Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330-200 and -300 Series Airplanes; and Model A340-200 and -300 Series Airplanes, 15020-15023 [06-2851]
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15020
Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 58 / Monday, March 27, 2006 / Rules and Regulations
Material Incorporated by Reference
(j) You must use Airbus Service Bulletin
A320–52–1124, Revision 01, dated May 31,
2005, 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 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 March
10, 2006.
Kalene C. Yanamura,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 06–2852 Filed 3–24–06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
issuing this AD to prevent rupture of the
inboard and outboard actuator fittings of
the aileron servo controls, which could
result in airframe vibration and
consequent reduced structural integrity
of the airplane.
DATES: This AD becomes effective May
1, 2006.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in the AD
as of May 1, 2006.
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,
International Branch, ANM–116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98055–4056; telephone
(425) 227–2797; fax (425) 227–1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Federal Aviation Administration
Examining the Docket
14 CFR Part 39
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.
[Docket No. FAA–2005–20452; Directorate
Identifier 2004–NM–206–AD; Amendment
39–14522; AD 2006–06–13]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model
A330–200 and –300 Series Airplanes;
and Model A340–200 and –300 Series
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
cchase on PROD1PC60 with RULES
AGENCY:
Discussion
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Airbus Model A330–200 and A330–300
series airplanes; and Model A340–200
and –300 series airplanes. This AD
requires repetitive detailed inspections
for discrepancies of the inboard and
outboard actuator fittings of the aileron
servo controls, corrective actions if
necessary, and eventual replacement of
all the attachment bolts of the aileron
servo controls. This AD results from
several cases of bushing migration on
the inboard and outboard actuator
fittings of the aileron servo controls; in
one case the bushing had migrated
completely out of the actuator fitting
and the fitting was cracked. We are
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18:13 Mar 24, 2006
Jkt 208001
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to include an AD that would
apply to certain Airbus Model A330 and
A340–200 and –300 series airplanes.
That NPRM was published in the
Federal Register on February 28, 2005
(70 FR 9555). That NPRM proposed to
require repetitive detailed inspections
for discrepancies of the inboard and
outboard actuator fittings of the aileron
servo controls, corrective actions if
necessary, and eventual replacement of
all the attachment bolts of the aileron
servo controls.
Comments
We provided the public the
opportunity to participate in the
development of this AD. We have
considered the comments received.
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Request for Optional Inspection
Air France states that an optional
inspection (for the three repetitive
inspections referenced in the French
airworthiness directives) for bolt
replacement at the first inspection with
paint marking, and further inspection
after 1,800 flight hours, but no later than
18 months, is not shown in the NPRM.
Air France adds that airplanes with
Airbus Modification 45512 installed in
production, and without Airbus
Modification 50600 installed, need only
do the bolt replacement. Air France
notes that the inspections and bolt
replacement are for airplanes on which
servo controls ECP8/9 have been
installed in service by Airbus Service
Bulletin A340–27–4081 or A340–27–
4062 for Model A340–200 and –300
series airplanes; and Airbus Service
Bulletin A330–27–3075 or A330–27–
3054 for Model A330–200 and –300
series airplanes.
We agree with Air France. We have
added the affected airplane models to
paragraphs (h) and (j)(1) and (j)(2)
(changed to paragraphs (k)(1) and (k)(2)
in this final rule) of this AD to
distinguish between the requirements
for airplanes with Airbus Modification
45512 installed in production, and those
without the modification installed. We
have also added a new paragraph (i) to
provide for the optional inspection.
Additionally, we have changed
paragraphs (h) and (j) to include
terminating action for the repetitive
inspections if all the small-head
attachment bolts are replaced.
Request To Correct Typographical
Error/Clarify Certain Information
Airbus states that a typographical
error was made in the service bulletin
numbers referenced in Table 1 of the
NPRM for Airbus Service Bulletins
A330–57–3075 and A340–57–4083. The
references in the NPRM specify Airbus
Service Bulletins A330–27–3075 and
A340–27–4083. We agree that a
typographical error was made and we
have corrected the service bulletin
numbers accordingly.
Airbus also states that Table 1 lists the
service bulletins without any link or
reference to the rest of the AD. Airbus
asks for clarification of each service
bulletin to specify if it relates to the
inspection paragraph or the replacement
paragraph. We agree with Airbus. For
clarification, we have added paragraph
numbers to each service bulletin
reference in Table 1, and crossreferenced those numbers in paragraphs
(h), (j), and (k) of this AD.
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Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 58 / Monday, March 27, 2006 / Rules and Regulations
Explanation of Change to Applicability
We have revised the applicability of
this AD to identify model designations
as published in the most recent type
certificate data sheet for the affected
models.
Clarification of AMOC Paragraph
We have revised paragraph (l) of this
AD to clarify the appropriate procedure
for notifying the principal inspector
before using any approved AMOC on
any airplane to which the AMOC
applies.
Conclusion
We have 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 have determined that
these changes will neither increase the
economic burden on any operator nor
increase the scope of the AD.
Costs of Compliance
This AD will affect about 20 airplanes
of U.S. registry.
The inspection will take about 16
work hours per airplane (2 hours per
fitting), at an average labor rate of $65
per work hour. Based on these figures,
the estimated cost of the inspection is
$20,800, or $1,040 per airplane, per
inspection cycle.
The replacement will take about 12
work hours per airplane, at an average
labor rate of $65 per work hour.
Required parts will be free of charge.
Based on these figures, the estimated
cost of the replacement is $15,600, or
$780 per airplane.
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 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
15021
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 Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) amends § 39.13
by adding the following new
airworthiness directive (AD):
I
2006–06–13 Airbus: Amendment 39–14522.
Docket No. FAA–2005–20452;
Directorate Identifier 2004–NM–206–AD.
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective May 1, 2006.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A330–
201, –202, –203, –223, and –243 airplanes;
Model A330–301, –321, –322, –323, –341,
–342, and –343 airplanes; Model A340–211,
–212, and –213 airplanes; and Model A340–
311, –312, and –313 airplanes; certificated in
any category; except those on which Airbus
Modification 50660 has been accomplished.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD was prompted by several cases
of bushing migration on the inboard and
outboard actuator fittings of the aileron servo
controls; in one case the bushing had
migrated completely out of the actuator
fitting and the fitting was cracked. We are
issuing this AD to prevent rupture of the
inboard and outboard actuator fittings of the
aileron servo controls, which could result in
airframe vibration and consequent reduced
structural integrity 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.
Service Bulletin References
(f) Except as provided by paragraph (g) of
this AD, the term ‘‘service bulletin,’’ as used
in this AD, means the Accomplishment
Instructions of the applicable service bulletin
identified in Table 1 of this AD.
TABLE 1.— AIRBUS SERVICE BULLETINS
For Airbus model—
(1) A330–200 and –300 series airplanes ..........
A330–57–3075,
2004.
A330–57–3076,
2004.
A340–57–4083,
2004.
A340–57–4084,
2004.
(2) A330–200 and –300 series airplanes ..........
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And, for actions done before the effective date
of this AD, credit is given for prior accomplishment of revision—
Use Airbus service bulletin—
(3) A340–200 and –300 series airplanes ..........
(4) A340–200 and –300 series airplanes ..........
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18:13 Mar 24, 2006
Jkt 208001
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Frm 00017
Revision 02, dated May 28,
None.
Revision 01, dated June 1,
Original issue, dated March 14, 2003.
Revision 02, dated May 28,
None.
Revision 01, dated June 1,
Original issue, dated March 14, 2003.
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27MRR1
15022
Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 58 / Monday, March 27, 2006 / Rules and Regulations
(g) Airbus Service Bulletins A330–57–3075
and A340–57–4083 recommend reporting
inspection results to the airplane
manufacturer; however, this AD does not
contain that requirement.
Repetitive Inspections/Corrective Actions
(h) For airplanes on which Airbus
Modification 45512 was not installed in
production: Within 600 flight hours after the
effective date of this AD, accomplish a
detailed inspection for discrepancies of the
inboard and outboard actuator fitting of the
aileron servo controls, in accordance with the
service bulletin in paragraph (f)(1) or (f)(3) of
this AD, as applicable. Accomplish any
related corrective actions before further flight
in accordance with the service bulletin in
paragraph (f)(1) or (f)(3) of this AD, as
applicable, except as required by paragraph
(j) of this AD. Repeat the inspection
thereafter at intervals not to exceed 600 flight
hours, except as provided in paragraph (j) of
this AD. Replacing all the bolts as required
by paragraph (k) of this AD ends the
repetitive inspections required by this
paragraph.
Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a
detailed inspection is: ‘‘An intensive
examination of a specific item, installation,
or assembly to detect damage, failure, or
irregularity. Available lighting is normally
supplemented with a direct source of good
lighting at an intensity deemed appropriate.
Inspection aids such as mirror, magnifying
lenses, etc., may be necessary. Surface
cleaning and elaborate procedures may be
required.’’
(i) As an option to accomplishing the
repetitive inspections required by paragraph
(h) of this AD: Before further flight after
accomplishing the initial inspection required
by paragraph (h) of this AD, accomplish the
replacement required by paragraph (k) of this
AD. Do a one-time detailed inspection, as
specified in paragraph (h), at the earlier of
the times specified in paragraphs (i)(1) and
(i)(2) of this AD.
(1) Within 1,800 flight hours after
accomplishing the replacement.
(2) Within 18 months after accomplishing
the replacement.
(j) If any discrepancy is found during any
inspection required by paragraph (h) or (i) of
this AD, and the applicable service bulletin
in paragraph (f)(1) or (f)(3) of this AD
specifies to contact Airbus for an appropriate
action: Before further flight, repair in
accordance with a method approved by the
Manager, International Branch, ANM–116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the
´ ´
Direction Generale de l’Aviation Civile (or its
delegated agent). Where differences in the
compliance times or corrective actions exist
between the service bulletin and this AD, the
AD prevails.
Replacement
(k) For airplanes on which the replacement
has not been accomplished: Replace all the
small-head attachment bolts of the aileron
servo controls with large-head attachment
bolts at the applicable time specified in
paragraph (k)(1) or (k)(2) of this AD, in
accordance with the service bulletin in
paragraph (f)(2) or (f)(4) of this AD, as
applicable. Replacing all the bolts ends the
repetitive inspections required by paragraph
(h) of this AD.
(1) For airplanes on which Airbus
Modification 45512 was not installed in
production: Do the replacement before
further flight if no discrepancy is found after
accomplishing three consecutive inspections,
as required by paragraph (h) of this AD.
(2) For airplanes on which Airbus
Modification 45512 was installed in
production: Within 18 months after the
effective date of this AD.
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(l)(1) The Manager, International Branch,
ANM–116, 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
(m) French airworthiness directives F–
2004–067 and F–2004–068, both dated May
26, 2004, also address the subject of this AD.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(n) You must use the applicable service
bulletin identified in Table 2 of this AD to
perform the actions that are required by this
AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. The
Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of these
documents in accordance with 5 U.S.C.
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Contact Airbus, 1
Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac
Cedex, France, for a copy of this service
information. You may review copies at the
Docket Management Facility, U.S.
Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh
Street, SW., Room PL–401, Nassif Building,
Washington, DC; on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov; or at the National Archives and
Records Administration (NARA). For
information on the availability of this
material at the NARA, call (202) 741–6030,
or go to https://www.archives.gov/
federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
TABLE 2.—MATERIAL INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Airbus service bulletin
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A330–57–3075
A330–57–3076
A340–57–4083
A340–57–4084
VerDate Aug<31>2005
Revision level
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..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
18:13 Mar 24, 2006
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Revision
Revision
Revision
Revision
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02
01
02
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27MRR1
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Date
May 28, 2004.
June 1, 2004.
May 28, 2004.
June 1, 2004.
Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 58 / Monday, March 27, 2006 / Rules and Regulations
Issued in Renton, Washington, on March
10, 2006.
Kalene C. Yanamura,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 06–2851 Filed 3–24–06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2005–23314; Directorate
Identifier 2005–NM–189–AD; Amendment
39–14523; AD 2006–06–14]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model
A318–100 and A319–100 Series
Airplanes, A320–111 Airplanes, A320–
200 Series Airplanes, and A321–100
and A321–200 Series Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
cchase on PROD1PC60 with RULES
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Airbus Model A318–100 and A319–100
series airplanes, A320–111 airplanes,
A320–200 series airplanes, and A321–
100 and A321–200 series airplanes. This
AD requires operators to review the
airplane’s maintenance records to
determine the part numbers of the
magnetic fuel level indicators (MFLI) of
the wing fuel tanks, and related
investigative and corrective actions if
necessary. This AD results from several
in-service incidents of wear and
detachment of the top-stops from the
MFLI. Such detachment allows the topstop to move around the wing fuel tank,
and the top-stop could come into
contact or in close proximity with a
gauging probe, resulting in compromise
of the air gap between the probe and the
structure and creating a potential
ignition source. We are issuing this AD
to prevent an ignition source in the
wing fuel tank in the event of a
lightning strike, which could result in a
fire or explosion.
DATES: This AD becomes effective May
1, 2006.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in the AD
as of May 1, 2006.
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,
VerDate Aug<31>2005
18:13 Mar 24, 2006
Jkt 208001
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
Dulin, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98055–4056; telephone
(425) 227–2141; 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 certain Airbus Model A318–
100 and A319–100 series airplanes,
A320–111 airplanes, A320–200 series
airplanes, and A321–100 and A321–200
series airplanes. That NPRM was
published in the Federal Register on
December 15, 2005 (70 FR 74235). That
NPRM proposed to require operators to
review the airplane’s maintenance
records to determine the part numbers
of the magnetic fuel level indicators
(MFLI) of the fuel tank, and related
investigative and corrective actions if
necessary.
Comments
We provided the public the
opportunity to participate in the
development of this AD. We have
considered the comments received from
one commenter.
Request To Clarify Affected Fuel Tanks
US Airways asks that the NPRM be
changed to add that the affected fuel
tanks are wing fuel tanks only. US
Airways states that the type of fuel tank
is specified in the referenced service
bulletin. We agree with US Airways and
have clarified that only the wing fuel
tanks are affected. We have made this
change throughout the AD.
Request for Clarification of Part
Number (P/N) Determination
US Airways states that the NPRM
specifies determining the P/Ns of the
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15023
MFLI of the fuel tank by reviewing
maintenance records; however, upon
review, US Airways found no reference
to MFLI P/N position installation
information. US Airways adds that there
is no reference or baseline for
determining the part installed in the
MFLI position without tank entry and a
visual check.
Although US Airways requested no
change, we agree with their comment.
The Relevant Service Information
section of the NPRM specifies the
following: ‘‘If the P/N for each MFLI
cannot be determined from a records
review, the related investigative actions
include accomplishing a visual
inspection of the internal bore of each
MFLI using an endoscope to determine
the type of MFLI that is installed.’’ This
inspection can be done without entering
the tank. We have made no change to
the AD in this regard.
Request To Change Work Hours
US Airways also asks that the work
hours specified in the NPRM be
changed from 1 to 8 work hours to
reflect a more realistic time to inspect
the MFLI. US Airways states that since
the units are installed in five to seven
positions, depending on the type of
airplane, one hour for accomplishing
the actions, as estimated in the NPRM,
is not sufficient.
We acknowledge and agree with US
Airways’ concern for the reasons stated.
We have changed the Costs of
Compliance section of this AD
accordingly.
Explanation of Change to Applicability
We have revised the applicability of
this AD to identify model designations
as published in the most recent type
certificate data sheet for the affected
models.
Conclusion
We have 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. These changes will neither
increase the economic burden on any
operator nor increase the scope of the
AD.
Costs of Compliance
This AD affects about 621 airplanes of
U.S. registry. The actions will take
between 1 and 8 work hours per
airplane, at an average labor rate of $65
per work hour. Based on these figures,
the estimated cost of the AD for U.S.
operators is between $40,365 and
$322,920, or between $65 and $520 per
airplane.
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 58 (Monday, March 27, 2006)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 15020-15023]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 06-2851]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2005-20452; Directorate Identifier 2004-NM-206-AD;
Amendment 39-14522; AD 2006-06-13]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330-200 and -300 Series
Airplanes; and Model A340-200 and -300 Series Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Airbus Model A330-200 and A330-300 series airplanes; and Model
A340-200 and -300 series airplanes. This AD requires repetitive
detailed inspections for discrepancies of the inboard and outboard
actuator fittings of the aileron servo controls, corrective actions if
necessary, and eventual replacement of all the attachment bolts of the
aileron servo controls. This AD results from several cases of bushing
migration on the inboard and outboard actuator fittings of the aileron
servo controls; in one case the bushing had migrated completely out of
the actuator fitting and the fitting was cracked. We are issuing this
AD to prevent rupture of the inboard and outboard actuator fittings of
the aileron servo controls, which could result in airframe vibration
and consequent reduced structural integrity of the airplane.
DATES: This AD becomes effective May 1, 2006.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of May 1, 2006.
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,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
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 certain Airbus Model
A330 and A340-200 and -300 series airplanes. That NPRM was published in
the Federal Register on February 28, 2005 (70 FR 9555). That NPRM
proposed to require repetitive detailed inspections for discrepancies
of the inboard and outboard actuator fittings of the aileron servo
controls, corrective actions if necessary, and eventual replacement of
all the attachment bolts of the aileron servo controls.
Comments
We provided the public the opportunity to participate in the
development of this AD. We have considered the comments received.
Request for Optional Inspection
Air France states that an optional inspection (for the three
repetitive inspections referenced in the French airworthiness
directives) for bolt replacement at the first inspection with paint
marking, and further inspection after 1,800 flight hours, but no later
than 18 months, is not shown in the NPRM. Air France adds that
airplanes with Airbus Modification 45512 installed in production, and
without Airbus Modification 50600 installed, need only do the bolt
replacement. Air France notes that the inspections and bolt replacement
are for airplanes on which servo controls ECP8/9 have been installed in
service by Airbus Service Bulletin A340-27-4081 or A340-27-4062 for
Model A340-200 and -300 series airplanes; and Airbus Service Bulletin
A330-27-3075 or A330-27-3054 for Model A330-200 and -300 series
airplanes.
We agree with Air France. We have added the affected airplane
models to paragraphs (h) and (j)(1) and (j)(2) (changed to paragraphs
(k)(1) and (k)(2) in this final rule) of this AD to distinguish between
the requirements for airplanes with Airbus Modification 45512 installed
in production, and those without the modification installed. We have
also added a new paragraph (i) to provide for the optional inspection.
Additionally, we have changed paragraphs (h) and (j) to include
terminating action for the repetitive inspections if all the small-head
attachment bolts are replaced.
Request To Correct Typographical Error/Clarify Certain Information
Airbus states that a typographical error was made in the service
bulletin numbers referenced in Table 1 of the NPRM for Airbus Service
Bulletins A330-57-3075 and A340-57-4083. The references in the NPRM
specify Airbus Service Bulletins A330-27-3075 and A340-27-4083. We
agree that a typographical error was made and we have corrected the
service bulletin numbers accordingly.
Airbus also states that Table 1 lists the service bulletins without
any link or reference to the rest of the AD. Airbus asks for
clarification of each service bulletin to specify if it relates to the
inspection paragraph or the replacement paragraph. We agree with
Airbus. For clarification, we have added paragraph numbers to each
service bulletin reference in Table 1, and cross-referenced those
numbers in paragraphs (h), (j), and (k) of this AD.
[[Page 15021]]
Explanation of Change to Applicability
We have revised the applicability of this AD to identify model
designations as published in the most recent type certificate data
sheet for the affected models.
Clarification of AMOC Paragraph
We have revised paragraph (l) of this AD to clarify the appropriate
procedure for notifying the principal inspector before using any
approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC applies.
Conclusion
We have 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 have determined that these changes will neither increase the
economic burden on any operator nor increase the scope of the AD.
Costs of Compliance
This AD will affect about 20 airplanes of U.S. registry.
The inspection will take about 16 work hours per airplane (2 hours
per fitting), at an average labor rate of $65 per work hour. Based on
these figures, the estimated cost of the inspection is $20,800, or
$1,040 per airplane, per inspection cycle.
The replacement will take about 12 work hours per airplane, at an
average labor rate of $65 per work hour. Required parts will be free of
charge. Based on these figures, the estimated cost of the replacement
is $15,600, or $780 per airplane.
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 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
0
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends Sec. 39.13 by
adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD):
2006-06-13 Airbus: Amendment 39-14522. Docket No. FAA-2005-20452;
Directorate Identifier 2004-NM-206-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective May 1, 2006.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223,
and -243 airplanes; Model A330-301, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342,
and -343 airplanes; Model A340-211, -212, and -213 airplanes; and
Model A340-311, -312, and -313 airplanes; certificated in any
category; except those on which Airbus Modification 50660 has been
accomplished.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD was prompted by several cases of bushing migration
on the inboard and outboard actuator fittings of the aileron servo
controls; in one case the bushing had migrated completely out of the
actuator fitting and the fitting was cracked. We are issuing this AD
to prevent rupture of the inboard and outboard actuator fittings of
the aileron servo controls, which could result in airframe vibration
and consequent reduced structural integrity 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.
Service Bulletin References
(f) Except as provided by paragraph (g) of this AD, the term
``service bulletin,'' as used in this AD, means the Accomplishment
Instructions of the applicable service bulletin identified in Table
1 of this AD.
Table 1.-- Airbus Service Bulletins
------------------------------------------------------------------------
And, for actions
done before the
effective date of
For Airbus model-- Use Airbus service this AD, credit is
bulletin-- given for prior
accomplishment of
revision--
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) A330-200 and -300 series A330-57-3075, None.
airplanes. Revision 02,
dated May 28,
2004.
(2) A330-200 and -300 series A330-57-3076, Original issue,
airplanes. Revision 01, dated March 14,
dated June 1, 2003.
2004.
(3) A340-200 and -300 series A340-57-4083, None.
airplanes. Revision 02,
dated May 28,
2004.
(4) A340-200 and -300 series A340-57-4084, Original issue,
airplanes. Revision 01, dated March 14,
dated June 1, 2003.
2004.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 15022]]
(g) Airbus Service Bulletins A330-57-3075 and A340-57-4083
recommend reporting inspection results to the airplane manufacturer;
however, this AD does not contain that requirement.
Repetitive Inspections/Corrective Actions
(h) For airplanes on which Airbus Modification 45512 was not
installed in production: Within 600 flight hours after the effective
date of this AD, accomplish a detailed inspection for discrepancies
of the inboard and outboard actuator fitting of the aileron servo
controls, in accordance with the service bulletin in paragraph
(f)(1) or (f)(3) of this AD, as applicable. Accomplish any related
corrective actions before further flight in accordance with the
service bulletin in paragraph (f)(1) or (f)(3) of this AD, as
applicable, except as required by paragraph (j) of this AD. Repeat
the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 600 flight
hours, except as provided in paragraph (j) of this AD. Replacing all
the bolts as required by paragraph (k) of this AD ends the
repetitive inspections required by this paragraph.
Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed inspection is:
``An intensive examination of a specific item, installation, or
assembly to detect damage, failure, or irregularity. Available
lighting is normally supplemented with a direct source of good
lighting at an intensity deemed appropriate. Inspection aids such as
mirror, magnifying lenses, etc., may be necessary. Surface cleaning
and elaborate procedures may be required.''
(i) As an option to accomplishing the repetitive inspections
required by paragraph (h) of this AD: Before further flight after
accomplishing the initial inspection required by paragraph (h) of
this AD, accomplish the replacement required by paragraph (k) of
this AD. Do a one-time detailed inspection, as specified in
paragraph (h), at the earlier of the times specified in paragraphs
(i)(1) and (i)(2) of this AD.
(1) Within 1,800 flight hours after accomplishing the
replacement.
(2) Within 18 months after accomplishing the replacement.
(j) If any discrepancy is found during any inspection required
by paragraph (h) or (i) of this AD, and the applicable service
bulletin in paragraph (f)(1) or (f)(3) of this AD specifies to
contact Airbus for an appropriate action: Before further flight,
repair in accordance with a method approved by the Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA;
or the Direction G[eacute]n[eacute]rale de l'Aviation Civile (or its
delegated agent). Where differences in the compliance times or
corrective actions exist between the service bulletin and this AD,
the AD prevails.
Replacement
(k) For airplanes on which the replacement has not been
accomplished: Replace all the small-head attachment bolts of the
aileron servo controls with large-head attachment bolts at the
applicable time specified in paragraph (k)(1) or (k)(2) of this AD,
in accordance with the service bulletin in paragraph (f)(2) or
(f)(4) of this AD, as applicable. Replacing all the bolts ends the
repetitive inspections required by paragraph (h) of this AD.
(1) For airplanes on which Airbus Modification 45512 was not
installed in production: Do the replacement before further flight if
no discrepancy is found after accomplishing three consecutive
inspections, as required by paragraph (h) of this AD.
(2) For airplanes on which Airbus Modification 45512 was
installed in production: Within 18 months after the effective date
of this AD.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(l)(1) The Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, 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
(m) French airworthiness directives F-2004-067 and F-2004-068,
both dated May 26, 2004, also address the subject of this AD.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(n) You must use the applicable service bulletin identified in
Table 2 of this AD to perform the actions that are required by this
AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. The Director of the Federal
Register approved the incorporation by reference of these documents
in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Contact
Airbus, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France,
for a copy of this service information. You may review copies at the
Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400
Seventh Street, SW., Room PL-401, Nassif Building, Washington, DC;
on the Internet at https://dms.dot.gov; or at the National Archives
and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the
availability of this material at the NARA, call (202) 741-6030, or
go to https://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_
regulations/ibr_locations.html.
Table 2.--Material Incorporated by Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus service bulletin Revision level Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A330-57-3075............................ Revision 02.......................... May 28, 2004.
A330-57-3076............................ Revision 01.......................... June 1, 2004.
A340-57-4083............................ Revision 02.......................... May 28, 2004.
A340-57-4084............................ Revision 01.......................... June 1, 2004.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 15023]]
Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 10, 2006.
Kalene C. Yanamura,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 06-2851 Filed 3-24-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
