Airworthiness Directives; Shadin ADC-2000 Air Data Computers, 73355-73358 [05-23771]
Download as PDF
Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 237 / Monday, December 12, 2005 / Rules and Regulations
73355
May I Request an Alternative Method of
Compliance?
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Discussion
(h) 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, Wichita Aircraft Certification Office
(ACO), FAA. For information on any already
approved alternative methods of compliance,
contact Philip Petty, Aerospace Engineer,
ACE–119W, Wichita ACO, 1801 Airport
Road, Room 100, Wichita, Kansas 67209;
telephone: (316) 946–4139; facsimile: (316)
946–4107.
Federal Aviation Administration
Does This AD Incorporate Any Material by
Reference?
SUMMARY: The FAA adopts a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Shadin ADC–2000 air data computers
(ADC) installed on airplanes. This AD
requires you to replace affected ADC–
2000 units with a modified unit. This
AD results from reports that certain
ADC–2000 units display incorrect
altitude information on the Electronic
Flight Information System (EFIS) to the
pilot. We are issuing this AD to prevent
ADC–2000 units, part numbers (P/Ns)
962830A–1–S–8, 962830A–2–S–8, and
962830A–3–S–8, configurations B, C,
and D, from displaying incorrect
altitude information. This could cause
the flight crew to react to this incorrect
flight information and possibly result in
an unsafe operating condition.
DATES: This AD becomes effective on
January 23, 2006.
As of January 23, 2006, the Director of
the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of certain
publications listed in the regulation.
ADDRESSES: To get the service
information identified in this AD,
contact Shadin, 6831 Oxford Street, St.
Louis Park, Minnesota 55426–4412;
telephone: (800) 388–2849 or (952) 927–
6500; facsimile: (952) 924–1111; e-mail:
https://www.shadin.com.
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–
0001 or on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov. The docket number is
FAA–2005–21787; Directorate Identifier
2005–CE–34–AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Jeffrey Kuen, Aerospace Engineer,
Chicago Aircraft Certification Office
(ACO), FAA, 2300 East Devon Avenue,
Room 107, Des Plaines, Illinois 60018;
telephone: (847) 294–7125; facsimile:
(847) 294–7834; e-mail address:
jeffrey.kuen@faa.gov.
What events have caused this AD? We
received reports that the pressure
altitude output of certain Shadin ADC–
2000 air data computers (ADC) drift
outside Technical Standard Order (TSO)
tolerance.
Shadin ADC–2000 units, part
numbers (P/Ns) 962830A–1–S–8,
962830A–2–S–8, and 962830A–3–S–8,
configurations B, C, and D (labeled with
TSO–C106 and TSO–C44a), provide
altitude information that is displayed on
the Electronic Flight Information
System (EFIS) to the pilot. The ADC/
EFIS combination is used to display
primary altitude information to the
pilot.
The maximum altitude error allowed
by TSO–C106 and TSO–C44a is 25 feet
at ground level. Shadin ADC–2000
units, P/Ns 962830A–1–S–8, 962830A–
2–S–8, and 962830A–3–S–8,
configurations B, C, and D have shown
errors from 100 to 8,000 feet from the
correct altitude.
The errors are caused by the ADC–
2000 altitude measurement system. A
pressure transducer in the ADC
measures the altitude from the airplane
static pressure system. The pressure
transducer converts static pressure to an
electrical signal.
We determined that the electrical
output from the pressure transducer in
the affected ADCs changes over time
resulting in the display of misleading
altitude information to the pilot.
What is the potential impact if FAA
took no action? If this situation occurs
while the flight crew is making critical
flight decisions, the display of incorrect
altitude information could cause the
flight crew to react to this incorrect
flight information and possibly result in
an unsafe operating condition.
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
Shadin ADC–2000 air data computers
(ADC) installed on airplanes. This
proposal was published in the Federal
Register as a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) on August 17, 2005
(70 FR 48333). The NPRM proposed to
require you to replace affected ADC–
2000 units with a modified unit.
(i) You must do the actions required by this
AD following the instructions in Raytheon
Aircraft Company Service Bulletin No. SB
21–3715, dated February 2005; Raytheon
Aircraft Company Service Bulletin No. SB
21–3733, dated June 2005; and Enviro
Systems Inc. Service Bulletin No. SB05–101,
Revision B, dated April 27, 2005. The
Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of these service
bulletins in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a)
and 1 CFR part 51. To get a copy of this
service information, contact Raytheon
Aircraft Company, P.O. Box 85, Wichita,
Kansas 67201–0085; telephone: (800) 625–
7043. 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–
2005–20712; Directorate Identifier 2005–CE–
15–AD.
Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on
November 30, 2005.
David R. Showers,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 05–23773 Filed 12–9–05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2005–21787; Directorate
Identifier 2005–CE–34–AD; Amendment 39–
14401; AD 2005–25–08]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Shadin ADC–
2000 Air Data Computers
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
VerDate Aug<31>2005
15:45 Dec 09, 2005
Jkt 208001
PO 00000
Frm 00009
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Comments
Was the public invited to comment?
We provided the public the opportunity
to participate in developing this AD.
The following presents the comments
received on the proposal and FAA’s
response to each comment:
E:\FR\FM\12DER1.SGM
12DER1
73356
Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 237 / Monday, December 12, 2005 / Rules and Regulations
Comment Issue No. 1: AD Should Apply
to Only Airplanes Operating Under IFR
What is the commenter’s concern?
The commenter is concerned that 14
CFR 43.7 does not allow part 135
operators to do the preflight check
required in paragraph (e)(1) of the
proposed AD. This would require a
maintenance mechanic to be hired to do
the preflight check before each flight.
The commenter requests that
airplanes flown under part 135 VFR
operations be excluded from complying
with the AD by changing the
Compliance column from ‘‘before each
flight’’ to ‘‘before each IFR flight.’’
What is FAA’s response to the
concern? We do not agree with the
commenter. Under 14 CFR 43.7,
paragraph (e), part 135 operators are
allowed to return an airplane to service.
To avoid confusion, which could
result in unnecessarily grounding some
of the affected airplanes, we are
removing the reference to 14 CFR 43.7
from the Procedures column in
paragraph (e)(1) of the proposed AD.
Comment Issue No. 2: Remove All
Affected ADCs Until Upgraded
What is the commenter’s concern?
The commenter states that the ADC
provides input into the Terrain
Awareness and Warning System
(TAWS).
To prevent the possibility of incorrect
ADC data being input into the TAWS,
the commenter wants FAA to require
removal of all affected ADCs until they
are upgraded.
What is FAA’s response to the
concern? We do not agree with the
commenter. The Shadin ADC altitude
error has occurred over a long period of
time. We do not have justification to
require removing the affected ADCs
before further flight.
We use compliance times such as this
when we have identified an urgent
safety of flight situation. We believe that
25 hours TIS will give the owners or
operators of the affected airplanes
enough time to have the actions
required by this AD done without
compromising the safety of the
airplanes.
The altimetry system checks provided
as an interim solution to the actions
required in paragraph (e)(2) is a normal
aircraft preflight check.
We are not changing the final rule AD
action based on this comment.
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
the changes discussed above and minor
editorial corrections. We have
determined that these changes and
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.
Docket Information
Where can I go to view the docket
information? You may view the AD
docket that contains information
relating to this subject in person at the
DMS Docket Offices between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., 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.
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.
Costs of Compliance
How many airplanes does this AD
impact? We estimate that this AD affects
457 airplanes in the U.S. registry.
What is the cost impact of this AD on
owners/operators of the affected
airplanes? We estimate the following
costs to accomplish the modification:
Labor cost
Parts cost
Total cost per
airplane
2 work hours X $65 per hour = $130 ..............................................................
Not applicable ...........
$130
Shadin will reimburse the owner/
operators for labor to remove and
replace the ADC and shipping costs to
Shadin Repair Facility to the extent
specified in the service bulletin.
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
VerDate Aug<31>2005
15:45 Dec 09, 2005
Jkt 208001
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.
PO 00000
Frm 00010
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Total cost on U.S.
operators
$130 X 457 =
$59,410.
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–2005–21787;
E:\FR\FM\12DER1.SGM
12DER1
Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 237 / Monday, December 12, 2005 / Rules and Regulations
Directorate Identifier 2005–CE–34–AD’’
in your request.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
When Does This AD Become Effective?
(a) This AD becomes effective on January
23, 2006.
(b) None.
What Airplanes Are Affected By This AD?
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:
(c) This AD affects Shadin ADC–2000 air
data computers (ADC), part numbers (P/N)
962830A–1–S–8, 962830A–2–S–8, 962830A–
3–S–8, configurations B, C, and D, that are
installed in, but not limited to, the following
aircraft (all serial numbers), and are
certificated in any category:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
Manufacturer
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
I
Model
2. FAA amends § 39.13 by adding a
new AD to read as follows:
Alliance Aircraft
Group, LLC.
B–N Group Ltd ..........
Bombardier Inc ..........
Cessna Aircraft Company.
2005–25–08 SHADIN: Amendment 39–
14401; Docket No. FAA–2005–21787;
Directorate Identifier 2005–CE–34–AD.
deHavilland Inc .........
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
I
H–250
BN2A
DHC–3, DHC–6
172, 180, 180E, 185,
206, 206E, 206F,
206G 208, 210L,
310
DHC–2
Model
The New Piper Aircraft, Inc.
What Other ADs Are Affected By This
Action?
Adoption of the Amendment
I
Manufacturer
73357
PA–28–180, PA–28–
181, PA–31–350,
PA–32–300, PA–
32–301, PA–32R–
300, PA–34–200T
What is the Unsafe Condition Presented in
This AD?
(d) This AD is the result of reports that
certain ADC–2000 units display incorrect
altitude information on the Electronic Flight
Information System (EFIS) to the pilot. The
actions specified in this AD are to prevent
ADC–2000 units, P/Ns 962830A–1–S–8,
962830A–2–S–8, and 962830A–3–S–8,
configurations B, C, and D, from displaying
incorrect altitude information. This could
cause the flight crew to react to this incorrect
flight information and possibly result in an
unsafe operating condition.
What Must I do to Address This Problem?
(e) To address this problem, you must do
the following:
Actions
Compliance
Procedures
(1) To ensure the air data computer (ADC) and
the Electronic Flight Information System
(EFIS) altimetry accuracy, do the normal preflight check. If the altitudes, altimeter, and
elevation differ by more than 75 feet, do not
fly the airplane in Instrument Meterological
Conditions (IMC)/Instrument Flight Rules
(IFR).
Within the next 25 hours time-in-service (TIS)
after January 23, 2006 (the effective date of
this AD) and thereafter before each flight
until the ADC is upgraded as specified in
paragraph (e)(2) of this AD.
(2) Return all Shadin ADC–2000s, part numbers
962830A–1–S–8,
962830A–2–S–8,
962830A–3–S–8, Configurations B, C, and D,
to the Shadin Repair Facility for upgrade.
Contact the Shadin Technical Support department for a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. Until the ADC–2000 is
modified, returned, and reinstalled, only fly
the airplane if equipment requirements for
that airplane are still met.
(3) Do not install any Shadin ADC–2000, part
number 962830A–1–S–8, 962830A–2–S–8,
or 962830A–3–S–8, Configurations B, C, and
D, unless it has been upgraded as specified
in paragraph (e)(2) of this AD.
Within the next 15 months after January 23,
2006 (the effective date of this AD).
Follow the Interim Procedures contained in
Shadin Service Bulletin SB28–05–002, Rev
C, dated June 29, 2005. The owner/operator holding at least a private pilot certificate may do the check specified in paragraph (e)(1) of this AD. Make an entry into
the aircraft records showing compliance
with this portion of the AD following section
43.9 of the Federal Aviation Regulations
(14 CFR 43.9).
Follow Shadin Service Bulletin SB28–05–002,
Rev C, dated June 29, 2005.
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, Chicago Aircraft Certification
Office (ACO), FAA. For information on any
already approved alternative methods of
compliance, contact Jeffrey Kuen, Aerospace
Engineer, Chicago ACO, FAA, 2300 East
VerDate Aug<31>2005
15:45 Dec 09, 2005
Jkt 208001
As of January 23, 2006 (the effective date of
this AD).
Devon Avenue, Room 107, Des Plaines,
Illinois 60018; telephone: (847) 294–7125;
facsimile: (847) 294–7834; e-mail address:
jeffrey.kuen@faa.gov.
Does This AD Incorporate Any Material By
Reference?
(g) You must do the actions required by
this AD following the instructions in Shadin
Service Bulletin SB28–05–002, Rev C, dated
June 29, 2005. The Director of the Federal
Register approved the incorporation by
reference of this service bulletin in
accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51. To get a copy of this service
PO 00000
Frm 00011
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Not applicable.
information, contact Shadin, 6831 Oxford
Street, St. Louis Park, Minnesota 55426–
4412; telephone: (800) 388–2849 or (952)
927–6500; facsimile: (952) 924–1111; e-mail:
https://www.shadin.com. 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.,
E:\FR\FM\12DER1.SGM
12DER1
73358
Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 237 / Monday, December 12, 2005 / Rules and Regulations
Nassif Building, Room PL–401, Washington,
DC 20590–001 or on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov. The docket number is FAA–
2005–21787; Directorate Identifier 2005–CE–
34–AD.
Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on
November 30, 2005.
David R. Showers,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 05–23771 Filed 12–9–05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. 98–ANE–66–AD; Amendment
39–14402; AD 2005–25–09]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Pratt &
Whitney PW4000 Series Turbofan
Engines
SUMMARY: The FAA is superseding an
existing airworthiness directive (AD) for
Pratt & Whitney (PW) PW4000 series
turbofan engines. That AD currently
requires revisions to the engine
manufacturer’s time limits section (TLS)
to include enhanced inspection of
selected critical life-limited parts at
each piece-part opportunity. This AD
modifies the airworthiness limitations
section of the manufacturer’s manuals
and an air carrier’s approved continuous
airworthiness maintenance program by
adding eddy current inspections for
front compressor hubs installed in PW
4000–94’’ engine models. This AD also
adds the PW4062A engine to the
applicability. An FAA study of inservice events involving uncontained
failures of critical rotating engine parts
has indicated the need for mandatory
inspections. The mandatory inspections
are needed to identify those critical
rotating parts with conditions, which if
allowed to continue in service, could
result in uncontained failures. We are
issuing this AD to prevent critical lifelimited rotating engine part failure,
which could result in an uncontained
engine failure and damage to the
airplane.
This AD becomes effective June
12, 2006.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD
docket at the FAA, New England
Region, Office of the Regional Counsel,
DATES:
15:45 Dec 09, 2005
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Barbara Caufield, Aerospace Engineer,
Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine
and Propeller Directorate, 12 New
England Executive Park, Burlington, MA
01803–5299; telephone (781) 238–7146,
fax (781) 238–7199.
The FAA
proposed to amend 14 CFR part 39 with
a new AD, applicable to (PW) PW4000
series turbofan engines. We published
the proposed AD in the Federal Register
on August 18, 2004 (69 FR 51200). We
proposed to modify the airworthiness
limitations section of the manufacturer’s
manuals and an air carrier’s approved
continuous airworthiness maintenance
program to add eddy current
inspections for front compressor hubs
installed in PW 4000–94’’ engine
models (Engine Manuals 50A443,
50A605, and 50A22). We also proposed
to add the PW4062A engine to the
applicability.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Examining the AD Docket
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
VerDate Aug<31>2005
12 New England Executive Park,
Burlington, MA.
Jkt 208001
You may examine the AD Docket
(including any comments and service
information), by appointment, between
8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
See ADDRESSES for the location.
Comments
We provided the public the
opportunity to participate in the
development of this AD. We have
considered the comments received.
Request To Change Costs of Compliance
Four commenters request we change
the costs of compliance to include the
investment they have to make in
equipment, to perform these
inspections. We do not agree. This AD
does not require operators to invest in
equipment or to hire more personnel to
comply with the AD. The AD requires
revisions to the engine manufacturer’s
TLS to include enhanced inspection of
selected critical life-limited parts at
each piece-part opportunity. Operators
can choose to buy equipment to perform
the inspections or send the parts to an
approved service provider for
inspection.
Request for Lead Time To Purchase
Eddy Current Inspection Equipment
Three commenters request lead time
of an additional 6-to-8 months, as they
want to purchase eddy current
inspection equipment. We agree. We
changed the effective date of the AD to
be 180 days after the date of publication.
PO 00000
Frm 00012
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Request for Special Eddy Current
Inspection Instructions
Two commenters request we provide
special eddy current inspection
instructions in the AD, as equipment
sensitivity to surface finish, and to worn
or previously repaired parts may cause
‘‘liftoff’’ resulting in false indications.
We do not agree. The AD does not
contain specific inspection instructions.
The AD requires revisions to the engine
manufacturer’s TLS to include
enhanced inspection of selected critical
life-limited parts at each piece-part
opportunity. The engine manufacturer
and the suppliers of the eddy current
inspection equipment provide the
special inspection procedures and
requirements.
Request To Allow Use of Equivalent
Inspection Equipment
One commenter requests we allow use
of equivalent inspection equipment to
perform the eddy current inspections, as
some operators have already invested in
equivalent eddy current inspection
equipment. Using the single-source
equipment specified by the engine
manufacturer will cause an undue cost
burden. We do not agree. The AD does
not specify only one source of
equipment for the inspections. The
engine manufacturer developed
validated inspection procedures using
specific equipment that provides
acceptable inspection methods.
However, operators can seek approval to
use equivalent equipment, using the
Alternative Methods of Compliance
procedures referenced in paragraph (h)
of this AD or, they can send the part to
an approved service provider for
inspection.
Conclusion
We carefully reviewed the available
data, including the comments received,
and determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting the AD
with the changes described previously.
We determined that these changes will
neither increase the economic burden
on any operator nor increase the scope
of the AD.
Costs of Compliance
About 2,625 Pratt & Whitney PW4000
series turbofan engines of the affected
design are in the worldwide fleet. We
estimate 600 engines installed on
airplanes of U.S. registry will be affected
by this AD. We also estimate it will take
about 10 work hours per engine to
perform the inspections, and the average
labor rate is $65 per work hour. Since
this is an added inspection requirement,
included as part of the normal
maintenance cycle, no additional part
E:\FR\FM\12DER1.SGM
12DER1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 237 (Monday, December 12, 2005)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 73355-73358]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-23771]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2005-21787; Directorate Identifier 2005-CE-34-AD;
Amendment 39-14401; AD 2005-25-08]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Shadin ADC-2000 Air Data Computers
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Shadin ADC-2000 air data computers (ADC) installed on airplanes. This
AD requires you to replace affected ADC-2000 units with a modified
unit. This AD results from reports that certain ADC-2000 units display
incorrect altitude information on the Electronic Flight Information
System (EFIS) to the pilot. We are issuing this AD to prevent ADC-2000
units, part numbers (P/Ns) 962830A-1-S-8, 962830A-2-S-8, and 962830A-3-
S-8, configurations B, C, and D, from displaying incorrect altitude
information. This could cause the flight crew to react to this
incorrect flight information and possibly result in an unsafe operating
condition.
DATES: This AD becomes effective on January 23, 2006.
As of January 23, 2006, the Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed
in the regulation.
ADDRESSES: To get the service information identified in this AD,
contact Shadin, 6831 Oxford Street, St. Louis Park, Minnesota 55426-
4412; telephone: (800) 388-2849 or (952) 927-6500; facsimile: (952)
924-1111; e-mail: https://www.shadin.com.
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 20590-0001 or on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov. The docket number is FAA-2005-21787; Directorate
Identifier 2005-CE-34-AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jeffrey Kuen, Aerospace Engineer,
Chicago Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, 2300 East Devon
Avenue, Room 107, Des Plaines, Illinois 60018; telephone: (847) 294-
7125; facsimile: (847) 294-7834; e-mail address: jeffrey.kuen@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
What events have caused this AD? We received reports that the
pressure altitude output of certain Shadin ADC-2000 air data computers
(ADC) drift outside Technical Standard Order (TSO) tolerance.
Shadin ADC-2000 units, part numbers (P/Ns) 962830A-1-S-8, 962830A-
2-S-8, and 962830A-3-S-8, configurations B, C, and D (labeled with TSO-
C106 and TSO-C44a), provide altitude information that is displayed on
the Electronic Flight Information System (EFIS) to the pilot. The ADC/
EFIS combination is used to display primary altitude information to the
pilot.
The maximum altitude error allowed by TSO-C106 and TSO-C44a is 25
feet at ground level. Shadin ADC-2000 units, P/Ns 962830A-1-S-8,
962830A-2-S-8, and 962830A-3-S-8, configurations B, C, and D have shown
errors from 100 to 8,000 feet from the correct altitude.
The errors are caused by the ADC-2000 altitude measurement system.
A pressure transducer in the ADC measures the altitude from the
airplane static pressure system. The pressure transducer converts
static pressure to an electrical signal.
We determined that the electrical output from the pressure
transducer in the affected ADCs changes over time resulting in the
display of misleading altitude information to the pilot.
What is the potential impact if FAA took no action? If this
situation occurs while the flight crew is making critical flight
decisions, the display of incorrect altitude information could cause
the flight crew to react to this incorrect flight information and
possibly result in an unsafe operating condition.
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 Shadin ADC-2000 air data
computers (ADC) installed on airplanes. This proposal was published in
the Federal Register as a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) on
August 17, 2005 (70 FR 48333). The NPRM proposed to require you to
replace affected ADC-2000 units with a modified unit.
Comments
Was the public invited to comment? We provided the public the
opportunity to participate in developing this AD. The following
presents the comments received on the proposal and FAA's response to
each comment:
[[Page 73356]]
Comment Issue No. 1: AD Should Apply to Only Airplanes Operating Under
IFR
What is the commenter's concern? The commenter is concerned that 14
CFR 43.7 does not allow part 135 operators to do the preflight check
required in paragraph (e)(1) of the proposed AD. This would require a
maintenance mechanic to be hired to do the preflight check before each
flight.
The commenter requests that airplanes flown under part 135 VFR
operations be excluded from complying with the AD by changing the
Compliance column from ``before each flight'' to ``before each IFR
flight.''
What is FAA's response to the concern? We do not agree with the
commenter. Under 14 CFR 43.7, paragraph (e), part 135 operators are
allowed to return an airplane to service.
To avoid confusion, which could result in unnecessarily grounding
some of the affected airplanes, we are removing the reference to 14 CFR
43.7 from the Procedures column in paragraph (e)(1) of the proposed AD.
Comment Issue No. 2: Remove All Affected ADCs Until Upgraded
What is the commenter's concern? The commenter states that the ADC
provides input into the Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS).
To prevent the possibility of incorrect ADC data being input into
the TAWS, the commenter wants FAA to require removal of all affected
ADCs until they are upgraded.
What is FAA's response to the concern? We do not agree with the
commenter. The Shadin ADC altitude error has occurred over a long
period of time. We do not have justification to require removing the
affected ADCs before further flight.
We use compliance times such as this when we have identified an
urgent safety of flight situation. We believe that 25 hours TIS will
give the owners or operators of the affected airplanes enough time to
have the actions required by this AD done without compromising the
safety of the airplanes.
The altimetry system checks provided as an interim solution to the
actions required in paragraph (e)(2) is a normal aircraft preflight
check.
We are not changing the final rule AD action based on this comment.
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 the
changes discussed above and minor editorial corrections. We have
determined that these changes and 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.
Docket Information
Where can I go to view the docket information? You may view the AD
docket that contains information relating to this subject in person at
the DMS Docket Offices between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 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.
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.
Costs of Compliance
How many airplanes does this AD impact? We estimate that this AD
affects 457 airplanes in the U.S. registry.
What is the cost impact of this AD on owners/operators of the
affected airplanes? We estimate the following costs to accomplish the
modification:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total cost per
Labor cost Parts cost airplane Total cost on U.S. operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 work hours X $65 per hour = Not applicable............... $130 $130 X 457 = $59,410.
$130.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shadin will reimburse the owner/operators for labor to remove and
replace the ADC and shipping costs to Shadin Repair Facility to the
extent specified in the service bulletin.
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-2005-21787;
[[Page 73357]]
Directorate Identifier 2005-CE-34-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. FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding a new AD to read as follows:
2005-25-08 SHADIN: Amendment 39-14401; Docket No. FAA-2005-21787;
Directorate Identifier 2005-CE-34-AD.
When Does This AD Become Effective?
(a) This AD becomes effective on January 23, 2006.
What Other ADs Are Affected By This Action?
(b) None.
What Airplanes Are Affected By This AD?
(c) This AD affects Shadin ADC-2000 air data computers (ADC),
part numbers (P/N) 962830A-1-S-8, 962830A-2-S-8, 962830A-3-S-8,
configurations B, C, and D, that are installed in, but not limited
to, the following aircraft (all serial numbers), and are
certificated in any category:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Manufacturer Model
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alliance Aircraft Group, LLC.............. H-250
B-N Group Ltd............................. BN2A
Bombardier Inc............................ DHC-3, DHC-6
Cessna Aircraft Company................... 172, 180, 180E, 185, 206,
206E, 206F, 206G 208, 210L,
310
deHavilland Inc........................... DHC-2
The New Piper Aircraft, Inc............... PA-28-180, PA-28-181, PA-31-
350, PA-32-300, PA-32-301,
PA-32R-300, PA-34-200T
------------------------------------------------------------------------
What is the Unsafe Condition Presented in This AD?
(d) This AD is the result of reports that certain ADC-2000 units
display incorrect altitude information on the Electronic Flight
Information System (EFIS) to the pilot. The actions specified in
this AD are to prevent ADC-2000 units, P/Ns 962830A-1-S-8, 962830A-
2-S-8, and 962830A-3-S-8, configurations B, C, and D, from
displaying incorrect altitude information. This could cause the
flight crew to react to this incorrect flight information and
possibly result in an unsafe operating condition.
What Must I do to Address This Problem?
(e) To address this problem, you must do the following:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Actions Compliance Procedures
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) To ensure the air data Within the next 25 Follow the Interim
computer (ADC) and the hours time-in- Procedures
Electronic Flight service (TIS) after contained in Shadin
Information System (EFIS) January 23, 2006 Service Bulletin
altimetry accuracy, do the (the effective date SB28-05-002, Rev C,
normal preflight check. If of this AD) and dated June 29,
the altitudes, altimeter, thereafter before 2005. The owner/
and elevation differ by each flight until operator holding at
more than 75 feet, do not the ADC is upgraded least a private
fly the airplane in as specified in pilot certificate
Instrument Meterological paragraph (e)(2) of may do the check
Conditions (IMC)/Instrument this AD. specified in
Flight Rules (IFR). paragraph (e)(1) of
this AD. Make an
entry into the
aircraft records
showing compliance
with this portion
of the AD following
section 43.9 of the
Federal Aviation
Regulations (14 CFR
43.9).
(2) Return all Shadin ADC- Within the next 15 Follow Shadin
2000s, part numbers 962830A- months after Service Bulletin
1-S-8, 962830A-2-S-8, January 23, 2006 SB28-05-002, Rev C,
962830A-3-S-8, (the effective date dated June 29,
Configurations B, C, and D, of this AD). 2005.
to the Shadin Repair
Facility for upgrade.
Contact the Shadin
Technical Support
department for a Return
Merchandise Authorization
(RMA) number. Until the ADC-
2000 is modified, returned,
and reinstalled, only fly
the airplane if equipment
requirements for that
airplane are still met.
(3) Do not install any As of January 23, Not applicable.
Shadin ADC-2000, part 2006 (the effective
number 962830A-1-S-8, date of this AD).
962830A-2-S-8, or 962830A-3-
S-8, Configurations B, C,
and D, unless it has been
upgraded as specified in
paragraph (e)(2) of 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, Chicago Aircraft
Certification Office (ACO), FAA. For information on any already
approved alternative methods of compliance, contact Jeffrey Kuen,
Aerospace Engineer, Chicago ACO, FAA, 2300 East Devon Avenue, Room
107, Des Plaines, Illinois 60018; telephone: (847) 294-7125;
facsimile: (847) 294-7834; e-mail address: jeffrey.kuen@faa.gov.
Does This AD Incorporate Any Material By Reference?
(g) You must do the actions required by this AD following the
instructions in Shadin Service Bulletin SB28-05-002, Rev C, dated
June 29, 2005. The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of this service bulletin in accordance
with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To get a copy of this
service information, contact Shadin, 6831 Oxford Street, St. Louis
Park, Minnesota 55426-4412; telephone: (800) 388-2849 or (952) 927-
6500; facsimile: (952) 924-1111; e-mail: https://www.shadin.com. 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.,
[[Page 73358]]
Nassif Building, Room PL-401, Washington, DC 20590-001 or on the
Internet at https://dms.dot.gov. The docket number is FAA-2005-21787;
Directorate Identifier 2005-CE-34-AD.
Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on November 30, 2005.
David R. Showers,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 05-23771 Filed 12-9-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P