Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 737-200, -300, -400, and -500 Series Airplanes Equipped With an Auxiliary Fuel System Installed in Accordance With Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SA83NE, SA1078NE, SA725NE, ST00040NY, or ST01337NY, 53562-53565 [E6-14618]

Download as PDF 53562 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 176 / Tuesday, September 12, 2006 / Rules and Regulations (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of Airbus Service Bulletin A300–53–6037, Revision 02, dated October 28, 2004; and Airbus Service Bulletin A300–53–6045, Revision 03, dated October 28, 2004; in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) On August 4, 1997 (62 FR 35072, June 30, 1997), the Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of Airbus Service Bulletin A300–53–6045, dated March 21, 1995, as revised by Change Notice No. O.A., dated June 1, 1995; and Airbus Service Bulletin A300–53–6037, dated March 21, 1995. (3) Contact Airbus, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France, for a copy of this service information. You may review copies at the Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Room PL–401, Nassif Building, Washington, DC; on the Internet at https://dms.dot.gov; or at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at the NARA, call (202) 741–6030, or go to https:// www.archives.gov/federal_register/ code_of_federal_regulations/ ibr_locations.html. Issued in Renton, Washington, on September 1, 2006. Kalene C. Yanamura, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. E6–14942 Filed 9–11–06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2006–25746; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–151–AD; Amendment 39–14750; AD 2006–18–11] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 737–200, –300, –400, and –500 Series Airplanes Equipped With an Auxiliary Fuel System Installed in Accordance With Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SA83NE, SA1078NE, SA725NE, ST00040NY, or ST01337NY Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. jlentini on PROD1PC65 with RULES AGENCY: SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Boeing Model 737–200, –300, –400, and –500 series airplanes equipped with an VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:49 Sep 11, 2006 Jkt 205001 auxiliary fuel system installed in accordance with STC SA83NE, SA1078NE, SA725NE, ST00040NY, or ST01337NY. This AD requires a onetime deactivation of the auxiliary fuel system, repetitive venting of the auxiliary fuel tanks, and revising the Limitations section of the airplane flight manual to limit the maximum cargo weight. This AD results from a reevaluation 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 and resultant damage to the primary flight controls and the auxiliary power unit fuel lines that pass through the floor beams, and consequent 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 possible damage to the auxiliary fuel tanks, residual fuel leakage, and consequent increased risk of a fire. DATES: This AD becomes effective September 27, 2006. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of September 27, 2006. We must receive comments on this AD by November 13, 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, Delaware 19947, for service information identified in this AD. Jon Hjelm, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe and Propulsion Branch, ANE–171, FAA, FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 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 Certificates (STC) SA83NE, SA1078NE, SA725NE, ST00040NY, and ST01337NY) notified us that it has determined that Boeing Model 737–200, –300, –400, and –500 series airplanes equipped with an auxiliary fuel tank system installed by STC SA83NE, SA1078NE, SA725NE, ST00040NY, or ST01337NY, 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 the cargo load weights listed in the existing airplane flight manual (AFM) supplements. 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, resulting in damage to the primary flight controls and the auxiliary power unit (APU) fuel lines that pass through the floor beams, and consequent loss of control of the airplane. Structural overload of the cargo barriers could cause the barriers to fail, allowing the cargo to shift, resulting in possible damage to the auxiliary fuel tanks, residual fuel leakage, and consequent increased risk of a fire. Relevant Service Information We have reviewed the PATS Aircraft service bulletins listed in the table below. These service bulletins describe procedures for deactivating the auxiliary fuel system, which, for certain airplanes, includes installing new cargo loading weight limit and ‘‘INOP’’ placards, depending on the airplane configuration. The service bulletins also describe procedures for venting any residual air pressure from the auxiliary fuel tanks following each flight. For certain airplanes, paragraph I.D. (‘‘Description’’) of the service bulletins describes limiting the maximum cargo weight (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. E:\FR\FM\12SER1.SGM 12SER1 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 176 / Tuesday, September 12, 2006 / Rules and Regulations 53563 TABLE—APPLICABLE SERVICE BULLETINS For model— Having serial number(s) (S/N)— STC— Use PATS aircraft service bulletin— 737–200 series airplanes .......................... 22431 and 22628 ..................................... SA83NE ...... 737–200 series airplanes .......................... 22600 ....................................................... SA1078NE .. 737–200, –300, –400, and –500 series airplanes. 737–500 series airplanes .......................... 23800, 22620, 23124, 23468, 26333, 26307, 27456, 27426, and 27906. 24970 ....................................................... SA725NE .... 737–500 series airplanes .......................... 28866 ....................................................... ST01337NY SA83NE–28–SB–002_IR, dated June 7, 2006. SA1078NE–28–SB–005_A, Revision A, dated June 21, 2006. SA725NE–28–SB–007_B, Revision B, dated July 27, 2006. ST00040NY–28–SB–003_IR, dated June 7, 2006. ST01337NY–28–SB–002_IR, dated June 7, 2006. We have also reviewed the PATS Aircraft AFM supplements to the Limitations section of the applicable ST00040NY Boeing AFMs, which are listed in the following table. These AFM supplements provide revised maximum cargo weight limits. TABLE—AFM SUPPLEMENTS FOR REVISED MAXIMUM CARGO WEIGHT LIMITS For model— Having S/N(s)— STC— STC configuration(s)— Use PATS aircraft AFM Supplement— 737–200 series airplanes ............ 737–200 series airplanes ............ 23124 .......................................... 22620 and 23468 ........................ SA725NE .... SA725NE .... 2 ................................ 3 and 8 ...................... 737–200 series airplanes ............ 737–200 series airplanes ............ 737–300 series airplanes ............ 737–300 series airplanes ............ 737–400 and –500 series airplanes. 737–500 series airplanes ............ 22600 .......................................... 22431 and 22628 ........................ 27456, 26307, and 26333 .......... 23800 .......................................... 27906 and 27426 ........................ SA1078NE .. SA83NE ...... SA725NE .... SA725NE .... SA725NE .... 3 2 1 7 4 148, dated May 31, 2006. 149, Revision A, dated August 11, 2006. 152, dated May 31, 2006. 155, dated May 31, 2006. 147, dated May 31, 2006. 151, dated May 31, 2006. 150, dated May 31, 2006. 28866 .......................................... ST01337NY Aft 3-tank ................... 737–500 series airplanes ............ 24970 .......................................... ST00040NY 7 ................................ FAA’s Determination and Requirements of This AD jlentini on PROD1PC65 with RULES The unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other airplanes of the same type design. For this reason, we are issuing this AD to prevent structural overload of the auxiliary fuel tank support structure, which could cause the floor beams to fail and resultant damage to the primary flight controls and the APU fuel lines that pass through the floor beams, and consequent 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 possible 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 ‘‘Difference Between the AD and the Service Bulletins.’’ Difference Between the AD and the Service Bulletins The PATS Aircraft service bulletins do not specify a compliance time for VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:49 Sep 11, 2006 Jkt 205001 Tank forward .......... ................................ and 6 ...................... ................................ and 5 ...................... 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 work hours) and AFM revision. In light of all of these factors, we find that a 30day 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. If final action is later identified, we may consider further rulemaking then. FAA’s Determination of the Effective Date Since an unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of this AD, we have found that notice and opportunity for public comment before issuing this AD are impracticable, and that good cause exists to make this AD effective in less than 30 days. PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 153, Revision A, dated August 3, 2006. 154, dated May 31, 2006. 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–2006–25746; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–151–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 E:\FR\FM\12SER1.SGM 12SER1 53564 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 176 / Tuesday, September 12, 2006 / Rules and Regulations 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, part A, subpart III, section 44701, ‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings We have determined that this AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the regulation: 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and 3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket. See the ADDRESSES section for a location to examine the regulatory evaluation. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: I PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: I Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): I 2006–18–11 Boeing: Amendment 39–14750. Docket No. FAA–2006–25746; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–151–AD. Effective Date (a) This AD becomes effective September 27, 2006. Affected ADs (b) None. Applicability (c) This AD applies to Boeing Model 737– 200, –300, –400, and –500 series airplanes, certificated in any category; equipped with an auxiliary fuel system installed in accordance with Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SA83NE, SA1078NE, SA725NE, ST00040NY, or ST01337NY; having serial numbers (S/N) listed in Table 1 of this AD. TABLE 1.—APPLICABILITY As identified in PATS aircraft service bulletin— For model— Having S/N(s)— 737–200 series airplanes ................................... 737–200 series airplanes ................................... 22431 and 22628 ............................................. 22600 ............................................................... 737–200, –300, –400, and –500 seriesairplanes 737–500 series airplanes ................................... 23800, 22620, 23124, 23468, 26333, 26307, 27456, 27426, and 27906. 24970 ............................................................... 737–500 series airplanes ................................... 28866 ............................................................... jlentini on PROD1PC65 with RULES 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 and resultant damage to the primary flight controls and the auxiliary power unit fuel lines that pass through the floor beams, and consequent 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 possible damage to the VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:49 Sep 11, 2006 Jkt 205001 SA83NE–28–SB–002–IR, dated June 7, 2006. SA1078NE–28–SB–005–A, Revision A, dated June 21, 2006. SA725NE–28–SB–007–B, Revision B, dated July 27, 2006. ST00040NY–28–SB–003–IR, dated June 7, 2006. ST01337NY–28–SB–002–IR, dated June 7, 2006. auxiliary fuel tanks, residual fuel leakage, and consequent increased risk of a fire. Deactivate the Auxiliary Fuel System/Revise the Maximum Cargo Weight Limits 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. (g) Within 30 days after the effective date of this AD: Do the actions in paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD. (1) Deactivate the auxiliary fuel system by doing all of the actions specified in Part IV of the applicable service bulletin. (2) Revise the Limitations section of the applicable Boeing airplane flight manual (AFM) to include revised maximum cargo weight limits specified in the applicable PATS Aircraft AFM supplement identified in Table 2 of this AD. Operate the airplane Service Bulletin References (f) The term ‘‘service bulletin,’’ as used in this AD, means the Part IV ‘‘Accomplishment Instructions,’’ and Part V ‘‘Maintenance Requirements,’’ of the applicable PATS Aircraft service bulletin identified in Table 1 of this AD. PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\12SER1.SGM 12SER1 53565 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 176 / Tuesday, September 12, 2006 / Rules and Regulations according to the limitations in the applicable AFM supplement. TABLE 2.—AFM SUPPLEMENTS FOR REVISED MAXIMUM CARGO WEIGHT LIMITS For model— Having S/N(s)— STC— STC configuration(s)— Use PATS aircraft AFM supplement— 737–200 series airplanes ............ 737–200 series airplanes ............ 23124 .......................................... 22620 and 23468 ........................ SA725NE .... SA725NE .... 2 ................................ 3 and 8 ...................... 737–200 series airplanes ............ 737–200 series airplanes ............ 737–300 series airplanes ............ 737–300 series airplanes ............ 737–400 and –500 series airplanes. 737–500 series airplanes ............ 22600 .......................................... 22431 and 22628 ........................ 27456, 26307, and 26333 .......... 23800 .......................................... 27906 and 27426 ........................ SA1078NE .. SA83NE ...... SA725NE .... SA725NE .... SA725NE .... 3 2 1 7 4 148, dated May 31, 2006. 149, Revision A, dated August 11, 2006. 152, dated May 31, 2006. 155, dated May 31, 2006. 147, dated May 31, 2006. 151, dated May 31, 2006. 150, dated May 31, 2006. 28866 .......................................... ST01337NY Aft 3-tank ................... 737–500 series airplanes ............ 24970 .......................................... ST00040NY 7 ................................ 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 applicable service bulletin. Special Flight Permits (i) 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 Tank forward .......... ................................ and 6 ...................... ................................ and 5 ...................... 153, Revision A, dated August 3, 2006. 154, dated May 31, 2006. a location where the airplane can be modified, provided the airplane is operated with the auxiliary fuel tanks empty of useable fuel. which the AMOC applies, notify the appropriate principal inspector in the FAA Flight Standards Certificate Holding District Office. Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) Material Incorporated by Reference (j)(1) The Manager, New York Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested in accordance with the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. (2) Before using any AMOC approved in accordance with § 39.19 on any airplane to (k) You must use the PATS Aircraft service bulletins specified in Table 3 of this AD and the PATS Aircraft airplane flight manual supplements specified in Table 4 of this AD, as applicable, to perform the actions that are required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. TABLE 3.—SERVICE BULLETINS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE PATS aircraft service bulletin— Revision level— SA1078NE–28–SB–005–A ................................................................................................................................ SA725NE–28–SB–007–B .................................................................................................................................. SA83NE–28–SB–002–IR ................................................................................................................................... ST00040NY–28–SB–003–IR ............................................................................................................................. ST01337NY–28–SB–002–IR ............................................................................................................................. A ....................... B ....................... Original ............. Original ............. Original ............. Dated— June 21, 2006. July 27, 2006. June 7, 2006. June 7, 2006. June 7, 2006. TABLE 4.—AIRPLANE FLIGHT SUPPLEMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE PATS aircraft airplane flight manual supplement— jlentini on PROD1PC65 with RULES 147 148 149 150 151 152 153 154 155 .................................................................... .................................................................... .................................................................... .................................................................... .................................................................... .................................................................... .................................................................... .................................................................... .................................................................... 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, Delaware 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, VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:49 Sep 11, 2006 Jkt 205001 Revision level— Dated— To the— Original ....................... Original ....................... A ................................. Original ....................... Original ....................... Original ....................... A ................................. Original ....................... Original ....................... May 31, 2006 ............. May 31, 2006 ............. August 11, 2006 ......... May 31, 2006 ............. May 31, 2006 ............. May 31, 2006 ............. August 3, 2006 ........... May 31, 2006 ............. May 31, 2006 ............. Boeing Boeing Boeing Boeing Boeing Boeing Boeing Boeing Boeing 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. PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 737–300 Airplane Flight Manual. 737–200 Airplane Flight Manual. 737–200 Airplane Flight Manual. 737–400/500 Airplane Flight Manual. 737–300 Airplane Flight Manual. 737–200 Airplane Flight Manual. 737–500 Airplane Flight Manual. 737–500 Airplane Flight Manual. 737–200 Airplane Flight Manual. Issued in Renton, Washington, on August 23, 2006. Kalene C. Yanamura, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. E6–14618 Filed 9–11–06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P E:\FR\FM\12SER1.SGM 12SER1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 176 (Tuesday, September 12, 2006)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 53562-53565]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E6-14618]

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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2006-25746; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-151-AD;
Amendment 39-14750; AD 2006-18-11]
RIN 2120-AA64

Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 737-200, -300, -400, and -
500 Series Airplanes Equipped With an Auxiliary Fuel System Installed
in Accordance With Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SA83NE,
SA1078NE, SA725NE, ST00040NY, or ST01337NY

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 737-200, -300, -400, and -500 series airplanes
equipped with an auxiliary fuel system installed in accordance with STC
SA83NE, SA1078NE, SA725NE, ST00040NY, or ST01337NY. This AD requires a
one-time deactivation of the auxiliary fuel system, repetitive venting
of the auxiliary fuel tanks, 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 and resultant damage to the primary
flight controls and the auxiliary power unit fuel lines that pass
through the floor beams, and consequent 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 possible damage to the auxiliary fuel
tanks, residual fuel leakage, and consequent increased risk of a fire.

DATES: This AD becomes effective September 27, 2006.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of September 27,
2006.
We must receive comments on this AD by November 13, 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, Delaware 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 Certificates (STC)
SA83NE, SA1078NE, SA725NE, ST00040NY, and ST01337NY) notified us that
it has determined that Boeing Model 737-200, -300, -400, and -500
series airplanes equipped with an auxiliary fuel tank system installed
by STC SA83NE, SA1078NE, SA725NE, ST00040NY, or ST01337NY, 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 the cargo load weights listed in the existing airplane
flight manual (AFM) supplements. 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, resulting in damage to the primary flight controls
and the auxiliary power unit (APU) fuel lines that pass through the
floor beams, and consequent loss of control of the airplane. Structural
overload of the cargo barriers could cause the barriers to fail,
allowing the cargo to shift, resulting in possible damage to the
auxiliary fuel tanks, residual fuel leakage, and consequent increased
risk of a fire.

Relevant Service Information

We have reviewed the PATS Aircraft service bulletins listed in the
table below. These service bulletins describe procedures for
deactivating the auxiliary fuel system, which, for certain airplanes,
includes installing new cargo loading weight limit and ``INOP''
placards, depending on the airplane configuration. The service
bulletins also describe procedures for venting any residual air
pressure from the auxiliary fuel tanks following each flight. For
certain airplanes, paragraph I.D. (``Description'') of the service
bulletins describes limiting the maximum cargo weight (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.

[[Page 53563]]

Table--Applicable Service Bulletins
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Having serial number(s) Use PATS aircraft
For model-- (S/N)-- STC-- service bulletin--
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
737-200 series airplanes............ 22431 and 22628........ SA83NE.................. SA83NE-28-SB-002--IR,
dated June 7, 2006.
737-200 series airplanes............ 22600.................. SA1078NE................ SA1078NE-28-SB-005--A,
Revision A, dated June
21, 2006.
737-200, -300, -400, and -500 series 23800, 22620, 23124, SA725NE................. SA725NE-28-SB-007--B,
airplanes. 23468, 26333, 26307, Revision B, dated July
27456, 27426, and 27, 2006.
27906.
737-500 series airplanes............ 24970.................. ST00040NY............... ST00040NY-28-SB-003--IR
, dated June 7, 2006.
737-500 series airplanes............ 28866.................. ST01337NY............... ST01337NY-28-SB-002--IR
, dated June 7, 2006.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We have also reviewed the PATS Aircraft AFM supplements to the
Limitations section of the applicable Boeing AFMs, which are listed in
the following table. These AFM supplements provide revised maximum
cargo weight limits.

Table--AFM Supplements for Revised Maximum Cargo Weight Limits
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Use PATS
For model-- Having S/N(s)-- STC-- STC configuration(s)-- aircraft AFM
Supplement--
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
737-200 series airplanes..... 23124........... SA725NE.......... 2.......................... 148, dated May
31, 2006.
737-200 series airplanes..... 22620 and 23468. SA725NE.......... 3 and 8.................... 149, Revision
A, dated
August 11,
2006.
737-200 series airplanes..... 22600........... SA1078NE......... 3 Tank forward............. 152, dated May
31, 2006.
737-200 series airplanes..... 22431 and 22628. SA83NE........... 2.......................... 155, dated May
31, 2006.
737-300 series airplanes..... 27456, 26307, SA725NE.......... 1 and 6.................... 147, dated May
and 26333. 31, 2006.
737-300 series airplanes..... 23800........... SA725NE.......... 7.......................... 151, dated May
31, 2006.
737-400 and -500 series 27906 and 27426. SA725NE.......... 4 and 5.................... 150, dated May
airplanes. 31, 2006.
737-500 series airplanes..... 28866........... ST01337NY........ Aft 3-tank................. 153, Revision
A, dated
August 3,
2006.
737-500 series airplanes..... 24970........... ST00040NY........ 7.......................... 154, dated May
31, 2006.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This AD

The unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or
develop on other airplanes of the same type design. For this reason, we
are issuing this AD to prevent structural overload of the auxiliary
fuel tank support structure, which could cause the floor beams to fail
and resultant damage to the primary flight controls and the APU fuel
lines that pass through the floor beams, and consequent 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 possible 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
``Difference Between the AD and the Service Bulletins.''

Difference Between the AD and the Service Bulletins

The PATS Aircraft service bulletins do 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 work 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. If final action is later
identified, we may consider further rulemaking then.

FAA's Determination of the Effective Date

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

Comments Invited

This AD is a final rule that involves requirements that affect
flight safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for
public comment; however, we invite you to submit any relevant written
data, views, or arguments regarding this AD. Send your comments to an
address listed in the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2006-
25746; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-151-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

[[Page 53564]]

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, part A, subpart III, section 44701, ``General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

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

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

Adoption of the Amendment

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

2006-18-11 Boeing: Amendment 39-14750. Docket No. FAA-2006-25746;
Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-151-AD.

Effective Date

(a) This AD becomes effective September 27, 2006.

Affected ADs

(b) None.

Applicability

(c) This AD applies to Boeing Model 737-200, -300, -400, and -
500 series airplanes, certificated in any category; equipped with an
auxiliary fuel system installed in accordance with Supplemental Type
Certificate (STC) SA83NE, SA1078NE, SA725NE, ST00040NY, or
ST01337NY; having serial numbers (S/N) listed in Table 1 of this AD.

Table 1.--Applicability
------------------------------------------------------------------------
As identified in
For model-- Having S/N(s)-- PATS aircraft
service bulletin--
------------------------------------------------------------------------
737-200 series airplanes.... 22431 and 22628..... SA83NE-28-SB-002-IR,
dated June 7, 2006.
737-200 series airplanes.... 22600............... SA1078NE-28-SB-005-A
, Revision A, dated
June 21, 2006.
737-200, -300, -400, and - 23800, 22620, 23124, SA725NE-28-SB-007-B,
500 seriesairplanes. 23468, 26333, Revision B, dated
26307, 27456, July 27, 2006.
27426, and 27906.
737-500 series airplanes.... 24970............... ST00040NY-28-SB-003-
IR, dated June 7,
2006.
737-500 series airplanes.... 28866............... ST01337NY-28-SB-002-
IR, dated June 7,
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 and resultant
damage to the primary flight controls and the auxiliary power unit
fuel lines that pass through the floor beams, and consequent 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 possible
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
Part IV ``Accomplishment Instructions,'' and Part V ``Maintenance
Requirements,'' of the applicable PATS Aircraft service bulletin
identified in Table 1 of this AD.

Deactivate the Auxiliary Fuel System/Revise the Maximum 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.
(1) Deactivate the auxiliary fuel system by doing all of the
actions specified in Part IV of the applicable service bulletin.
(2) Revise the Limitations section of the applicable Boeing
airplane flight manual (AFM) to include revised maximum cargo weight
limits specified in the applicable PATS Aircraft AFM supplement
identified in Table 2 of this AD. Operate the airplane

[[Page 53565]]

according to the limitations in the applicable AFM supplement.

Table 2.--AFM Supplements for Revised Maximum Cargo Weight Limits
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Use PATS
For model-- Having S/N(s)-- STC-- STC configuration(s)-- aircraft AFM
supplement--
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
737-200 series airplanes..... 23124........... SA725NE.......... 2.......................... 148, dated May
31, 2006.
737-200 series airplanes..... 22620 and 23468. SA725NE.......... 3 and 8.................... 149, Revision
A, dated
August 11,
2006.
737-200 series airplanes..... 22600........... SA1078NE......... 3 Tank forward............. 152, dated May
31, 2006.
737-200 series airplanes..... 22431 and 22628. SA83NE........... 2.......................... 155, dated May
31, 2006.
737-300 series airplanes..... 27456, 26307, SA725NE.......... 1 and 6.................... 147, dated May
and 26333. 31, 2006.
737-300 series airplanes..... 23800........... SA725NE.......... 7.......................... 151, dated May
31, 2006.
737-400 and -500 series 27906 and 27426. SA725NE.......... 4 and 5.................... 150, dated May
airplanes. 31, 2006.
737-500 series airplanes..... 28866........... ST01337NY........ Aft 3-tank................. 153, Revision
A, dated
August 3,
2006.
737-500 series airplanes..... 24970........... ST00040NY........ 7.......................... 154, dated May
31, 2006.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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 applicable service bulletin.

Special Flight Permits

(i) 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 of useable fuel.

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

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

Material Incorporated by Reference

(k) You must use the PATS Aircraft service bulletins specified
in Table 3 of this AD and the PATS Aircraft airplane flight manual
supplements specified in Table 4 of this AD, as applicable, to
perform the actions that are required by this AD, unless the AD
specifies otherwise.

Table 3.--Service Bulletins Incorporated by Reference
------------------------------------------------------------------------
PATS aircraft service
bulletin-- Revision level-- Dated--
------------------------------------------------------------------------
SA1078NE-28-SB-005-A........ A................... June 21, 2006.
SA725NE-28-SB-007-B......... B................... July 27, 2006.
SA83NE-28-SB-002-IR......... Original............ June 7, 2006.
ST00040NY-28-SB-003-IR...... Original............ June 7, 2006.
ST01337NY-28-SB-002-IR...... Original............ June 7, 2006.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Table 4.--Airplane Flight Supplements Incorporated by Reference
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PATS aircraft airplane flight manual
supplement-- Revision level-- Dated-- To the--
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
147.................................. Original................ May 31, 2006........... Boeing 737-300 Airplane Flight Manual.
148.................................. Original................ May 31, 2006........... Boeing 737-200 Airplane Flight Manual.
149.................................. A....................... August 11, 2006........ Boeing 737-200 Airplane Flight Manual.
150.................................. Original................ May 31, 2006........... Boeing 737-400/500 Airplane Flight Manual.
151.................................. Original................ May 31, 2006........... Boeing 737-300 Airplane Flight Manual.
152.................................. Original................ May 31, 2006........... Boeing 737-200 Airplane Flight Manual.
153.................................. A....................... August 3, 2006......... Boeing 737-500 Airplane Flight Manual.
154.................................. Original................ May 31, 2006........... Boeing 737-500 Airplane Flight Manual.
155.................................. Original................ May 31, 2006........... Boeing 737-200 Airplane Flight Manual.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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, Delaware 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 August 23, 2006.
Kalene C. Yanamura,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. E6-14618 Filed 9-11-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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