Airworthiness Directives; Gulfstream Model GIV-X and GV-SP Series Airplanes, 9436-9439 [06-1595]

Download as PDF 9436 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 37 / Friday, February 24, 2006 / Rules and Regulations Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a general visual inspection is: ‘‘A visual examination of an interior or exterior area, installation, or assembly to detect obvious damage, failure, or irregularity. This level of inspection is made from within touching distance unless otherwise specified. A mirror may be necessary to ensure visual access to all surfaces in the inspection area. This level of inspection is made under normally available lighting conditions such as daylight, hangar lighting, flashlight, or droplight and may require removal or opening of access panels or doors. Stands, ladders, or platforms may be required to gain proximity to the area being checked.’’ Service Bulletin Exceptions (h) Although EMBRAER Service Bulletin 145–30–0042, dated April 18, 2005, and EMBRAER Service Bulletin 145LEG–30– 0012, dated April 18, 2005, specify contacting the manufacturer if damage to components for the relay support is found and also specify returning any relay that fails an inspection to the airplane manufacturer, this AD does not include those requirements. Terminating Modification (i) Within 6,000 flight hours or 30 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever is first: Do the applicable actions specified in paragraphs (i)(1), (i)(2), and (i)(3) of this AD. Accomplishing all the applicable actions specified in this paragraph terminates the inspections required by paragraph (g) of this AD. (1) For all airplanes, replace the directvision windowsill drain hoses having part number (P/N) 123–15435–401 and –403 with new, improved hoses having P/N 145– 13044–001 and P/N 145–13047–001, as applicable, and replace the tiedown straps with new tiedown straps, in accordance with Figure 1 of the service bulletin. (2) For all airplanes, rework the drain hose having P/N 123–15435–405, in accordance with Figure 1 of the service bulletin. (3) For Model EMB–135BJ airplanes, reroute the drain hoses of the left and right cockpit horizontal linings, in accordance with Figure 2 of the service bulletin. Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (j)(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 § 39.19 on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify the appropriate principal inspector in the FAA Flight Standards Certificate Holding District Office. wwhite on PROD1PC61 with RULES Related Information (k) Brazilian airworthiness directive 2005– 08–04, effective September 5, 2005, also addresses the subject of this AD. Material Incorporated by Reference (l) You must use the service documents identified in Table 2 of this AD to perform the actions that are required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. The VerDate Aug<31>2005 18:05 Feb 23, 2006 Jkt 208001 Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of these documents in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Contact Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica S.A. (EMBRAER), P.O. Box 343—CEP 12.225, Sao Jose dos Campos—SP, Brazil, for a copy of this service information. You may review copies at the Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street SW., room PL–401, Nassif Building, Washington, DC; on the Internet at https:// dms.dot.gov; or at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at the NARA, call (202) 741–6030, or go to https://www.archives.gov/ federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ ibr_locations.html. TABLE 2.—MATERIAL INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE Embraer Service Bulletin 145–30–0041 ........................ 145–30–0042 ........................ 145LEG–30–0011 ................. 145LEG–30–0012 ................. Date April April April April 20, 18, 20, 18, 2005. 2005. 2005. 2005. Issued in Renton, Washington, on February 3, 2006. Kalene C. Yanamura, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 06–1409 Filed 2–23–06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2006–23966; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–024–AD; Amendment 39–14495; AD 2006–04–13] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Gulfstream Model GIV–X and GV–SP Series Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Gulfstream Model GIV–X and GV–SP series airplanes. This AD requires revising the Limitations section of the airplane flight manual by incorporating new procedures to follow in the event that the cockpit displays go blank or malfunction. This AD results from a report that all four of the cockpit flight panel display units simultaneously went blank during flight. We are issuing PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 this AD to ensure that the flightcrew is advised of the appropriate procedures to follow in the event that the cockpit displays go blank or malfunction, which could result in a reduction of the flightcrew’s situational awareness and possible loss of control of the airplane. DATES: This AD becomes effective March 13, 2006. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of March 13, 2006. We must receive comments on this AD by April 25, 2006. ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on this AD. • DOT Docket Web site: Go to https://dms.dot.gov and follow the instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Government-wide rulemaking Web site: Go to https://www.regulations.gov and follow the instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building, Room PL–401, Washington, DC 20590. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. • Hand Delivery: Room PL–401 on the plaza level of the Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. Contact Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Technical Publications Dept., P.O. Box 2206, Savannah, Georgia 31402–2206, for service information identified in this AD. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Robert Chupka, Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Equipment Branch, ACE– 119A, Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, One Crown Center, 1895 Phoenix Boulevard, Suite 450, Atlanta, Georgia 30349; telephone (770) 703– 6070; fax (770) 703–6097. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We have received a report indicating that all four of the cockpit flight panel display units simultaneously went blank during flight on a Gulfstream Model GV–SP airplane. The displays did not recover until the flightcrew pulled circuit breakers associated with the displays; subsequently, three of the four displays returned to normal. Initial investigation revealed discrepancies with the reversion logic of the advanced graphic modules. Similar display failures occurred during ground test operations. Such conditions, if not corrected, could result in a reduction of the flightcrew’s situational awareness E:\FR\FM\24FER1.SGM 24FER1 9437 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 37 / Friday, February 24, 2006 / Rules and Regulations and possible loss of control of the airplane. Relevant Service Information Gulfstream has issued revisions to the Limitations section of Gulfstream G350, G450, G500, and G550 airplane flight manuals (AFMs), as listed in the table below: GULFSTREAM AFM REVISIONS Affected airplane models Model Model Model Model GIV–X .................................. GIV–X .................................. GV–SP ................................ GV–SP ................................ Gulfstream Gulfstream Gulfstream Gulfstream The revisions describe new procedures to follow in the event that all four cockpit flight panel display units simultaneously go blank or malfunction. The procedures include identifying the malfunctioning components and taking appropriate corrective action to return certain displays to a functional condition. The procedures also include weather minimums designed to mitigate the effects of display blanking events during takeoff or landing. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of This AD The unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other airplanes of the same type design. For this reason, we are issuing this AD to ensure that the flightcrew is advised of appropriate procedures to follow in the event that the cockpit displays go blank or malfunction, which could result in a reduction of the flightcrew’s situational awareness and possible loss of control of the airplane. This AD requires revising the AFM to include the revisions described previously. Interim Action We consider this AD interim action. The manufacturer is currently developing a software modification that will address the unsafe condition identified in this AD. Once this modification is developed, approved, and available, we may consider additional rulemaking. FAA’s Determination of the Effective Date wwhite on PROD1PC61 with RULES Since an unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of this AD, we have found that notice and opportunity for public comment before issuing this AD are impracticable, and that good cause exists to make this AD effective in less than 30 days. Comments Invited This AD is a final rule that involves requirements that affect flight safety and was not preceded by notice and an VerDate Aug<31>2005 18:05 Feb 23, 2006 Revision level AFM Jkt 208001 G350, G450, G500, G550, GAC–AC–G350–OPS–0001 GAC–AC–G450–OPS–0001 GAC–AC–G500–OPS–0001 GAC–AC–G550–OPS–0001 ..................................... ..................................... ..................................... ..................................... opportunity for public comment; however, we invite you to submit any relevant written data, views, or arguments regarding this AD. Send your comments to an address listed in the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2006–23966; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–024–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the AD that might suggest a need to modify it. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// dms.dot.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact with FAA personnel concerning this AD. Using the search function of that Web site, anyone can find and read the comments in any of our dockets, including the name of the individual who sent the comment (or signed the comment on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). You may review the DOT’s complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477–78), or you may visit https://dms.dot.gov. Examining the Dockets You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://dms.dot.gov, or in person at the Docket Management Facility office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The Docket Management Facility office (telephone (800) 647–5227) is located on the plaza level of the Nassif Building at the DOT street address stated in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after the Docket Management System receives them. Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA’s authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs, describes in more PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 6 7 13 15 Revision date January January January January 24, 24, 24, 24, 2006. 2006. 2006. 2006. detail the scope of the Agency’s authority. We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in subtitle VII, part A, subpart III, section 44701, ‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings We have determined that this AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the regulation: 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and 3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket. See the ADDRESSES section for a location to examine the regulatory evaluation. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, I E:\FR\FM\24FER1.SGM 24FER1 9438 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 37 / Friday, February 24, 2006 / Rules and Regulations Effective Date (a) This AD becomes effective March 13, 2006. Affected ADs (b) None. the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: I Compliance Applicability (c) This AD applies to Gulfstream Model GIV–X series airplanes, certificated in any category; serial numbers 4001 and subsequent; and Gulfstream Model GV–SP series airplanes, certificated in any category; serial numbers 5001 and subsequent; on which Gulfstream Modification ASC–904 or production equivalent has been incorporated. Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 cockpit displays go blank or malfunction, which could result in a reduction of the flightcrew’s situational awareness and possible loss of control of the airplane. [Amended] 2. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): I Unsafe Condition (d) This AD results from a report that all four of the cockpit flight panel display units simultaneously went blank during flight. We are issuing this AD to ensure that the flightcrew is advised of the appropriate procedures to follow in the event that the 2006–04–13 Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation: Amendment 39–14495. Docket No. FAA–2006–23966; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–024–AD. (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. Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) Revision (f) Within 10 days after the effective date of this AD, revise the Limitations section of the Gulfstream G350, G450, G500, and G550 AFMs to include the information in the applicable revision listed in Table 1 of this AD. Thereafter, operate the airplane according to the limitations and procedures in the applicable revision. Any further revisions to the AFM must contain the identical procedures in the Limitations section of the AFM revisions as required by this AD. TABLE 1.—GULFSTREAM AFM REVISIONS Affected airplane models Model Model Model Model Applicable Gulfstream AFM GIV–X ...................................................... GIV–X ...................................................... GV–SP ..................................................... GV–SP ..................................................... GAC–AC–G350–OPS–0001 as specified in Revision 6, dated January 24, 2006. GAC–AC–G450–OPS–0001, as specified in Revision 7, dated January 24, 2006. GAC–AC–G500–OPS–0001, as specified in Revision 13, dated January 24, 2006. GAC–AC–G550–OPS–0001, as specified in Revision 15, dated January 24, 2006. Note 1: This may be accomplished by inserting a copy of the applicable Gulfstream Revisions listed in Table 1 of this AD into the applicable AFM. which the AMOC applies, notify the appropriate principal inspector in the FAA Flight Standards Certificate Holding District Office. Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) Material Incorporated by Reference (h) You must use the documents listed in Table 2 of this AD, as applicable, to perform the actions that are required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of these documents in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Contact Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Technical (g)(1) The Manager, Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested in accordance with the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. (2) Before using any AMOC approved in accordance with § 39.19 on any airplane to Publications Dept., P.O. Box 2206, Savannah, Georgia 31402–2206, for a copy of this service information. You may review copies at the Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street SW., Room PL–401, Nassif Building, Washington, DC; on the Internet at https:// dms.dot.gov; or at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at the NARA, call (202) 741–6030, or go to https://www.archives.gov/ federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ ibr_locations.html. TABLE 2.—MATERIAL INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE Gulfstream service information List of effective pages Gulfstream G350 Airplane Flight Manual, GAC–AC–G350–OPS–0001 Gulfstream G450 Airplane Flight Manual, GAC–AC–G450–OPS–0001 Gulfstream G500 Airplane Flight Manual, GAC–AC–G500–OPS–0001 wwhite on PROD1PC61 with RULES Gulfstream G550 Airplane Flight Manual, GAC–AC–G550–OPS–0001 VerDate Aug<31>2005 18:05 Feb 23, 2006 Jkt 208001 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4700 Pages Pages Pages Pages Pages Pages Pages Pages Pages Pages Pages Pages A–C ................. E, G–J ............. D, F ................. A–C ................. D, F ................. E, G–J ............. A–C ................. D, F ................. E, G, H ............ A–C ................. E, G–J ............. D, F ................. Sfmt 4700 Revision level Revision Revision Revision Revision Revision Revision Revision Revision Revision Revision Revision Revision E:\FR\FM\24FER1.SGM 6 .................. 3 .................. 5 .................. 7 .................. 6 .................. 4 .................. 13 ................ 11 ................ 9 .................. 15 ................ 11 ................ 13 ................ 24FER1 Date January 24, 2006. September 23, 2005. January 6, 2006. January 24, 2006. January 6, 2006. September 21, 2005. January 24, 2006. January 6, 2006. September 23, 2005. January 24, 2006. September 9, 2005. January 6, 2006. Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 37 / Friday, February 24, 2006 / Rules and Regulations Issued in Renton, Washington, on February 14, 2006. Michael Zielinski, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 06–1595 Filed 2–23–06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 93 [Docket No. FAA–2001–8690] RIN 2120–AI71 Delayed Implementation of the Airspace Modification Final Rule for the Grand Canyon National Park Special Flight Rule Area and Flight Free Zones Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. wwhite on PROD1PC61 with RULES AGENCY: SUMMARY: This action stays the effective date for the implementation of the Airspace Modification final rule for the east end of the Grand Canyon National Park (GCNP) until February 20, 2011. In a case decided in August 2002, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit returned the GCNP rules to the FAA for further consideration of ways to ensure the substantial restoration of natural quiet. After several attempts in resolving the routes issue in the east end, in February 2003, the FAA stayed the east end routes and airspace changes until February 20, 2006. Because of an ongoing mediation action, which involves consideration of the routes in the east end of the GCNP, the FAA finds it necessary to extend the date for the effectiveness of the Airspace Modification rule for the east end until February 20, 2011. DATES: The effective date of sections (a) and (b) of 14 CFR 93.305, stayed until February 20, 2006 (68 FR 9496, February 27, 2003), is further stayed until February 20, 2011. This rule was originally published at 61 FR 69330 on December 31, 1996, and amended April 4, 2000. ADDRESSES: You can get an electronic copy using the Internet by: (1) Searching the Department of Transportation’s electronic Docket Management System (DMS) Web page (https://dms.dot.gov/search); (2) Visiting the FAA’s Regulations and Policies Web page at https:// www.faa.gov/regulations_policies; or VerDate Aug<31>2005 18:05 Feb 23, 2006 Jkt 208001 (3) Accessing the Government Printing Office’s Web page at https:// www.gpoaccess.gov/fr/. You can also get a copy by sending a request to the Federal Aviation Administration, Office of Rulemaking, ARM–1, 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591, or by calling (202) 267–9680. Make sure to identify the amendment number or docket number of this rulemaking. Anyone is able to search the electronic form of all comments received into any of our dockets by the name of the individual submitting the comment (or signing the comment, if submitted on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). You may review DOT’s complete Privacy Act statement in the Federal Register published on April 11, 2000 (Volume 65, Number 70; Pages 19477–78) or you may visit https://dms.dot.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Gene Kirkendall, Flight Standards Service (AFS–200), Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Ave., SW., Washington, DC 20591; Telephone: (202) 267–7701. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act The Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act (SBREFA) of 1996 requires the FAA to comply with small entity requests for information or advice about compliance with statutes and regulations within its jurisdiction. If you are a small entity and you have a question regarding this document, you may contact your local FAA official, or the person listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT. You can find out more about SBREFA on the Internet at https://www.faa.gov/avr/arm/sbrefa.cfm. Background On April 4, 2000, the FAA published two final rules, the Modification of the Dimensions of the Grand Canyon National Park Special Flight Rules Area and Flight Free Zones (Airspace Modification), and the Commercial Air Tour Limitation in the Grand Canyon National Park Special Flight Rules Area (Commercial Air Tour Limitation). See 65 FR 17736 and 65 FR 17708; April 4, 2000. The FAA also published concurrently a notice of availability of Commercial Routes for the Grand Canyon National Park (Routes Notice). See 65 FR 17698, April 4, 2000. The Commercial Air Tour Limitations final rule was implemented, effective May 4, 2000. The Airspace Modification final rule and the routes set forth in the Notice of Availability were scheduled to PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 9439 become effective December 1, 2000. The Final Supplemental Environmental Assessment for Special Flight Rules in the Vicinity of Grand Canyon National Park (SEA) was completed on February 22, 2000, and the Finding of No Significant Impact was issued on February 25, 2000. Following the publication of the final rules, the United States Air Tour Association (USATA) and seven air tour operators petitioned the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit to review the rules. See USATA v. FAA (Docket No. 00– 1201, May 8, 2000). During the course of this litigation, the USATA raised new safety concerns regarding the new routes in the east end of the GCNP SFRA. To propose a route that would meet the goal of noise reduction while providing a safe air tour route, the FAA first delayed implementation of the routes until December 28, 2000 (November 20, 2000; 65 FR 69848). Subsequently, the FAA delayed the implementation of the routes until April 1, 2001. (66 FR 2001, January 4, 2001). Finally, the FAA decided to implement the modifications to the route structure of the GCNP SFRA in two phases. First, on April 19, 2001, the FAA implemented the routes and airspace in the west-end (defined as all areas of the SFRA west of the Dragon corridor) of the GCNP SFRA. Also, on April 19, 2001, the SFRA boundary in the eastern part of the GCNP SFRA over the Navajo Nation lands was extended 5 miles to the east. Second, the route structure on the east-end (Dragon Corridor and all airspace east of that Corridor) in the GCNP SFRA was stayed until December 1, 2001, to enable the FAA and NPS to determine what changes should be made in the east end of GCNP. In December 2001, the east end route structure was again stayed until February 20, 2003 (66 FR 63293, December 5, 2001), and in February 2003 the route structure was again stayed until February 20, 2006. Thus, the routes now flown remain almost exactly as that shown under Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) 50– 2, with only slight modification to certain entry and exit points. On August 20, 2002, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit concluded that the FAA’s use of an ‘‘average annual day’’ in lieu of ‘‘any given day,’’ in measuring substantial restoration of natural quiet at GCNP ‘‘appears inconsistent with both the [National] Park Service’s definition of the term and the premise on which that definition was based.’’ See USATA v. FAA, 298 F.3d 997, August 16, 2002 (DC Circuit, 2002). The court also E:\FR\FM\24FER1.SGM 24FER1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 37 (Friday, February 24, 2006)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 9436-9439]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 06-1595]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2006-23966; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-024-AD; 
Amendment 39-14495; AD 2006-04-13]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Gulfstream Model GIV-X and GV-SP Series 
Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
certain Gulfstream Model GIV-X and GV-SP series airplanes. This AD 
requires revising the Limitations section of the airplane flight manual 
by incorporating new procedures to follow in the event that the cockpit 
displays go blank or malfunction. This AD results from a report that 
all four of the cockpit flight panel display units simultaneously went 
blank during flight. We are issuing this AD to ensure that the 
flightcrew is advised of the appropriate procedures to follow in the 
event that the cockpit displays go blank or malfunction, which could 
result in a reduction of the flightcrew's situational awareness and 
possible loss of control of the airplane.

DATES: This AD becomes effective March 13, 2006.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of March 13, 
2006.
    We must receive comments on this AD by April 25, 2006.

ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on 
this AD.
     DOT Docket Web site: Go to https://dms.dot.gov and follow 
the instructions for sending your comments electronically.
     Government-wide rulemaking Web site: Go to https://
www.regulations.gov and follow the instructions for sending your 
comments electronically.
     Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of 
Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building, Room PL-401, 
Washington, DC 20590.
     Fax: (202) 493-2251.
     Hand Delivery: Room PL-401 on the plaza level of the 
Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    Contact Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Technical Publications 
Dept., P.O. Box 2206, Savannah, Georgia 31402-2206, for service 
information identified in this AD.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Robert Chupka, Aerospace Engineer, 
Systems and Equipment Branch, ACE-119A, Atlanta Aircraft Certification 
Office, FAA, One Crown Center, 1895 Phoenix Boulevard, Suite 450, 
Atlanta, Georgia 30349; telephone (770) 703-6070; fax (770) 703-6097.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We have received a report indicating that all four of the cockpit 
flight panel display units simultaneously went blank during flight on a 
Gulfstream Model GV-SP airplane. The displays did not recover until the 
flightcrew pulled circuit breakers associated with the displays; 
subsequently, three of the four displays returned to normal. Initial 
investigation revealed discrepancies with the reversion logic of the 
advanced graphic modules. Similar display failures occurred during 
ground test operations. Such conditions, if not corrected, could result 
in a reduction of the flightcrew's situational awareness

[[Page 9437]]

and possible loss of control of the airplane.

Relevant Service Information

    Gulfstream has issued revisions to the Limitations section of 
Gulfstream G350, G450, G500, and G550 airplane flight manuals (AFMs), 
as listed in the table below:

                                            Gulfstream AFM Revisions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      Revision
      Affected airplane models                     AFM                 level              Revision date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Model GIV-X.........................  Gulfstream G350, GAC-AC-G350-           6  January 24, 2006.
                                       OPS-0001.
Model GIV-X.........................  Gulfstream G450, GAC-AC-G450-           7  January 24, 2006.
                                       OPS-0001.
Model GV-SP.........................  Gulfstream G500, GAC-AC-G500-          13  January 24, 2006.
                                       OPS-0001.
Model GV-SP.........................  Gulfstream G550, GAC-AC-G550-          15  January 24, 2006.
                                       OPS-0001.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The revisions describe new procedures to follow in the event that all 
four cockpit flight panel display units simultaneously go blank or 
malfunction. The procedures include identifying the malfunctioning 
components and taking appropriate corrective action to return certain 
displays to a functional condition. The procedures also include weather 
minimums designed to mitigate the effects of display blanking events 
during takeoff or landing.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This AD

    The unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or 
develop on other airplanes of the same type design. For this reason, we 
are issuing this AD to ensure that the flightcrew is advised of 
appropriate procedures to follow in the event that the cockpit displays 
go blank or malfunction, which could result in a reduction of the 
flightcrew's situational awareness and possible loss of control of the 
airplane. This AD requires revising the AFM to include the revisions 
described previously.

Interim Action

    We consider this AD interim action. The manufacturer is currently 
developing a software modification that will address the unsafe 
condition identified in this AD. Once this modification is developed, 
approved, and available, we may consider additional rulemaking.

FAA's Determination of the Effective Date

    Since an unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate 
adoption of this AD, we have found that notice and opportunity for 
public comment before issuing this AD are impracticable, and that good 
cause exists to make this AD effective in less than 30 days.

Comments Invited

    This AD is a final rule that involves requirements that affect 
flight safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for 
public comment; however, we invite you to submit any relevant written 
data, views, or arguments regarding this AD. Send your comments to an 
address listed in the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2006-
23966; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-024-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the AD that might 
suggest a need to modify it.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://
dms.dot.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will 
also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact with FAA 
personnel concerning this AD. Using the search function of that Web 
site, anyone can find and read the comments in any of our dockets, 
including the name of the individual who sent the comment (or signed 
the comment on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). 
You may review the DOT's complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal 
Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477-78), or you may visit 
https://dms.dot.gov.

Examining the Dockets

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov, or in person at the Docket Management Facility office 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The Docket Management Facility office (telephone (800) 647-
5227) is located on the plaza level of the Nassif Building at the DOT 
street address stated in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be 
available in the AD docket shortly after the Docket Management System 
receives them.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs, 
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
subtitle VII, part A, subpart III, section 44701, ``General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    We have determined that this AD will not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a 
substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between 
the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power 
and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the regulation:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
    3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to 
comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket. See the ADDRESSES 
section for a location to examine the regulatory evaluation.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

Adoption of the Amendment

0
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator,

[[Page 9438]]

the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends Sec.  39.13 by 
adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD):

2006-04-13 Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation: Amendment 39-14495. 
Docket No. FAA-2006-23966; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-024-AD.

Effective Date

    (a) This AD becomes effective March 13, 2006.

Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to Gulfstream Model GIV-X series airplanes, 
certificated in any category; serial numbers 4001 and subsequent; 
and Gulfstream Model GV-SP series airplanes, certificated in any 
category; serial numbers 5001 and subsequent; on which Gulfstream 
Modification ASC-904 or production equivalent has been incorporated.

Unsafe Condition

    (d) This AD results from a report that all four of the cockpit 
flight panel display units simultaneously went blank during flight. 
We are issuing this AD to ensure that the flightcrew is advised of 
the appropriate procedures to follow in the event that the cockpit 
displays go blank or malfunction, which could result in a reduction 
of the flightcrew's situational awareness and possible loss of 
control of the airplane.

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.

Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) Revision

    (f) Within 10 days after the effective date of this AD, revise 
the Limitations section of the Gulfstream G350, G450, G500, and G550 
AFMs to include the information in the applicable revision listed in 
Table 1 of this AD. Thereafter, operate the airplane according to 
the limitations and procedures in the applicable revision. Any 
further revisions to the AFM must contain the identical procedures 
in the Limitations section of the AFM revisions as required by this 
AD.

                   Table 1.--Gulfstream AFM Revisions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Affected airplane models            Applicable Gulfstream AFM
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Model GIV-X..................  GAC-AC-G350-OPS-0001 as specified in
                                Revision 6, dated January 24, 2006.
Model GIV-X..................  GAC-AC-G450-OPS-0001, as specified in
                                Revision 7, dated January 24, 2006.
Model GV-SP..................  GAC-AC-G500-OPS-0001, as specified in
                                Revision 13, dated January 24, 2006.
Model GV-SP..................  GAC-AC-G550-OPS-0001, as specified in
                                Revision 15, dated January 24, 2006.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Note 1: This may be accomplished by inserting a copy of the 
applicable Gulfstream Revisions listed in Table 1 of this AD into 
the applicable AFM.

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (g)(1) The Manager, Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, 
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested in 
accordance with the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
    (2) Before using any AMOC approved in accordance with Sec.  
39.19 on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify the 
appropriate principal inspector in the FAA Flight Standards 
Certificate Holding District Office.

Material Incorporated by Reference

    (h) You must use the documents listed in Table 2 of this AD, as 
applicable, to perform the actions that are required by this AD, 
unless the AD specifies otherwise. The Director of the Federal 
Register approved the incorporation by reference of these documents 
in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Contact 
Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Technical Publications Dept., P.O. 
Box 2206, Savannah, Georgia 31402-2206, for a copy of this service 
information. You may review copies at the Docket Management 
Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street SW., 
Room PL-401, Nassif Building, Washington, DC; on the Internet at 
https://dms.dot.gov; or at the National Archives and Records 
Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this 
material at the NARA, call (202) 741-6030, or go to https://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.

                                  Table 2.--Material Incorporated by Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       List of effective
   Gulfstream service information            pages            Revision level                   Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gulfstream G350 Airplane Flight      Pages A-C...........  Revision 6..........  January 24, 2006.
 Manual, GAC-AC-G350-OPS-0001.       Pages E, G-J........  Revision 3..........  September 23, 2005.
                                     Pages D, F..........  Revision 5..........  January 6, 2006.
Gulfstream G450 Airplane Flight      Pages A-C...........  Revision 7..........  January 24, 2006.
 Manual, GAC-AC-G450-OPS-0001.       Pages D, F..........  Revision 6..........  January 6, 2006.
                                     Pages E, G-J........  Revision 4..........  September 21, 2005.
Gulfstream G500 Airplane Flight      Pages A-C...........  Revision 13.........  January 24, 2006.
 Manual, GAC-AC-G500-OPS-0001.       Pages D, F..........  Revision 11.........  January 6, 2006.
                                     Pages E, G, H.......  Revision 9..........  September 23, 2005.
Gulfstream G550 Airplane Flight      Pages A-C...........  Revision 15.........  January 24, 2006.
 Manual, GAC-AC-G550-OPS-0001.       Pages E, G-J........  Revision 11.........  September 9, 2005.
                                     Pages D, F..........  Revision 13.........  January 6, 2006.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



[[Page 9439]]

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on February 14, 2006.
Michael Zielinski,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 06-1595 Filed 2-23-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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