Airworthiness Directives; Saab Model SAAB-Fairchild SF340A (SAAB/SF340A) and SAAB 340B Airplanes, 36252-36255 [E6-10014]
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Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 122 / Monday, June 26, 2006 / Proposed Rules
floating-rate instruments that reset in
response to changes in the consumer
price index (CPI) as published by the
Bureau of Labor Statistics. Enterprise
issuance of CPI-linked instruments is
tied to swap market transactions
intended to create desired synthetic
debt structure and terms. In such cases,
the true economic position nets to the
payment terms of the related derivative
contract. Accordingly, in order to
accommodate and address the existence
of CPI-linked instruments in the
Enterprises’ portfolios, the net synthetic
position shall be evaluated in the stress
test. That is, for CPI-linked instruments
tied to swap transactions that are
formally linked in a hedge accounting
relationship, the Enterprise should
substitute the CPI-linked instrument’s
coupon payment terms with those of the
related swap contract.
[g] Pre-refunded municipal bonds also
require special treatments. Pre-refunded
municipal bonds are collateralized by
securities that are structured to fund all
the cash flows of the refunded
municipal bonds until the bonds are
callable. Since the call date for the
bonds, also referred to as the prerefunded date, is a more accurate
representation of the payoff date than
the contractual maturity date of the
bonds, the stress test models the bonds
to mature on the call date.
*
*
*
*
*
3.9.2 * * *
TABLE 3–70—ALTERNATIVE MODELING TREATMENT INPUTS
Variable
Description
TYPE
Type of item (asset, liability or off-balance sheet item)
BOOK
Book Value of item (amount outstanding adjusted for deferred items)
FACE
Face Value or notional balance of item for off-balance sheet items
REMATUR
Remaining Contractual Maturity of item in whole months. Any fraction of a month equals one whole month.
RATE
Interest Rate
INDEX
Index used to calculate Interest Rate
FAS115
Designation that the item is recorded at fair value, according to FAS 115
RATING
Instrument or counterparty rating
FHA
In the case of off-balance sheet guarantees, a designation indicating 100% of collateral is guaranteed by FHA
MARGIN
Margin over an Index
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*
*
*
*
*
3.10.3.6.2 * * *
[a] * * *
1. Fair Values
a. The valuation impact of any
Applicable Fair Value Standards
(AFVS), cumulative from their time
of implementation, will be reversed
out of the starting position data, by
debiting any accumulated credits,
and crediting any accumulated
debits.
(1) AFVS are defined as GAAP
pronouncements that require
recognition of periodic changes in
fair value, e.g., EITF 99–20, FAS 65,
FAS 87, FAS 115, FAS 133, FAS
140, FAS 149 and FIN 45.
(2) The GAAP pronouncements
covered by this treatment are
subject to OFHEO review. The
Enterprises will submit a list of
standards and pronouncements
which are being reversed in the
RBC Reports.
b. After reversing the valuation
impact of AFVS, any affected
activities are rebooked as follows:
(1) If absent the adoption of the AFVS,
the affected transactions would
have been accounted for on an
historical cost basis, they are
rebooked and presented as if they
had always been accounted for on
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an historical cost basis. (The
historical cost basis may include
amortization from the time of the
activity to the beginning of the
stress test.)
(2) To the extent that transactions
would not have been accounted for
on an historical cost basis, they are
accounted for as if they were
income and expense activities.
*
*
*
*
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Dated: June 6, 2006.
James B. Lockhart III,
Acting Director, Office of Federal Housing
Enterprise Oversight.
[FR Doc. 06–5330 Filed 6–23–06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4220–01–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. 2003–NM–114-AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Saab Model
SAAB-Fairchild SF340A (SAAB/
SF340A) and SAAB 340B Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration, DOT.
AGENCY:
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Supplemental notice of
proposed rulemaking; reopening of
comment period.
ACTION:
SUMMARY: This document revises an
earlier proposed airworthiness directive
(AD), applicable to certain Saab Model
SAAB-Fairchild SF340A (SAAB/
SF340A) and SAAB 340B airplanes, that
would have required modification of the
hot detection system of the tail pipe
harness of the engine nacelles. This new
action revises the original NPRM by
reducing the compliance time for the
modification and adding repetitive
inspections. The actions specified by
this new proposed AD are intended to
prevent false warning indications to the
flightcrew from the hot detection system
due to discrepancies of the harness,
which could result in unnecessary
aborted takeoffs on the ground or an inflight engine shutdown. This action is
intended to address the identified
unsafe condition.
DATES: Comments must be received by
July 21, 2006.
ADDRESSES: Submit comments in
triplicate to the Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Transport
Airplane Directorate, ANM–114,
Attention: Rules Docket No. 2003–NM–
114–AD, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW.,
Renton, Washington 98055–4056.
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Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 122 / Monday, June 26, 2006 / Proposed Rules
Comments may be inspected at this
location between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.,
Monday through Friday, except Federal
holidays. Comments may be submitted
via fax to (425) 227–1232. Comments
may also be sent via the Internet using
the following address: 9-anmnprmcomment@faa.gov. Comments sent
via fax or the Internet must contain
‘‘Docket No. 2003–NM–114–AD’’ in the
subject line and need not be submitted
in triplicate. Comments sent via the
Internet as attached electronic files must
be formatted in Microsoft Word 97 or
2000 or ASCII text.
The service information referenced in
the proposed rule may be obtained from
Saab Aircraft AB, SAAB Aircraft
Product Support, S–581.88, Linkping,
Sweden. This information may be
examined at the FAA, Transport
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind
Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Mike Borfitz, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98055–4056; telephone
(425) 227–2677; fax (425) 227–1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
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Comments Invited
Interested persons are invited to
participate in the making of the
proposed rule by submitting such
written data, views, or arguments as
they may desire. Communications shall
identify the Rules Docket number and
be submitted in triplicate to the address
specified above. All communications
received on or before the closing date
for comments, specified above, will be
considered before taking action on the
proposed rule. The proposals contained
in this action may be changed in light
of the comments received.
Submit comments using the following
format:
• Organize comments issue-by-issue.
For example, discuss a request to
change the compliance time and a
request to change the service bulletin
reference as two separate issues.
• For each issue, state what specific
change to the proposed AD is being
requested.
• Include justification (e.g., reasons or
data) for each request.
Comments are specifically invited on
the overall regulatory, economic,
environmental, and energy aspects of
the proposed rule. All comments
submitted will be available, both before
and after the closing date for comments,
in the Rules Docket for examination by
interested persons. A report
summarizing each FAA-public contact
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concerned with the substance of this
proposal will be filed in the Rules
Docket.
Commenters wishing the FAA to
acknowledge receipt of their comments
submitted in response to this action
must submit a self-addressed, stamped
postcard on which the following
statement is made: ‘‘Comments to
Docket Number 2003–NM–114–AD.’’
The postcard will be date stamped and
returned to the commenter.
Availability of NPRMs
Any person may obtain a copy of this
NPRM by submitting a request to the
FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
ANM–114, Attention: Rules Docket No.
2003–NM–114–AD, 1601 Lind Avenue,
SW., Renton, Washington 98055–4056.
Discussion
A proposal to amend part 39 of the
Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR
part 39) to add an airworthiness
directive (AD), applicable to certain
Saab Model SAAB SF340A and SAAB
340B series airplanes, was published as
a notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM) in the Federal Register on April
1, 2004 (69 FR 17101). That NPRM
would have required modification of the
hot detection system of the tail pipe
harness of the engine nacelles. That
NPRM was prompted by reports of false
warning indications to the flightcrew
from the hot detection system of the tail
pipe harness of the engine nacelles.
That condition, if not corrected, could
result in unnecessary aborted takeoffs
on the ground or an in-flight engine
shutdown.
Actions Since Issuance of Original
NPRM
Since the issuance of the original
NPRM, we have been receiving reports
from operators indicating new incidents
of false warning indications to the
flightcrew from the hot detection system
of the tail pipe harness of the engine
nacelles. We have determined that, the
unsafe condition is severe enough to
justify adding repetitive general visual
inspections after accomplishing the
modification, in order to maintain an
appropriate level of safety. The one-time
inspection specified in the original
NPRM was determined to be
appropriate in consideration of the
safety implications at that time.
However, in light of the additional
reports, we have added repetitive
inspections at intervals not to exceed 12
months to paragraph (a) of this
supplemental NPRM.
This supplemental NPRM also
requires that operators report the results
of all hot tail pipe events to the Swedish
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36253
Civil Aviation Authority
(Luftfartsstyrelsen). Because the cause of
the events is not known, these required
reports will help determine the extent of
the problem in the affected fleet. Based
on the results of these reports, we may
determine that further corrective action
is warranted.
New Relevant Service Information
We have received Saab Service
Bulletin 340–26–030, Revision 01, dated
November 14, 2003. (The original NPRM
refers to Service Bulletin 340–26–030,
dated October 28, 2002, as the
appropriate source of service
information for accomplishing the
proposed actions.) Revision 01 of the
service bulletin adds no significant
changes to the original issue and has
been added to the supplemental NPRM
as the appropriate source of service
information for accomplishing the
actions.
Comments
Due consideration has been given to
the comments received in response to
the original NPRM.
Request To Add Certain Repetitive
Inspection Requirements
Mesaba Airlines states that initially it
had problems with false warning
indications from the hot detection
system, and after several attempts, came
up with a process to seal the tail pipe
hot detectors with thixotropic sealant.
The commenter notes that the work
instructions it developed were added to
Saab Service Bulletin 340–26–029, and
adds that it has had success with this
new process and has had a low number
of false warning indications. The
commenter states that the inspection
and application of sealant specified in
its Maintenance Review Board (MRB)
Item 26–12–01 (Bench Check of Exhaust
Duct Overtemp Spot Detectors) are done
every 6,000 flight hours; the
replacement of the spot detectors is
done at the same time. (The inspection
is referenced as Task #0600–454–01E
and Task #0600–464–01E, and the
application of sealant is referenced as
Chapter 26–12–05, in the SAAB 340
Airplane Maintenance Manual.) The
commenter asks that this visual
inspection of the harness and associated
terminal ends, and application of
thixotropic sealant to the detector/
terminal end areas every 6,000 flight
hours be added to the original NPRM.
The commenter adds that these actions
would be done in conjunction with the
replacement of the spot detectors.
We partially agree with the
commenter. We agree that additional
general visual inspections, as identified
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Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 122 / Monday, June 26, 2006 / Proposed Rules
by the commenter, are necessary. We do
not agree that those inspections can be
done at intervals of 6,000 flight hours,
as specified in the referenced
maintenance manual. In light of the
additional incidents that have occurred,
a repetitive interval of 6,000 flight hours
would not address the unsafe condition
in a timely manner. We have revised
paragraph (a) of this supplemental
NPRM to specify accomplishing a
general visual inspection for
discrepancies of the heat shrink sleeve,
thixotropic sealant, and connectors for
damage and/or corrosion, and doing all
applicable repairs. We find that
repetitive inspections and maintenance
done every 12 months will result in a
decrease in incidents of false warning
indications to the flightcrew from the
hot detection system. Additionally, we
do not agree to add replacement of the
spot detectors in conjunction with the
actions because such replacement is an
on-condition action.
Request To Add Parts Cost
Saab Aircraft states that in the ‘‘Cost
Impact’’ section of the original NPRM
we have specified that required parts
would be free of charge. The commenter
notes that Paragraph 1.G. (Material—
Cost and Availability) of the referenced
service bulletin specifies, ‘‘Price and
availability for Modification Kit No.
SAAB 340–26—3–01/02 will be
furnished on request.’’ The commenter
provided the parts cost for the kits and
asked that the cost be added to the
original NPRM. We agree, and we have
changed the cost impact section of this
supplemental NPRM to reflect the parts
cost.
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Explanation of Change to Applicability
We have revised the applicability of
the original NPRM to identify model
designations as published in the most
recent type certificate data sheet for the
affected models.
Explanation of Change to Costs of
Compliance
After the original NPRM was issued,
we reviewed the figures we have used
over the past several years to calculate
AD costs to operators. To account for
various inflationary costs in the airline
industry, we find it necessary to
increase the labor rate used in these
calculations from $65 per work hour to
$80 per work hour. The cost impact
information, below, reflects this
increase in the specified hourly labor
rate.
Conclusion
Since certain changes expand the
scope of the original NPRM, we have
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determined that it is necessary to reopen
the comment period to provide
additional opportunity for public
comment.
Cost Impact
We estimate that 280 airplanes of U.S.
registry would be affected by this
supplemental NPRM.
It would take about 10 work hours per
airplane to accomplish the proposed
modification, at an average labor rate of
$80 per work hour. Required parts cost
would be between $218 and $2,253.
Based on these figures, the cost impact
of the proposed modification on U.S.
operators is estimated to be between
$1,018 and $3,053 per airplane.
It would take about 1 work hour per
airplane to accomplish the proposed
inspection and application of sealant, at
an average labor rate of $80 per work
hour. Based on these figures, the cost
impact of this proposed action on U.S.
operators is estimated to be $22,400, or
$80 per airplane, per inspection cycle.
The cost impact figures discussed
above are based on assumptions that no
operator has yet accomplished any of
the proposed requirements of this AD
action, and that no operator would
accomplish those actions in the future if
this AD were not adopted. The cost
impact figures discussed in AD
rulemaking actions represent only the
time necessary to perform the specific
actions actually required by the AD.
These figures typically do not include
incidental costs, such as the time
required to gain access and close up,
planning time, or time necessitated by
other administrative actions.
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.
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Regulatory Impact
The regulations proposed herein
would 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. Therefore,
it is determined that this proposal
would not have federalism implications
under Executive Order 13132.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this proposed 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) if
promulgated, 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. A copy of the draft
regulatory evaluation prepared for this
action is contained in the Rules Docket.
A copy of it may be obtained by
contacting the Rules Docket at the
location provided under the caption
ADDRESSES.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Safety.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, pursuant to the
authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the Federal Aviation
Administration proposes to amend part
39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations
(14 CFR part 39) as follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. Section 39.13 is amended by
adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
Saab Aircraft AB: Docket 2003–NM–114–
AD.
Applicability
Model SAAB-Fairchild SF340A (SAAB/
SF340A) airplanes, serial numbers –004
through –159 inclusive, and SAAB 340B
airplanes, serial numbers –160 through –459
inclusive, certificated in any category.
Compliance
Required as indicated, unless
accomplished previously.
To prevent false warning indications to the
flightcrew from the hot detection system of
the tail pipe harness of the engine nacelles
due to discrepancies of the harness, which
could result in unnecessary aborted takeoffs
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Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 122 / Monday, June 26, 2006 / Proposed Rules
on the ground or an in-flight engine
shutdown, accomplish the following:
Modification/Repetitive Inspections
(a) Within 12 months after the effective
date of this AD: Modify the hot detection
system of the tail pipe harness of the engine
nacelles (including a general visual
inspection of the heat shrink sleeve,
thixotropic sealant, and connectors for
damage and/or corrosion, and all applicable
repairs), by doing all the actions specified in
the Accomplishment Instructions of Saab
Service Bulletin 340–26–030, Revision 01,
dated November 14, 2003. All applicable
repairs must be done before further flight in
accordance with the service bulletin. Repeat
the general visual inspection thereafter at
intervals not to exceed 12 months.
Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a
general visual inspection is defined as: ‘‘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 enhance visual
access to all exposed 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.’’
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(d)(1) In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, the
Manager, International Branch, ANM–116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, is
authorized to approve AMOCs for this AD.
(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.
Note 2: The subject of this AD is addressed
in Swedish airworthiness directive 1–184,
dated October 28, 2002.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 19,
2006.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E6–10014 Filed 6–23–06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2006–25174; Directorate
Identifier 2005–NM–007–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
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(b) Accomplishing the modification/
repetitive inspections specified in Saab
Service Bulletin 340–26–030, dated October
28, 2002; or Saab Service Bulletins 340–26–
018, Revision 02, and 340–26–029, both
dated October 28, 2002; before the effective
date of this AD, is considered acceptable for
compliance with the modification required
by paragraph (a) of this AD.
Airworthiness Directives; Learjet
Model 45 Airplanes
Reporting Requirement
(c) Within 30 days after any false warning
indication to the flightcrew from the hot
detection system of the tail pipe harness of
the engine nacelles occurs: Submit a report
containing the information specified in
paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), and (c)(4) of
this AD to the Swedish Civil Aviation
Authority (Luftfartsstyrelsen)—Attn: Mr.
Christer Sundqvist, SAAB 340 Certification
¨
Manager, SE–601 79, Norrkoping, Sweden.
Under the provisions of the Paperwork
Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), the
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has
approved the information collection
requirements contained in this AD and has
assigned OMB Control Number 2120–0056.
(1) The date and time, weather conditions,
and phase of flight of the warning.
(2) The action taken by the crew to address
the warning (aborted takeoff, high speed/high
energy abort requiring inspection, return for
landing, in-flight diversion, declared
emergency, ATC priority handling requested
or given, or engine shutdown).
(3) The action taken by maintenance to
address/correct the warning.
(4) Time-in-service on the airplane since
the last inspection accomplished in
accordance with paragraph (a) of this AD.
SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a
new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Learjet Model 45 airplanes. This
proposed AD would require revising the
Airworthiness Limitations section of the
airplane maintenance manual to
incorporate certain inspections and
compliance times to detect fatigue
cracking of certain principal structural
elements (PSEs). This proposed AD
results from new and more restrictive
life limits and inspection intervals for
certain PSEs. We are proposing this AD
to ensure that fatigue cracking of various
PSEs is detected and corrected; such
fatigue cracking could adversely affect
the structural integrity of these
airplanes.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by August 10, 2006.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following
addresses to submit comments on this
proposed AD.
• DOT Docket Web site: Go to
https://dms.dot.gov and follow the
instructions for sending your comments
electronically.
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Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
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36255
• 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 Learjet, Inc., One Learjet Way,
Wichita, Kansas 67209–2942, for the
service information identified in this
proposed AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Steve Litke, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe Branch, ACE–118W, FAA,
Wichita Aircraft Certification Office,
1801 Airport Road, Room 100, MidContinent Airport, Wichita, Kansas
67209; telephone (316) 946–4127; fax
(316) 946–4107.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
We invite you to submit any relevant
written data, views, or arguments
regarding this proposed AD. Send your
comments to an address listed in the
ADDRESSES section. Include the docket
number ‘‘FAA–2006–25174; Directorate
Identifier 2005–NM–007–AD’’ at the
beginning of your comments. We
specifically invite comments on the
overall regulatory, economic,
environmental, and energy aspects of
the proposed AD. We will consider all
comments received by the closing date
and may amend the proposed AD in
light of those comments.
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 proposed 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 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 Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the Internet at https://dms.dot.gov, or in
person at the Docket Management
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 122 (Monday, June 26, 2006)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 36252-36255]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E6-10014]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. 2003-NM-114-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Saab Model SAAB-Fairchild SF340A (SAAB/
SF340A) and SAAB 340B Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.
ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking; reopening of
comment period.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: This document revises an earlier proposed airworthiness
directive (AD), applicable to certain Saab Model SAAB-Fairchild SF340A
(SAAB/SF340A) and SAAB 340B airplanes, that would have required
modification of the hot detection system of the tail pipe harness of
the engine nacelles. This new action revises the original NPRM by
reducing the compliance time for the modification and adding repetitive
inspections. The actions specified by this new proposed AD are intended
to prevent false warning indications to the flightcrew from the hot
detection system due to discrepancies of the harness, which could
result in unnecessary aborted takeoffs on the ground or an in-flight
engine shutdown. This action is intended to address the identified
unsafe condition.
DATES: Comments must be received by July 21, 2006.
ADDRESSES: Submit comments in triplicate to the Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Transport Airplane Directorate, ANM-114,
Attention: Rules Docket No. 2003-NM-114-AD, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW.,
Renton, Washington 98055-4056.
[[Page 36253]]
Comments may be inspected at this location between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.,
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. Comments may be
submitted via fax to (425) 227-1232. Comments may also be sent via the
Internet using the following address: 9-anm-nprmcomment@faa.gov.
Comments sent via fax or the Internet must contain ``Docket No. 2003-
NM-114-AD'' in the subject line and need not be submitted in
triplicate. Comments sent via the Internet as attached electronic files
must be formatted in Microsoft Word 97 or 2000 or ASCII text.
The service information referenced in the proposed rule may be
obtained from Saab Aircraft AB, SAAB Aircraft Product Support, S-
581.88, Linkping, Sweden. This information may be examined at the FAA,
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mike Borfitz, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98055-4056; telephone (425)
227-2677; fax (425) 227-1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
Interested persons are invited to participate in the making of the
proposed rule by submitting such written data, views, or arguments as
they may desire. Communications shall identify the Rules Docket number
and be submitted in triplicate to the address specified above. All
communications received on or before the closing date for comments,
specified above, will be considered before taking action on the
proposed rule. The proposals contained in this action may be changed in
light of the comments received.
Submit comments using the following format:
Organize comments issue-by-issue. For example, discuss a
request to change the compliance time and a request to change the
service bulletin reference as two separate issues.
For each issue, state what specific change to the proposed
AD is being requested.
Include justification (e.g., reasons or data) for each
request.
Comments are specifically invited on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the proposed rule. All
comments submitted will be available, both before and after the closing
date for comments, in the Rules Docket for examination by interested
persons. A report summarizing each FAA-public contact concerned with
the substance of this proposal will be filed in the Rules Docket.
Commenters wishing the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments
submitted in response to this action must submit a self-addressed,
stamped postcard on which the following statement is made: ``Comments
to Docket Number 2003-NM-114-AD.'' The postcard will be date stamped
and returned to the commenter.
Availability of NPRMs
Any person may obtain a copy of this NPRM by submitting a request
to the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, ANM-114, Attention: Rules
Docket No. 2003-NM-114-AD, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington
98055-4056.
Discussion
A proposal to amend part 39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14
CFR part 39) to add an airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to
certain Saab Model SAAB SF340A and SAAB 340B series airplanes, was
published as a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) in the Federal
Register on April 1, 2004 (69 FR 17101). That NPRM would have required
modification of the hot detection system of the tail pipe harness of
the engine nacelles. That NPRM was prompted by reports of false warning
indications to the flightcrew from the hot detection system of the tail
pipe harness of the engine nacelles. That condition, if not corrected,
could result in unnecessary aborted takeoffs on the ground or an in-
flight engine shutdown.
Actions Since Issuance of Original NPRM
Since the issuance of the original NPRM, we have been receiving
reports from operators indicating new incidents of false warning
indications to the flightcrew from the hot detection system of the tail
pipe harness of the engine nacelles. We have determined that, the
unsafe condition is severe enough to justify adding repetitive general
visual inspections after accomplishing the modification, in order to
maintain an appropriate level of safety. The one-time inspection
specified in the original NPRM was determined to be appropriate in
consideration of the safety implications at that time. However, in
light of the additional reports, we have added repetitive inspections
at intervals not to exceed 12 months to paragraph (a) of this
supplemental NPRM.
This supplemental NPRM also requires that operators report the
results of all hot tail pipe events to the Swedish Civil Aviation
Authority (Luftfartsstyrelsen). Because the cause of the events is not
known, these required reports will help determine the extent of the
problem in the affected fleet. Based on the results of these reports,
we may determine that further corrective action is warranted.
New Relevant Service Information
We have received Saab Service Bulletin 340-26-030, Revision 01,
dated November 14, 2003. (The original NPRM refers to Service Bulletin
340-26-030, dated October 28, 2002, as the appropriate source of
service information for accomplishing the proposed actions.) Revision
01 of the service bulletin adds no significant changes to the original
issue and has been added to the supplemental NPRM as the appropriate
source of service information for accomplishing the actions.
Comments
Due consideration has been given to the comments received in
response to the original NPRM.
Request To Add Certain Repetitive Inspection Requirements
Mesaba Airlines states that initially it had problems with false
warning indications from the hot detection system, and after several
attempts, came up with a process to seal the tail pipe hot detectors
with thixotropic sealant. The commenter notes that the work
instructions it developed were added to Saab Service Bulletin 340-26-
029, and adds that it has had success with this new process and has had
a low number of false warning indications. The commenter states that
the inspection and application of sealant specified in its Maintenance
Review Board (MRB) Item 26-12-01 (Bench Check of Exhaust Duct Overtemp
Spot Detectors) are done every 6,000 flight hours; the replacement of
the spot detectors is done at the same time. (The inspection is
referenced as Task 0600-454-01E and Task 0600-464-
01E, and the application of sealant is referenced as Chapter 26-12-05,
in the SAAB 340 Airplane Maintenance Manual.) The commenter asks that
this visual inspection of the harness and associated terminal ends, and
application of thixotropic sealant to the detector/terminal end areas
every 6,000 flight hours be added to the original NPRM. The commenter
adds that these actions would be done in conjunction with the
replacement of the spot detectors.
We partially agree with the commenter. We agree that additional
general visual inspections, as identified
[[Page 36254]]
by the commenter, are necessary. We do not agree that those inspections
can be done at intervals of 6,000 flight hours, as specified in the
referenced maintenance manual. In light of the additional incidents
that have occurred, a repetitive interval of 6,000 flight hours would
not address the unsafe condition in a timely manner. We have revised
paragraph (a) of this supplemental NPRM to specify accomplishing a
general visual inspection for discrepancies of the heat shrink sleeve,
thixotropic sealant, and connectors for damage and/or corrosion, and
doing all applicable repairs. We find that repetitive inspections and
maintenance done every 12 months will result in a decrease in incidents
of false warning indications to the flightcrew from the hot detection
system. Additionally, we do not agree to add replacement of the spot
detectors in conjunction with the actions because such replacement is
an on-condition action.
Request To Add Parts Cost
Saab Aircraft states that in the ``Cost Impact'' section of the
original NPRM we have specified that required parts would be free of
charge. The commenter notes that Paragraph 1.G. (Material--Cost and
Availability) of the referenced service bulletin specifies, ``Price and
availability for Modification Kit No. SAAB 340-26--3-01/02 will be
furnished on request.'' The commenter provided the parts cost for the
kits and asked that the cost be added to the original NPRM. We agree,
and we have changed the cost impact section of this supplemental NPRM
to reflect the parts cost.
Explanation of Change to Applicability
We have revised the applicability of the original NPRM to identify
model designations as published in the most recent type certificate
data sheet for the affected models.
Explanation of Change to Costs of Compliance
After the original NPRM was issued, we reviewed the figures we have
used over the past several years to calculate AD costs to operators. To
account for various inflationary costs in the airline industry, we find
it necessary to increase the labor rate used in these calculations from
$65 per work hour to $80 per work hour. The cost impact information,
below, reflects this increase in the specified hourly labor rate.
Conclusion
Since certain changes expand the scope of the original NPRM, we
have determined that it is necessary to reopen the comment period to
provide additional opportunity for public comment.
Cost Impact
We estimate that 280 airplanes of U.S. registry would be affected
by this supplemental NPRM.
It would take about 10 work hours per airplane to accomplish the
proposed modification, at an average labor rate of $80 per work hour.
Required parts cost would be between $218 and $2,253. Based on these
figures, the cost impact of the proposed modification on U.S. operators
is estimated to be between $1,018 and $3,053 per airplane.
It would take about 1 work hour per airplane to accomplish the
proposed inspection and application of sealant, at an average labor
rate of $80 per work hour. Based on these figures, the cost impact of
this proposed action on U.S. operators is estimated to be $22,400, or
$80 per airplane, per inspection cycle.
The cost impact figures discussed above are based on assumptions
that no operator has yet accomplished any of the proposed requirements
of this AD action, and that no operator would accomplish those actions
in the future if this AD were not adopted. The cost impact figures
discussed in AD rulemaking actions represent only the time necessary to
perform the specific actions actually required by the AD. These figures
typically do not include incidental costs, such as the time required to
gain access and close up, planning time, or time necessitated by other
administrative actions.
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 Impact
The regulations proposed herein would 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. Therefore, it
is determined that this proposal would not have federalism implications
under Executive Order 13132.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this proposed
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) if promulgated, 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. A copy of the draft
regulatory evaluation prepared for this action is contained in the
Rules Docket. A copy of it may be obtained by contacting the Rules
Docket at the location provided under the caption ADDRESSES.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Safety.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the Federal Aviation Administration proposes to amend
part 39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) as
follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
2. Section 39.13 is amended by adding the following new
airworthiness directive:
Saab Aircraft AB: Docket 2003-NM-114-AD.
Applicability
Model SAAB-Fairchild SF340A (SAAB/SF340A) airplanes, serial
numbers -004 through -159 inclusive, and SAAB 340B airplanes, serial
numbers -160 through -459 inclusive, certificated in any category.
Compliance
Required as indicated, unless accomplished previously.
To prevent false warning indications to the flightcrew from the
hot detection system of the tail pipe harness of the engine nacelles
due to discrepancies of the harness, which could result in
unnecessary aborted takeoffs
[[Page 36255]]
on the ground or an in-flight engine shutdown, accomplish the
following:
Modification/Repetitive Inspections
(a) Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD: Modify
the hot detection system of the tail pipe harness of the engine
nacelles (including a general visual inspection of the heat shrink
sleeve, thixotropic sealant, and connectors for damage and/or
corrosion, and all applicable repairs), by doing all the actions
specified in the Accomplishment Instructions of Saab Service
Bulletin 340-26-030, Revision 01, dated November 14, 2003. All
applicable repairs must be done before further flight in accordance
with the service bulletin. Repeat the general visual inspection
thereafter at intervals not to exceed 12 months.
Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a general visual inspection
is defined as: ``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 enhance visual access to all exposed 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.''
(b) Accomplishing the modification/repetitive inspections
specified in Saab Service Bulletin 340-26-030, dated October 28,
2002; or Saab Service Bulletins 340-26-018, Revision 02, and 340-26-
029, both dated October 28, 2002; before the effective date of this
AD, is considered acceptable for compliance with the modification
required by paragraph (a) of this AD.
Reporting Requirement
(c) Within 30 days after any false warning indication to the
flightcrew from the hot detection system of the tail pipe harness of
the engine nacelles occurs: Submit a report containing the
information specified in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), and
(c)(4) of this AD to the Swedish Civil Aviation Authority
(Luftfartsstyrelsen)--Attn: Mr. Christer Sundqvist, SAAB 340
Certification Manager, SE-601 79, Norrk[ouml]ping, Sweden. Under the
provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.),
the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has approved the
information collection requirements contained in this AD and has
assigned OMB Control Number 2120-0056.
(1) The date and time, weather conditions, and phase of flight
of the warning.
(2) The action taken by the crew to address the warning (aborted
takeoff, high speed/high energy abort requiring inspection, return
for landing, in-flight diversion, declared emergency, ATC priority
handling requested or given, or engine shutdown).
(3) The action taken by maintenance to address/correct the
warning.
(4) Time-in-service on the airplane since the last inspection
accomplished in accordance with paragraph (a) of this AD.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(d)(1) In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, the Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
is authorized to approve AMOCs for this AD.
(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.
Note 2: The subject of this AD is addressed in Swedish
airworthiness directive 1-184, dated October 28, 2002.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 19, 2006.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. E6-10014 Filed 6-23-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
