Airworthiness Directives; BURKHART GROB LUFT-UND RAUMFAHRT GmbH & CO KG Models G103 TWIN ASTIR, G103A TWIN II ACRO, and G103C TWIN III ACRO Sailplanes, 59258-59263 [05-19929]

Download as PDF 59258 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 196 / Wednesday, October 12, 2005 / Rules and 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 this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under 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 Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: I 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. [Amended] 2. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): I 2005–20–28 Airbus: Amendment 39–14325. Docket No. FAA–2005–20687; Directorate Identifier 2004–NM–171–AD. Effective Date (a) This AD becomes effective November 16, 2005. Affected ADs (b) None. VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:47 Oct 11, 2005 Jkt 208001 Unsafe Condition (d) This AD was prompted by information that the existing system design for interconnection of the EPSUs of the FPEEPMS does not provide adequate floor path lighting and marking for safe evacuation of the airplane in the event of an emergency. We are issuing this AD to prevent inadequate lighting and marking of the escape path, which could delay or impede the flightcrew and passengers when exiting the airplane during an emergency landing. 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. Issued in Renton, Washington, on September 28, 2005. Kalene C. Yanamura, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 05–20074 Filed 10–11–05; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2005–20441; Directorate Identifier 2003–CE–35–AD; Amendment 39– 14322; AD 2003–19–14 R2] RIN 2120–AA64 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. Airworthiness Directives; BURKHART GROB LUFT—UND RAUMFAHRT GmbH & CO KG Models G103 TWIN ASTIR, G103A TWIN II ACRO, and G103C TWIN III ACRO Sailplanes Modification (f) Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD: Modify the FPEEPMS by doing all the actions specified in the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320–33–1041, dated December 11, 2003. AGENCY: Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (g)(1) 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. (2) Before using any AMOC approved in accordance with 14 CFR 39.19 on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify the appropriate principal inspector in the FAA Flight Standards Certificate Holding District Office. Related Information (h) French airworthiness directive F–2004– 121 R1, dated October 13, 2004, also addresses the subject of this AD. I § 39.13 Applicability (c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A319– 111, –112, –113, –114, –115, –131, –132, and –133 airplanes; Model A320–111, –211, –212, –214, –231, –232, and –233 airplanes; and Model A321–111, –112, –131, –211 and –231 airplanes; certificated in any category; in which the floor proximity emergency escape path marking system (FPEEPMS) is equipped with BRUCE emergency power supply units (EPSUs) having BRUCE part number (P/N) 100865. Material Incorporated by Reference (i) You must use Airbus Service Bulletin A320–33–1041, dated December 11, 2003, 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 this document 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 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. SUMMARY: The FAA is revising Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2003–19– 14 R1, which applies to certain BURKHART GROB LUFT—UND RAUMFAHRT GmbH & CO KG (GROB) Models G103 TWIN ASTIR, G103A TWIN II ACRO, and G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes. AD 2003–19–14 R1 requires you to modify the airspeed indicators, install flight speed reduction and aerobatic maneuver restrictions placards (as applicable), and revise the flight and maintenance manuals. AD 2003–19–14 R1 approves simple aerobatic maneuvers for Model G103A TWIN II ACRO sailplanes and provides an option for modifying the rear fuselage for Models G103A TWIN II ACRO and G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes to terminate the flight limitation restrictions for aerobatic maneuvers. This AD retains all the actions from AD 2003–19–14 R1 for Models G103A TWIN II ACRO and G103C TWIN III ACRO and reinstates certain operating limits for Model G103 TWIN ASTIR sailplanes. We are issuing this AD to prevent damage to the fuselage during limit load flight, which could result in reduced structural integrity. This condition could lead to loss of control of the sailplane. DATES: This AD becomes effective on November 30, 2005. On August 12, 2004 (69 FR 34258, June 21, 2004) the Director of the E:\FR\FM\12OCR1.SGM 12OCR1 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 196 / Wednesday, October 12, 2005 / Rules and Regulations Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference GROB Service Bulletin No. MSB315–65, dated September 15, 2003; GROB Service Bulletin No. OSB 315–66, dated October 16, 2003; and GROB Work Instruction for OSB 315–66, dated October 16, 2003. As of November 30, 2005, the Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of GROB Service Bulletin No. MSB315–64/3, dated September 14, 2004. ADDRESSES: To get the service information identified in this AD, contact GROB Luft-und Raumfahrt, Lettenbachstrasse 9, D–86874 Tussenhausen-Mattsies, Germany; telephone: 011 49 8268 998139; facsimile: 011 49 8268 998200; e-mail: productsupport@grob-aerospace.de. 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 20590– 001 or on the Internet at https:// dms.dot.gov. The docket number is FAA–2005–20441; Directorate Identifier 2003–CE–35–AD. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Gregory A. Davison, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–4130; facsimile: (816) 329– 4090. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion Has FAA taken any action to this point? Reports from the LuftfahrtBundesamt (LBA), which is the airworthiness authority for Germany, that the safety margins established into the design of the fuselage may not be sufficient to sustain limit loads during certain maneuvers and during flight at certain speeds for Model G103 TWIN ASTIR, G103 TWIN II, G103A TWIN II ACRO, and G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes. This caused us to issue AD 2003–19–14, Amendment 39–13317 (68 FR 56152, September 30, 2003). AD 2003–19–14 required the following: —Modifying the airspeed indicators; —Installing placards restricting flight speeds, prohibiting aerobatic maneuvers, and restricting load limits; and —Incorporating revisions to the flight and maintenance manuals. AD 2003–19–14 was issued as an interim action until the manufacturer completed further investigations into the effects of certain flight conditions on the fuselage structure and the development of corrective procedures. VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:47 Oct 11, 2005 Jkt 208001 The manufacturer conducted further investigations and static strength tests to verify the safety margins of the fuselage on the affected sailplanes. This information prompted us to issue AD 2003–19–14 R1, Amendment 39–13676 (69 FR 34258, June 21, 2004). AD 2003– 19–14 R1 requires the following: For Model G103 TWIN ASTIR sailplanes: —Retain all flight limitation restrictions in AD 2003–19–14. For Model G103 TWIN II sailplanes: —Reinstate the original flight speed limitations and maneuver operations and remove from the applicability section of AD 2003–19–14; For Model G103A TWIN II ACRO (utility category) sailplanes: —Reinstate the original flight speed limitations and maneuver operations; and —Allow only basic aerobatic maneuvers (spins, lazy eights, chandelles, stall turns, steep turns, and positive loops). For Model G103A TWIN II ACRO (aerobatic category) sailplanes: —Reinstate the original flight speed limitations except for rough air (VB) and maneuvering speeds (VA); and —Allow only basic aerobatic maneuvers (spins, lazy eights, chandelles, stall turns, steep turns, and positive loops). For Model G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes: —Increase airspeed limits specified in AD 2003–19–14 but maintain a reduction from the original limitations; and —Retain restrictions in AD 2003–19–14 on all aerobatic flights, including simple maneuvers, and cloud flying. The manufacturer also developed a modification for Models G103A TWIN II ACRO (aerobatic category) and G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes (aerobatic category). When this modification is incorporated, full acrobatic status is restored to these sailplanes. What has happened since AD 2003– 19–14 R1 to initiate this proposed action? The LBA recently notified FAA of the need to change AD 2003–19–14 R1. Based on analysis, the LBA reports that certain limits of operation for Model G103 TWIN ASTIR sailplanes may be reinstated. Specifically, the maximum airspeed in calm air (VNE) could be reinstated to 135 knots (155 mph/250kmh) for Model G103 TWIN ASTIR sailplanes. Aerobatic flight is still prohibited; however, simple aerobatic flight (looping, steep turns, lazy eights, and chandelles) may be performed following the flight manual. What is the potential impact if FAA took no action? If not prevented, PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 59259 damage to the fuselage during limit load flight could result in reduced structural integrity. This condition could lead to loss of control of the sailplane. Has FAA taken any action to this point? We issued a proposal to amend part 39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) to include an AD that would apply to certain GROB Models G103 TWIN ASTIR, G103A TWIN II ACRO, and G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes. This proposal was published in the Federal Register as a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) on March 23, 2005 (70 FR 14580). The NPRM proposed to revise AD 2003–19–14 R1 with a new AD that would: (1) retain all actions required in AD 2003–19–14 R1 for Models G103A TWIN II ACRO and G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes; and (2) reinstate certain operating limits for Model G103 TWIN ASTIR sailplanes. Comments Was the public invited to comment? We provided the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. We received no comments on the proposal or on the determination of the cost to the public. Conclusion What is FAA’s final determination on this issue? We have carefully reviewed the available data and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD as proposed except for minor editorial corrections. We have determined that these minor corrections: —Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and —Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM. Changes to 14 CFR Part 39—Effect on the AD How does the revision to 14 CFR part 39 affect this AD? On July 10, 2002, the FAA published a new version of 14 CFR part 39 (67 FR 47997, July 22, 2002), which governs the 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. E:\FR\FM\12OCR1.SGM 12OCR1 59260 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 196 / Wednesday, October 12, 2005 / Rules and Regulations Costs of Compliance How many sailplanes does this AD impact? We estimate that this AD affects 94 sailplanes in the U.S. registry. What is the cost impact of this AD on owners/operators of the affected sailplanes? We estimate the following costs to do the modifications to the airspeed indicators, flight limitations placards, and revising the flight and maintenance manuals: Total cost per sailplane Labor cost Parts cost 1 work hour × $65 = $65 ...................................................................... Not applicable ............................... For G103A TWIN II ACRO (aerobatic category) sailplanes and G103C TWIN III ACRO (aerobatic category) sailplanes, $65 Parts cost 30 work hours × $65 = $1,950 ................................................................................................................................ 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 Will this AD impact various entities? 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. Will this AD involve a significant rule or regulatory action? For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); 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 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 ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2005–20441; Directorate Identifier 2003–CE–35–AD’’ in your request. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Model 16:47 Oct 11, 2005 Jkt 208001 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 4700 $5,307 $7,257. Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the Federal Aviation Administration amends part 39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) as follows: I PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: I Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2003–19–14 R1, Amendment 39–13676 (69 FR 34258, June 21, 2004), and by adding a new AD to read as follows: I 2003–19–14 R2 BURKHART GROB LUFT— UND RAUMFAHRT GmbH & CO KG: Amendment 39–14322; Docket No. FAA–2005–20441; Directorate Identifier 2003–CE–35–AD; Revises AD 2003–19– 14 R1, Amendment 39–13676. When Does This AD Become Effective? (a) This AD becomes effective on November 30, 2005. What Other ADs Are Affected By This Action? (b) This AD revises AD 2003–19–14 R1, Amendment 39–13676. What Sailplanes Are Affected by This AD? (c) This AD affects the following sailplane models and serial numbers that are certificated in any category: All serial numbers. All serial numbers with suffix ‘‘K’’. All serial numbers. Sfmt 4700 Total cost per sailplane Adoption of the Amendment Serial numbers G103 TWIN ASTIR ................................................................................... G103A TWIN II ACRO (aerobatic category) ............................................ G103C TWIN III ACRO (aerobatic category) ........................................... VerDate Aug<31>2005 $65 × 94 = $6,110. we estimate the following costs to do the fuselage modification: Labor cost What is the difference between the cost impact of this AD and the cost impact of AD 2003–19–14 R1? There is no cost difference between this AD and AD 2003–19–14 R1. This AD is only revising certain operating limits for certain Model G103 TWIN ASTIR. This AD does not require any additional actions than are currently required in AD 2003–19–14 R1. Total cost on U.S. operators E:\FR\FM\12OCR1.SGM 12OCR1 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 196 / Wednesday, October 12, 2005 / Rules and Regulations (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 damage to the fuselage during limit load flight, which could result in reduced structural integrity. This condition could lead to loss of control of the sailplane. (e) To address this problem, you must do the following: Compliance Within the next 25 hours timein-service (TIS) after November 30, 2005 (the effective date of this AD), unless already done. (1) For G103 TWIN ASTIR sailplanes: (i) Re-set the airspeed indicator to the new placard limitations; (ii) Install the following placard: (iii) You may perform simple aerobatic flight (looping, steep turns, lazy eights, and chandelles) following the flight manual; and (iv) Revise the flight and maintenance manuals. (2) For G103A TWIN II ACRO (acrobatic category) and G103C TWIN III ACRO (acrobatic category) sailplanes: (i) Re-set the airspeed indicator to the new placard limitations; and (ii) Install the following placards on Model G103A TWIN II ACRO (aerobatic category) sailplanes: Procedures Following GROB Service Bulletin No. MSB315–64/3, dated September 14, 2004. Within the next 25 hours timein-service (TIS) after August 12, 2004 (the effective date AD 2003–19–14 R1), unless already done. Follow Grob Service Bulletin No. MSB315–65, dated September 15, 2003. ER12OC05.011</GPH> Actions What Must I Do To Address This Problem? (iii) Install the following placards on Model G103C TWIN III ACRO (aerobatic category) sailplanes: VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:47 Oct 11, 2005 Jkt 208001 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\12OCR1.SGM 12OCR1 ER12OC05.010</GPH> What Is the Unsafe Condition Presented in This AD? 59261 59262 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 196 / Wednesday, October 12, 2005 / Rules and Regulations (3) For G103A TWIN II ACRO (acrobatic category) and G103C TWIN III ACRO (acrobatic category) sailplanes: as an alternative to the flight restrictions in paragraph (e)(2) of this AD, you may install additional stringers in the rear fuselage section. Installing additional stringers terminates the flight restrictions in paragraph (e)(2) of this AD. (4) For G103A TWIN II ACRO (acrobatic category) and G103C TWIN III ACRO (acrobatic category) sailplanes: only if you installed the additional stringers specified in paragraph (e)(3) of this AD, do the following: (i) Remove the placard prohibiting all aerobatic maneuvers; (ii) Install the following flight limitation placard on Model G103A TWIN II ACRO (aerobatic category) sailplanes: At any time after August 12, 2004 (the effective date AD 2003–19–14 R1). Prior to further flight after doing the actions in paragraph (e)(3) of this AD. Follow Grob Service Bulletin No. OSB 315–66, dated October 16, 2003, and Work Instruction for OSB 315–66, dated October 16, 2003. Follow Grob Service Bulletin No. OSB 315–66, dated October 16, 2003. VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:47 Oct 11, 2005 Jkt 208001 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4725 E:\FR\FM\12OCR1.SGM 12OCR1 ER12OC05.012</GPH> ER12OC05.013</GPH> ER12OC05.014</GPH> (iii) Install the following flight limitation placard on Model G103C TWIN III ACRO (aerobatic category) sailplanes: Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 196 / Wednesday, October 12, 2005 / Rules and Regulations Note: The placard information in this AD is different from the information in the applicable service bulletins. This AD takes precedence over the service bulletins. You should update your placards to reflect the information presented in this AD. 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 A. Davison, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329– 4130; facsimile: (816) 329–4090. Is There Other Information That Relates to This Subject? (g) German AD D–2003–231R3, dated November 9, 2004, also addresses the subject of this AD. Does This AD Incorporate Any Material by Reference? (h) You must do the actions required by this AD following the instructions in GROB Service Bulletin No. MSB315–64/3, dated September 14, 2004; Grob Service Bulletin No. MSB315–65, dated September 15, 2003; Grob Service Bulletin No. OSB 315–66, dated October 16, 2003; and Work Instruction for OSB 315–66, dated October 16, 2003. (1) On August 12, 2004 (69 FR 34258, June 21, 2004), and in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51, the Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of Grob Service Bulletin No. MSB315–65, dated September 15, 2003; Grob Service Bulletin No. OSB 315–66, dated October 16, 2003; and Work Instruction for OSB 315–66, dated October 16, 2003. (2) As of November 30, 2005, and in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51, the Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of GROB Service Bulletin No. MSB315–64/3, dated September 14, 2004. (3) To get a copy of this service information, contact GROB Luft-und Raumfahrt, Lettenbachstrasse 9, D–86874 Tussenhausen-Mattsies, Germany; telephone: 011 49 8268 998139; facsimile: 011 49 8268 998200; e-mail: productsupport@grobaerospace.de. To review copies of this service information, go to the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal_register/ code_of_federal_regulations/ ibr_locations.html or call (202) 741–6030. 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 20590–001 or on the Internet at https:// dms.dot.gov. The docket number is FAA– VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:47 Oct 11, 2005 Jkt 208001 2005–20441; Directorate Identifier 2003–CE– 35–AD. Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on September 28, 2005. David R. Showers, Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 05–19929 Filed 10–11–05; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2005–20221; Directorate Identifier 2004–NM–173–AD; Amendment 39–14329; AD 2005–20–32] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330–200 and –300 and A340–200 and –300 Series Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A330–200 and –300 and A340–200 and –300 series airplanes. This AD requires inspecting to determine the part number and serial number of the left- and right-hand elevator assemblies, performing related investigative and corrective actions if necessary, and re-protecting the elevator assembly. This AD results from reports that areas on the top skin panel of the right-hand elevator have disbonded due to moisture penetration. We are issuing this AD to prevent disbonding of the elevator assembly, which could reduce the structural integrity of the elevator and result in reduced controllability of the airplane. DATES: This AD becomes effective November 16, 2005. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of November 16, 2005. ADDRESSES: You may examine the 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., Nassif Building, room PL–401, Washington, DC. 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, PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 59263 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: Examining the Docket You may examine the airworthiness directive (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 street address stated in the ADDRESSES section. Discussion The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to all Airbus Model A330, A340– 200, and A340–300 series airplanes. That NPRM was published in the Federal Register on February 1, 2005 (70 FR 5073). That NPRM proposed to require inspecting to determine the part number and serial number of the leftand right-hand elevator assemblies, performing related investigative and corrective actions if necessary, and reprotecting the elevator assembly. Comments We provided the public the opportunity to participate in the development of this AD. We have considered the comments received. Request To Allow Records Check as a Method of Compliance One commenter believes that it is unnecessary to inspect its fleet to determine that none of the airplanes in its fleet are subject to the proposed AD. The commenter states that its airplanes were delivered new from Airbus in July 2003, after Airbus had changed its production processes to prevent moisture penetration of the elevator. The delivery records for these airplanes show the part number and serial number of the left- and right-hand elevator assemblies. The commenter notes that it has not replaced the elevator assemblies on any airplane in its fleet. Further, the Illustrated Parts Catalog shows that the elevator assemblies that would be affected by the proposed AD cannot legally be installed on the airplanes in its fleet. The commenter asserts that its airplanes are in compliance with the intent of the proposed AD, and that it will be able to ensure continuing compliance by inspecting all incoming spare elevator E:\FR\FM\12OCR1.SGM 12OCR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 196 (Wednesday, October 12, 2005)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 59258-59263]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-19929]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2005-20441; Directorate Identifier 2003-CE-35-AD; 
Amendment 39-14322; AD 2003-19-14 R2]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; BURKHART GROB LUFT--UND RAUMFAHRT GmbH 
& CO KG Models G103 TWIN ASTIR, G103A TWIN II ACRO, and G103C TWIN III 
ACRO Sailplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The FAA is revising Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2003-19-14 
R1, which applies to certain BURKHART GROB LUFT--UND RAUMFAHRT GmbH & 
CO KG (GROB) Models G103 TWIN ASTIR, G103A TWIN II ACRO, and G103C TWIN 
III ACRO sailplanes. AD 2003-19-14 R1 requires you to modify the 
airspeed indicators, install flight speed reduction and aerobatic 
maneuver restrictions placards (as applicable), and revise the flight 
and maintenance manuals. AD 2003-19-14 R1 approves simple aerobatic 
maneuvers for Model G103A TWIN II ACRO sailplanes and provides an 
option for modifying the rear fuselage for Models G103A TWIN II ACRO 
and G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes to terminate the flight limitation 
restrictions for aerobatic maneuvers. This AD retains all the actions 
from AD 2003-19-14 R1 for Models G103A TWIN II ACRO and G103C TWIN III 
ACRO and reinstates certain operating limits for Model G103 TWIN ASTIR 
sailplanes. We are issuing this AD to prevent damage to the fuselage 
during limit load flight, which could result in reduced structural 
integrity. This condition could lead to loss of control of the 
sailplane.

DATES: This AD becomes effective on November 30, 2005.
    On August 12, 2004 (69 FR 34258, June 21, 2004) the Director of the

[[Page 59259]]

Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference GROB Service 
Bulletin No. MSB315-65, dated September 15, 2003; GROB Service Bulletin 
No. OSB 315-66, dated October 16, 2003; and GROB Work Instruction for 
OSB 315-66, dated October 16, 2003.
    As of November 30, 2005, the Director of the Federal Register 
approved the incorporation by reference of GROB Service Bulletin No. 
MSB315-64/3, dated September 14, 2004.

ADDRESSES: To get the service information identified in this AD, 
contact GROB Luft-und Raumfahrt, Lettenbachstrasse 9, D-86874 
Tussenhausen-Mattsies, Germany; telephone: 011 49 8268 998139; 
facsimile: 011 49 8268 998200; e-mail: productsupport@grob-
aerospace.de.
    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 20590-001 or on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov. The docket number is FAA-2005-20441; Directorate 
Identifier 2003-CE-35-AD.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Gregory A. Davison, Aerospace 
Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas 
City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4130; facsimile: (816) 329-
4090.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    Has FAA taken any action to this point? Reports from the Luftfahrt-
Bundesamt (LBA), which is the airworthiness authority for Germany, that 
the safety margins established into the design of the fuselage may not 
be sufficient to sustain limit loads during certain maneuvers and 
during flight at certain speeds for Model G103 TWIN ASTIR, G103 TWIN 
II, G103A TWIN II ACRO, and G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes. This caused 
us to issue AD 2003-19-14, Amendment 39-13317 (68 FR 56152, September 
30, 2003). AD 2003-19-14 required the following:

--Modifying the airspeed indicators;
--Installing placards restricting flight speeds, prohibiting aerobatic 
maneuvers, and restricting load limits; and
--Incorporating revisions to the flight and maintenance manuals.

    AD 2003-19-14 was issued as an interim action until the 
manufacturer completed further investigations into the effects of 
certain flight conditions on the fuselage structure and the development 
of corrective procedures.
    The manufacturer conducted further investigations and static 
strength tests to verify the safety margins of the fuselage on the 
affected sailplanes. This information prompted us to issue AD 2003-19-
14 R1, Amendment 39-13676 (69 FR 34258, June 21, 2004). AD 2003-19-14 
R1 requires the following:
    For Model G103 TWIN ASTIR sailplanes:

--Retain all flight limitation restrictions in AD 2003-19-14.
    For Model G103 TWIN II sailplanes:

--Reinstate the original flight speed limitations and maneuver 
operations and remove from the applicability section of AD 2003-19-14;

    For Model G103A TWIN II ACRO (utility category) sailplanes:

--Reinstate the original flight speed limitations and maneuver 
operations; and
--Allow only basic aerobatic maneuvers (spins, lazy eights, chandelles, 
stall turns, steep turns, and positive loops).
    For Model G103A TWIN II ACRO (aerobatic category) sailplanes:

--Reinstate the original flight speed limitations except for rough air 
(VB) and maneuvering speeds (VA); and
--Allow only basic aerobatic maneuvers (spins, lazy eights, chandelles, 
stall turns, steep turns, and positive loops).

    For Model G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes:

--Increase airspeed limits specified in AD 2003-19-14 but maintain a 
reduction from the original limitations; and
--Retain restrictions in AD 2003-19-14 on all aerobatic flights, 
including simple maneuvers, and cloud flying.

    The manufacturer also developed a modification for Models G103A 
TWIN II ACRO (aerobatic category) and G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes 
(aerobatic category). When this modification is incorporated, full 
acrobatic status is restored to these sailplanes.
    What has happened since AD 2003-19-14 R1 to initiate this proposed 
action? The LBA recently notified FAA of the need to change AD 2003-19-
14 R1. Based on analysis, the LBA reports that certain limits of 
operation for Model G103 TWIN ASTIR sailplanes may be reinstated.
    Specifically, the maximum airspeed in calm air (VNE) 
could be reinstated to 135 knots (155 mph/250kmh) for Model G103 TWIN 
ASTIR sailplanes. Aerobatic flight is still prohibited; however, simple 
aerobatic flight (looping, steep turns, lazy eights, and chandelles) 
may be performed following the flight manual.
    What is the potential impact if FAA took no action? If not 
prevented, damage to the fuselage during limit load flight could result 
in reduced structural integrity. This condition could lead to loss of 
control of the sailplane.
    Has FAA taken any action to this point? We issued a proposal to 
amend part 39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) to 
include an AD that would apply to certain GROB Models G103 TWIN ASTIR, 
G103A TWIN II ACRO, and G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes. This proposal 
was published in the Federal Register as a notice of proposed 
rulemaking (NPRM) on March 23, 2005 (70 FR 14580). The NPRM proposed to 
revise AD 2003-19-14 R1 with a new AD that would:
    (1) retain all actions required in AD 2003-19-14 R1 for Models 
G103A TWIN II ACRO and G103C TWIN III ACRO sailplanes; and
    (2) reinstate certain operating limits for Model G103 TWIN ASTIR 
sailplanes.

Comments

    Was the public invited to comment? We provided the public the 
opportunity to participate in developing this AD. We received no 
comments on the proposal or on the determination of the cost to the 
public.

Conclusion

    What is FAA's final determination on this issue? We have carefully 
reviewed the available data and determined that air safety and the 
public interest require adopting the AD as proposed except for minor 
editorial corrections. We have determined that these minor corrections:

--Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM for 
correcting the unsafe condition; and
--Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already 
proposed in the NPRM.

Changes to 14 CFR Part 39--Effect on the AD

    How does the revision to 14 CFR part 39 affect this AD? On July 10, 
2002, the FAA published a new version of 14 CFR part 39 (67 FR 47997, 
July 22, 2002), which governs the 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.

[[Page 59260]]

Costs of Compliance

    How many sailplanes does this AD impact? We estimate that this AD 
affects 94 sailplanes in the U.S. registry.
    What is the cost impact of this AD on owners/operators of the 
affected sailplanes? We estimate the following costs to do the 
modifications to the airspeed indicators, flight limitations placards, 
and revising the flight and maintenance manuals:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                  Total cost
              Labor cost                      Parts cost             per         Total cost on U.S. operators
                                                                  sailplane
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 work hour x $65 = $65..............  Not applicable..........          $65  $65 x 94 = $6,110.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    For G103A TWIN II ACRO (aerobatic category) sailplanes and G103C 
TWIN III ACRO (aerobatic category) sailplanes, we estimate the 
following costs to do the fuselage modification:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          Total cost per
               Labor cost                   Parts cost       sailplane
------------------------------------------------------------------------
30 work hours x $65 = $1,950............          $5,307         $7,257.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    What is the difference between the cost impact of this AD and the 
cost impact of AD 2003-19-14 R1? There is no cost difference between 
this AD and AD 2003-19-14 R1. This AD is only revising certain 
operating limits for certain Model G103 TWIN ASTIR. This AD does not 
require any additional actions than are currently required in AD 2003-
19-14 R1.

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

    Will this AD impact various entities? 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.
    Will this AD involve a significant rule or regulatory action? For 
the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); 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 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 ``Docket 
No. FAA-2005-20441; Directorate Identifier 2003-CE-35-AD'' in your 
request.

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 Federal Aviation Administration amends part 39 of the Federal 
Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2003-19-14 R1, Amendment 39-13676 (69 FR 34258, June 21, 2004), and by 
adding a new AD to read as follows:

2003-19-14 R2 BURKHART GROB LUFT--UND RAUMFAHRT GmbH & CO KG: 
Amendment 39-14322; Docket No. FAA-2005-20441; Directorate 
Identifier 2003-CE-35-AD; Revises AD 2003-19-14 R1, Amendment 39-
13676.

When Does This AD Become Effective?

    (a) This AD becomes effective on November 30, 2005.

What Other ADs Are Affected By This Action?

    (b) This AD revises AD 2003-19-14 R1, Amendment 39-13676.

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
------------------------------------------------------------------------
G103 TWIN ASTIR........................  All serial numbers.
G103A TWIN II ACRO (aerobatic category)  All serial numbers with suffix
                                          ``K''.
G103C TWIN III ACRO (aerobatic           All serial numbers.
 category).
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 59261]]

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 
damage to the fuselage during limit load flight, which could result 
in reduced structural integrity. This condition could lead to loss 
of control of the sailplane.

What Must I Do To Address This Problem?

    (e) To address this problem, you must do the following:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               Actions                                                       Compliance                Procedures
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) For G103 TWIN ASTIR sailplanes:                                                                   Within the next 25 hours  Following GROB Service
(i) Re-set the airspeed indicator to the new placard limitations;                                      time-in-service (TIS)     Bulletin No. MSB315-64/
(ii) Install the following placard:                                                                    after November 30, 2005   3, dated September 14,
                                                                                                       (the effective date of    2004.
                                                                                                       this AD), unless
                                                                                                       already done.

                                                                                                                                 [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR12OC05.010
                                                                                                                                 

    (iii) You may perform simple aerobatic flight (looping, steep turns, lazy eights, and
     chandelles) following the flight manual; and
    (iv) Revise the flight and maintenance manuals.
(2) For G103A TWIN II ACRO (acrobatic category) and G103C TWIN III ACRO (acrobatic category)          Within the next 25 hours  Follow Grob Service
 sailplanes:                                                                                           time-in-service (TIS)     Bulletin No. MSB315-65,
(i) Re-set the airspeed indicator to the new placard limitations; and                                  after August 12, 2004     dated September 15,
(ii) Install the following placards on Model G103A TWIN II ACRO (aerobatic category) sailplanes:       (the effective date AD    2003.
                                                                                                       2003-19-14 R1), unless
                                                                                                       already done.

                                                                                                                                 [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR12OC05.011
                                                                                                                                 

    (iii) Install the following placards on Model G103C TWIN III ACRO (aerobatic category)
     sailplanes:


[[Page 59262]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR12OC05.012


(3) For G103A TWIN II ACRO (acrobatic category) and G103C TWIN III ACRO (acrobatic category)          At any time after August  Follow Grob Service
 sailplanes: as an alternative to the flight restrictions in paragraph (e)(2) of this AD, you may      12, 2004 (the effective   Bulletin No. OSB 315-
 install additional stringers in the rear fuselage section. Installing additional stringers            date AD 2003-19-14 R1).   66, dated October 16,
 terminates the flight restrictions in paragraph (e)(2) of this AD.                                                              2003, and Work
                                                                                                                                 Instruction for OSB 315-
                                                                                                                                 66, dated October 16,
                                                                                                                                 2003.
(4) For G103A TWIN II ACRO (acrobatic category) and G103C TWIN III ACRO (acrobatic category)          Prior to further flight   Follow Grob Service
 sailplanes: only if you installed the additional stringers specified in paragraph (e)(3) of this      after doing the actions   Bulletin No. OSB 315-
 AD, do the following:                                                                                 in paragraph (e)(3) of    66, dated October 16,
(i) Remove the placard prohibiting all aerobatic maneuvers;                                            this AD.                  2003.
(ii) Install the following flight limitation placard on Model G103A TWIN II ACRO (aerobatic
 category) sailplanes:

                                                                                                                                 [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR12OC05.013
                                                                                                                                 

    (iii) Install the following flight limitation placard on Model G103C TWIN III ACRO (aerobatic
     category) sailplanes:

     [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR12OC05.014
     


[[Page 59263]]

    Note: The placard information in this AD is different from the 
information in the applicable service bulletins. This AD takes 
precedence over the service bulletins. You should update your 
placards to reflect the information presented in this AD.

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 A. Davison, 
Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, 
Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4130; 
facsimile: (816) 329-4090.

Is There Other Information That Relates to This Subject?

    (g) German AD D-2003-231R3, dated November 9, 2004, also 
addresses the subject of this AD.

Does This AD Incorporate Any Material by Reference?

    (h) You must do the actions required by this AD following the 
instructions in GROB Service Bulletin No. MSB315-64/3, dated 
September 14, 2004; Grob Service Bulletin No. MSB315-65, dated 
September 15, 2003; Grob Service Bulletin No. OSB 315-66, dated 
October 16, 2003; and Work Instruction for OSB 315-66, dated October 
16, 2003.
    (1) On August 12, 2004 (69 FR 34258, June 21, 2004), and in 
accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51, the Director of 
the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of Grob 
Service Bulletin No. MSB315-65, dated September 15, 2003; Grob 
Service Bulletin No. OSB 315-66, dated October 16, 2003; and Work 
Instruction for OSB 315-66, dated October 16, 2003.
    (2) As of November 30, 2005, and in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51, the Director of the Federal Register 
approved the incorporation by reference of GROB Service Bulletin No. 
MSB315-64/3, dated September 14, 2004.
    (3) To get a copy of this service information, contact GROB 
Luft-und Raumfahrt, Lettenbachstrasse 9, D-86874 Tussenhausen-
Mattsies, Germany; telephone: 011 49 8268 998139; facsimile: 011 49 
8268 998200; e-mail: productsupport@grob-aerospace.de. To review 
copies of this service information, go to the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability 
of this material at NARA, go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal_
register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html or call 
(202) 741-6030. 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 20590-001 or on 
the Internet at https://dms.dot.gov. The docket number is FAA-2005-
20441; Directorate Identifier 2003-CE-35-AD.

    Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on September 28, 2005.
David R. Showers,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 05-19929 Filed 10-11-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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