Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 737 Airplanes, 59368-59372 [E6-16553]
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found on main spar flange in areas other than
fuel tank bay. Per paragraph (g)(2) of this AD,
any corrective action in this aspect or any
other aspect per this AD must be FAAapproved before returning the airplane to
service.
Other FAA AD Provisions
(g) The following provisions also apply to
this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): The Manager, Standards Staff,
FAA, ATTN: Doug Rudolph, Aerospace
Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate,
901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri
64106; telephone: (816) 329–4059; fax: (816)
329–4090, has the authority to approve
AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
(2) Return to Airworthiness: When
complying with this AD, perform FAAapproved corrective actions before returning
the product to an airworthy condition.
(3) Reporting Requirements: For any
reporting requirement in this AD, under the
provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act,
the Office of Management and Budget (OMB)
has approved the information collection
requirements and has assigned OMB Control
Number 2120–0056.
Related Information
(h) This AD is related to Japan Civil
Aviation Bureau AD TCD–6832–2006, Date of
Issue: April 10, 2006, which references Fuji
Heavy Industries Ltd. SB No. 200–015, dated
February 28, 2006.
Material Incorporated by Reference
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(i) You must use Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.
SB No. 200–015, dated February 28, 2006, to
do the actions required by this AD, unless the
AD specifies otherwise.
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
this service information under 5 U.S.C.
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Fuji Heavy Industries, Ltd.,
AEROSPACE COMPANY, 1–11 YOUNAN 1
CHOME UTSUNOMIYA TOCHIGI, JAPAN
320–8564; telephone: +81–28–684–7253;
facsimile: +81–28–684–7260.
(3) You may review copies at the FAA,
Central Region, Office of the Regional
Counsel, 901 Locust, Room 506, Kansas City,
Missouri 64106; or at the National Archives
and Records Administration (NARA). For
information on the availability of this
material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go
to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/
cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on
September 27, 2006.
David R. Showers,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E6–16354 Filed 10–6–06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2006–23815; Directorate
Identifier 2005–NM–222–AD; Amendment
39–14784; AD 2006–21–01]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing
Model 737 Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Boeing Model 737 airplanes. This AD
requires repetitive measurement of the
freeplay of both aileron balance tabs;
repetitive lubrication of the aileron
balance tab hinge bearings and rod end
bearings; and related investigative and
corrective actions if necessary. This AD
results from reports of freeplay-induced
vibration of the aileron balance tab. The
potential for vibration of the control
surface should be avoided because the
point of transition from vibration to
divergent flutter is unknown. We are
issuing this AD to prevent excessive
vibration of the airframe during flight,
which could result in loss of control of
the airplane.
DATES: This AD becomes effective
November 14, 2006. The Director of the
Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of certain
publications listed in the AD as of
November 14, 2006.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD
docket on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov or in person at the Docket
Management Facility, U.S. Department
of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street
SW., Nassif Building, Room PL–401,
Washington, DC.
Contact Boeing Commercial
Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle,
Washington 98124–2207, for service
information identified in this AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Dennis Stremick, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA,
Seattle Aircraft Certification Office,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98057–3356; telephone
(425) 917–6450; fax (425) 917–6590.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Examining the Docket
You may examine the airworthiness
directive (AD) docket on the Internet at
https://dms.dot.gov or in person at the
Docket Management Facility office
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between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The Docket Management Facility office
(telephone (800) 647–5227) is located on
the plaza level of the Nassif Building at
the street address stated in the
ADDRESSES section.
Discussion
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to include an AD that would
apply to all Boeing Model 737 airplanes.
That NPRM was published in the
Federal Register on February 8, 2006
(71 FR 6417). That NPRM proposed to
require repetitive measurement of the
freeplay of both aileron balance tabs;
repetitive lubrication of the aileron
balance tab hinge bearings and rod end
bearings; and related investigative and
corrective actions if necessary.
Comments
We provided the public the
opportunity to participate in the
development of this AD. We have
considered the comments received.
Request To Revise Initial Compliance
Times
Boeing, the airplane manufacturer,
requests that the initial compliance
times for the freeplay measurement and
the lubrication be revised. Specifically,
Boeing asks that airplanes completed
after release of the AD be allowed a
compliance threshold of 24 months for
the freeplay measurement. The
commenter explains that the initial
compliance time of 18 months for the
measurement resulted partially from a
need for a more timely inspection to
address airplanes currently in service
that may not have been maintained
frequently enough and that
consequently may have excessive
freeplay. For this reason, the initial
compliance time is shorter than the
repetitive intervals. But the commenter
notes that when airplanes leave its
production line, excessive freeplay is
not yet an issue. So, for the actions in
paragraph (g) of the NPRM, the
commenter suggests that airplanes
delivered more recently or in the future
should be given a compliance time of 24
months after the date of issuance of the
original standard airworthiness
certificate or original export certificate
of airworthiness, or 18 months after the
effective date of the AD, whichever is
later.
The commenter also states that the
initial compliance time for the
lubrication for all airplanes should be
equal to the lowest of the repetitive
intervals (9 months) specified in the
NPRM because airplanes may be
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delivered with either type of grease. The
commenter suggests that the compliance
time for paragraph (i) of the NPRM be
revised to 9 months after the date of
issuance of the original standard
airworthiness certificate or original
export certificate of airworthiness, or 9
months after the effective date of this
AD, whichever is later.
The commenter notes that it is
planning to incorporate these changes in
an upcoming revision to Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 737–27–
1273, dated September 29, 2005. (The
NPRM refers to that service bulletin as
the appropriate source of service
information for Boeing 737–600, –700,
–700C, –800, and –900 series airplanes.
The parallel service bulletin for Boeing
Model 737–100, –200, –300, –400, and
–500 series airplanes is Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 737–27–
1272, dated September 29, 2005.)
We agree with Boeing to revise the
initial compliance times, for the reasons
that Boeing states in its comment. We
have determined that extending the
initial compliance times for certain
airplanes will not adversely affect
safety. We have revised the compliance
times in paragraphs (g) and (i) of this
AD accordingly.
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Request To Revise Applicability of
Repetitive Intervals
Boeing requests that the wording of
the applicability for the repetitive
intervals specified in paragraphs (i)(2)
and (i)(3) of the NPRM be revised. The
commenter states that the intent of the
wording in Boeing Special Attention
Service Bulletin 737–27–1273 was for
the longer repetitive interval to be
allowed only if BMS 3–33 grease is
already in use at the time the lubrication
task is being accomplished. Boeing
recommends that paragraph (i)(2) of the
NPRM be revised to read ‘‘* * * BMS
3–33 grease is not already being used
* * *’’ and paragraph (i)(3) of the
NPRM be revised to read ‘‘* * * BMS
3–33 grease is already being used
* * *.’’ This will prevent an operator
taking credit for planned future use of
BMS 3–33 grease.
We agree with the commenter. For
clarity, we have revised paragraphs
(i)(2) and (i)(3) of this AD.
Request To Revise Compliance Times
and Repetitive Intervals
Several commenters—AirTran
Airways (AirTran), British Airways
(BA), and the Air Transport Association
(ATA) on behalf of its member
American Airlines (AA), and Ryanair—
request that we revise the initial
compliance times and repetitive
intervals specified in the NPRM.
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AirTran and BA specifically request
that we revise the compliance times to
more closely match the flight-hour
limits determined by Maintenance
Steering Group 3 (MSG3). AirTran notes
that the MSG3 flight-hour limits are
based on average utilization of the fleet.
AirTran states that, for an airplane with
an average utilization of 8 hours/day,
the calendar time element of the
compliance times proposed in the
NPRM is potentially 27 percent less
than the limits determined by MSG3.
BA notes that the repetitive interval for
the freeplay measurement in the similar
task in the maintenance planning
document (MPD) is 8,000 flight hours,
and the repetitive interval for the
lubrication in the similar MPD tasks is
4,000 flight hours, without calendartime limits. These intervals were
established during the MSG3 analysis,
and BA questions our rationale for
introducing a 24-month limit for the
measurements and a 12-month limit for
the lubrications. Based on its data, BA
states that it agrees with the need for the
freeplay measurement, but not with the
24-month calendar limit. BA states that
the MPD intervals are adequate to
control the wear rate of the aileron tab
hinges and control rods.
Also, the ATA, on behalf of AA,
observes that the proposed repetitive
interval for lubrications is more frequent
than AA’s existing schedule of 5,000
flight hours. AA contends that the
5,000-flight-hour interval is sufficient,
given that it has not measured freeplay
of the aileron tab outside the required
limits. (AA also states that, for
scheduling convenience, it
accomplishes the repetitive
measurement for freeplay at a 5,000flight-hour interval.)
Ryanair asks that, if we do not agree
to remove 737NG airplanes from the
applicability (see ‘‘Request to Remove
737NG Airplanes from Applicability,’’
below), we consider relaxing the initial
compliance time and repetitive
intervals. Ryanair states that the initial
compliance time and repetitive intervals
seem too short, particularly for a
problem that has never been reported on
this airplane type and for newer
airplanes.
We do not agree with the commenters’
requests to revise the compliance times
and repetitive intervals. With regard to
the requests to more closely match the
intervals established by MSG3, we have
determined that the limits currently
specified in the MPD may not be
adequate to ensure that the aileron
balance tabs are properly maintained on
airplanes currently in service. Also, the
maintenance program documents to
which BA refers can change without the
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59369
knowledge or consent of The Manager,
Seattle Aircraft Certification Office
(ACO), FAA, and compliance times
must be based on defined intervals to
ensure that the required action in an AD
will be done within an appropriate
timeframe for safe operation of the
airplane.
In developing appropriate compliance
times for the actions in this AD, we
considered the urgency associated with
the subject unsafe condition, the
manufacturer’s recommendation, and
the practical aspect of accomplishing
the required measurements and
lubrications within a period of time that
corresponds to the normal scheduled
maintenance for most affected operators.
Also, while we have taken into account
the average utilization rate of the
affected airplanes, it would be nearly
impossible to customize the AD to take
into consideration each operator’s
utilization rate. In consideration of these
items, as well as the reports of freeplayinduced vibration of the aileron balance
tab, we have determined that the
repetitive intervals as proposed are
appropriate.
With regard to Ryanair’s statement
that the initial compliance times are too
low for newer airplanes, we note that,
as explained previously under ‘‘Request
to Revise Initial Compliance Times,’’ we
have revised paragraphs (g) and (i) of
this AD to extend the compliance times
for airplanes delivered more recently.
We have made no further changes to
this AD.
Request To Refer to Alternative Source
of Service Information
BA requests that we revise the NPRM
to refer to a certain MPD task, Task 27–
022–01, or its associated task card, 27–
022–01–01, as an acceptable source of
service information for the repetitive
measurements of freeplay of the aileron
control balance tabs. The commenter
states that the measurement in the MPD
task and its associated task card is the
same as that specified in Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 737–27–
1272, for Boeing 737–100, –200, –200C,
–300, –400, and –500 series airplanes.
We do not agree to allow the MPD
tasks as an acceptable source of service
information for accomplishing the
freeplay measurement. We find that
neither appropriate procedures nor
applicable limits are specified in the
MPD tasks that describe checking the
ailerons for freeplay. Thus, the MPD
tasks are not adequate to ensure that the
aileron balance tab would be
maintained to an acceptable level of
safety. Further, an MPD task may be
revised in the future without
authorization by the Manager, Seattle
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ACO. Such a revision could result in
differences between the MPD task and
the requirements of this AD. Operators
may request approval of an alternative
method of compliance (AMOC) in
accordance with paragraph (k) of this
AD if data are presented to substantiate
that the actions provide an acceptable
level of safety.
Request for Credit for Actions
Accomplished Previously
Similarly, several commenters—BA,
AirTran, and the ATA on behalf of its
members Delta Airlines (DAL) and
AA—request that we revise the NPRM
to give credit for actions accomplished
before the effective date of the AD in
accordance with the MPD or the
airplane maintenance manual (AMM).
Specific requests are as follows:
• BA asks that the most recent
accomplishment of MPD Task 27–022–
01 be considered as acceptable for the
initial measurement that would be
required by paragraph (g) of the NPRM.
BA also asks that the most recent
accomplishment of MPD Task 27–018–
01 be considered as acceptable for
compliance with the initial lubrication
that would be required by paragraph (i)
of the NRPM.
• AirTran asks that we revise the
NPRM to give credit for doing the initial
freeplay measurement in accordance
with 737 Next Generation (737NG,
defined as Boeing Model 737–600, –700,
–700C, –800, and –900 series airplanes)
MPD Task 27–033–00, and doing the
initial lubrication in accordance with
737NG MPD Tasks 27–026–01 and 27–
026–02. AirTran states that these tasks
are the same as the procedures for the
measurement and lubrication specified
in Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 737–27–1273.
• DAL asks that we revise the NPRM
to give credit specifically for
lubrications of the aileron balance tab
accomplished previously in accordance
with MPD Tasks 27–026–01 and 27–
026–02 and the AMM. The commenter
notes that Boeing has advised that the
existing lubrication procedures
specified in the AMM are acceptable,
and Boeing would support allowing
operators credit for previous
lubrications. (The commenter also notes
that Boeing does not consider the
freeplay inspection procedures in the
AMM to be adequate for compliance
with Service Bulletin 737–27–1273.)
We do not agree to give credit for
measurements and lubrications
accomplished in accordance with the
MPD tasks referenced by the
commenters. As we explained
previously, an MPD task may have been
revised without the authorization of the
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Manager, Seattle ACO, potentially
resulting in differences between the
MPD task and the requirements of this
AD. However, operators may request
approval of an AMOC in accordance
with paragraph (k) of this AD if data are
presented to substantiate that the
actions provide an acceptable level of
safety.
We partially agree with the request to
give credit for actions accomplished in
accordance with the AMM. The service
bulletins refer to specific chapters of the
AMM as a source of an acceptable
procedure for lubricating the aileron
balance tab components. Lubrications
accomplished according to the chapters
of the AMM specified in the relevant
service bulletin are acceptable for
compliance with the corresponding
requirements of paragraph (i) of this AD.
We find that no change to the AD is
needed to give credit for these actions.
Credit for actions accomplished
previously is always provided through
this statement included in paragraph (e)
of this AD: ‘‘You are responsible for
having the actions required by this AD
performed within the compliance times
specified, unless the actions have
already been done.’’ We have not
changed the AD in this regard.
Request To Remove 737NG Airplanes
From Applicability
Ryanair requests that we review the
applicability of the NPRM for 737NG
airplanes. The commenter believes that
the NPRM is too severe for 737NG
airplanes. The commenter is not aware
of any reports of freeplay-induced
vibrations on 737NG airplanes.
We infer that the commenter is asking
us to remove Model 737NG airplanes
from the applicability of this AD. We do
not agree. The aileron balance tab
design is the same on both Model 737
‘‘Classic’’ airplanes (defined as Boeing
Model 737–100, –200, –200C, –300,
–400, and –500 airplanes) and Model
737NG airplanes. Therefore, all of these
airplanes are subject to the same unsafe
condition. We have not changed the AD
in this regard.
Request To Withdraw NPRM
AA, in its comment submitted
through ATA, states that, ‘‘The
proposed rule simply restates the
existing 737NG continuous maintenance
program.’’ The commenter also notes
that it is accomplishing the repetitive
measurement of freeplay and lubrication
at intervals of 5,000 flight hours, and
has not found any freeplay outside
acceptable limits. BA also notes that it
has had no reports of freeplay-induced
vibration of the aileron tabs and believes
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that current MPD tasks are adequate to
prevent the unsafe condition.
We infer that AA and BA are asking
us to withdraw the NPRM. We do not
agree. We have determined that existing
maintenance actions similar to those
required by this AD are not sufficient to
prevent freeplay-induced vibration of
the aileron balance tab. Also, the current
repetitive intervals for these similar
actions are not adequate. Evidence of
this inadequacy is the reports of
freeplay-induced vibration in service.
We note that the intervals AA uses are
shorter than those recommended in the
manufacturer’s maintenance documents,
which may help to account for the fact
that AA has had no reports of freeplay
that is outside acceptable limits. We
have not changed the AD in this regard.
Request To Revise Service Documents
Related to Service Bulletins
The ATA, on behalf of DAL, asks the
FAA to encourage Boeing to address
conflicts between procedures before
issuing service bulletins that conflict
with procedures in the AMM and MPD.
DAL notes that the relevant service
bulletins do not advise whether the
AMM and MPD are affected by the
changes in those service bulletins. DAL
believes that relevant sections of the
AMM and MPD should be revised
before the NPRM is issued. The
commenter notes that, in this case, if
Boeing had revised the AMM and MPD
when it issued Boeing Special Attention
Service Bulletins 737–27–1272 and
737–27–1273, operators might be in a
position to get credit for freeplay
measurements and lubrications
accomplished in accordance with the
AMM.
We acknowledge the comment. We
agree that it would be beneficial for
Boeing to revise its AMM and MPD to
reflect the requirements in the service
bulletins. While we have encouraged
them to do so, we do not have the
authority to require Boeing to do so. We
have not changed the AD in this regard.
Request To Acknowledge Errors in
Service Bulletins
DAL notes a discrepancy in the Work
Instructions of Part 2 in Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletins 737–27–
1272 and 737–27–1273. The commenter
points out that a note in Step 1 in Part
2 of the Work Instructions of 737–27–
1273 indicates to lubricate ‘‘ * * * as
shown in Part 1, Aileron Balance Tab
Freeplay Check.’’ A similar discrepancy
exists in the corresponding note in Step
1 of Group 1: Part 2 and Group 2: Part
2 of the Work Instructions of 737–27–
1272. DAL states that this note should
refer to Part 2, Lubrication of the
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Aileron Balance Tab Bearings. DAL has
advised Boeing of this discrepancy, and
Boeing agrees that it is an error that will
be corrected in future revisions to the
service bulletin. DAL notes that the
wording of the NPRM is sufficiently
broad that the service bulletin
discrepancy will not affect operators’
ability to comply with the proposed
requirements.
We acknowledge the discrepancy in
the service bulletins to which the
59371
commenter refers, and we agree with the
commenter that no change to the AD is
needed in this regard.
economic burden on any operator nor
increase the scope of the AD.
Conclusion
We have carefully reviewed the
available data, including the comments
received, and determined that air safety
and the public interest require adopting
the AD with the changes described
previously. We have determined that
these changes will neither increase the
There are about 5,651 airplanes of the
affected design in the worldwide fleet.
The following table provides the
estimated costs for U.S. operators to
comply with this AD. No parts are
necessary to accomplish either action.
Costs of Compliance
ESTIMATED COSTS
Action
Work
hours
Average labor
rate per hour
Number of
U.S.-registered
airplanes
Cost per
airplane
Freeplay measurement .............
8
$65
$520, per measurement cycle ..
2,280
Lubrication .................................
4
65
$260, per lubrication cycle .......
2,280
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
Section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII,
Aviation Programs, describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under
the authority described in Subtitle VII,
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701,
‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that
section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
air commerce by prescribing regulations
for practices, methods, and procedures
the Administrator finds necessary for
safety in air commerce. This regulation
is within the scope of that authority
because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on
products identified in this rulemaking
action.
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Regulatory Findings
We have determined that this AD will
not have federalism implications under
Executive Order 13132. This AD will
not have a substantial direct effect on
the States, on the relationship between
the national government and the States,
or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
(2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
(3) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
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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
2006–21–01 Boeing: Amendment 39–14784.
Docket No. FAA–2006–23815;
Directorate Identifier 2005–NM–222–AD.
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective November
14, 2006.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to all Boeing Model
737–100, –200, –200C, –300, –400, –500,
–600, –700, –700C, –800, and –900 series
airplanes; certificated in any category.
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Fleet cost
$1,185,600, per measurement
cycle.
$592,800, per lubrication cycle.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from reports of
freeplay-induced vibration of the aileron
balance tab. The potential for vibration of the
control surface should be avoided because
the point of transition from vibration to
divergent flutter is unknown. We are issuing
this AD to prevent excessive vibration of the
airframe during flight, which could result in
loss of control of the airplane.
Compliance
(e) You are responsible for having the
actions required by this AD performed within
the compliance times specified, unless the
actions have already been done.
Service Bulletin References
(f) The term ‘‘service bulletin,’’ as used in
this AD, means the Accomplishment
Instructions of the following service
bulletins, as applicable:
(1) For Boeing Model 737–100, –200,
–200C, –300, –400, and –500 series airplanes:
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
737–27–1272, dated September 29, 2005.
(2) For Boeing Model 737–600, –700,
–700C, –800 and –900 series airplanes:
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
737–27–1273, dated September 29, 2005.
Repetitive Measurements
(g) Within 24 months after the date of
issuance of the original standard
airworthiness certificate or the date of
issuance of the original export certificate of
airworthiness, or 18 months after the
effective date of the AD, whichever is later:
Measure the freeplay of both aileron control
balance tabs. Repeat the measurement
thereafter at the applicable interval in
paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD. Do all
actions required by this paragraph in
accordance with the applicable service
bulletin.
(1) For Boeing Model 737–100, –200, and
–200C series airplanes: At intervals not to
exceed 6,000 flight hours or 24 months,
whichever occurs first.
(2) For Boeing Model 737–300, –400, –500,
–600, –700, –700C, –800 and –900 series
E:\FR\FM\10OCR1.SGM
10OCR1
59372
Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 195 / Tuesday, October 10, 2006 / Rules and Regulations
airplanes: At intervals not to exceed 8,000
flight hours or 24 months, whichever occurs
first.
be approved, the repair must meet the
certification basis of the airplane, and the
approval must specifically refer to this AD.
Related Investigative and Corrective Actions
(h) If any measurement found in paragraph
(g) of this AD is outside the acceptable limits
specified in the service bulletin: Before
further flight, do the applicable related
investigative and corrective actions in
accordance with the applicable service
bulletin.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(l) You must use Boeing Special Attention
Service Bulletin 737–27–1272, dated
September 29, 2005; or Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 737–27–1273,
dated September 29, 2005; as applicable; to
perform the actions that are required by this
AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. The
Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of these
documents in accordance with 5 U.S.C.
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Contact Boeing
Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707,
Seattle, Washington 98124–2207, 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.
Repetitive Lubrication
(i) Within 9 months after the date of
issuance of the original standard
airworthiness certificate or the date of
issuance of the original export certificate of
airworthiness, or within 9 months after the
effective date of this AD, whichever is later:
Lubricate the aileron balance tab components
specified in the applicable service bulletin.
Repeat the lubrication thereafter at the
applicable interval in paragraph (i)(1), (i)(2),
or (i)(3) of this AD. Do all actions required
by this paragraph in accordance with the
applicable service bulletin.
(1) For Boeing Model 737–100, –200, and
–200C series airplanes: At intervals not to
exceed 3,000 flight hours or 9 months,
whichever occurs first.
(2) For Boeing Model 737–300, –400, –500,
–600, –700, –700C, –800, and –900 series
airplanes, on which BMS 3–33 grease is not
already in use prior to the time the
lubrication task is being accomplished: At
intervals not to exceed 3,000 flight hours or
9 months, whichever occurs first.
(3) For Boeing Model 737–300, –400, –500,
–600, –700, –700C, –800, and –900 series
airplanes, on which BMS 3–33 grease is
already in use prior to the time the
lubrication task is being accomplished: At
intervals not to exceed 4,000 flight hours or
12 months, whichever occurs first.
jlentini on PROD1PC65 with RULES
Concurrent Repetitive Cycles
(j) If a freeplay measurement required by
paragraph (g) of this AD and a lubrication
cycle required by paragraph (i) of this AD are
due at the same time or will be accomplished
during the same maintenance visit, the
freeplay measurement and applicable related
investigative and corrective actions must be
done before the lubrication is accomplished.
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(k)(1) The Manager, Seattle 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.
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable
level of safety may be used for any repair
required by this AD, if it is approved by an
Authorized Representative for the Boeing
Commercial Airplanes Delegation Option
Authorization Organization who has been
authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO, to
make those findings. For a repair method to
VerDate Aug<31>2005
15:57 Oct 06, 2006
Jkt 211001
Issued in Renton, Washington, on
September 28, 2006.
Kalene C. Yanamura,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E6–16553 Filed 10–6–06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 71
[Docket No. FAA–2006–25180; Airspace
Docket No. 06–AAL–19]
Establishment of Class E Airspace;
Kokohanok, AK
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final Rule.
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: This action establishes Class
E airspace at Kokohanok, AK to provide
adequate controlled airspace to contain
aircraft executing new Standard
Instrument Approach Procedures
(SIAPs) and a new Departure Procedure
(DP). This rule results in new Class E
airspace established upward from 700
feet (ft) and 1,200 ft. above the surface
at Kokohanok, AK.
EFFECTIVE DATE: 0901 UTC, January 18,
2007. The Director of the Federal
Register approves this incorporation by
reference action under title 1, Code of
Federal Regulations, part 51, subject to
the annual revision of FAA Order
7400.9 and publication of conforming
amendments.
PO 00000
Frm 00010
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Gary
Rolf, AAL–538G, Federal Aviation
Administration, 222 West 7th Avenue,
Box 14, Anchorage, AK 99513–7587;
telephone number (907) 271–5898; fax:
(907) 271–2850; e-mail:
gary.ctr.rolf@faa.gov. Internet address:
https://www.alaska.faa.gov/at.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
History
On Monday, July 17, 2006, the FAA
proposed to amend part 71 of the
Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR
part 71) to establish Class E airspace
upward from 700 ft. and 1,200 ft. above
the surface at Kokohanok, AK (71 FR
40444). The action was proposed in
order to create Class E airspace
sufficient in size to contain aircraft
while executing two new SIAPs and one
new DP for the Kokohanok Airport. The
new approaches are (1) Area Navigation
(Global Positioning System) (RNAV
(GPS) Runway (RWY) 06, Original and
(2) RNAV (GPS) RWY 24, Original. The
DP is unnamed and will be listed in the
front of the U.S. Terminal Procedures
publication for Alaska. Class E
controlled airspace extending upward
from 700 ft. and 1,200 ft. above the
surface in the Kokohanok Airport area is
established by this action. The Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking airfield
coordinate location was not accurate.
Runway construction currently
underway will result in updated
location coordinates. The updated
coordinates are listed in this final rule.
Interested parties were invited to
participate in this rulemaking
proceeding by submitting written
comments on the proposal to the FAA.
No public comment have been received;
thus the rule is adopted as proposed.
The area will be depicted on
aeronautical charts for pilot reference.
The coordinates for this airspace docket
are based on North American Datum 83.
The Class E airspace areas designated as
700/1,200 ft. transition areas are
published in paragraph 6005 of FAA
Order 7400.9P, Airspace Designations
and Reporting Points, dated September
1, 2006, and effective September 15,
2006, which is incorporated by
reference in 14 CFR 71.1. The Class E
airspace designation listed in this
document will be published
subsequently in the Order.
The Rule
This amendment to 14 CFR part 71
establishes Class E airspace at the
Kokohnaok Airport, Alaska. This Class
E airspace is created to accommodate
aircraft executing two new SIAPs and
one DP, and will be depicted on
aeronautical charts for pilot reference.
E:\FR\FM\10OCR1.SGM
10OCR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 195 (Tuesday, October 10, 2006)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 59368-59372]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E6-16553]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2006-23815; Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-222-AD;
Amendment 39-14784; AD 2006-21-01]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 737 Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Boeing Model 737 airplanes. This AD requires repetitive measurement of
the freeplay of both aileron balance tabs; repetitive lubrication of
the aileron balance tab hinge bearings and rod end bearings; and
related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. This AD
results from reports of freeplay-induced vibration of the aileron
balance tab. The potential for vibration of the control surface should
be avoided because the point of transition from vibration to divergent
flutter is unknown. We are issuing this AD to prevent excessive
vibration of the airframe during flight, which could result in loss of
control of the airplane.
DATES: This AD becomes effective November 14, 2006. The Director of the
Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain
publications listed in the AD as of November 14, 2006.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov or in person at the Docket Management Facility, U.S.
Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street SW., Nassif Building,
Room PL-401, Washington, DC.
Contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle,
Washington 98124-2207, for service information identified in this AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dennis Stremick, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425)
917-6450; fax (425) 917-6590.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Examining the Docket
You may examine the airworthiness directive (AD) docket on the
Internet at https://dms.dot.gov or in person at the Docket Management
Facility office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays. The Docket Management Facility office
(telephone (800) 647-5227) is located on the plaza level of the Nassif
Building at the street address stated in the ADDRESSES section.
Discussion
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to all Boeing Model 737
airplanes. That NPRM was published in the Federal Register on February
8, 2006 (71 FR 6417). That NPRM proposed to require repetitive
measurement of the freeplay of both aileron balance tabs; repetitive
lubrication of the aileron balance tab hinge bearings and rod end
bearings; and related investigative and corrective actions if
necessary.
Comments
We provided the public the opportunity to participate in the
development of this AD. We have considered the comments received.
Request To Revise Initial Compliance Times
Boeing, the airplane manufacturer, requests that the initial
compliance times for the freeplay measurement and the lubrication be
revised. Specifically, Boeing asks that airplanes completed after
release of the AD be allowed a compliance threshold of 24 months for
the freeplay measurement. The commenter explains that the initial
compliance time of 18 months for the measurement resulted partially
from a need for a more timely inspection to address airplanes currently
in service that may not have been maintained frequently enough and that
consequently may have excessive freeplay. For this reason, the initial
compliance time is shorter than the repetitive intervals. But the
commenter notes that when airplanes leave its production line,
excessive freeplay is not yet an issue. So, for the actions in
paragraph (g) of the NPRM, the commenter suggests that airplanes
delivered more recently or in the future should be given a compliance
time of 24 months after the date of issuance of the original standard
airworthiness certificate or original export certificate of
airworthiness, or 18 months after the effective date of the AD,
whichever is later.
The commenter also states that the initial compliance time for the
lubrication for all airplanes should be equal to the lowest of the
repetitive intervals (9 months) specified in the NPRM because airplanes
may be
[[Page 59369]]
delivered with either type of grease. The commenter suggests that the
compliance time for paragraph (i) of the NPRM be revised to 9 months
after the date of issuance of the original standard airworthiness
certificate or original export certificate of airworthiness, or 9
months after the effective date of this AD, whichever is later.
The commenter notes that it is planning to incorporate these
changes in an upcoming revision to Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 737-27-1273, dated September 29, 2005. (The NPRM refers to
that service bulletin as the appropriate source of service information
for Boeing 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, and -900 series airplanes. The
parallel service bulletin for Boeing Model 737-100, -200, -300, -400,
and -500 series airplanes is Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
737-27-1272, dated September 29, 2005.)
We agree with Boeing to revise the initial compliance times, for
the reasons that Boeing states in its comment. We have determined that
extending the initial compliance times for certain airplanes will not
adversely affect safety. We have revised the compliance times in
paragraphs (g) and (i) of this AD accordingly.
Request To Revise Applicability of Repetitive Intervals
Boeing requests that the wording of the applicability for the
repetitive intervals specified in paragraphs (i)(2) and (i)(3) of the
NPRM be revised. The commenter states that the intent of the wording in
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-27-1273 was for the
longer repetitive interval to be allowed only if BMS 3-33 grease is
already in use at the time the lubrication task is being accomplished.
Boeing recommends that paragraph (i)(2) of the NPRM be revised to read
``* * * BMS 3-33 grease is not already being used * * *'' and paragraph
(i)(3) of the NPRM be revised to read ``* * * BMS 3-33 grease is
already being used * * *.'' This will prevent an operator taking credit
for planned future use of BMS 3-33 grease.
We agree with the commenter. For clarity, we have revised
paragraphs (i)(2) and (i)(3) of this AD.
Request To Revise Compliance Times and Repetitive Intervals
Several commenters--AirTran Airways (AirTran), British Airways
(BA), and the Air Transport Association (ATA) on behalf of its member
American Airlines (AA), and Ryanair--request that we revise the initial
compliance times and repetitive intervals specified in the NPRM.
AirTran and BA specifically request that we revise the compliance
times to more closely match the flight-hour limits determined by
Maintenance Steering Group 3 (MSG3). AirTran notes that the MSG3
flight-hour limits are based on average utilization of the fleet.
AirTran states that, for an airplane with an average utilization of 8
hours/day, the calendar time element of the compliance times proposed
in the NPRM is potentially 27 percent less than the limits determined
by MSG3. BA notes that the repetitive interval for the freeplay
measurement in the similar task in the maintenance planning document
(MPD) is 8,000 flight hours, and the repetitive interval for the
lubrication in the similar MPD tasks is 4,000 flight hours, without
calendar-time limits. These intervals were established during the MSG3
analysis, and BA questions our rationale for introducing a 24-month
limit for the measurements and a 12-month limit for the lubrications.
Based on its data, BA states that it agrees with the need for the
freeplay measurement, but not with the 24-month calendar limit. BA
states that the MPD intervals are adequate to control the wear rate of
the aileron tab hinges and control rods.
Also, the ATA, on behalf of AA, observes that the proposed
repetitive interval for lubrications is more frequent than AA's
existing schedule of 5,000 flight hours. AA contends that the 5,000-
flight-hour interval is sufficient, given that it has not measured
freeplay of the aileron tab outside the required limits. (AA also
states that, for scheduling convenience, it accomplishes the repetitive
measurement for freeplay at a 5,000-flight-hour interval.)
Ryanair asks that, if we do not agree to remove 737NG airplanes
from the applicability (see ``Request to Remove 737NG Airplanes from
Applicability,'' below), we consider relaxing the initial compliance
time and repetitive intervals. Ryanair states that the initial
compliance time and repetitive intervals seem too short, particularly
for a problem that has never been reported on this airplane type and
for newer airplanes.
We do not agree with the commenters' requests to revise the
compliance times and repetitive intervals. With regard to the requests
to more closely match the intervals established by MSG3, we have
determined that the limits currently specified in the MPD may not be
adequate to ensure that the aileron balance tabs are properly
maintained on airplanes currently in service. Also, the maintenance
program documents to which BA refers can change without the knowledge
or consent of The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO),
FAA, and compliance times must be based on defined intervals to ensure
that the required action in an AD will be done within an appropriate
timeframe for safe operation of the airplane.
In developing appropriate compliance times for the actions in this
AD, we considered the urgency associated with the subject unsafe
condition, the manufacturer's recommendation, and the practical aspect
of accomplishing the required measurements and lubrications within a
period of time that corresponds to the normal scheduled maintenance for
most affected operators. Also, while we have taken into account the
average utilization rate of the affected airplanes, it would be nearly
impossible to customize the AD to take into consideration each
operator's utilization rate. In consideration of these items, as well
as the reports of freeplay-induced vibration of the aileron balance
tab, we have determined that the repetitive intervals as proposed are
appropriate.
With regard to Ryanair's statement that the initial compliance
times are too low for newer airplanes, we note that, as explained
previously under ``Request to Revise Initial Compliance Times,'' we
have revised paragraphs (g) and (i) of this AD to extend the compliance
times for airplanes delivered more recently.
We have made no further changes to this AD.
Request To Refer to Alternative Source of Service Information
BA requests that we revise the NPRM to refer to a certain MPD task,
Task 27-022-01, or its associated task card, 27-022-01-01, as an
acceptable source of service information for the repetitive
measurements of freeplay of the aileron control balance tabs. The
commenter states that the measurement in the MPD task and its
associated task card is the same as that specified in Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 737-27-1272, for Boeing 737-100, -200, -
200C, -300, -400, and -500 series airplanes.
We do not agree to allow the MPD tasks as an acceptable source of
service information for accomplishing the freeplay measurement. We find
that neither appropriate procedures nor applicable limits are specified
in the MPD tasks that describe checking the ailerons for freeplay.
Thus, the MPD tasks are not adequate to ensure that the aileron balance
tab would be maintained to an acceptable level of safety. Further, an
MPD task may be revised in the future without authorization by the
Manager, Seattle
[[Page 59370]]
ACO. Such a revision could result in differences between the MPD task
and the requirements of this AD. Operators may request approval of an
alternative method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with paragraph
(k) of this AD if data are presented to substantiate that the actions
provide an acceptable level of safety.
Request for Credit for Actions Accomplished Previously
Similarly, several commenters--BA, AirTran, and the ATA on behalf
of its members Delta Airlines (DAL) and AA--request that we revise the
NPRM to give credit for actions accomplished before the effective date
of the AD in accordance with the MPD or the airplane maintenance manual
(AMM). Specific requests are as follows:
BA asks that the most recent accomplishment of MPD Task
27-022-01 be considered as acceptable for the initial measurement that
would be required by paragraph (g) of the NPRM. BA also asks that the
most recent accomplishment of MPD Task 27-018-01 be considered as
acceptable for compliance with the initial lubrication that would be
required by paragraph (i) of the NRPM.
AirTran asks that we revise the NPRM to give credit for
doing the initial freeplay measurement in accordance with 737 Next
Generation (737NG, defined as Boeing Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800,
and -900 series airplanes) MPD Task 27-033-00, and doing the initial
lubrication in accordance with 737NG MPD Tasks 27-026-01 and 27-026-02.
AirTran states that these tasks are the same as the procedures for the
measurement and lubrication specified in Boeing Special Attention
Service Bulletin 737-27-1273.
DAL asks that we revise the NPRM to give credit
specifically for lubrications of the aileron balance tab accomplished
previously in accordance with MPD Tasks 27-026-01 and 27-026-02 and the
AMM. The commenter notes that Boeing has advised that the existing
lubrication procedures specified in the AMM are acceptable, and Boeing
would support allowing operators credit for previous lubrications. (The
commenter also notes that Boeing does not consider the freeplay
inspection procedures in the AMM to be adequate for compliance with
Service Bulletin 737-27-1273.)
We do not agree to give credit for measurements and lubrications
accomplished in accordance with the MPD tasks referenced by the
commenters. As we explained previously, an MPD task may have been
revised without the authorization of the Manager, Seattle ACO,
potentially resulting in differences between the MPD task and the
requirements of this AD. However, operators may request approval of an
AMOC in accordance with paragraph (k) of this AD if data are presented
to substantiate that the actions provide an acceptable level of safety.
We partially agree with the request to give credit for actions
accomplished in accordance with the AMM. The service bulletins refer to
specific chapters of the AMM as a source of an acceptable procedure for
lubricating the aileron balance tab components. Lubrications
accomplished according to the chapters of the AMM specified in the
relevant service bulletin are acceptable for compliance with the
corresponding requirements of paragraph (i) of this AD. We find that no
change to the AD is needed to give credit for these actions. Credit for
actions accomplished previously is always provided through this
statement included in paragraph (e) of this AD: ``You are responsible
for having the actions required by this AD performed within the
compliance times specified, unless the actions have already been
done.'' We have not changed the AD in this regard.
Request To Remove 737NG Airplanes From Applicability
Ryanair requests that we review the applicability of the NPRM for
737NG airplanes. The commenter believes that the NPRM is too severe for
737NG airplanes. The commenter is not aware of any reports of freeplay-
induced vibrations on 737NG airplanes.
We infer that the commenter is asking us to remove Model 737NG
airplanes from the applicability of this AD. We do not agree. The
aileron balance tab design is the same on both Model 737 ``Classic''
airplanes (defined as Boeing Model 737-100, -200, -200C, -300, -400,
and -500 airplanes) and Model 737NG airplanes. Therefore, all of these
airplanes are subject to the same unsafe condition. We have not changed
the AD in this regard.
Request To Withdraw NPRM
AA, in its comment submitted through ATA, states that, ``The
proposed rule simply restates the existing 737NG continuous maintenance
program.'' The commenter also notes that it is accomplishing the
repetitive measurement of freeplay and lubrication at intervals of
5,000 flight hours, and has not found any freeplay outside acceptable
limits. BA also notes that it has had no reports of freeplay-induced
vibration of the aileron tabs and believes that current MPD tasks are
adequate to prevent the unsafe condition.
We infer that AA and BA are asking us to withdraw the NPRM. We do
not agree. We have determined that existing maintenance actions similar
to those required by this AD are not sufficient to prevent freeplay-
induced vibration of the aileron balance tab. Also, the current
repetitive intervals for these similar actions are not adequate.
Evidence of this inadequacy is the reports of freeplay-induced
vibration in service. We note that the intervals AA uses are shorter
than those recommended in the manufacturer's maintenance documents,
which may help to account for the fact that AA has had no reports of
freeplay that is outside acceptable limits. We have not changed the AD
in this regard.
Request To Revise Service Documents Related to Service Bulletins
The ATA, on behalf of DAL, asks the FAA to encourage Boeing to
address conflicts between procedures before issuing service bulletins
that conflict with procedures in the AMM and MPD. DAL notes that the
relevant service bulletins do not advise whether the AMM and MPD are
affected by the changes in those service bulletins. DAL believes that
relevant sections of the AMM and MPD should be revised before the NPRM
is issued. The commenter notes that, in this case, if Boeing had
revised the AMM and MPD when it issued Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletins 737-27-1272 and 737-27-1273, operators might be in a position
to get credit for freeplay measurements and lubrications accomplished
in accordance with the AMM.
We acknowledge the comment. We agree that it would be beneficial
for Boeing to revise its AMM and MPD to reflect the requirements in the
service bulletins. While we have encouraged them to do so, we do not
have the authority to require Boeing to do so. We have not changed the
AD in this regard.
Request To Acknowledge Errors in Service Bulletins
DAL notes a discrepancy in the Work Instructions of Part 2 in
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletins 737-27-1272 and 737-27-1273.
The commenter points out that a note in Step 1 in Part 2 of the Work
Instructions of 737-27-1273 indicates to lubricate `` * * * as shown in
Part 1, Aileron Balance Tab Freeplay Check.'' A similar discrepancy
exists in the corresponding note in Step 1 of Group 1: Part 2 and Group
2: Part 2 of the Work Instructions of 737-27-1272. DAL states that this
note should refer to Part 2, Lubrication of the
[[Page 59371]]
Aileron Balance Tab Bearings. DAL has advised Boeing of this
discrepancy, and Boeing agrees that it is an error that will be
corrected in future revisions to the service bulletin. DAL notes that
the wording of the NPRM is sufficiently broad that the service bulletin
discrepancy will not affect operators' ability to comply with the
proposed requirements.
We acknowledge the discrepancy in the service bulletins to which
the commenter refers, and we agree with the commenter that no change to
the AD is needed in this regard.
Conclusion
We have carefully reviewed the available data, including the
comments received, and determined that air safety and the public
interest require adopting the AD with the changes described previously.
We have determined that these changes will neither increase the
economic burden on any operator nor increase the scope of the AD.
Costs of Compliance
There are about 5,651 airplanes of the affected design in the
worldwide fleet. The following table provides the estimated costs for
U.S. operators to comply with this AD. No parts are necessary to
accomplish either action.
Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of U.S.-
Action Work Average labor Cost per airplane registered Fleet cost
hours rate per hour airplanes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Freeplay measurement........... 8 $65 $520, per 2,280 $1,185,600, per
measurement cycle. measurement
cycle.
Lubrication.................... 4 65 $260, per 2,280 $592,800, per
lubrication cycle. lubrication
cycle.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, Section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701, ``General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
We have determined that this AD will not have federalism
implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between
the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power
and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866;
(2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to
comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket. See the ADDRESSES
section for a location to examine the regulatory evaluation.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
0
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends Sec. 39.13 by
adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD):
2006-21-01 Boeing: Amendment 39-14784. Docket No. FAA-2006-23815;
Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-222-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective November 14, 2006.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to all Boeing Model 737-100, -200, -200C, -
300, -400, -500, -600, -700, -700C, -800, and -900 series airplanes;
certificated in any category.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from reports of freeplay-induced vibration
of the aileron balance tab. The potential for vibration of the
control surface should be avoided because the point of transition
from vibration to divergent flutter is unknown. We are issuing this
AD to prevent excessive vibration of the airframe during flight,
which could result in loss of control of the airplane.
Compliance
(e) You are responsible for having the actions required by this
AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the
actions have already been done.
Service Bulletin References
(f) The term ``service bulletin,'' as used in this AD, means the
Accomplishment Instructions of the following service bulletins, as
applicable:
(1) For Boeing Model 737-100, -200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500
series airplanes: Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-27-
1272, dated September 29, 2005.
(2) For Boeing Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800 and -900 series
airplanes: Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-27-1273,
dated September 29, 2005.
Repetitive Measurements
(g) Within 24 months after the date of issuance of the original
standard airworthiness certificate or the date of issuance of the
original export certificate of airworthiness, or 18 months after the
effective date of the AD, whichever is later: Measure the freeplay
of both aileron control balance tabs. Repeat the measurement
thereafter at the applicable interval in paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2)
of this AD. Do all actions required by this paragraph in accordance
with the applicable service bulletin.
(1) For Boeing Model 737-100, -200, and -200C series airplanes:
At intervals not to exceed 6,000 flight hours or 24 months,
whichever occurs first.
(2) For Boeing Model 737-300, -400, -500, -600, -700, -700C, -
800 and -900 series
[[Page 59372]]
airplanes: At intervals not to exceed 8,000 flight hours or 24
months, whichever occurs first.
Related Investigative and Corrective Actions
(h) If any measurement found in paragraph (g) of this AD is
outside the acceptable limits specified in the service bulletin:
Before further flight, do the applicable related investigative and
corrective actions in accordance with the applicable service
bulletin.
Repetitive Lubrication
(i) Within 9 months after the date of issuance of the original
standard airworthiness certificate or the date of issuance of the
original export certificate of airworthiness, or within 9 months
after the effective date of this AD, whichever is later: Lubricate
the aileron balance tab components specified in the applicable
service bulletin. Repeat the lubrication thereafter at the
applicable interval in paragraph (i)(1), (i)(2), or (i)(3) of this
AD. Do all actions required by this paragraph in accordance with the
applicable service bulletin.
(1) For Boeing Model 737-100, -200, and -200C series airplanes:
At intervals not to exceed 3,000 flight hours or 9 months, whichever
occurs first.
(2) For Boeing Model 737-300, -400, -500, -600, -700, -700C, -
800, and -900 series airplanes, on which BMS 3-33 grease is not
already in use prior to the time the lubrication task is being
accomplished: At intervals not to exceed 3,000 flight hours or 9
months, whichever occurs first.
(3) For Boeing Model 737-300, -400, -500, -600, -700, -700C, -
800, and -900 series airplanes, on which BMS 3-33 grease is already
in use prior to the time the lubrication task is being accomplished:
At intervals not to exceed 4,000 flight hours or 12 months,
whichever occurs first.
Concurrent Repetitive Cycles
(j) If a freeplay measurement required by paragraph (g) of this
AD and a lubrication cycle required by paragraph (i) of this AD are
due at the same time or will be accomplished during the same
maintenance visit, the freeplay measurement and applicable related
investigative and corrective actions must be done before the
lubrication is accomplished.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(k)(1) The Manager, Seattle 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.
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be
used for any repair required by this AD, if it is approved by an
Authorized Representative for the Boeing Commercial Airplanes
Delegation Option Authorization Organization who has been authorized
by the Manager, Seattle ACO, to make those findings. For a repair
method to be approved, the repair must meet the certification basis
of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this
AD.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(l) You must use Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-
27-1272, dated September 29, 2005; or Boeing Special Attention
Service Bulletin 737-27-1273, dated September 29, 2005; as
applicable; to perform the actions that are required by this AD,
unless the AD specifies otherwise. The Director of the Federal
Register approved the incorporation by reference of these documents
in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Contact Boeing
Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle, Washington 98124-2207,
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 28, 2006.
Kalene C. Yanamura,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. E6-16553 Filed 10-6-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
