Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 757-200 Series Airplanes Modified by Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SA979NE, 36671-36674 [06-5702]
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Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 124 / Wednesday, June 28, 2006 / Rules and Regulations
• An area where the percentage of the
population living in poverty is at least
20 percent;
• An area in a Metropolitan Area
where the median family income is at or
below 80 percent of the Metropolitan
Area median family income or the
national Metropolitan Area median
family income, whichever is greater;
• An area outside of a Metropolitan
Area, where the median family income
is at or below 80 percent of the
statewide non-Metropolitan Area
median family income or the national
non-Metropolitan Area median family
income, whichever is greater;
• An area where the unemployment
rate is at least 1.5 times the national
average;
• An area meeting the criteria for
economic distress that may be
established by the Community
Development Financial Institutions
Fund (CDFI) of the United States
Department of the Treasury.
In addition, the local community,
neighborhood, or rural district must be
underserved, based on data considered
by the NCUA Board and the Federal
banking agencies.
Once an underserved area is added to
a Federal credit union’s field of
membership, the credit union must
establish and maintain an office or
service facility in the community within
two years. A service facility is defined
as a place where shares are accepted for
members’ accounts, loan applications
are accepted and loans are disbursed.
This definition includes a credit union
owned branch, a shared branch, a
mobile branch, an office operated on a
regularly scheduled weekly basis, or a
credit union owned facility that meets,
at a minimum, these requirements. This
definition does not include an ATM or
the credit union’s Internet Web site.
The Federal credit union adding the
underserved community must
document that the community meets the
definition for serving underserved areas
in the Federal Credit Union Act. Adding
an underserved community does not
change the charter type of a multiple
common-bond federal credit union. In
order to receive the benefits afforded to
low-income designated credit unions,
such as expanded use of nonmember
deposits and access to the Community
Development Revolving Loan Program
for Credit Unions, a credit union must
receive low-income designation
pursuant to 12 CFR 701.34.
A Federal credit union that desires to
include an underserved community in
its field of membership must first
develop a business plan specifying how
it will serve the community. The
business plan, at a minimum, must
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15:04 Jun 27, 2006
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identify the credit and depository needs
of the community and detail how the
credit union plans to serve those needs.
The credit union will be expected to
review the business plan regularly to
determine if the community is being
adequately served. The regional director
may require periodic service status
reports from a credit union about the
underserved area to ensure that the
needs of the community are being met
as well as requiring such reports before
NCUA allows a multiple common-bond
Federal credit union to add an
additional underserved area.
[FR Doc. E6–10134 Filed 6–27–06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7535–01–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2006–25175; Directorate
Identifier 2006–NM–099–AD; Amendment
39–14670; AD 2006–13–17]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing
Model 757–200 Series Airplanes
Modified by Supplemental Type
Certificate (STC) SA979NE
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule; request for
comments.
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Boeing Model 757–200 series airplanes.
This AD requires a one-time
deactivation of the auxiliary fuel
system, repetitive venting and draining
of the auxiliary fuel tank sumps, and
revising the Limitations section of the
airplane flight manual to limit the
maximum cargo weight. This AD results
from a re-evaluation of the floor
structure and cargo barriers conducted
by the STC holder. We are issuing this
AD to prevent structural overload of the
auxiliary fuel tank support structure,
which could cause the floor beams to
fail, damaging the primary flight
controls and the auxiliary power unit
fuel lines that pass through the floor
beams, resulting in loss of control of the
airplane. We are also issuing this AD to
prevent structural overload of the cargo
barriers, which could cause the barriers
to fail, allowing the cargo to shift,
resulting in damage to the auxiliary fuel
tanks, residual fuel leakage, and
consequent increased risk of a fire.
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36671
This AD becomes effective July
13, 2006.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in the AD
as of July 13, 2006.
We must receive comments on this
AD by August 28, 2006.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following
addresses to submit comments on this
AD.
• DOT Docket Web site: Go to
https://dms.dot.gov and follow the
instructions for sending your comments
electronically.
• Government-wide rulemaking Web
site: Go to https://www.regulations.gov
and follow the instructions for sending
your comments electronically.
• Mail: Docket Management Facility;
U.S. Department of Transportation, 400
Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building,
Room PL–401, Washington, DC 20590.
• Fax: (202) 493–2251.
• Hand Delivery: Room PL–401 on
the plaza level of the Nassif Building,
400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington,
DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
Contact PATS Aircraft, LLC, Product
Support, 21652 Nanticoke Avenue,
Georgetown, DE 19947, for service
information identified in this AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jon
Hjelm, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe
and Propulsion Branch, ANE–171, FAA,
New York Aircraft Certification Office,
1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410,
Westbury, New York 11590; telephone
(516) 228–7323; fax (516) 794–5531.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
DATES:
Discussion
PATS Aircraft (holder of
Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)
SA979NE) notified us that it has
determined that Model 757–200 series
airplanes equipped with auxiliary fuel
tank systems installed by STC SA979NE
have insufficient structural strength in
the auxiliary fuel tank support structure.
The STC holder has also determined
that the cargo barriers have insufficient
structural strength if subjected to
emergency landing loads with more
than 2,000 pounds of cargo in the cargo
compartment. These determinations
were based on a new structural analysis
resulting from a re-evaluation of the
floor structure and cargo barriers
conducted by the STC holder. Structural
overload of the auxiliary fuel tank
support structure could cause the floor
beams to fail, damaging the primary
flight controls and the auxiliary power
unit fuel lines that pass through the
floor beams; this condition, if not
corrected, could result in loss of control
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Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 124 / Wednesday, June 28, 2006 / Rules and Regulations
of the airplane. Structural overload of
the cargo barriers could cause the
barriers to fail, allowing the cargo to
shift; this condition, if not corrected,
could result in damage to the auxiliary
fuel tanks, residual fuel leakage, and
consequent increased risk of a fire.
Relevant Service Information
We have reviewed PATS Aircraft
Service Bulletin SA979NE–28–SB–
28_IR, dated April 3, 2006. The service
bulletin describes procedures for
deactivating the auxiliary fuel system,
and installing new cargo loading weight
limits and ‘‘INOP’’ placards, depending
on the airplane configuration. The
service bulletin also describes
procedures for venting any residual air
pressure from the auxiliary fuel tanks
following each flight and draining the
auxiliary fuel tank sumps to regularly
remove any residual fuel that may
accumulate over time due to leakage
around the auxiliary fuel tank valves.
Paragraph I.D. (‘‘Description’’) of the
service bulletin describes limiting the
maximum cargo weight to 2,000 pounds
(as specified on the new cargo weight
placards) in the forward and aft cargo
compartments, as applicable, depending
on the STC configuration of the
airplane.
We have also reviewed the PATS
Aircraft supplements to the Limitations
section of the Boeing 757–200 Airplane
Flight Manual (AFM), which are
identified in the following table. These
AFM supplements provide revised
maximum cargo weight limits.
TABLE.—APPLICABLE AFM SUPPLEMENTS FOR REVISED CARGO WEIGHT LIMITS
For airplanes having S/Ns—
Use PATS Aircraft AFM supplement—
29025, 29026, 29027, and 29028 (STC Configuration F, which has been upgraded to Configuration H) ..........
24923 (STC Configuration A) ................................................................................................................................
25155 and 25220 (STC Configuration C & D) ......................................................................................................
28463 (STC Configuration E) ................................................................................................................................
22690 and 25487 (STC Configuration B & G) ......................................................................................................
142,
143,
144,
145,
146,
FAA’s Determination and Requirements
of This AD
The unsafe conditions described
previously are likely to exist or develop
on other airplanes of the same type
design. We are issuing this AD to
prevent structural overload of the
auxiliary fuel tank support structure,
which could cause the floor beams to
fail, damaging the primary flight
controls and the auxiliary power unit
fuel lines that pass through the floor
beams, resulting in loss of control of the
airplane. We are also issuing this AD to
prevent structural overload of the cargo
barriers, which could cause the barriers
to fail, allowing the cargo to shift,
resulting in damage to the auxiliary fuel
tanks, residual fuel leakage, and
consequent increased risk of a fire. This
AD requires accomplishing the actions
specified in the service information
described previously, except as
discussed under ‘‘Differences Between
the AD and the Service Bulletin.’’
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Differences Between the AD and the
Service Bulletin
PATS Aircraft Service Bulletin
SA979NE–28–SB–28_IR, dated April 3,
2006, does not specify a compliance
time for deactivating the auxiliary fuel
system or implementing the new cargo
weight limits. In developing an
appropriate compliance time for those
actions in this AD, we considered the
degree of urgency associated with the
subject unsafe condition, the average
utilization of the affected fleet, and the
time necessary to perform the
deactivation (3 hours) and AFM
revision. In light of all of these factors,
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15:04 Jun 27, 2006
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we find that a 30-day compliance time
represents an appropriate interval of
time for affected airplanes to continue to
operate without compromising safety.
Interim Action
We consider this AD interim action.
The STC holder is currently developing
a modification that will address the
unsafe conditions identified in this AD.
Once this modification is developed,
approved, and available, we may
consider additional rulemaking.
FAA’s Determination of the Effective
Date
Since unsafe conditions exists that
require the immediate adoption of this
AD, we have found that notice and
opportunity for public comment before
issuing this AD are impracticable, and
that good cause exists to make this AD
effective in less than 30 days.
Comments Invited
This AD is a final rule that involves
requirements that affect flight safety and
was not preceded by notice and an
opportunity for public comment;
however, we invite you to submit any
relevant written data, views, or
arguments regarding this AD. Send your
comments to an address listed in the
ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No.
FAA–2006–25175; Directorate Identifier
2006–NM–099–AD’’ at the beginning of
your comments. We specifically invite
comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy
aspects of the AD that might suggest a
need to modify it.
We will post all comments we
receive, without change, to https://
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May
May
May
May
May
31,
31,
31,
31,
31,
2006.
2006.
2006.
2006.
2006.
dms.dot.gov, including any personal
information you provide. We will also
post a report summarizing each
substantive verbal contact with FAA
personnel concerning this AD. Using the
search function of that Web site, anyone
can find and read the comments in any
of our dockets, including the name of
the individual who sent the comment
(or signed the comment on behalf of an
association, business, labor union, etc.).
You may review the DOT’s complete
Privacy Act Statement in the Federal
Register published on April 11, 2000
(65 FR 19477–78), or you may visit
https://dms.dot.gov.
Examining the Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the Internet at https://dms.dot.gov, or in
person at the Docket Management
Facility office between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The Docket
Management Facility office (telephone
(800) 647–5227) is located on the plaza
level of the Nassif Building at the DOT
street address stated in the ADDRESSES
section. Comments will be available in
the AD docket shortly after the Docket
Management System receives them.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII,
Aviation Programs, describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under
the authority described in subtitle VII,
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Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 124 / Wednesday, June 28, 2006 / Rules and Regulations
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
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 unsafe conditions
that are likely to exist or develop on
products identified in this rulemaking
action.
I
Regulatory Findings
I
We have determined that this AD will
not have federalism implications under
Executive Order 13132. This AD will
not have a substantial direct effect on
the States, on the relationship between
the National government and the States,
or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that the regulation:
1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
3. Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation
of the estimated costs to comply with
this AD and placed it in the AD docket.
See the ADDRESSES section for a location
to examine the regulatory evaluation.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
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
2006–13–17 PATS Inc.: Amendment 39–
14670. Docket No. FAA–2006–25175;
Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–099–AD.
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective July 13,
2006.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Boeing Model 757–
200 series airplanes, certificated in any
category; modified by Supplemental Type
Certificate (STC) SA979NE, having serial
numbers identified in PATS Aircraft Service
Bulletin SA979NE–28–SB–28_IR, dated April
3, 2006.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from a re-evaluation of
the floor structure and cargo barriers
conducted by the STC holder. We are issuing
this AD to prevent structural overload of the
auxiliary fuel tank support structure, which
could cause the floor beams to fail, damaging
the primary flight controls and the auxiliary
power unit fuel lines that pass through the
floor beams, resulting in loss of control of the
airplane. We are also issuing this AD to
prevent structural overload of the cargo
barriers, which could cause the barriers to
fail, allowing the cargo to shift, resulting in
damage to the auxiliary fuel tanks, residual
fuel leakage, and consequent increased risk
of a fire.
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 and Maintenance Requirements
of PATS Aircraft Service Bulletin SA979NE–
28–SB–28–IR, dated April 3, 2006.
Deactivation of the Auxiliary Fuel System
and Revised Cargo Weight Limits
(g) Within 30 days after the effective date
of this AD: Do the actions in paragraphs (g)(1)
and (g)(2) of this AD. Thereafter, do the
actions in paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD
at the times specified in those paragraphs.
(1) Deactivate the auxiliary fuel system by
doing all of the actions specified in Part III
and all of the actions for the applicable
airplane configuration specified in Part IV of
the service bulletin.
(2) Revise the Limitations section of the
Boeing 757–200 Airplane Flight Manual
(AFM) to include revised maximum cargo
weight limits specified in the applicable
AFM supplement identified in Table 1 of this
AD. Operate the airplane according to the
limitations in the AFM supplements.
TABLE 1.—APPLICABLE AFM SUPPLEMENTS FOR REVISED CARGO WEIGHT LIMITS
For airplanes having S/Ns—
Use PATS Aircraft AFM supplement—
29025, 29026, 29027, and 29028 (STC Configuration F, which has been upgraded to Configuration H) ..........
24923 (STC Configuration A) ................................................................................................................................
25155 and 25220 (STC Configuration C & D) ......................................................................................................
28463 (STC Configuration E) ................................................................................................................................
22690 and 25487 (STC Configuration B & G) ......................................................................................................
142,
143,
144,
145,
146,
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Repetitive Venting of the Built-Up Pressure
in the Auxiliary Fuel Tanks
(h) After deactivating the auxiliary fuel
system as specified in paragraph (g) of this
AD: Following each flight, vent the auxiliary
fuel tanks by doing all of the actions
specified in paragraph A. of Part V of the
service bulletin.
Repetitive Draining of the Fuel Tank Sumps
for Residual Fuel
(i) At intervals not to exceed 100 flight
cycles following deactivation of the auxiliary
fuel system, as specified in paragraph (g) of
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15:04 Jun 27, 2006
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this AD: Drain the auxiliary fuel tank sumps
to remove any built-up residual fuel by doing
all of the actions specified in paragraph B. of
Part V of the service bulletin.
Special Flight Permits
(j) Special flight permits may be issued in
accordance with sections 21.197 and 21.199
of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR
21.197 and 21.199) to operate the airplane to
a location where the airplane can be
modified, provided the airplane is operated
with the auxiliary fuel tanks empty.
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May
May
May
May
31,
31,
31,
31,
31,
2006.
2006.
2006.
2006.
2006.
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(k)(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.
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Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 124 / Wednesday, June 28, 2006 / Rules and Regulations
Material Incorporated by Reference
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
(l) You must use PATS Aircraft Service
Bulletin SA979NE–28–SB–28_IR, dated April
3, 2006, and the applicable PATS Aircraft
supplement to the Boeing 757–200 Airplane
Flight Manual identified in Table 2 of this
AD, as applicable, to perform the actions that
are required by this AD, unless the AD
specifies otherwise.
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2006–23890; Directorate
Identifier 2005–NM–229–AD; Amendment
39–14633; AD 2006–12–08]
RIN 2120–AA64
TABLE 2.—AIRPLANE FLIGHT MANUAL Airworthiness Directives; Goodrich
SUPPLEMENTS FOR INCORPORATION Evacuation Systems Approved Under
Technical Standard Order (TSO) TSO–
BY REFERENCE
PATS Aircraft airplane
flight manual
supplement—
Dated—
142
143
144
145
146
May
May
May
May
May
C69b and Installed on Airbus Model
A330–200 and –300 Series Airplanes,
Model A340–200 and –300 Series
Airplanes, and Model A340–541 and
–642 Airplanes
............................
............................
............................
............................
............................
31,
31,
31,
31,
31,
2006.
2006.
2006.
2006.
2006.
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule; correction.
AGENCY:
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 PATS
Aircraft, LLC, Product Support, 21652
Nanticoke Avenue, Georgetown, DE 19947,
for a copy of this service information. You
may review copies at the Docket Management
Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation,
400 Seventh Street, SW., Room PL–401,
Nassif Building, Washington, DC; on the
Internet at https://dms.dot.gov; or at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at the NARA,
call (202) 741–6030, or go to https://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/
code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 15,
2006.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 06–5702 Filed 6–27–06; 8:45 am]
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BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
VerDate Aug<31>2005
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SUMMARY: The FAA is correcting an
inadvertent error in an existing
airworthiness directive (AD) that was
published in the Federal Register on
June 12, 2006 (71 FR 33606). The error
resulted in an incorrect reference to the
airplane manufacturer instead of the
TSO holder. This AD applies to
Goodrich evacuation systems approved
under TSO–C69b and installed on
certain Airbus Model A330–200 and
–300 series airplanes, Model A340–200
and –300 series airplanes, and Model
A340–541 and –642 airplanes. This AD
requires inspecting to determine the
part number of the pressure relief valves
on the affected Goodrich evacuation
systems, and corrective action if
necessary.
DATES: Effective July 17, 2006.
ADDRESSES: The AD docket contains the
proposed AD, comments, and any final
disposition. You may examine the AD
docket on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov, or in person at the Docket
Management Facility office between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through
Friday, except Federal holidays. The
Docket Management Facility office
(telephone (800) 647–5227) is located on
the plaza level of the Nassif Building at
the U.S. Department of Transportation,
400 Seventh Street, SW., Room PL–401,
Washington, DC. This docket number is
FAA–2006–23890; the directorate
identifier for this docket is 2005–NM–
229–AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Tracy Ton, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin
Safety/Mechanical and Environmental
Systems Branch, ANM–150L, FAA, Los
Angeles Aircraft Certification Office,
3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood,
California 90712–4137; telephone (562)
627–5352; fax (562) 627–5210.
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On May
31, 2006, the FAA issued AD 2006–12–
08, amendment 39–14633 (71 FR 33606,
June 12, 2006), for Goodrich evacuation
systems approved under TSO–C69b and
installed on certain Airbus Model
A330–200 and –300 series airplanes,
Model A340–200 and –300 series
airplanes, and Model A340–541 and
–642 airplanes. The AD requires
inspecting to determine the part number
of the pressure relief valves on the
affected Goodrich evacuation systems,
and corrective action if necessary.
As published, the final rule identifies
an incorrect reference to the airplane
manufacturer (Airbus) in the regulatory
text of the AD. The correct reference is
Goodrich (formerly BF Goodrich).
No other part of the regulatory
information has been changed;
therefore, the final rule is not
republished in the Federal Register.
The effective date of this AD remains
July 17, 2006.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
§ 39.13
[Corrected]
In the Federal Register of June 12,
2006, on page 33607, in the second
column, paragraph 2 of PART 39—
AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES of AD
2006–12–08 is corrected to read as
follows:
*
*
*
*
*
I 2. The Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) amends § 39.13
by adding the following new
airworthiness directive (AD):
I
2006–12–08 Goodrich (Formerly BF
Goodrich): Amendment 39–14633.
Docket No. FAA–2006–23890;
Directorate Identifier 2005–NM–229–AD.
*
*
*
*
*
Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 20,
2006.
Kalene C. Yanamura,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 06–5739 Filed 6–27–06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 97
[Docket No. 30500 Amdt. No. 3172]
Standard Instrument Approach
Procedures, Weather Takeoff
Minimums; Miscellaneous
Amendments
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 124 (Wednesday, June 28, 2006)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 36671-36674]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 06-5702]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2006-25175; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-099-AD;
Amendment 39-14670; AD 2006-13-17]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 757-200 Series Airplanes
Modified by Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SA979NE
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Boeing Model 757-200 series airplanes. This AD requires a one-
time deactivation of the auxiliary fuel system, repetitive venting and
draining of the auxiliary fuel tank sumps, and revising the Limitations
section of the airplane flight manual to limit the maximum cargo
weight. This AD results from a re-evaluation of the floor structure and
cargo barriers conducted by the STC holder. We are issuing this AD to
prevent structural overload of the auxiliary fuel tank support
structure, which could cause the floor beams to fail, damaging the
primary flight controls and the auxiliary power unit fuel lines that
pass through the floor beams, resulting in loss of control of the
airplane. We are also issuing this AD to prevent structural overload of
the cargo barriers, which could cause the barriers to fail, allowing
the cargo to shift, resulting in damage to the auxiliary fuel tanks,
residual fuel leakage, and consequent increased risk of a fire.
DATES: This AD becomes effective July 13, 2006.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of July 13, 2006.
We must receive comments on this AD by August 28, 2006.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on
this AD.
DOT Docket Web site: Go to https://dms.dot.gov and follow
the instructions for sending your comments electronically.
Government-wide rulemaking Web site: Go to https://
www.regulations.gov and follow the instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of
Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building, Room PL-401,
Washington, DC 20590.
Fax: (202) 493-2251.
Hand Delivery: Room PL-401 on the plaza level of the
Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
Contact PATS Aircraft, LLC, Product Support, 21652 Nanticoke
Avenue, Georgetown, DE 19947, for service information identified in
this AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jon Hjelm, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe and Propulsion Branch, ANE-171, FAA, New York Aircraft
Certification Office, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, New
York 11590; telephone (516) 228-7323; fax (516) 794-5531.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
PATS Aircraft (holder of Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)
SA979NE) notified us that it has determined that Model 757-200 series
airplanes equipped with auxiliary fuel tank systems installed by STC
SA979NE have insufficient structural strength in the auxiliary fuel
tank support structure. The STC holder has also determined that the
cargo barriers have insufficient structural strength if subjected to
emergency landing loads with more than 2,000 pounds of cargo in the
cargo compartment. These determinations were based on a new structural
analysis resulting from a re-evaluation of the floor structure and
cargo barriers conducted by the STC holder. Structural overload of the
auxiliary fuel tank support structure could cause the floor beams to
fail, damaging the primary flight controls and the auxiliary power unit
fuel lines that pass through the floor beams; this condition, if not
corrected, could result in loss of control
[[Page 36672]]
of the airplane. Structural overload of the cargo barriers could cause
the barriers to fail, allowing the cargo to shift; this condition, if
not corrected, could result in damage to the auxiliary fuel tanks,
residual fuel leakage, and consequent increased risk of a fire.
Relevant Service Information
We have reviewed PATS Aircraft Service Bulletin SA979NE-28-SB-28--
IR, dated April 3, 2006. The service bulletin describes procedures for
deactivating the auxiliary fuel system, and installing new cargo
loading weight limits and ``INOP'' placards, depending on the airplane
configuration. The service bulletin also describes procedures for
venting any residual air pressure from the auxiliary fuel tanks
following each flight and draining the auxiliary fuel tank sumps to
regularly remove any residual fuel that may accumulate over time due to
leakage around the auxiliary fuel tank valves. Paragraph I.D.
(``Description'') of the service bulletin describes limiting the
maximum cargo weight to 2,000 pounds (as specified on the new cargo
weight placards) in the forward and aft cargo compartments, as
applicable, depending on the STC configuration of the airplane.
We have also reviewed the PATS Aircraft supplements to the
Limitations section of the Boeing 757-200 Airplane Flight Manual (AFM),
which are identified in the following table. These AFM supplements
provide revised maximum cargo weight limits.
Table.--Applicable AFM Supplements for Revised Cargo Weight Limits
------------------------------------------------------------------------
For airplanes having S/Ns-- Use PATS Aircraft AFM supplement--
------------------------------------------------------------------------
29025, 29026, 29027, and 142, dated May 31, 2006.
29028 (STC Configuration F,
which has been upgraded to
Configuration H).
24923 (STC Configuration A).. 143, dated May 31, 2006.
25155 and 25220 (STC 144, dated May 31, 2006.
Configuration C & D).
28463 (STC Configuration E).. 145, dated May 31, 2006.
22690 and 25487 (STC 146, dated May 31, 2006.
Configuration B & G).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
FAA's Determination and Requirements of This AD
The unsafe conditions described previously are likely to exist or
develop on other airplanes of the same type design. We are issuing this
AD to prevent structural overload of the auxiliary fuel tank support
structure, which could cause the floor beams to fail, damaging the
primary flight controls and the auxiliary power unit fuel lines that
pass through the floor beams, resulting in loss of control of the
airplane. We are also issuing this AD to prevent structural overload of
the cargo barriers, which could cause the barriers to fail, allowing
the cargo to shift, resulting in damage to the auxiliary fuel tanks,
residual fuel leakage, and consequent increased risk of a fire. This AD
requires accomplishing the actions specified in the service information
described previously, except as discussed under ``Differences Between
the AD and the Service Bulletin.''
Differences Between the AD and the Service Bulletin
PATS Aircraft Service Bulletin SA979NE-28-SB-28--IR, dated April 3,
2006, does not specify a compliance time for deactivating the auxiliary
fuel system or implementing the new cargo weight limits. In developing
an appropriate compliance time for those actions in this AD, we
considered the degree of urgency associated with the subject unsafe
condition, the average utilization of the affected fleet, and the time
necessary to perform the deactivation (3 hours) and AFM revision. In
light of all of these factors, we find that a 30-day compliance time
represents an appropriate interval of time for affected airplanes to
continue to operate without compromising safety.
Interim Action
We consider this AD interim action. The STC holder is currently
developing a modification that will address the unsafe conditions
identified in this AD. Once this modification is developed, approved,
and available, we may consider additional rulemaking.
FAA's Determination of the Effective Date
Since unsafe conditions exists that require the immediate adoption
of this AD, we have found that notice and opportunity for public
comment before issuing this AD are impracticable, and that good cause
exists to make this AD effective in less than 30 days.
Comments Invited
This AD is a final rule that involves requirements that affect
flight safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for
public comment; however, we invite you to submit any relevant written
data, views, or arguments regarding this AD. Send your comments to an
address listed in the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2006-
25175; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-099-AD'' at the beginning of your
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the AD that might
suggest a need to modify it.
We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://
dms.dot.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will
also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact with FAA
personnel concerning this AD. Using the search function of that Web
site, anyone can find and read the comments in any of our dockets,
including the name of the individual who sent the comment (or signed
the comment on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.).
You may review the DOT's complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal
Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477-78), or you may visit
https://dms.dot.gov.
Examining the Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov, or in person at the Docket Management Facility office
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal
holidays. The Docket Management Facility office (telephone (800) 647-
5227) is located on the plaza level of the Nassif Building at the DOT
street address stated in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be
available in the AD docket shortly after the Docket Management System
receives them.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
subtitle VII,
[[Page 36673]]
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 unsafe conditions that are likely to
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
We have determined that this AD will not have federalism
implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between
the National government and the States, or on the distribution of power
and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the regulation:
1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order
12866;
2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to
comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket. See the ADDRESSES
section for a location to examine the regulatory evaluation.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
0
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator,
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):
2006-13-17 PATS Inc.: Amendment 39-14670. Docket No. FAA-2006-25175;
Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-099-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective July 13, 2006.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Boeing Model 757-200 series airplanes,
certificated in any category; modified by Supplemental Type
Certificate (STC) SA979NE, having serial numbers identified in PATS
Aircraft Service Bulletin SA979NE-28-SB-28--IR, dated April 3, 2006.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from a re-evaluation of the floor structure
and cargo barriers conducted by the STC holder. We are issuing this
AD to prevent structural overload of the auxiliary fuel tank support
structure, which could cause the floor beams to fail, damaging the
primary flight controls and the auxiliary power unit fuel lines that
pass through the floor beams, resulting in loss of control of the
airplane. We are also issuing this AD to prevent structural overload
of the cargo barriers, which could cause the barriers to fail,
allowing the cargo to shift, resulting in damage to the auxiliary
fuel tanks, residual fuel leakage, and consequent increased risk of
a fire.
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 and Maintenance Requirements of PATS
Aircraft Service Bulletin SA979NE-28-SB-28-IR, dated April 3, 2006.
Deactivation of the Auxiliary Fuel System and Revised Cargo Weight
Limits
(g) Within 30 days after the effective date of this AD: Do the
actions in paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD. Thereafter, do
the actions in paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD at the times
specified in those paragraphs.
(1) Deactivate the auxiliary fuel system by doing all of the
actions specified in Part III and all of the actions for the
applicable airplane configuration specified in Part IV of the
service bulletin.
(2) Revise the Limitations section of the Boeing 757-200
Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) to include revised maximum cargo weight
limits specified in the applicable AFM supplement identified in
Table 1 of this AD. Operate the airplane according to the
limitations in the AFM supplements.
Table 1.--Applicable AFM Supplements for Revised Cargo Weight Limits
------------------------------------------------------------------------
For airplanes having S/Ns-- Use PATS Aircraft AFM supplement--
------------------------------------------------------------------------
29025, 29026, 29027, and 142, dated May 31, 2006.
29028 (STC Configuration F,
which has been upgraded to
Configuration H).
24923 (STC Configuration A).. 143, dated May 31, 2006.
25155 and 25220 (STC 144, dated May 31, 2006.
Configuration C & D).
28463 (STC Configuration E).. 145, dated May 31, 2006.
22690 and 25487 (STC 146, dated May 31, 2006.
Configuration B & G).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Repetitive Venting of the Built-Up Pressure in the Auxiliary Fuel Tanks
(h) After deactivating the auxiliary fuel system as specified in
paragraph (g) of this AD: Following each flight, vent the auxiliary
fuel tanks by doing all of the actions specified in paragraph A. of
Part V of the service bulletin.
Repetitive Draining of the Fuel Tank Sumps for Residual Fuel
(i) At intervals not to exceed 100 flight cycles following
deactivation of the auxiliary fuel system, as specified in paragraph
(g) of this AD: Drain the auxiliary fuel tank sumps to remove any
built-up residual fuel by doing all of the actions specified in
paragraph B. of Part V of the service bulletin.
Special Flight Permits
(j) Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with
sections 21.197 and 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14
CFR 21.197 and 21.199) to operate the airplane to a location where
the airplane can be modified, provided the airplane is operated with
the auxiliary fuel tanks empty.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(k)(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 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.
[[Page 36674]]
Material Incorporated by Reference
(l) You must use PATS Aircraft Service Bulletin SA979NE-28-SB-
28--IR, dated April 3, 2006, and the applicable PATS Aircraft
supplement to the Boeing 757-200 Airplane Flight Manual identified
in Table 2 of this AD, as applicable, to perform the actions that
are required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
Table 2.--Airplane Flight Manual Supplements for Incorporation by
Reference
------------------------------------------------------------------------
PATS Aircraft airplane flight manual
supplement-- Dated--
------------------------------------------------------------------------
142....................................... May 31, 2006.
143....................................... May 31, 2006.
144....................................... May 31, 2006.
145....................................... May 31, 2006.
146....................................... May 31, 2006.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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 PATS Aircraft, LLC, Product Support,
21652 Nanticoke Avenue, Georgetown, DE 19947, for a copy of this
service information. You may review copies at the Docket Management
Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street,
SW., Room PL-401, Nassif Building, Washington, DC; on the Internet
at https://dms.dot.gov; or at the National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this
material at the NARA, call (202) 741-6030, or go to https://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 15, 2006.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 06-5702 Filed 6-27-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
