Airworthiness Directives; Glaser-Dirks Flugzeugbau GmbH Models DG-100 and DG-400 Sailplanes and DG Flugzeugbau GmbH Models DG-500 Elan Series and DG-500M Sailplanes, 58110-58112 [05-19935]
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58110
Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 192 / Wednesday, October 5, 2005 / Proposed Rules
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2005–22157; Directorate
Identifier 2005–CE–44–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Glaser-Dirks
Flugzeugbau GmbH Models DG–100
and DG–400 Sailplanes and DG
Flugzeugbau GmbH Models DG–500
Elan Series and DG–500M Sailplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a
new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Glaser-Dirks Flugzeugbau GmbH Models
DG–100 and DG–400 sailplanes and
certain DG Flugzeugbau GmbH Models
DG–500 Elan Series and DG–500M
sailplanes. This proposed AD would
require you to modify or replace the
complete rudder mount assembly and
ensure that the securing washer,
castellated nut, and new split pins are
installed. This proposed AD results
from mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI)
issued by the airworthiness authority for
Germany. We are issuing this proposed
AD to prevent the universal bearing of
the lower rudder mounting from
slipping out of the bearing support. The
universal bearing slipping out could
result in the rudder separating from its
support. This failure could lead to loss
of sailplane control during flight
operations.
DATES: We must receive any comments
on this proposed AD by November 9,
2005.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following 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–
001.
• Fax: 1–202–493–2251.
• 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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To get the service information
identified in this proposed AD, contact
DG Flugzeugbau, Postbox 41 20, D–
76625 Bruchsal, Federal Republic of
Germany; telephone: 011–49 7257–890;
facsimile: 011–49 7257–8922.
To view the comments to this
proposed AD, go to https://dms.dot.gov.
This is docket number FAA–2005–
22157; Directorate Identifier 2005–CE–
44–AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Gregory Davison, Aerospace Engineer,
FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, ACE–
112, Room 301, 901 Locust, Kansas City,
Missouri 64106; telephone: 816–329–
4130; facsimile: 816–329–4090.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
How do I comment on this proposed
AD? We invite you to submit any
written relevant data, views, or
arguments regarding this proposal. Send
your comments to an address listed
under ADDRESSES. Include the docket
number, ‘‘FAA–2005–22157; Directorate
Identifier 2005–CE–44–AD’’ at the
beginning of your 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 rulemaking. Using the search
function of our docket Web site, anyone
can find and read the comments
received into 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.). This is
docket number FAA–2005–22157;
Directorate Identifier 2005–CE–44–AD.
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.
Are there any specific portions of this
proposed AD I should pay attention to?
We specifically invite comments on the
overall regulatory, economic,
environmental, and energy aspects of
this proposed AD. If you contact us
through a nonwritten communication
and that contact relates to a substantive
part of this proposed AD, we will
summarize the contact and place the
summary in the docket. We will
consider all comments received by the
closing date and may amend this
proposed AD in light of those comments
and contacts.
Docket Information
Where can I go to view the docket
information? You may view the AD
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Sfmt 4702
docket that contains the proposal, any
comments received, and any final
disposition in person at the DMS Docket
Offices between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
(eastern time), Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays. The Docket
Office (telephone 1–800–647–5227) is
located on the plaza level of the
Department of Transportation NASSIF
Building at the street address stated in
ADDRESSES. You may also view the AD
docket on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov. The comments will be
available in the AD docket shortly after
the DMS receives them.
Discussion
What events have caused this
proposed AD? The Luftfahrt-Bundesamt
(LBA), which is the airworthiness
authority for Germany, recently notified
FAA that an unsafe condition may exist
on all Glaser-Dirks Flugzeugbau GmbH
Models DG–100 and DG–400 sailplanes
and certain DG Flugzeugbau GmbH
Models DG–500 Elan Series and DG–
500M sailplanes. The LBA reports that
on a Model DG–100 sailplane the
universal bearing of the lower rudder
mounting slipped out of the bearing
support and the rudder fell out. Further,
the LBA reports that this kind of failure
may occur on other DG series sailplanes.
What is the potential impact if FAA
took no action? The universal bearing
slipping out could result in the rudder
separating from its support. This failure
could lead to loss of sailplane control
during flight operations.
Is there service information that
applies to this subject? DG Flugzeugbau
has issued Technical Note No. 301/23
issue 2, 323/14 issue 2, 348/18 issue 2,
359/21 issue 2, 370/9 issue 2, 826/44
issue 2, 843/21 issue 2, 866/10 issue 2,
dated June 11, 2004, amended July 7,
2004.
What are the provisions of this service
information? The service bulletin
includes procedures for:
—Inspecting the outer bearing ring in
the rudder mounting for correct
installation;
—Modifying or replacing the complete
rudder mounting assembly; and
—Ensuring that the securing washer,
castellated nut, and new split pins
are installed.
What action did the LBA take? The
LBA classified this service bulletin as
mandatory and issued German AD
Number D–2004–348R1, dated
September 16, 2004, to ensure the
continued airworthiness of these
sailplanes in Germany.
Did the LBA inform the United States
under the bilateral airworthiness
agreement? These Glaser-Dirks
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58111
Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 192 / Wednesday, October 5, 2005 / Proposed Rules
Flugzeugbau GmbH Models DG–100 and
DG–400 sailplanes and certain DG
Flugzeugbau GmbH Models DG–500
Elan Series and DG–500M sailplanes are
manufactured in Germany and are typecertificated 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 LBA has kept us
informed of the situation described
above.
FAA’s Determination and Requirements
of This Proposed AD
What has FAA decided? We have
examined the LBA’s findings, 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.
Since the unsafe condition described
previously is likely to exist or develop
on other Glaser-Dirks Flugzeugbau
GmbH Models DG–100 and DG–400
sailplanes and certain DG Flugzeugbau
GmbH Models DG–500 Elan Series and
DG–500M sailplanes of the same type
design that are registered in the United
States, we are proposing AD action to
prevent the universal bearing of the
lower rudder mounting slipping out of
the bearing support. The universal
bearing slipping out could result in the
rudder separating from its support. This
failure could lead to loss of sailplane
control during flight operations.
What would this proposed AD
require? This proposed AD would
require you to modify or replace the
complete rudder mount assembly and
ensure that the securing washer,
castellated nut, and new split pins are
installed.
How does the revision to 14 CFR part
39 affect this proposed AD? On July 10,
2002, we published a new version of 14
CFR part 39 (67 FR 47997, July 22,
2002), which governs FAA’s AD system.
This regulation now includes material
that relates to altered products, special
flight permits, and alternative methods
of compliance. This material previously
was included in each individual AD.
Since this material is included in 14
CFR part 39, we will not include it in
future AD actions.
Costs of Compliance
How many sailplanes would this
proposed AD impact? We estimate that
this proposed AD affects 75 sailplanes
in the U.S. registry.
What would be the cost impact of this
proposed AD on owners/operators of the
affected sailplanes? We estimate the
following costs to do this proposed
replacement of the complete rudder
mount assembly. We have no way of
determining the number of sailplanes
that may need this replacement:
Parts
cost
Labor cost
2 work hours × $65 = $130 .................................................................................................................................................
We estimate the following costs to do
this proposed modification of the
complete rudder mount assembly. We
have no way of determining the number
Total cost per
sailplane
$265
$395
of sailplanes that may need this
modification:
Labor cost
Parts cost
3 work hours × $65 = $195 ..........................................................................................
Total cost per
sailplane
Not Applicable ...........................................
Authority for This Rulemaking
What authority does FAA have for
issuing this rulemaking action? 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 AD.
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17:08 Oct 04, 2005
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Regulatory Findings
Would this proposed AD impact
various entities? 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.
Would this proposed AD involve a
significant rule or regulatory action? For
the reasons discussed above, I certify
that this proposed AD:
1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); 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 summary of the costs
to comply with this proposed AD (and
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$195
other information as included in the
Regulatory Evaluation) and placed it in
the AD Docket. You may get a copy of
this summary by sending a request to us
at the address listed under ADDRESSES.
Include ‘‘AD Docket FAA–2005–22157;
Directorate Identifier 2005–CE–44–AD’’
in your request.
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 Federal Aviation Administration
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.
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58112
§ 39.13
Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 192 / Wednesday, October 5, 2005 / Proposed Rules
2005–22157; Directorate Identifier 2005–
CE–44–AD.
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
When Is the Last Date I Can Submit
Comments on This Proposed AD?
DG Flugzeugbau GmbH and Glaser-Dirks
Flugzeugbau GmbH: Docket No. FAA–
(a) We must receive comments on this
proposed airworthiness directive (AD) by
November 9, 2005.
Model
What Other ADs Are Affected by This
Action?
(b) None.
What Sailplanes Are Affected by This AD?
(c) This AD affects the following sailplane
models and serial numbers that are
certificated in any category:
Serial numbers
DG–100 ....................................................................................................
DG–400 ....................................................................................................
DG–500 Elan Series .................................................................................
DG–500M .................................................................................................
What Is the Unsafe Condition Presented in
This AD?
(d) This AD is the result of mandatory
continuing airworthiness information (MCAI)
issued by the airworthiness authority for
All
All
All
All
Serial
Serial
Serial
Serial
Numbers.
Numbers.
Numbers Through 5E23.
Numbers Through 5E23.
Germany. The actions specified in this AD
are intended to prevent the universal bearing
of the lower rudder mounting from slipping
out of the bearing support. The universal
bearing slipping out could result in the
rudder separating from its support. This
failure could lead to loss of sailplane control
during flight operations.
What Must I Do To Address This Problem?
(e) To address this problem, you must do
the following:
Actions
Compliance
Procedures
(1) Modify or replace the complete rudder
mounting assembly.
Within the next 25 hours time-in-service (TIS)
after the effective date of this AD, unless already done.
(2) Ensure that the securing washer, castellated
nut, and split pins are installed as specified
by the DG Flugzeugbau GmbH Technical
Note No. 301/23 issue 2, 323/14 issue 2,
348/18 issue 2, 359/21 issue 2, 370/9 issue
2, 826/44 issue 2, 843/21 issue 2, 866/10
issue 2, dated June 11, 2004, amended July
7, 2004.
Before further flight after the modification or
replacement of the complete rudder mounting assembly required by paragraph (e)(1)
of this AD.
Follow DG Flugzeugbau GmbH Technical
Note No. 301/23 issue 2, 323/14 issue 2,
348/18 issue 2, 359/21 issue 2, 370/9 issue
2, 826/44 issue 2, 843/21 issue 2, 866/10
issue 2, dated June 11, 2004, amended
July 7, 2004
Follow DG Flugzeugbau GmbH Technical
Note No. 301/23 issue 2, 323/14 issue 2,
348/18 issue 2, 359/21 issue 2, 370/9 issue
2, 826/44 issue 2, 843/21 issue 2, 866/10
issue 2, dated June 11, 2004, amended
July 7, 2004.
Note: Until the actions of this AD are done,
the FAA strongly recommends that an FAAcertified mechanic perform a daily pre-flight
inspection to check the position of the outer
bearing ring following the requirements of
DG Flugzeugbau GmbH Technical Note No.
301/23 issue 2, 323/14 issue 2, 348/18 issue
2, 359/21 issue 2, 370/9 issue 2, 826/44 issue
2, 843/21 issue 2, 866/10 issue 2, dated June
11, 2004, amended July 7, 2004. If the bearing
is displaced, we recommend that you
discontinue flight operations until you
modify or replace the complete rudder mount
assembly and ensure that the securing
washer, castellated nut, and new split pins
are installed.
May I Request an Alternative Method of
Compliance?
(f) You may request a different method of
compliance or a different compliance time
for this AD by following the procedures in 14
CFR 39.19. Unless FAA authorizes otherwise,
send your request to your principal
inspector. The principal inspector may add
comments and will send your request to the
Manager, Standards Office, Small Airplane
Directorate, FAA. For information on any
already approved alternative methods of
compliance, contact Gregory Davison,
Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane
Directorate, ACE–112, Room 301, 901 Locust,
VerDate Aug<31>2005
17:08 Oct 04, 2005
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Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: 816–
329–4130; facsimile: 816–329–4090.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
AGENCY
Is There Other Information That Relates to
This Subject?
40 CFR Part 52
(g) German AD Number D–2004–348R1,
dated September 16, 2004, also addresses the
subject of this AD.
May I Get Copies of the Documents
Referenced in This AD?
(h) To get copies of the documents
referenced in this AD, contact DG
Flugzeugbau, Postbox 41 20, D–76625
Bruchsal, Federal Republic of Germany;
telephone: 011–49 7257–890; facsimile: 011–
49 7257–8922. To view the AD docket, go to
the Docket Management Facility; U.S.
Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh
Street, SW., Nassif Building, Room PL–401,
Washington, DC, or on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov. This is docket number FAA–
2005–22157; Directorate Identifier 2005–CE–
44–AD.
Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on
September 28, 2005.
David R. Showers,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 05–19935 Filed 10–4–05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
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[R06–OAR–2005–TX–0023; FRL–7981–3]
Approval and Promulgation of Air
Quality Implementation Plans; Texas;
Emissions Banking and Trading
Revisions for the Mass Emissions Cap
and Trade Program for the Houston/
Galveston/Brazoria Ozone
Nonattainment Area
Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Proposed rule.
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: EPA is proposing to approve
revisions to the Texas State
Implementation Plan (SIP) concerning
the Mass Emissions Cap and Trade
(MECT) program for emissions of
nitrogen oxides (NOX) in the Houston/
Galveston/Brazoria (HGB) ozone
nonattainment area. Additionally, EPA
is proposing approval of several
subsections of Chapter 116 of the Texas
Administrative Code (TAC) (Control of
Air Pollution by Permits for New
E:\FR\FM\05OCP1.SGM
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 192 (Wednesday, October 5, 2005)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 58110-58112]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-19935]
[[Page 58110]]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2005-22157; Directorate Identifier 2005-CE-44-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Glaser-Dirks Flugzeugbau GmbH Models
DG-100 and DG-400 Sailplanes and DG Flugzeugbau GmbH Models DG-500 Elan
Series and DG-500M Sailplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD)
for all Glaser-Dirks Flugzeugbau GmbH Models DG-100 and DG-400
sailplanes and certain DG Flugzeugbau GmbH Models DG-500 Elan Series
and DG-500M sailplanes. This proposed AD would require you to modify or
replace the complete rudder mount assembly and ensure that the securing
washer, castellated nut, and new split pins are installed. This
proposed AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information
(MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. We are
issuing this proposed AD to prevent the universal bearing of the lower
rudder mounting from slipping out of the bearing support. The universal
bearing slipping out could result in the rudder separating from its
support. This failure could lead to loss of sailplane control during
flight operations.
DATES: We must receive any comments on this proposed AD by November 9,
2005.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following 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 20590-001.
Fax: 1-202-493-2251.
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.
To get the service information identified in this proposed AD,
contact DG Flugzeugbau, Postbox 41 20, D-76625 Bruchsal, Federal
Republic of Germany; telephone: 011-49 7257-890; facsimile: 011-49
7257-8922.
To view the comments to this proposed AD, go to https://dms.dot.gov.
This is docket number FAA-2005-22157; Directorate Identifier 2005-CE-
44-AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Gregory Davison, Aerospace Engineer,
FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, ACE-112, Room 301, 901 Locust, Kansas
City, Missouri 64106; telephone: 816-329-4130; facsimile: 816-329-4090.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
How do I comment on this proposed AD? We invite you to submit any
written relevant data, views, or arguments regarding this proposal.
Send your comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include the
docket number, ``FAA-2005-22157; Directorate Identifier 2005-CE-44-AD''
at the beginning of your 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
rulemaking. Using the search function of our docket Web site, anyone
can find and read the comments received into 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.).
This is docket number FAA-2005-22157; Directorate Identifier 2005-CE-
44-AD. 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.
Are there any specific portions of this proposed AD I should pay
attention to? We specifically invite comments on the overall
regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this
proposed AD. If you contact us through a nonwritten communication and
that contact relates to a substantive part of this proposed AD, we will
summarize the contact and place the summary in the docket. We will
consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this
proposed AD in light of those comments and contacts.
Docket Information
Where can I go to view the docket information? You may view the AD
docket that contains the proposal, any comments received, and any final
disposition in person at the DMS Docket Offices between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m. (eastern time), Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The Docket Office (telephone 1-800-647-5227) is located on the plaza
level of the Department of Transportation NASSIF Building at the street
address stated in ADDRESSES. You may also view the AD docket on the
Internet at https://dms.dot.gov. The comments will be available in the
AD docket shortly after the DMS receives them.
Discussion
What events have caused this proposed AD? The Luftfahrt-Bundesamt
(LBA), which is the airworthiness authority for Germany, recently
notified FAA that an unsafe condition may exist on all Glaser-Dirks
Flugzeugbau GmbH Models DG-100 and DG-400 sailplanes and certain DG
Flugzeugbau GmbH Models DG-500 Elan Series and DG-500M sailplanes. The
LBA reports that on a Model DG-100 sailplane the universal bearing of
the lower rudder mounting slipped out of the bearing support and the
rudder fell out. Further, the LBA reports that this kind of failure may
occur on other DG series sailplanes.
What is the potential impact if FAA took no action? The universal
bearing slipping out could result in the rudder separating from its
support. This failure could lead to loss of sailplane control during
flight operations.
Is there service information that applies to this subject? DG
Flugzeugbau has issued Technical Note No. 301/23 issue 2, 323/14 issue
2, 348/18 issue 2, 359/21 issue 2, 370/9 issue 2, 826/44 issue 2, 843/
21 issue 2, 866/10 issue 2, dated June 11, 2004, amended July 7, 2004.
What are the provisions of this service information? The service
bulletin includes procedures for:
--Inspecting the outer bearing ring in the rudder mounting for correct
installation;
--Modifying or replacing the complete rudder mounting assembly; and
--Ensuring that the securing washer, castellated nut, and new split
pins are installed.
What action did the LBA take? The LBA classified this service
bulletin as mandatory and issued German AD Number D-2004-348R1, dated
September 16, 2004, to ensure the continued airworthiness of these
sailplanes in Germany.
Did the LBA inform the United States under the bilateral
airworthiness agreement? These Glaser-Dirks
[[Page 58111]]
Flugzeugbau GmbH Models DG-100 and DG-400 sailplanes and certain DG
Flugzeugbau GmbH Models DG-500 Elan Series and DG-500M sailplanes are
manufactured in Germany 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.
Under this bilateral airworthiness agreement, the LBA has kept us
informed of the situation described above.
FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD
What has FAA decided? We have examined the LBA's findings, 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.
Since the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist
or develop on other Glaser-Dirks Flugzeugbau GmbH Models DG-100 and DG-
400 sailplanes and certain DG Flugzeugbau GmbH Models DG-500 Elan
Series and DG-500M sailplanes of the same type design that are
registered in the United States, we are proposing AD action to prevent
the universal bearing of the lower rudder mounting slipping out of the
bearing support. The universal bearing slipping out could result in the
rudder separating from its support. This failure could lead to loss of
sailplane control during flight operations.
What would this proposed AD require? This proposed AD would require
you to modify or replace the complete rudder mount assembly and ensure
that the securing washer, castellated nut, and new split pins are
installed.
How does the revision to 14 CFR part 39 affect this proposed AD? On
July 10, 2002, we published a new version of 14 CFR part 39 (67 FR
47997, July 22, 2002), which governs FAA's AD system. This regulation
now includes material that relates to altered products, special flight
permits, and alternative methods of compliance. This material
previously was included in each individual AD. Since this material is
included in 14 CFR part 39, we will not include it in future AD
actions.
Costs of Compliance
How many sailplanes would this proposed AD impact? We estimate that
this proposed AD affects 75 sailplanes in the U.S. registry.
What would be the cost impact of this proposed AD on owners/
operators of the affected sailplanes? We estimate the following costs
to do this proposed replacement of the complete rudder mount assembly.
We have no way of determining the number of sailplanes that may need
this replacement:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Parts Total cost per
Labor cost cost sailplane
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 work hours x $65 = $130...................... $265 $395
------------------------------------------------------------------------
We estimate the following costs to do this proposed modification of
the complete rudder mount assembly. We have no way of determining the
number of sailplanes that may need this modification:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total cost per
Labor cost Parts cost sailplane
------------------------------------------------------------------------
3 work hours x $65 = $195......... Not Applicable...... $195
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Authority for This Rulemaking
What authority does FAA have for issuing this rulemaking action?
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 AD.
Regulatory Findings
Would this proposed AD impact various entities? 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.
Would this proposed AD involve a significant rule or regulatory
action? For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this proposed
AD:
1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order
12866;
2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); 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 summary of the costs to comply with this proposed AD
(and other information as included in the Regulatory Evaluation) and
placed it in the AD Docket. You may get a copy of this summary by
sending a request to us at the address listed under ADDRESSES. Include
``AD Docket FAA-2005-22157; Directorate Identifier 2005-CE-44-AD'' in
your request.
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 Federal Aviation Administration 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.
[[Page 58112]]
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new
airworthiness directive (AD):
DG Flugzeugbau GmbH and Glaser-Dirks Flugzeugbau GmbH: Docket No.
FAA-2005-22157; Directorate Identifier 2005-CE-44-AD.
When Is the Last Date I Can Submit Comments on This Proposed AD?
(a) We must receive comments on this proposed airworthiness
directive (AD) by November 9, 2005.
What Other ADs Are Affected by This Action?
(b) None.
What Sailplanes Are Affected by This AD?
(c) This AD affects the following sailplane models and serial
numbers that are certificated in any category:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Model Serial numbers
------------------------------------------------------------------------
DG-100................................. All Serial Numbers.
DG-400................................. All Serial Numbers.
DG-500 Elan Series..................... All Serial Numbers Through
5E23.
DG-500M................................ All Serial Numbers Through
5E23.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
What Is the Unsafe Condition Presented in This AD?
(d) This AD is the result of mandatory continuing airworthiness
information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for
Germany. The actions specified in this AD are intended to prevent
the universal bearing of the lower rudder mounting from slipping out
of the bearing support. The universal bearing slipping out could
result in the rudder separating from its support. This failure could
lead to loss of sailplane control during flight operations.
What Must I Do To Address This Problem?
(e) To address this problem, you must do the following:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Actions Compliance Procedures
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) Modify or replace the Within the next 25 Follow DG
complete rudder mounting hours time-in- Flugzeugbau GmbH
assembly. service (TIS) after Technical Note No.
the effective date 301/23 issue 2, 323/
of this AD, unless 14 issue 2, 348/18
already done. issue 2, 359/21
issue 2, 370/9
issue 2, 826/44
issue 2, 843/21
issue 2, 866/10
issue 2, dated June
11, 2004, amended
July 7, 2004
(2) Ensure that the securing Before further Follow DG
washer, castellated nut, flight after the Flugzeugbau GmbH
and split pins are modification or Technical Note No.
installed as specified by replacement of the 301/23 issue 2, 323/
the DG Flugzeugbau GmbH complete rudder 14 issue 2, 348/18
Technical Note No. 301/23 mounting assembly issue 2, 359/21
issue 2, 323/14 issue 2, required by issue 2, 370/9
348/18 issue 2, 359/21 paragraph (e)(1) of issue 2, 826/44
issue 2, 370/9 issue 2, 826/ this AD. issue 2, 843/21
44 issue 2, 843/21 issue 2, issue 2, 866/10
866/10 issue 2, dated June issue 2, dated June
11, 2004, amended July 7, 11, 2004, amended
2004. July 7, 2004.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: Until the actions of this AD are done, the FAA strongly
recommends that an FAA-certified mechanic perform a daily pre-flight
inspection to check the position of the outer bearing ring following
the requirements of DG Flugzeugbau GmbH Technical Note No. 301/23
issue 2, 323/14 issue 2, 348/18 issue 2, 359/21 issue 2, 370/9 issue
2, 826/44 issue 2, 843/21 issue 2, 866/10 issue 2, dated June 11,
2004, amended July 7, 2004. If the bearing is displaced, we
recommend that you discontinue flight operations until you modify or
replace the complete rudder mount assembly and ensure that the
securing washer, castellated nut, and new split pins are installed.
May I Request an Alternative Method of Compliance?
(f) You may request a different method of compliance or a
different compliance time for this AD by following the procedures in
14 CFR 39.19. Unless FAA authorizes otherwise, send your request to
your principal inspector. The principal inspector may add comments
and will send your request to the Manager, Standards Office, Small
Airplane Directorate, FAA. For information on any already approved
alternative methods of compliance, contact Gregory Davison,
Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, ACE-112, Room
301, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: 816-329-
4130; facsimile: 816-329-4090.
Is There Other Information That Relates to This Subject?
(g) German AD Number D-2004-348R1, dated September 16, 2004,
also addresses the subject of this AD.
May I Get Copies of the Documents Referenced in This AD?
(h) To get copies of the documents referenced in this AD,
contact DG Flugzeugbau, Postbox 41 20, D-76625 Bruchsal, Federal
Republic of Germany; telephone: 011-49 7257-890; facsimile: 011-49
7257-8922. To view the AD docket, go to the Docket Management
Facility; U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street,
SW., Nassif Building, Room PL-401, Washington, DC, or on the
Internet at https://dms.dot.gov. This is docket number FAA-2005-
22157; Directorate Identifier 2005-CE-44-AD.
Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on September 28, 2005.
David R. Showers,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 05-19935 Filed 10-4-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
