Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A319-100, A320-200, A321-100, and A321-200 Series Airplanes, 27595-27598 [06-4134]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 92 / Friday, May 12, 2006 / Rules and Regulations PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES date code can be conclusively determined from that review. 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Replacement of Identified Relays (i) Prior to further flight after the inspection in paragraph (g) of this AD: Replace any electrical relay having a manufacturer’s date code specified in paragraph 1.A., ‘‘Effectivity,’’ of the service bulletin that is identified during the inspection or maintenance records review specified in paragraph (g) or (h) of this AD with a serviceable relay, in accordance with the service bulletin. 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 2006–10–06 Bombardier, Inc. (Formerly Canadair): Amendment 39–14590. Docket No. FAA–2006–23936; Directorate Identifier 2005–NM–215–AD. Effective Date (a) This AD becomes effective June 16, 2006. Affected ADs (b) None. Applicability (c) This AD applies to Bombardier Model CL–600–2B19 (Regional Jet Series 100 and 440) airplanes, certificated in any category, serial numbers (S/N) 7003 and subsequent. Unsafe Condition (d) This AD results from a report of defective electrical relays affecting emergency equipment. We are issuing this AD to prevent the malfunction of emergency equipment (the passenger oxygen system, the thrust reverse control system, and the auxiliary power unit (APU) fire detection, warning, and extinguishing system) during an emergency. 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) The term ‘‘service bulletin,’’ as used in this AD, means the Accomplishment Instructions of Parts A through E of Bombardier Service Bulletin 601R–24–118, Revision A, dated August 8, 2005. jlentini on PROD1PC65 with RULES Relay Inspection (g) Within 5,500 flight hours or 36 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever is first: Do an inspection of the manufacturer’s date code on the K4WQ, K5WQ, K3QA, K4QA, K4WG, K1CN, and K2CN electrical relays, in accordance with the service bulletin, except as provided by paragraph (h) of this AD. Alternative to Relay Inspection for Certain Airplanes (h) For airplanes having S/Ns 7003 through 7363 inclusive, and 7889 and subsequent, which were not manufactured with the subject Leach TDH-series relays installed: A review of the airplane maintenance records is acceptable in lieu of the inspection of the manufacturer’s date code on the K4WQ, K5WQ, K3QA, K4QA, K4WG, K1CN, and K2CN electrical relays, if the manufacturer’s VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:08 May 11, 2006 Jkt 208001 27595 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 April 25, 2006. Kalene C. Yanamura, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 06–4311 Filed 5–11–06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P Inspections and Replacements According to Previous Issue of Service Bulletin (j) Inspecting and replacing the subject electrical relays is also acceptable for compliance with the requirements of paragraphs (g) and (i) of this AD, as applicable, if done before the effective date of this AD in accordance with Accomplishment Instructions of Parts A through E of Bombardier Service Bulletin 601R–24–118, dated January 3, 2005. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Parts Installation (k) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install a Leach TDH-series K4WQ, K5WQ, K3QA, K4QA, K4WG, K1CN, or K2CN relay with a manufacturer’s date code specified in paragraph 1.A., ‘‘Effectivity,’’ of Bombardier Service Bulletin 601R–24–118, Revision A, dated August 8, 2005, on any airplane. Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A319–100, A320–200, A321–100, and A321–200 Series Airplanes Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (l)(1) The Manager, New York Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 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. Related Information (m) Canadian airworthiness directive CF– 2005–35, dated September 1, 2005, also addresses the subject of this AD. Material Incorporated by Reference (n) You must use Bombardier Service Bulletin 601R–24–118, Revision A, dated August 8, 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 Bombardier, Inc., Canadair, Aerospace Group, P.O. Box 6087, Station Centre-ville, Montreal, Quebec H3C 3G9, Canada, 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 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2005–22919; Directorate Identifier 2005–NM–087–AD; Amendment 39–14582; AD 2006–09–11] RIN 2120–AA64 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A319–100, A320–200, A321–100, and A321–200 series airplanes. This AD requires repetitive inspections for corrosion in the inside and outside lower walls of each type A, D, E, and F lavatory wall that has at least one wall-mounted cabin attendant seat, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. The repetitive inspections may be terminated by repairing the wall with composite material, or replacing the entire wall with a new wall made of composite material. This AD results from reports of corrosion in the lower part of the lavatory walls due to water ingress. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct corrosion and damage on the lower part of the lavatory walls, which could compromise the structural integrity of the cabin attendant seat attachments, and cause injury to the cabin attendants during a crash landing. DATES: This AD becomes effective June 16, 2006. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of June 16, 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 E:\FR\FM\12MYR1.SGM 12MYR1 27596 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 92 / Friday, May 12, 2006 / Rules and Regulations 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: referenced as an appropriate source of service information for accomplishing the actions proposed in the AD). If the French airworthiness directive and the Airbus service bulletins are revised in the future to reflect a changed repetitive inspection interval, we may consider further rulemaking. However, operators may request an extension of the compliance time as an alternative method of compliance in accordance with the procedures in paragraph (j) of this AD. No change to the AD is necessary in this regard. Request To Extend Compliance Time Based on Maintenance Schedule Northwest Airlines requests that we extend the compliance time for the initial inspection to match its L-check interval of 23 months with no flighthour limitations. Northwest Airlines states that we did not provide justification in the NPRM for either the initial or repeat inspection intervals. Northwest Airlines also notes that corrosion is typically a factor of calendar time, not flight hours. Discussion Northwest Airlines is convinced that an extension to 23 months with no flightThe FAA issued a notice of proposed hour limitation on the initial rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR inspections would provide an part 39 to include an AD that would equivalent level of safety. Northwest apply to certain Airbus Model A319– Airlines states that this change to the 100, A320–200, A321–100, and A321– compliance times would give operators 200 series airplanes. That NPRM was enough time to schedule the work in the published in the Federal Register on November 10, 2005 (70 FR 68384). That optimal maintenance environment. We do not agree with the request to NPRM proposed to require repetitive extend the compliance times. We have inspections for corrosion in the inside determined that the compliance times and outside lower walls of each type A, D, E, and F lavatory wall that has at least proposed in the NPRM represent the maximum interval of time allowable for one wall-mounted cabin attendant seat, the affected airplanes to continue to and related investigative and corrective safely operate before the inspections are actions if necessary. done. Since maintenance schedules vary Comments among operators, it is not possible to accommodate every operator’s We provided the public the maintenance schedule. However, opportunity to participate in the operators may request an extension of development of this AD. We have the compliance time as an alternative considered the comments received. method of compliance in accordance Request To Extend Compliance Time with the procedures in paragraph (j) of Based on Future Revision of French AD this AD. We have not changed the AD Airbus states that French in this regard. airworthiness directive F–2005–046, Request To Give Temporary Minimum dated March 16, 2005, which is the Equipment List (MEL) Relief parallel airworthiness directive for this Northwest Airlines also requests that AD, will be revised to extend the we allow temporary MEL relief to allow repetitive inspection interval from 18 operators to make repairs at the next months to 20 months for airplanes on scheduled hangar maintenance visit. which no corrosion is found. Northwest Airlines explains that We infer that Airbus requests that we revise the NPRM to extend the repetitive operators run a considerable operational risk while complying with Airbus inspection interval. We disagree. Both Service Bulletin A320–25–1365. the AD and the current French Northwest Airlines points out that the airworthiness directive require repeat logic diagram, Figure 1, Sheet 1, of the inspections at the intervals defined in Airbus Service Bulletin A320–25–1365, service bulletin, allows a ‘‘Lavatory wall to be repaired within 600 flight hours dated February 18, 2005 (which is jlentini on PROD1PC65 with RULES 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. VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:08 May 11, 2006 Jkt 208001 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 (as long as) cabin attendant seats (CAS) not used until lavatory wall is repaired.’’ According to Northwest Airlines, this contradicts the MEL, which gives 3 days or 10 days, depending on the CAS location, for corrective action to be taken. Northwest Airlines notes that since the flight attendant will need to use a passenger seat in the event that a CAS is blocked off, an equivalent level of safety is maintained regardless of how long it takes to repair the seat. We disagree that there is a conflict between the compliance time for these repairs that is stated in the AD and the compliance time for the same repairs that are specified in the MEL. The MEL addresses inoperative equipment and the ability to dispatch the airplane with that equipment inoperative. This AD addresses a situation where the attachment of the CAS may be understrength due to corrosion damage. The CAS is still usable, per se, and the AD provides 600 flight hours within which to repair any damage found as a result of the required inspections. In this case there is no conflict because of the two totally different issues addressed by the MEL and the AD. We do not agree to allow repairs at the next scheduled maintenance visit because the schedule for maintenance visits can vary widely among operators. No change to the AD is necessary. Explanation of Changes to Optional Terminating Action Paragraph (h) We have revised paragraph (h) to include more detail about the applicable component maintenance manual (CMM) for each lavatory. We have also specified that one of the repair options must be done in accordance with a method approved by the FAA or the ´ ´ Direction Generale de l’Aviation Civile (DGAC) (or its delegated agent), but that the applicable CMM is one approved method. These changes provide more information and flexibility for operators. 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 affects about 393 airplanes of U.S. registry. The inspection takes about 2 work hours per lavatory, at an average labor rate of $65 per work hour. Based on these figures, the estimated cost of E:\FR\FM\12MYR1.SGM 12MYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 92 / Friday, May 12, 2006 / Rules and Regulations the AD for U.S. operators is $51,090, or $130 per lavatory, per inspection cycle. Authority for This Rulemaking 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. jlentini on PROD1PC65 with RULES Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: I VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:08 May 11, 2006 Jkt 208001 Repetitive Inspections and Corrective Actions PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: I 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. 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 2006–09–11 Airbus: Amendment 39–14582. Docket No. FAA–2005–22919; Directorate Identifier 2005–NM–087–AD. Effective Date (a) This AD becomes effective June 16, 2006. Affected ADs (b) None. Applicability (c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A319– 111, –112, –113, –114, –115, –131, –132, and –133 airplanes; Model A320–211, –212, –214, –231, –232, and –233 airplanes; Model A321–111, –112, and –131 airplanes; and Model A321–211 and –231 airplanes; certificated in any category; equipped with the lavatories in Table 1 of this AD, onto which at least one cabin attendant seat (CAS) is attached; except those airplanes with lavatory walls that have not been modified since the application of Airbus Modification 31574 in production. TABLE 1.—LAVATORY INSTALLATIONS AFFECTED BY THIS AD Installed by Airbus Modification Lavatory— Type Type Type Type A DASELL D DASELL E DASELL F DASELL ................... ................... ................... ................... 23125 22815 22819 23695 Unsafe Condition (d) This AD results from reports of corrosion in the lower part of the lavatory walls due to water ingress. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct corrosion and damage on the lower part of the lavatory walls, which could compromise the structural integrity of the CAS attachments, and cause injury to the cabin attendants during a crash landing. 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 Reference (f) For the purposes of this AD, unless otherwise specified, the term ‘‘service bulletin’’ means the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320– 25–1365, dated February 18, 2005. PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 27597 (g) Within 2,400 flight hours or 15 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs earlier: Do a detailed inspection for corrosion and damage in the inside and outside lower walls of each type A, D, E, and F lavatory wall that has at least one wallmounted CAS, and do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions as applicable, including any supporting nondestructive testing and related investigative actions. Do all actions in accordance with the procedures and time-frames defined in the Accomplishment Instructions of the service bulletin. Repeat the inspection at the applicable time specified in Figure 1 Sheet 1 of the service bulletin. 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.’’ Optional Terminating Action (h) Doing the permanent repair in paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of this AD terminates the repetitive inspection requirements of this AD. (1) Repair the aluminum wall with composite material in accordance with a method approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the Direction ´ ´ Generale de l’Aviation Civile (or its delegated agent). The applicable lavatory component maintenance manual (CMM) in paragraph (h)(1)(i), (h)(1)(ii), (h)(1)(iii), or (h)(1)(iv) of this AD is one approved method. (i) Airbus CMM Lavatory A 25–41–51. (ii) Airbus CMM Lavatory D 25–43–51. (iii) Airbus CMM Lavatory E 25–41–52. (iv) Airbus CMM Lavatory F 25–43–53. (2) Replace the aluminum wall with a new wall made of composite material in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable service bulletin in paragraph (h)(2)(i), (h)(2)(ii), or (h)(2)(iii) of this AD. (i) For lavatory A: Airbus Service Bulletin A320–25–1289, Revision 01, dated October 29, 2003. (ii) For lavatories D and E: Airbus Service Bulletin A320–25–1365, dated February 18, 2005, which references Airbus CMM Lavatory D 25–43–51; and Airbus CMM Lavatory E 25–41–52, as applicable, as an additional source of service information for doing the replacement. (iii) For lavatory F: Airbus Service Bulletin A320–25–1357, dated July 19, 2004. Actions Accomplished in Accordance With Previous Issue of a Service Bulletin (i) Replacement of the lavatory A wall done before the effective date of this AD in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A320–25–1289, dated October 11, 2002, is acceptable for compliance with the E:\FR\FM\12MYR1.SGM 12MYR1 27598 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 92 / Friday, May 12, 2006 / Rules and Regulations requirements of paragraph (h)(2)(i) of this AD. Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) Related Information (k) French airworthiness directive F–2005– 046, dated March 16, 2005, also addresses the subject of this AD. (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. Material Incorporated by Reference (l) You must use Airbus Service Bulletin A320–25–1365, dated February 18, 2005, to perform the actions that are required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. The optional terminating action, if accomplished, must be done in accordance with the service information in Table 2 of this AD, as applicable, 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 FOR OPTIONAL TERMINATING ACTION INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE Airbus service bulletin Revision level A320–25–1289 ................................................... A320–25–1357 ................................................... A320–25–1365 ................................................... 01 ..................................................................... Original ............................................................. Original ............................................................. Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 26, 2006. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 06–4134 Filed 5–11–06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–U DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2006–24075; Directorate Identifier 2005–NM–235–AD; Amendment 39–14589; AD 2006–10–05] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Saab Model SAAB-Fairchild SF340A (SAAB/ SF340A) and SAAB 340B Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. jlentini on PROD1PC65 with RULES AGENCY: SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Saab Model SAAB-Fairchild SF340A (SAAB/SF340A) and SAAB 340B airplanes. This AD requires a one-time inspection to see if a faulty uplock axle for the shock strut of the main landing gear (MLG) is installed, and replacing the uplock axle with a new uplock axle if necessary. This AD results from a report of a cracked uplock axle caused by hydrogen embrittlement during the manufacturing process. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the uplock mechanism, which, combined with a loss of hydraulic pressure, could result VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:08 May 11, 2006 Jkt 208001 Date in an uncommanded extension of the MLG. This AD becomes effective June 16, 2006. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of June 16, 2006. DATES: 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 Saab Aircraft AB, SAAB Aircraft Product Support, S–581.88, ¨ Linkoping, Sweden, for service information identified in this AD. ADDRESSES: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98055–4056; telephone (425) 227–2125; fax (425) 227–1149. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 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. PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 October 29, 2003. July 19, 2004. February 18, 2005. 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 Saab Model SAABFairchild SF340A (SAAB/SF340A) and SAAB 340B airplanes. That NPRM was published in the Federal Register on March 7, 2006 (71 FR 11349). That NPRM proposed to require a one-time inspection to see if a faulty uplock axle for the shock strut of the main landing gear (MLG) is installed, and replacing the uplock axle with a new uplock axle if necessary. Comments We provided the public the opportunity to participate in the development of this AD. We received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of the cost to the public. Conclusion We have carefully reviewed the available data and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD as proposed. Costs of Compliance This AD will affect about 248 airplanes of U.S. registry. The required inspection will take about 1 work hour 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 $16,120, or $65 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 E:\FR\FM\12MYR1.SGM 12MYR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 92 (Friday, May 12, 2006)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 27595-27598]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 06-4134]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2005-22919; Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-087-AD; 
Amendment 39-14582; AD 2006-09-11]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A319-100, A320-200, A321-
100, and A321-200 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 A319-100, A320-200, A321-100, and A321-200 series 
airplanes. This AD requires repetitive inspections for corrosion in the 
inside and outside lower walls of each type A, D, E, and F lavatory 
wall that has at least one wall-mounted cabin attendant seat, and 
related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. The 
repetitive inspections may be terminated by repairing the wall with 
composite material, or replacing the entire wall with a new wall made 
of composite material. This AD results from reports of corrosion in the 
lower part of the lavatory walls due to water ingress. We are issuing 
this AD to detect and correct corrosion and damage on the lower part of 
the lavatory walls, which could compromise the structural integrity of 
the cabin attendant seat attachments, and cause injury to the cabin 
attendants during a crash landing.

DATES: This AD becomes effective June 16, 2006.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of June 16, 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

[[Page 27596]]

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 
A319-100, A320-200, A321-100, and A321-200 series airplanes. That NPRM 
was published in the Federal Register on November 10, 2005 (70 FR 
68384). That NPRM proposed to require repetitive inspections for 
corrosion in the inside and outside lower walls of each type A, D, E, 
and F lavatory wall that has at least one wall-mounted cabin attendant 
seat, 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.

Request To Extend Compliance Time Based on Future Revision of French AD

    Airbus states that French airworthiness directive F-2005-046, dated 
March 16, 2005, which is the parallel airworthiness directive for this 
AD, will be revised to extend the repetitive inspection interval from 
18 months to 20 months for airplanes on which no corrosion is found.
    We infer that Airbus requests that we revise the NPRM to extend the 
repetitive inspection interval. We disagree. Both the AD and the 
current French airworthiness directive require repeat inspections at 
the intervals defined in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1365, dated 
February 18, 2005 (which is referenced as an appropriate source of 
service information for accomplishing the actions proposed in the AD). 
If the French airworthiness directive and the Airbus service bulletins 
are revised in the future to reflect a changed repetitive inspection 
interval, we may consider further rulemaking. However, operators may 
request an extension of the compliance time as an alternative method of 
compliance in accordance with the procedures in paragraph (j) of this 
AD. No change to the AD is necessary in this regard.

Request To Extend Compliance Time Based on Maintenance Schedule

    Northwest Airlines requests that we extend the compliance time for 
the initial inspection to match its L-check interval of 23 months with 
no flight-hour limitations. Northwest Airlines states that we did not 
provide justification in the NPRM for either the initial or repeat 
inspection intervals. Northwest Airlines also notes that corrosion is 
typically a factor of calendar time, not flight hours. Northwest 
Airlines is convinced that an extension to 23 months with no flight-
hour limitation on the initial inspections would provide an equivalent 
level of safety. Northwest Airlines states that this change to the 
compliance times would give operators enough time to schedule the work 
in the optimal maintenance environment.
    We do not agree with the request to extend the compliance times. We 
have determined that the compliance times proposed in the NPRM 
represent the maximum interval of time allowable for the affected 
airplanes to continue to safely operate before the inspections are 
done. Since maintenance schedules vary among operators, it is not 
possible to accommodate every operator's maintenance schedule. However, 
operators may request an extension of the compliance time as an 
alternative method of compliance in accordance with the procedures in 
paragraph (j) of this AD. We have not changed the AD in this regard.

Request To Give Temporary Minimum Equipment List (MEL) Relief

    Northwest Airlines also requests that we allow temporary MEL relief 
to allow operators to make repairs at the next scheduled hangar 
maintenance visit. Northwest Airlines explains that operators run a 
considerable operational risk while complying with Airbus Service 
Bulletin A320-25-1365. Northwest Airlines points out that the logic 
diagram, Figure 1, Sheet 1, of the service bulletin, allows a 
``Lavatory wall to be repaired within 600 flight hours (as long as) 
cabin attendant seats (CAS) not used until lavatory wall is repaired.'' 
According to Northwest Airlines, this contradicts the MEL, which gives 
3 days or 10 days, depending on the CAS location, for corrective action 
to be taken. Northwest Airlines notes that since the flight attendant 
will need to use a passenger seat in the event that a CAS is blocked 
off, an equivalent level of safety is maintained regardless of how long 
it takes to repair the seat.
    We disagree that there is a conflict between the compliance time 
for these repairs that is stated in the AD and the compliance time for 
the same repairs that are specified in the MEL. The MEL addresses 
inoperative equipment and the ability to dispatch the airplane with 
that equipment inoperative. This AD addresses a situation where the 
attachment of the CAS may be under-strength due to corrosion damage. 
The CAS is still usable, per se, and the AD provides 600 flight hours 
within which to repair any damage found as a result of the required 
inspections. In this case there is no conflict because of the two 
totally different issues addressed by the MEL and the AD. We do not 
agree to allow repairs at the next scheduled maintenance visit because 
the schedule for maintenance visits can vary widely among operators. No 
change to the AD is necessary.

Explanation of Changes to Optional Terminating Action Paragraph (h)

    We have revised paragraph (h) to include more detail about the 
applicable component maintenance manual (CMM) for each lavatory. We 
have also specified that one of the repair options must be done in 
accordance with a method approved by the FAA or the Direction 
G[eacute]n[eacute]rale de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC) (or its delegated 
agent), but that the applicable CMM is one approved method. These 
changes provide more information and flexibility for operators.

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 affects about 393 airplanes of U.S. registry. The 
inspection takes about 2 work hours per lavatory, at an average labor 
rate of $65 per work hour. Based on these figures, the estimated cost 
of

[[Page 27597]]

the AD for U.S. operators is $51,090, or $130 per lavatory, per 
inspection cycle.

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):

2006-09-11 Airbus: Amendment 39-14582. Docket No. FAA-2005-22919; 
Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-087-AD.

Effective Date

    (a) This AD becomes effective June 16, 2006.

Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, 
-115, -131, -132, and -133 airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, -
231, -232, and -233 airplanes; Model A321-111, -112, and -131 
airplanes; and Model A321-211 and -231 airplanes; certificated in 
any category; equipped with the lavatories in Table 1 of this AD, 
onto which at least one cabin attendant seat (CAS) is attached; 
except those airplanes with lavatory walls that have not been 
modified since the application of Airbus Modification 31574 in 
production.

          Table 1.--Lavatory Installations Affected by This AD
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Installed by
                       Lavatory--                             Airbus
                                                           Modification
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Type A DASELL...........................................           23125
Type D DASELL...........................................           22815
Type E DASELL...........................................           22819
Type F DASELL...........................................           23695
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Unsafe Condition

    (d) This AD results from reports of corrosion in the lower part 
of the lavatory walls due to water ingress. We are issuing this AD 
to detect and correct corrosion and damage on the lower part of the 
lavatory walls, which could compromise the structural integrity of 
the CAS attachments, and cause injury to the cabin attendants during 
a crash landing.

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 Reference

    (f) For the purposes of this AD, unless otherwise specified, the 
term ``service bulletin'' means the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1365, dated February 18, 2005.

Repetitive Inspections and Corrective Actions

    (g) Within 2,400 flight hours or 15 months after the effective 
date of this AD, whichever occurs earlier: Do a detailed inspection 
for corrosion and damage in the inside and outside lower walls of 
each type A, D, E, and F lavatory wall that has at least one wall-
mounted CAS, and do all applicable related investigative and 
corrective actions as applicable, including any supporting non-
destructive testing and related investigative actions. Do all 
actions in accordance with the procedures and time-frames defined in 
the Accomplishment Instructions of the service bulletin. Repeat the 
inspection at the applicable time specified in Figure 1 Sheet 1 of 
the service bulletin.

    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.''

Optional Terminating Action

    (h) Doing the permanent repair in paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of 
this AD terminates the repetitive inspection requirements of this 
AD.
    (1) Repair the aluminum wall with composite material in 
accordance with a method approved by either 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). The applicable lavatory component maintenance 
manual (CMM) in paragraph (h)(1)(i), (h)(1)(ii), (h)(1)(iii), or 
(h)(1)(iv) of this AD is one approved method.
    (i) Airbus CMM Lavatory A 25-41-51.
    (ii) Airbus CMM Lavatory D 25-43-51.
    (iii) Airbus CMM Lavatory E 25-41-52.
    (iv) Airbus CMM Lavatory F 25-43-53.
    (2) Replace the aluminum wall with a new wall made of composite 
material in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the 
applicable service bulletin in paragraph (h)(2)(i), (h)(2)(ii), or 
(h)(2)(iii) of this AD.
    (i) For lavatory A: Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1289, 
Revision 01, dated October 29, 2003.
    (ii) For lavatories D and E: Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-
1365, dated February 18, 2005, which references Airbus CMM Lavatory 
D 25-43-51; and Airbus CMM Lavatory E 25-41-52, as applicable, as an 
additional source of service information for doing the replacement.
    (iii) For lavatory F: Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1357, 
dated July 19, 2004.

Actions Accomplished in Accordance With Previous Issue of a Service 
Bulletin

    (i) Replacement of the lavatory A wall done before the effective 
date of this AD in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-
1289, dated October 11, 2002, is acceptable for compliance with the

[[Page 27598]]

requirements of paragraph (h)(2)(i) of this AD.

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 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.

Related Information

    (k) French airworthiness directive F-2005-046, dated March 16, 
2005, also addresses the subject of this AD.

Material Incorporated by Reference

    (l) You must use Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1365, dated 
February 18, 2005, to perform the actions that are required by this 
AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. The optional terminating 
action, if accomplished, must be done in accordance with the service 
information in Table 2 of this AD, as applicable, 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 for Optional Terminating Action Incorporated by
                                Reference
------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Airbus service bulletin       Revision level             Date
------------------------------------------------------------------------
A320-25-1289................  01..................  October 29, 2003.
A320-25-1357................  Original............  July 19, 2004.
A320-25-1365................  Original............  February 18, 2005.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 26, 2006.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 06-4134 Filed 5-11-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-U
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