again. The DGAC mandated the AOTs
and issued French emergency
airworthiness directive UF–2005–150,
dated August 10, 2005, to ensure the
continued airworthiness of these
airplanes in France.
FAA’s Determination and Requirements
of This AD
These airplane models are
manufactured in France and are type
certificated for operation in the United
States under the provisions of section
21.29 of the Federal Aviation
Regulations (14 CFR 21.29) and the
applicable bilateral airworthiness
agreement. Pursuant to this bilateral
airworthiness agreement, the DGAC has
kept the FAA informed of the situation
described above. We have examined the
DGAC’s findings, evaluated all pertinent
information, and determined that we
need to issue an AD for products of this
type design that are certificated for
operation in the United States.
Therefore, we are issuing this AD to
prevent automatic reset of the DUs for
the EIS during flight and consequent
loss of data from the DUs, which could
reduce the ability of the flightcrew to
control the airplane during adverse
flight conditions. This AD requires
repetitively resetting the DUs for the EIS
either by accomplishing the actions
specified in the AOTs described
previously, or by performing a complete
electrical shutdown of the airplane. We
have determined that switching the DUs
off and back on again may be properly
performed by flight deck crew (or by
certificated maintenance personnel)
because this action does not require
tools, precision measuring equipment,
training, or pilot logbook endorsements,
or the use of or reference to technical
data that are not contained in the body
of the AD.
Interim Action
We consider this AD interim action.
The manufacturer is currently
developing a modification that will
address the unsafe condition identified
in this AD. Once this modification is
developed, approved, and available, we
may consider additional rulemaking.
FAA’s Determination of the Effective
Date
An unsafe condition exists that
requires the immediate adoption of this
E:\FR\FM\26AUR1.SGM
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50167
Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 165 / Friday, August 26, 2005 / Rules and Regulations
AD; therefore, providing notice and
opportunity for public comment before
the AD is issued is impracticable, and
good cause exists to make this AD
effective in less than 30 days.
Comments Invited
This AD is a final rule that involves
requirements that affect flight safety and
was not preceded by notice and an
opportunity for public comment;
however, we invite you to submit any
relevant written data, views, or
arguments regarding this AD. Send your
comments to an address listed in the
ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No.
FAA–2005–22196; Directorate Identifier
2005–NM–170–AD’’ at the beginning of
your comments. We specifically invite
comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy
aspects of the AD that might suggest a
need to modify it.
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 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 may review the DOT’s complete
Privacy Act Statement in the Federal
Register published on April 11, 2000
(65 FR 19477–78), or you may visit
https://dms.dot.gov.
‘‘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 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 the 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 AD and placed it in the AD docket.
See the ADDRESSES section for a location
to examine the regulatory evaluation.
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective September
12, 2005.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A330–
201, –202, –203, –223, –243, –301, –321,
–322, –323, –341, –342, and –343 airplanes;
and A340–211, –212, –213, –311, –312, –313,
–541, and –642 airplanes; certificated in any
category; on which one of the Airbus
Electronic Instrument System (EIS) 2
software versions listed in Table 1 of this AD
is installed.
TABLE 1.—APPLICABILITY
EIS 2
software
version
Installed by
this Airbus
modification
in production
L4–1 .....
51153
L5 .........
51974
Or installed by
one of these Airbus service bulletins in service
A330–31–3056,
A330–31–3057,
or
A340–31–5001.
A330–31–3056,
A330–31–3069,
A330–31–4087,
or
A340–31–5012.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from an incident in
which all of the display units (DUs) for the
EIS went blank simultaneously during flight.
The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent
automatic reset of the DUs for the EIS during
flight and consequent loss of data from the
DUs, which could reduce the ability of the
flightcrew to control the airplane during
adverse flight conditions.
Examining the Docket
You may 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 receives them.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Compliance
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
(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.
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,
■
VerDate Aug<18>2005
16:11 Aug 25, 2005
Jkt 205001
Adoption of the Amendment
Resetting the DUs for the EIS
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.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) amends § 39.13
by adding the following new
airworthiness directive (AD):
■
2005–17–18 Airbus: Amendment 39–
14239. Docket No. FAA–2005–22196;
Directorate Identifier 2005–NM–170–AD.
PO 00000
Frm 00019
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
(f) Within 2 days after the effective date of
this AD, or within 4 days after the last reset
of the DUs for the EIS or complete electrical
shutdown of the airplane, whichever is first:
Reset the DUs for the EIS by doing the
actions in either paragraph (f)(1) or (f)(2) of
this AD. Thereafter, do the actions in
paragraph (f)(1) or (f)(2) of this AD at
intervals not to exceed 4 days.
(1) Switch off each DU for the EIS, wait 5
seconds or longer, and switch the DU back
on again, in accordance with Airbus All
Operator Telex (AOT) A330–31A3092 (for
Model A330–201, –202, –203, –223, –243,
–301, –321, –322, –323, –341, –342, and –343
airplanes), A340–31A4102 (for A340–211,
–212, –213, –311, –312, and –313 airplanes),
or A340–31A5023 (for Model A340–541 and
–642 airplanes), all dated August 1, 2005, as
applicable. This action may be performed by
the flight deck crew or by certificated
maintenance personnel.
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50168
Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 165 / Friday, August 26, 2005 / Rules and Regulations
(2) Perform a complete electrical shutdown
of the airplane.
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(g) The Manager, International Branch,
ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate,
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs
for this AD, if requested in accordance with
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
Related Information
(h) French emergency airworthiness
directive UF–2005–150, dated August 10,
2005, also addresses the subject of this AD.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(i) You must use the documents listed in
Table 2 of this AD to perform the actions that
are required by this AD, unless the AD
specifies otherwise. The Director of the
Federal Register approved the incorporation
by reference of these documents in
accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51. Contact Airbus, 1 Rond Point
Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex,
France, for a copy of this service information.
You may review copies at the Docket
Management Facility, U.S. Department of
Transportation, 400 Seventh Street SW.,
Room PL–401, Nassif Building, Washington,
DC; on the Internet at https://dms.dot.gov; or
at the National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at the NARA,
call (202) 741–6030, or go to https://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/
code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
TABLE 2.—MATERIAL INCORPORATED
BY REFERENCE
Airbus all operators telex
Date
A330–31A3092 ..................
A340–31A4102 ..................
A340–31A5023 ..................
August 1, 2005.
August 1, 2005.
August 1, 2005.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on August
18, 2005.
Michael Zielinski,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 05–16896 Filed 8–25–05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2005–21924; Directorate
Identifier 2005–NE–30–AD; Amendment 39–
14236; AD 2005–17–15]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Turbomeca
Arrius 2F Turboshaft Engines
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
AGENCY:
VerDate Aug<18>2005
16:11 Aug 25, 2005
Jkt 205001
Final rule; request for
comments.
ACTION:
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for
Turbomeca Arrius 2F turboshaft
engines. This AD requires a one-time
removal and inspection of the fuel filterholder assembly to determine that the
fuel control unit (FCU) filter is
dimensionally correct. The AD also
requires updating the Engine
Maintenance Manuals to include a
dimensional check of the fuel filterholder assembly every time the FCU
filter element is removed from the fuel
filter-holder assembly. This AD results
from reports of restricted fuel flow
caused by a dimensionally incorrect
FCU filter. Ground run testing may not
detect the fuel flow limitation. We are
issuing this AD to detect a
dimensionally incorrect FCU filter that
could lead to an undetected limitation
of fuel flow, limiting the maximum
power available in-flight, which could
result in the inability to continue safe
flight, avoid obstacles or land safely.
DATES: Effective September 12, 2005.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in the
regulations as of September 12, 2005.
We must receive any comments on
this AD by October 25, 2005.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following
addresses to comment on this 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–
0001.
• 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.
Contact Turbomeca S.A., 40220
Tarnos, France; telephone 33 05 59 74
40 00, fax 33 05 59 74 45 15, for the
service information identified in this
AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Christopher Spinney, Aerospace
Engineer, Engine Certification Office,
FAA, Engine and Propeller Directorate,
12 New England Executive Park,
Burlington, MA 01803–5299; telephone
(781) 238–7175; fax (781) 238–7199.
PO 00000
Frm 00020
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
The
Direction Generale de L’Aviation Civile
(DGAC), which is the airworthiness
authority for France, notified us that an
unsafe condition might exist on
Turbomeca S.A. Arrius 2F turboshaft
engines. The DGAC advised us of
reports of restricted fuel flow caused by
a dimensionally incorrect FCU filters.
Ground run testing may not detect the
fuel flow limitation and, therefore, it
could go undetected until maximum
power is needed for certain flight
conditions. We are issuing this AD to
detect a dimensionally incorrect FCU
filter that could lead to an undetected
limitation of fuel flow, limiting the
maximum power available in-flight,
which could result in the inability to
continue safe flight, avoid obstacles or
land safely.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Relevant Service Information
We have reviewed and approved the
technical contents of Turbomeca
Mandatory Alert Service Bulletin No.
A319 73 4823, dated May 11, 2005, that
describes procedures for checking the
correct position of the FCU fuel filter.
The DGAC classified this service
bulletin as mandatory and issued AD
No. F–2005–088, in order to ensure the
airworthiness of these engines in
France.
Bilateral Airworthiness Agreement
This engine model is manufactured in
France and is type certificated for
operation in the United States under the
provisions of section 21.29 of the
Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR
21.29) and the applicable bilateral
airworthiness agreement. Under this
bilateral airworthiness agreement, the
Direction General De L’Aviation Civile
(DGAC), which is the airworthiness
authority for France, recently notified us
that an unsafe condition might exist on
certain Turbomeca S.A. Arrius 2F
turboshaft engines. Under this bilateral
airworthiness agreement, the DGAC
kept the FAA informed of the situation
described above. We have examined the
findings of the DGAC, reviewed all
available information, and determined
that AD action is necessary for products
of this type design that are certificated
for operation in the United States.
FAA’s Determination and Requirements
of This AD
The unsafe condition described
previously is likely to exist or develop
on other Turbomeca S.A. Arrius 2F
turboshaft engines of the same type
design. We are issuing this AD to detect
incorrect positioning of the FCU filter
that could lead to an undetected
limitation of fuel flow, limiting the
E:\FR\FM\26AUR1.SGM
26AUR1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 165 (Friday, August 26, 2005)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 50166-50168]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-16896]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2005-22196; Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-170-AD;
Amendment 39-14239; AD 2005-17-18]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330-200, A330-300, A340-
200, and A340-300 Series Airplanes; and Model A340-541 and -642
Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Airbus Model A330-200, A330-300, A340-200, and A340-300 series
airplanes; and Model A340-541 and -642 airplanes. This AD requires
repetitively resetting the display units (DUs) for the electronic
instrument system (EIS) either by switching them off and back on again
or by performing a complete electrical shutdown of the airplane. This
AD results from an incident in which all of the DUs for the EIS went
blank simultaneously during flight. We are issuing this AD to prevent
automatic reset of the DUs for the EIS during flight and consequent
loss of data from the DUs, which could reduce the ability of the
flightcrew to control the airplane during adverse flight conditions.
DATES: This AD becomes effective September 12, 2005.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of September 12,
2005.
We must receive comments on this AD by October 25, 2005.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on
this 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.
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.
Contact Airbus, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex,
France, for service information identified in this AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tim Backman, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98055-4056; telephone (425)
227-2797; fax (425) 227-1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
The Direction G[eacute]n[eacute]rale de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC),
which is the airworthiness authority for France, notified us that an
unsafe condition may exist on certain Airbus Model A330-200, A330-300,
A340-200, and A340-300 series airplanes; and A340-541 and -642
airplanes. The DGAC advises of an incident that occurred on a Model
A330 series airplane, in which all six of the liquid crystal display
units (DUs) for the electronic instrument system (EIS) (which is
equipped with the EIS2 software standard) went blank simultaneously
during flight. The DUs recovered automatically after approximately 40
seconds. This incident was attributed to an automatic reset function of
the DUs. (After the DUs have been continuously powered for more than 6
days, an internal timer automatically resets them.) This condition, if
not corrected, could result in loss of data from the DUs, which could
reduce the ability of the flightcrew to control the airplane during
adverse flight conditions.
Relevant Service Information
Airbus has issued All Operator Telexes (AOTs) A330-31A3092 (for
Model A330-200 and -300 series airplanes), A340-31A4102 (for Model
A340-200 and -300 series airplanes), and A340-31A5023 (for Model A340-
541 and -642 airplanes), all dated August 1, 2005. The AOTs are
effective for airplanes of the identified models on which the EIS is
equipped with the EIS2 software standard, version L4-1 or L-5. The AOTs
describe procedures for resetting the DUs for the EIS by switching them
off, waiting 5 seconds or longer, then switching the DUs back on again.
The DGAC mandated the AOTs and issued French emergency airworthiness
directive UF-2005-150, dated August 10, 2005, to ensure the continued
airworthiness of these airplanes in France.
FAA's Determination and Requirements of This AD
These airplane models are manufactured in France and are type
certificated for operation in the United States under the provisions of
section 21.29 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.29) and
the applicable bilateral airworthiness agreement. Pursuant to this
bilateral airworthiness agreement, the DGAC has kept the FAA informed
of the situation described above. We have examined the DGAC's findings,
evaluated all pertinent information, and determined that we need to
issue an AD for products of this type design that are certificated for
operation in the United States.
Therefore, we are issuing this AD to prevent automatic reset of the
DUs for the EIS during flight and consequent loss of data from the DUs,
which could reduce the ability of the flightcrew to control the
airplane during adverse flight conditions. This AD requires
repetitively resetting the DUs for the EIS either by accomplishing the
actions specified in the AOTs described previously, or by performing a
complete electrical shutdown of the airplane. We have determined that
switching the DUs off and back on again may be properly performed by
flight deck crew (or by certificated maintenance personnel) because
this action does not require tools, precision measuring equipment,
training, or pilot logbook endorsements, or the use of or reference to
technical data that are not contained in the body of the AD.
Interim Action
We consider this AD interim action. The manufacturer is currently
developing a modification that will address the unsafe condition
identified in this AD. Once this modification is developed, approved,
and available, we may consider additional rulemaking.
FAA's Determination of the Effective Date
An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of
this
[[Page 50167]]
AD; therefore, providing notice and opportunity for public comment
before the AD is issued is impracticable, and good cause exists to make
this AD effective in less than 30 days.
Comments Invited
This AD is a final rule that involves requirements that affect
flight safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for
public comment; however, we invite you to submit any relevant written
data, views, or arguments regarding this AD. Send your comments to an
address listed in the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2005-
22196; Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-170-AD'' at the beginning of your
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the AD that might
suggest a need to modify it.
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 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 may review the DOT's complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal
Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477-78), or you may visit
https://dms.dot.gov.
Examining the Docket
You may 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
receives them.
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 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 the 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 AD and placed it in the AD docket. 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, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
0
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 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends Sec. 39.13 by
adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD):
2005-17-18 Airbus: Amendment 39-14239. Docket No. FAA-2005-
22196; Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-170-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective September 12, 2005.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223,
-243, -301, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes; and
A340-211, -212, -213, -311, -312, -313, -541, and -642 airplanes;
certificated in any category; on which one of the Airbus Electronic
Instrument System (EIS) 2 software versions listed in Table 1 of
this AD is installed.
Table 1.--Applicability
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Installed by
this Airbus Or installed by one of these
EIS 2 software version modification Airbus service bulletins in
in production service
------------------------------------------------------------------------
L4-1..................... 51153 A330-31-3056,
A330-31-3057, or
A340-31-5001.
L5....................... 51974 A330-31-3056,
A330-31-3069,
A330-31-4087, or
A340-31-5012.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from an incident in which all of the display
units (DUs) for the EIS went blank simultaneously during flight. The
FAA is issuing this AD to prevent automatic reset of the DUs for the
EIS during flight and consequent loss of data from the DUs, which
could reduce the ability of the flightcrew to control the airplane
during adverse flight conditions.
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.
Resetting the DUs for the EIS
(f) Within 2 days after the effective date of this AD, or within
4 days after the last reset of the DUs for the EIS or complete
electrical shutdown of the airplane, whichever is first: Reset the
DUs for the EIS by doing the actions in either paragraph (f)(1) or
(f)(2) of this AD. Thereafter, do the actions in paragraph (f)(1) or
(f)(2) of this AD at intervals not to exceed 4 days.
(1) Switch off each DU for the EIS, wait 5 seconds or longer,
and switch the DU back on again, in accordance with Airbus All
Operator Telex (AOT) A330-31A3092 (for Model A330-201, -202, -203, -
223, -243, -301, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes),
A340-31A4102 (for A340-211, -212, -213, -311, -312, and -313
airplanes), or A340-31A5023 (for Model A340-541 and -642 airplanes),
all dated August 1, 2005, as applicable. This action may be
performed by the flight deck crew or by certificated maintenance
personnel.
[[Page 50168]]
(2) Perform a complete electrical shutdown of the airplane.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(g) The Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport
Airplane Directorate, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for
this AD, if requested in accordance with the procedures found in 14
CFR 39.19.
Related Information
(h) French emergency airworthiness directive UF-2005-150, dated
August 10, 2005, also addresses the subject of this AD.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(i) You must use the documents listed in Table 2 of this AD to
perform the actions that are required by this AD, unless the AD
specifies otherwise. The Director of the Federal Register approved
the incorporation by reference of these documents in accordance with
5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Contact Airbus, 1 Rond Point
Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France, for a copy of this
service information. You may review copies at the Docket Management
Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street SW.,
Room PL-401, Nassif Building, Washington, DC; on the Internet at
https://dms.dot.gov; or at the National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this
material at the NARA, call (202) 741-6030, or go to https://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
Table 2.--Material Incorporated by Reference
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus all operators telex Date
------------------------------------------------------------------------
A330-31A3092........................... August 1, 2005.
A340-31A4102........................... August 1, 2005.
A340-31A5023........................... August 1, 2005.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Issued in Renton, Washington, on August 18, 2005.
Michael Zielinski,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 05-16896 Filed 8-25-05; 8:45 am]
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