Special Conditions: Boeing Commercial Airplane Group, Boeing Model 777-200 Series Airplane; Overhead Cross Aisle Stowage Compartments, 61432-61435 [E6-17345]
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Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 201 / Wednesday, October 18, 2006 / Proposed Rules
excluding the internal components of
the electrical sensor assemblies to avoid
damage as a result of an in-flight jam.
Pitch
Roll
Nose up 125 lbf ........
Nose down 125 lbf ....
Nose left 50 lbf.
Nose right 50 lbf.
3. High Intensity Radiated Fields (HIRF)
Protection
a. Protection from Unwanted Effects
of High Intensity Radiated Fields. Each
electrical and electronic system which
performs critical functions must be
designed and installed to ensure that the
operation and operational capability of
these systems to perform critical
functions is not adversely affected when
the airplane is exposed to high intensity
radiated fields.
b. For the purposes of this special
condition, the following definition
applies:
Critical Functions: Functions whose
failure would contribute to or cause a
failure condition that would prevent the
continued safe flight and landing of the
airplane.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on October
10, 2006.
Kalene C. Yanamura,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 06–8762 Filed 10–17–06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 25
[Docket No. NM354; Notice No. 25–06–09–
SC]
Special Conditions: Boeing
Commercial Airplane Group, Boeing
Model 777–200 Series Airplane;
Overhead Cross Aisle Stowage
Compartments
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed special
conditions.
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AGENCY:
SUMMARY: The FAA proposes special
conditions for the Boeing Model 777–
200 series airplanes. This airplane,
modified by Boeing Commercial
Airplane Group, will have novel or
unusual design features associated with
overhead cross aisle stowage
compartments. The applicable
airworthiness regulations do not contain
adequate or appropriate safety standards
for these design features. These
proposed special conditions contain the
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additional safety standards the
Administrator considers necessary to
establish a level of safety equivalent to
that established by the existing
airworthiness standards.
DATES: We must receive your comments
on or before November 7, 2006.
ADDRESSES: You may mail or deliver
comments on these special conditions
in duplicate to: Federal Aviation
Administration, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Attn: Rules Docket (ANM–
113), Docket No. NM354, 1601 Lind
Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington
98057–3356. You must mark your
comments: Docket No. NM354.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Jayson Claar, FAA, Airframe/Cabin
Branch, ANM–115, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW.,
Renton, Washington 98057–3356;
telephone (425) 227–2194; facsimile
(425) 227–1232.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
We invite interested people to take
part in this rulemaking by sending
written comments, data, or views. The
most helpful comments reference a
specific portion of the special
conditions, explain the reason for any
recommended change, and include
supporting data. We ask that you send
us two copies of written comments.
We will file in the docket all
comments we receive, as well as a
report summarizing each substantive
public contact with FAA personnel
concerning these special conditions.
You may inspect the docket before and
after the comment closing date. If you
wish to review the docket in person, go
to the address in the ADDRESSES section
of this preamble between 7:30 a.m. and
4 p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
We will consider all comments we
receive on or before the closing date for
comments. We will consider comments
filed late if it is possible to do so
without incurring expense or delay. We
may change these special conditions
based on the comments we receive.
If you want the FAA to acknowledge
receipt of your comments on these
proposed special conditions, include
with your comments a pre-addressed,
stamped postcard on which the docket
number appears. We will stamp the date
on the postcard and mail it back to you.
Background
On April 20, 2005, Boeing
Commercial Airplane Group, Seattle,
Washington, applied for a supplemental
type certificate to permit installation of
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overhead cross aisle stowage
compartments in Boeing 777–200 series
airplanes. The Boeing Model 777–200
series airplanes are large twin engine
airplanes with four pairs of Type A
exits, a passenger capacity of 440, and
a range of 5000 miles. (The Boeing 777–
200 airplanes can be configured with
various passenger capacities and range).
The regulations do not address the
novel and unusual design features
associated with the installation of
overhead cross aisle stowage
compartments installed on the Boeing
Model 777–200, making these special
conditions necessary. Generally, the
requirements for overhead stowage
compartments are similar to stowage
compartments in remote crew rest
compartments (i.e., located on lower
lobe, main deck or overhead) already in
use on Boeing Model 777–200 and –747
series airplanes. Remote crew rest
compartments have been previously
installed and certified in the main
passenger cabin area, above the main
passenger area, and below the passenger
cabin area adjacent to the cargo
compartment of the Boeing Model 777–
200, and –300 series airplanes.
Type Certification Basis
Under the provisions of § 21.101,
Boeing Commercial Airplane Group
must show that the Boeing Model 777–
200, as changed, continues to meet the
applicable provisions of the regulations
incorporated by reference in Type
Certificate No. T00001SE or the
applicable regulations in effect on the
date of application for the change. The
regulations incorporated by reference in
the type certificate are commonly
referred to as the ‘‘original type
certification basis.’’ The regulations
incorporated by reference in Type
Certificate No. T00001SE for the Boeing
Model 777–200 series airplanes include
Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations
(CFR), part 25, as amended by
Amendments 25–1 through 25–82,
except for § 25.571(e)(1) which remains
at Amendment 25–71, with exceptions.
Refer to Type Certificate No. T00001SE,
as applicable, for a complete description
of the certification basis for this model,
including certain special conditions that
are not relevant to these proposed
special conditions.
If the Administrator finds the
applicable airworthiness regulations
(part 25 as amended) do not contain
adequate or appropriate safety standards
for the Boeing Model 777–200 because
of a novel or unusual design feature,
special conditions are prescribed under
the provisions of § 21.16.
In addition to the applicable
airworthiness regulations and special
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Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 201 / Wednesday, October 18, 2006 / Proposed Rules
conditions, the Boeing Model 777–200
must comply with the fuel vent and
exhaust emission requirements of 14
CFR part 34 and the noise certification
requirements of 14 CFR part 36.
The FAA issues special conditions, as
defined in § 11.19, under § 11.38 and
they become part of the type
certification basis under § 21.101.
Special conditions are initially
applicable to the model for which they
are issued. Should the applicant apply
for a supplemental type certificate to
modify any other model included on the
same type certificate to incorporate the
same or similar novel or unusual design
feature, the special conditions would
also apply to the other model under
§ 21.101.
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Novel or Unusual Design Features
The Boeing Model 777–200 will
incorporate the following novel or
unusual design features: the installation
of powered lift-enabled stowage
compartments that rise into the
overhead area and lower into the
emergency exit cross aisle.
The overhead cross aisle stowage
compartments are configured to allow
stowage of galley type standard
containers as well as coats, bags, and
other items typically stowed in closets
or bins. These stowage compartments
will be located above the emergency exit
cross aisle at Doors 2 and 4 of Boeing
Model 777–200 series airplanes.
Each stowage compartment is
accessed from the main deck by a
powered lift that lowers and raises the
stowage compartment between the
overhead and the main deck. In
addition, the lift can be hand cranked
up and down in the event of a power or
lift motor failure. A smoke detection
system will be provided in the overhead
cross aisle stowage compartments.
Discussion of the Proposed Special
Conditions
In general, the requirements listed in
these proposed special conditions for
overhead cross aisle stowage
compartments are similar to those
previously approved for overhead crew
rest compartments in earlier
certification programs, such as for the
Boeing Model 777–200 and Model 747
series airplanes. These proposed special
conditions establish compartment
access, power lift, electrical power,
smoke/fire detection, fire extinguisher,
fire containment, smoke penetration,
and compartment design criteria for the
overhead cross aisle stowage
compartments. The overhead stowage
compartments are not a direct analogy
to stowage compartments in remote
crew rest compartments installed and
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certified for Boeing Model 777 series
airplanes, but the safety issues raised
are similar. Features similar to those
considered in the development of
previous special conditions for fire
protection will be included here also.
The proposed requirements would
provide an equivalent level of safety to
that provided by other Boeing Model
777–200 series airplanes with similar
overhead compartments.
the overhead stowage compartment
quickly to the main deck to fight a fire.
The manual lift system must be capable
of raising the compartment quickly so
the cross aisle is not blocked in an
emergency. Training on manual
operation must be added to appropriate
manuals.
Operational Evaluations and Approval
The FAA’s Aircraft Certification
Service will administer these proposed
special conditions, which specify
requirements for design approvals (that
is, type design changes and
supplemental type certificates) of
overhead cross aisle stowage
compartments.
The Aircraft Evaluation Group of the
FAA’s Flight Standards Service must
evaluate and approve the operational
use of overhead cross aisle stowage
compartments prior to use. The Aircraft
Evaluation Group must receive all
instructions for continued
airworthiness, including service
bulletins, prior to the FAA accepting
and issuing approval of the
modification.
A handheld fire extinguisher
appropriate to fight the kinds of fire
likely to occur in the overhead stowage
compartment must be provided. This
handheld fire extinguisher must be
adjacent to the overhead compartment.
This extinguisher must be in addition to
those required for the passenger cabin.
Proposed Special Condition No. 1,
Compartment Access and Placards
Appropriate placards, or other means,
are required to address door access and
locking to prohibit passenger access and
operation of the overhead storage
compartment. There must also be a
means to preclude anyone from being
trapped inside the stowage
compartment.
Proposed Special Condition No. 2,
Power Lift
The power lift must be designed so
the overhead stowage compartment will
not jam in the down position, even if
lowered on top of a hard structure. The
lift must operate at a speed that allows
anyone underneath the compartment to
move clear without injury. The lift
controls must be placed clear of the
compartment door and must be pressed
continuously for lift operation. Training
on operation procedures must be added
to appropriate manuals.
Proposed Special Condition No. 3,
Manual Lift
There must be a means to manually
operate the lift that is independent of
the electrical drive system and is
capable of overcoming jamming in the
drive and lift mechanisms. The lift must
be operable by a range of occupants,
including a fifth percentile female. The
manual lift must be capable of lowering
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Proposed Special Condition No. 4,
Handheld Fire Extinguisher
Proposed Special Condition No. 5, Fire
Containment
This special condition requires either
the installation of a manually activated
fire extinguishing system that is
accessible from outside the overhead
stowage compartment, or a
demonstration that the crew could
satisfactorily perform the function of
extinguishing a fire under the
prescribed conditions. A manually
activated built-in fire extinguishing
system would be required only if a
crewmember could not successfully
locate and get access to the fire during
a demonstration where the crewmember
is responding to the alarm.
Proposed Special Condition No. 6,
Smoke Penetration
The design of the compartment must
provide means to exclude hazardous
quantities of smoke or extinguishing
agent originating in the compartment or
drive motor from entering other
occupied areas. The means must take
into account the time period during
which the compartment may be
accessed to manually fight a fire, if
applicable.
During the one-minute smoke
detection time (see Special Condition
No. 7), penetration of a small quantity
of smoke (one that would dissipate
within 3 minutes under normal
ventilation conditions) from this
overhead stowage compartment design
into an occupied area on this airplane
configuration would be acceptable
based on the limitations placed in this
and other associated special conditions.
These special conditions place
sufficient restrictions in the quantity
and type of material allowed in the
overhead stowage compartment that
threat from a fire in this remote area
would be equivalent to that experienced
on the main cabin.
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Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 201 / Wednesday, October 18, 2006 / Proposed Rules
Proposed Special Condition No. 7,
Compartment Design Criteria
The material used to construct the
overhead stowage compartment must
meet the flammability requirements for
compartment interiors in § 25.853 and
be fire resistant. Depending on the size
of the compartment, certain fire
protection features of Class B cargo
compartments are also required.
Enclosed stowage compartments equal
to or exceeding 25 ft3 in interior volume
must be provided with a smoke or fire
detection system to ensure that a fire
can be detected within a one-minute
detection time. This is the same
requirement as has been applied to
remote crew rest compartments.
Enclosed stowage compartments
equal to or greater than 57 ft3 in interior
volume but less than or equal to 200 ft3,
must have a liner that meets the
requirements of § 25.855 for a Class B
cargo compartment. The overhead
stowage compartment may not be
greater than 200 ft3 in interior volume.
The in-flight accessibility of very large
enclosed stowage compartments and the
subsequent impact on the
crewmember’s ability to effectively
reach any part of the compartment with
the contents of a handheld fire
extinguisher would require additional
fire protection considerations similar to
those required for inaccessible
compartments such as Class C cargo
compartments.
The overhead stowage compartment
smoke or fire detection and fire
suppression systems (including airflow
management features which prevent
hazardous quantities of smoke or fire
extinguishing agent from entering any
other compartment occupied by
crewmembers or passengers) is
considered complex in terms of
paragraph 6d of Advisory Circular (AC)
25.1309–1A, ‘‘System Design and
Analysis.’’ The FAA considers failure of
the overhead stowage compartment fire
protection system (that is, smoke or fire
detection and fire suppression systems)
in conjunction with an overhead
stowage fire to be a catastrophic event.
Based on the ‘‘Depth of Analysis
Flowchart’’ shown in Figure 2 of AC
25.1309–1A, the depth of analysis
should include both qualitative and
quantitative assessments (reference
paragraphs 8d, 9, and 10 of AC 25.1309–
1A).
The requirements to enable
crewmember(s) quick access to the
overhead stowage compartment and to
locate a fire source inherently places
limits on the amount of baggage stowed
and the size of the overhead stowage
compartment. The overhead stowage
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compartment is limited to stowage of
galley type standard containers as well
as coats, bags, and other items typically
stowed in closets or bins. It is not
intended to be used for the stowage of
other items. The design of such a system
to include other items may require
additional special conditions to ensure
safe operation.
Applicability
These special conditions are
applicable to the Boeing Model 777–200
series airplanes with overhead cross
aisle stowage compartments. Should
Boeing Commercial Airplane Group
apply later for a change to the type
certificate to include another model
included on Type Certificate No.
T00001SE, incorporating the same novel
or unusual design feature, the special
conditions would apply to that model as
well under the provisions of § 21.101.
The Boeing Model 777–200 series
airplane is scheduled for imminent
delivery. Special conditions for other
types of stowage compartments in
remote areas of airplanes have been
subject to the notice and public
comment procedure in several prior
instances. Therefore, because a delay
would significantly affect the
applicant’s installation of the overhead
cross aisle stowage compartment and
certification of the airplane, we are
shortening the public comment period
to 20 days.
Conclusion
This action affects only certain novel
or unusual design features on the
Boeing Model 777–200 series airplanes.
It is not a rule of general applicability
and affects only the applicant who
applied to the FAA for approval of these
features on the airplane.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 25
Aircraft, Aviation safety, Reporting
and recordkeeping requirements.
The authority citation for these
special conditions is as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701,
44702, 44704.
The Proposed Special Conditions
Accordingly, the Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) proposes the
following special conditions as part of
the type certification basis for Boeing
Model 777–200 series airplanes. Each
overhead cross aisle stowage
compartment and the adjacent area,
including the structural frame,
mechanical system and drive motor,
must meet the following requirements:
1. Compartment Access and Placards.
There must be a means to prohibit or
prevent passengers from entering or
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operating the overhead cross aisle
stowage compartment. Placards
prohibiting access are acceptable. For all
doors installed, there must be a means
to preclude anyone from being trapped
inside the stowage compartment. If a
latching/locking mechanism is installed,
the door must be capable of being
opened from the outside without the aid
of special tools. The mechanism must
not prevent opening from the inside of
the stowage at any time.
2. Power Lift. There must be a means
such as a load or force limiter to protect
the overhead cross aisle stowage
compartment electrical lift drive system
from failure or jamming in the down
position in the event it is lowered on
top of hard structure such as a galley
cart.
(a) The electrical lift controls must be
placed so the operator is clear of the lift
and designed such that the controls
must be pressed continuously for lift
operation.
(b) The electrical lift must raise and
lower the stowage compartment at a
slow enough rate, and stop above the
floor at such a height, that anyone
underneath can easily move clear
without injury.
(c) Stowage compartment operation
training procedures must be added to
the appropriate flight attendant
manuals.
3. Manual Lift. There must be a means
in the event of failure of the aircraft’s
main power system, or of the
electrically powered overhead cross
aisle stowage compartment lift system,
for manually activating the lift system.
(a) This manual lift must be
independent of the electrical drive
system and capable of overcoming
jamming in the drive and lift
mechanisms.
(b) The manual lift must be accessible
and operable by a range of occupants,
including a fifth percentile female.
(c) The manual lift must be capable of
lowering the stowage compartment to
the main deck quickly enough to fight
a fire in the stowage compartment
before overhead cross aisle stowage
compartment fire containment is
compromised.
(d) The manual lift must be capable of
quickly raising the stowage
compartment such that the cross aisle is
not blocked in the event of an
emergency.
(e) Stowage compartment firefighting
training procedures must be added to
the appropriate flight attendant
manuals.
4. Fire Extinguisher. The means to
manually fight a fire in the overhead
cross aisle stowage compartment or
involving the compartment motor must
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Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 201 / Wednesday, October 18, 2006 / Proposed Rules
consider the additional stowage volume
and time required to manually lower the
compartment after indication. The
following equipment must be provided
directly adjacent to each overhead cross
aisle stowage compartment: at least one
approved handheld fire extinguisher
appropriate for the kinds of fires likely
to occur within the overhead stowage
compartment and fires involving the
compartment motor.
5. Fire Containment. Fires originating
within the overhead cross aisle stowage
compartment or at the drive motor must
be controlled without a crewmember
having to access the compartment.
Alternatively, the design of the access
provisions must allow crewmembers
equipped for firefighting to have
unrestricted access to the compartment
and drive motor. If the latter approach
is elected it must be demonstrated that
a crewmember has sufficient access to
enable them to extinguish a fire. The
time for a crewmember on the main
deck to react to the fire alarm, (and, if
applicable, to don the firefighting
equipment and to open the
compartment) must not exceed the
flammability and fire containment
capabilities of the stowage
compartment.
6. Smoke Penetration. There must be
a means provided to exclude hazardous
quantities of smoke or extinguishing
agent originating in the overhead cross
aisle stowage compartment or drive
motor from entering any other
compartment occupied by crewmembers
or passengers. If access is required to
comply with Special Condition 5., this
means must include the time period
when accessing the stowage
compartment to manually fight a fire.
Smoke entering any other compartment
occupied by crewmembers or
passengers, when access to the stowage
compartment is opened to manually
fight a fire, must dissipate within five
minutes after the access to the stowage
compartment is closed. Prior to the one
minute smoke detection time (reference
note 2 in paragraph (7)) penetration of
a small quantity of smoke from the
stowage compartment into an occupied
area is acceptable. Flight tests must be
conducted to show compliance with
this requirement.
7. Compartment Design Criteria. The
overhead cross aisle stowage
compartment must be designed to
minimize the hazards to the airplane in
the event of a fire originating in the
stowage compartment or drive motor.
(a) Fire Extinguishing System. If a
built-in fire extinguishing system is
used in lieu of manual firefighting, then
the fire extinguishing system must be
designed so no hazardous quantities of
extinguishing agent will enter other
compartments occupied by passengers
or crew. The system must have adequate
capacity to suppress any fire occurring
in the stowage compartment or drive
motor, considering the fire threat,
volume of the compartment, and the
ventilation rate.
(b) Compartment Size. All enclosed
remote stowage compartments,
including the overhead cross aisle
stowage compartment, must meet the
design criteria given in the table below.
As indicated by the table below,
enclosed stowage compartments greater
than 200 ft 3 in interior volume are not
addressed by this special condition.
STOWAGE COMPARTMENT INTERIOR VOLUMES
Fire protection features
less than 25 ft 3
25 ft 3 to 57 ft 3
Materials of Construction 1 ..................................................................................................
Detectors 2 ...........................................................................................................................
Liner 3 ..................................................................................................................................
Yes ...................
No .....................
No .....................
Yes ...................
Yes ...................
Yes ...................
57 ft 3 to 200 ft 3
Yes.
Yes.
Yes.
1 Material. The material used to construct each enclosed stowage compartment must be at least fire resistant and must meet the flammability
standards established for interior components (that is, 14 CFR Part 25 Appendix F, Parts I, IV, and V) per the requirements of § 25.853. For
compartments less than 25 ft 3 in interior volume, the design must ensure the ability to contain a fire likely to occur within the compartment under
normal use.
2 Detectors. Enclosed stowage compartments equal to or exceeding 25 ft 3 in interior volume must be provided with a smoke or fire detection
system to ensure that a fire can be detected within one minute. Flight tests must be conducted to show compliance with this requirement. Each
system (or systems) must provide:
(a) A visual indication in the flight deck within one minute after the start of a fire;
(b) A warning in the main passenger cabin. This warning must be readily detectable by a flight attendant, taking into consideration the positioning of flight attendants throughout the main passenger compartment during various phases of flight.
3 Liner. If it can be shown the material used to construct the stowage compartment meets the flammability requirements of a liner for a Class B
cargo compartment (that is, § 25.855 at Amendment 25–93 and Appendix F, part I, paragraph (a)(2)(ii)), in addition to the above.
1 Material requirement, then no liner would be required for enclosed stowage compartments equal to or greater than 25 ft 3 in interior volume
but less than 57 ft 3 in interior volume. For all enclosed stowage compartments equal to or greater than 57 ft 3 in interior volume but less than or
equal to 200 ft 3, a liner must be provided that meets the requirements of § 25.855 for a Class B cargo compartment.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on October
10, 2006.
Kalene C. Yanamura,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E6–17345 Filed 10–17–06; 8:45 am]
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
[Docket No. 040915266–6239–03]
Bureau of Industry and Security
15 CFR Parts 732, 736, 740, 744, 752,
764, and 772
rmajette on PROD1PC67 with PROPOSALS
RIN 0694–AC94
Revised ‘‘Knowledge’’ Definition,
Revision of ‘‘Red Flags’’ Guidance and
Safe Harbor
Bureau of Industry and
Security, Commerce.
ACTION: Proposed rule; withdrawal.
AGENCY:
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SUMMARY: BIS is withdrawing a
proposed rule published October 2004.
That rule would have revised the
definition of ‘‘knowledge’’ in the Export
Administration Regulations. It also
would have updated the ‘‘red flags’’
guidance and would have provided a
safe harbor from liability arising from
knowledge under the definition of that
term. In light of the public comments
received on the proposed rule and BIS’s
review of relevant provisions of the
existing regulations, this proposed rule
is being withdrawn.
The proposed rule is withdrawn
on October 18, 2006.
DATES:
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 201 (Wednesday, October 18, 2006)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 61432-61435]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E6-17345]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 25
[Docket No. NM354; Notice No. 25-06-09-SC]
Special Conditions: Boeing Commercial Airplane Group, Boeing
Model 777-200 Series Airplane; Overhead Cross Aisle Stowage
Compartments
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed special conditions.
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SUMMARY: The FAA proposes special conditions for the Boeing Model 777-
200 series airplanes. This airplane, modified by Boeing Commercial
Airplane Group, will have novel or unusual design features associated
with overhead cross aisle stowage compartments. The applicable
airworthiness regulations do not contain adequate or appropriate safety
standards for these design features. These proposed special conditions
contain the additional safety standards the Administrator considers
necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established
by the existing airworthiness standards.
DATES: We must receive your comments on or before November 7, 2006.
ADDRESSES: You may mail or deliver comments on these special conditions
in duplicate to: Federal Aviation Administration, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Attn: Rules Docket (ANM-113), Docket No. NM354, 1601 Lind
Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356. You must mark your
comments: Docket No. NM354.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jayson Claar, FAA, Airframe/Cabin
Branch, ANM-115, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356;
telephone (425) 227-2194; facsimile (425) 227-1232.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
We invite interested people to take part in this rulemaking by
sending written comments, data, or views. The most helpful comments
reference a specific portion of the special conditions, explain the
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. We ask
that you send us two copies of written comments.
We will file in the docket all comments we receive, as well as a
report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel
concerning these special conditions. You may inspect the docket before
and after the comment closing date. If you wish to review the docket in
person, go to the address in the ADDRESSES section of this preamble
between 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal
holidays.
We will consider all comments we receive on or before the closing
date for comments. We will consider comments filed late if it is
possible to do so without incurring expense or delay. We may change
these special conditions based on the comments we receive.
If you want the FAA to acknowledge receipt of your comments on
these proposed special conditions, include with your comments a pre-
addressed, stamped postcard on which the docket number appears. We will
stamp the date on the postcard and mail it back to you.
Background
On April 20, 2005, Boeing Commercial Airplane Group, Seattle,
Washington, applied for a supplemental type certificate to permit
installation of overhead cross aisle stowage compartments in Boeing
777-200 series airplanes. The Boeing Model 777-200 series airplanes are
large twin engine airplanes with four pairs of Type A exits, a
passenger capacity of 440, and a range of 5000 miles. (The Boeing 777-
200 airplanes can be configured with various passenger capacities and
range).
The regulations do not address the novel and unusual design
features associated with the installation of overhead cross aisle
stowage compartments installed on the Boeing Model 777-200, making
these special conditions necessary. Generally, the requirements for
overhead stowage compartments are similar to stowage compartments in
remote crew rest compartments (i.e., located on lower lobe, main deck
or overhead) already in use on Boeing Model 777-200 and -747 series
airplanes. Remote crew rest compartments have been previously installed
and certified in the main passenger cabin area, above the main
passenger area, and below the passenger cabin area adjacent to the
cargo compartment of the Boeing Model 777-200, and -300 series
airplanes.
Type Certification Basis
Under the provisions of Sec. 21.101, Boeing Commercial Airplane
Group must show that the Boeing Model 777-200, as changed, continues to
meet the applicable provisions of the regulations incorporated by
reference in Type Certificate No. T00001SE or the applicable
regulations in effect on the date of application for the change. The
regulations incorporated by reference in the type certificate are
commonly referred to as the ``original type certification basis.'' The
regulations incorporated by reference in Type Certificate No. T00001SE
for the Boeing Model 777-200 series airplanes include Title 14 Code of
Federal Regulations (CFR), part 25, as amended by Amendments 25-1
through 25-82, except for Sec. 25.571(e)(1) which remains at Amendment
25-71, with exceptions. Refer to Type Certificate No. T00001SE, as
applicable, for a complete description of the certification basis for
this model, including certain special conditions that are not relevant
to these proposed special conditions.
If the Administrator finds the applicable airworthiness regulations
(part 25 as amended) do not contain adequate or appropriate safety
standards for the Boeing Model 777-200 because of a novel or unusual
design feature, special conditions are prescribed under the provisions
of Sec. 21.16.
In addition to the applicable airworthiness regulations and special
[[Page 61433]]
conditions, the Boeing Model 777-200 must comply with the fuel vent and
exhaust emission requirements of 14 CFR part 34 and the noise
certification requirements of 14 CFR part 36.
The FAA issues special conditions, as defined in Sec. 11.19, under
Sec. 11.38 and they become part of the type certification basis under
Sec. 21.101.
Special conditions are initially applicable to the model for which
they are issued. Should the applicant apply for a supplemental type
certificate to modify any other model included on the same type
certificate to incorporate the same or similar novel or unusual design
feature, the special conditions would also apply to the other model
under Sec. 21.101.
Novel or Unusual Design Features
The Boeing Model 777-200 will incorporate the following novel or
unusual design features: the installation of powered lift-enabled
stowage compartments that rise into the overhead area and lower into
the emergency exit cross aisle.
The overhead cross aisle stowage compartments are configured to
allow stowage of galley type standard containers as well as coats,
bags, and other items typically stowed in closets or bins. These
stowage compartments will be located above the emergency exit cross
aisle at Doors 2 and 4 of Boeing Model 777-200 series airplanes.
Each stowage compartment is accessed from the main deck by a
powered lift that lowers and raises the stowage compartment between the
overhead and the main deck. In addition, the lift can be hand cranked
up and down in the event of a power or lift motor failure. A smoke
detection system will be provided in the overhead cross aisle stowage
compartments.
Discussion of the Proposed Special Conditions
In general, the requirements listed in these proposed special
conditions for overhead cross aisle stowage compartments are similar to
those previously approved for overhead crew rest compartments in
earlier certification programs, such as for the Boeing Model 777-200
and Model 747 series airplanes. These proposed special conditions
establish compartment access, power lift, electrical power, smoke/fire
detection, fire extinguisher, fire containment, smoke penetration, and
compartment design criteria for the overhead cross aisle stowage
compartments. The overhead stowage compartments are not a direct
analogy to stowage compartments in remote crew rest compartments
installed and certified for Boeing Model 777 series airplanes, but the
safety issues raised are similar. Features similar to those considered
in the development of previous special conditions for fire protection
will be included here also. The proposed requirements would provide an
equivalent level of safety to that provided by other Boeing Model 777-
200 series airplanes with similar overhead compartments.
Operational Evaluations and Approval
The FAA's Aircraft Certification Service will administer these
proposed special conditions, which specify requirements for design
approvals (that is, type design changes and supplemental type
certificates) of overhead cross aisle stowage compartments.
The Aircraft Evaluation Group of the FAA's Flight Standards Service
must evaluate and approve the operational use of overhead cross aisle
stowage compartments prior to use. The Aircraft Evaluation Group must
receive all instructions for continued airworthiness, including service
bulletins, prior to the FAA accepting and issuing approval of the
modification.
Proposed Special Condition No. 1, Compartment Access and Placards
Appropriate placards, or other means, are required to address door
access and locking to prohibit passenger access and operation of the
overhead storage compartment. There must also be a means to preclude
anyone from being trapped inside the stowage compartment.
Proposed Special Condition No. 2, Power Lift
The power lift must be designed so the overhead stowage compartment
will not jam in the down position, even if lowered on top of a hard
structure. The lift must operate at a speed that allows anyone
underneath the compartment to move clear without injury. The lift
controls must be placed clear of the compartment door and must be
pressed continuously for lift operation. Training on operation
procedures must be added to appropriate manuals.
Proposed Special Condition No. 3, Manual Lift
There must be a means to manually operate the lift that is
independent of the electrical drive system and is capable of overcoming
jamming in the drive and lift mechanisms. The lift must be operable by
a range of occupants, including a fifth percentile female. The manual
lift must be capable of lowering the overhead stowage compartment
quickly to the main deck to fight a fire. The manual lift system must
be capable of raising the compartment quickly so the cross aisle is not
blocked in an emergency. Training on manual operation must be added to
appropriate manuals.
Proposed Special Condition No. 4, Handheld Fire Extinguisher
A handheld fire extinguisher appropriate to fight the kinds of fire
likely to occur in the overhead stowage compartment must be provided.
This handheld fire extinguisher must be adjacent to the overhead
compartment. This extinguisher must be in addition to those required
for the passenger cabin.
Proposed Special Condition No. 5, Fire Containment
This special condition requires either the installation of a
manually activated fire extinguishing system that is accessible from
outside the overhead stowage compartment, or a demonstration that the
crew could satisfactorily perform the function of extinguishing a fire
under the prescribed conditions. A manually activated built-in fire
extinguishing system would be required only if a crewmember could not
successfully locate and get access to the fire during a demonstration
where the crewmember is responding to the alarm.
Proposed Special Condition No. 6, Smoke Penetration
The design of the compartment must provide means to exclude
hazardous quantities of smoke or extinguishing agent originating in the
compartment or drive motor from entering other occupied areas. The
means must take into account the time period during which the
compartment may be accessed to manually fight a fire, if applicable.
During the one-minute smoke detection time (see Special Condition
No. 7), penetration of a small quantity of smoke (one that would
dissipate within 3 minutes under normal ventilation conditions) from
this overhead stowage compartment design into an occupied area on this
airplane configuration would be acceptable based on the limitations
placed in this and other associated special conditions. These special
conditions place sufficient restrictions in the quantity and type of
material allowed in the overhead stowage compartment that threat from a
fire in this remote area would be equivalent to that experienced on the
main cabin.
[[Page 61434]]
Proposed Special Condition No. 7, Compartment Design Criteria
The material used to construct the overhead stowage compartment
must meet the flammability requirements for compartment interiors in
Sec. 25.853 and be fire resistant. Depending on the size of the
compartment, certain fire protection features of Class B cargo
compartments are also required. Enclosed stowage compartments equal to
or exceeding 25 ft\3\ in interior volume must be provided with a smoke
or fire detection system to ensure that a fire can be detected within a
one-minute detection time. This is the same requirement as has been
applied to remote crew rest compartments.
Enclosed stowage compartments equal to or greater than 57 ft\3\ in
interior volume but less than or equal to 200 ft\3\, must have a liner
that meets the requirements of Sec. 25.855 for a Class B cargo
compartment. The overhead stowage compartment may not be greater than
200 ft\3\ in interior volume. The in-flight accessibility of very large
enclosed stowage compartments and the subsequent impact on the
crewmember's ability to effectively reach any part of the compartment
with the contents of a handheld fire extinguisher would require
additional fire protection considerations similar to those required for
inaccessible compartments such as Class C cargo compartments.
The overhead stowage compartment smoke or fire detection and fire
suppression systems (including airflow management features which
prevent hazardous quantities of smoke or fire extinguishing agent from
entering any other compartment occupied by crewmembers or passengers)
is considered complex in terms of paragraph 6d of Advisory Circular
(AC) 25.1309-1A, ``System Design and Analysis.'' The FAA considers
failure of the overhead stowage compartment fire protection system
(that is, smoke or fire detection and fire suppression systems) in
conjunction with an overhead stowage fire to be a catastrophic event.
Based on the ``Depth of Analysis Flowchart'' shown in Figure 2 of AC
25.1309-1A, the depth of analysis should include both qualitative and
quantitative assessments (reference paragraphs 8d, 9, and 10 of AC
25.1309-1A).
The requirements to enable crewmember(s) quick access to the
overhead stowage compartment and to locate a fire source inherently
places limits on the amount of baggage stowed and the size of the
overhead stowage compartment. The overhead stowage compartment is
limited to stowage of galley type standard containers as well as coats,
bags, and other items typically stowed in closets or bins. It is not
intended to be used for the stowage of other items. The design of such
a system to include other items may require additional special
conditions to ensure safe operation.
Applicability
These special conditions are applicable to the Boeing Model 777-200
series airplanes with overhead cross aisle stowage compartments. Should
Boeing Commercial Airplane Group apply later for a change to the type
certificate to include another model included on Type Certificate No.
T00001SE, incorporating the same novel or unusual design feature, the
special conditions would apply to that model as well under the
provisions of Sec. 21.101.
The Boeing Model 777-200 series airplane is scheduled for imminent
delivery. Special conditions for other types of stowage compartments in
remote areas of airplanes have been subject to the notice and public
comment procedure in several prior instances. Therefore, because a
delay would significantly affect the applicant's installation of the
overhead cross aisle stowage compartment and certification of the
airplane, we are shortening the public comment period to 20 days.
Conclusion
This action affects only certain novel or unusual design features
on the Boeing Model 777-200 series airplanes. It is not a rule of
general applicability and affects only the applicant who applied to the
FAA for approval of these features on the airplane.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 25
Aircraft, Aviation safety, Reporting and recordkeeping
requirements.
The authority citation for these special conditions is as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701, 44702, 44704.
The Proposed Special Conditions
Accordingly, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposes the
following special conditions as part of the type certification basis
for Boeing Model 777-200 series airplanes. Each overhead cross aisle
stowage compartment and the adjacent area, including the structural
frame, mechanical system and drive motor, must meet the following
requirements:
1. Compartment Access and Placards. There must be a means to
prohibit or prevent passengers from entering or operating the overhead
cross aisle stowage compartment. Placards prohibiting access are
acceptable. For all doors installed, there must be a means to preclude
anyone from being trapped inside the stowage compartment. If a
latching/locking mechanism is installed, the door must be capable of
being opened from the outside without the aid of special tools. The
mechanism must not prevent opening from the inside of the stowage at
any time.
2. Power Lift. There must be a means such as a load or force
limiter to protect the overhead cross aisle stowage compartment
electrical lift drive system from failure or jamming in the down
position in the event it is lowered on top of hard structure such as a
galley cart.
(a) The electrical lift controls must be placed so the operator is
clear of the lift and designed such that the controls must be pressed
continuously for lift operation.
(b) The electrical lift must raise and lower the stowage
compartment at a slow enough rate, and stop above the floor at such a
height, that anyone underneath can easily move clear without injury.
(c) Stowage compartment operation training procedures must be added
to the appropriate flight attendant manuals.
3. Manual Lift. There must be a means in the event of failure of
the aircraft's main power system, or of the electrically powered
overhead cross aisle stowage compartment lift system, for manually
activating the lift system.
(a) This manual lift must be independent of the electrical drive
system and capable of overcoming jamming in the drive and lift
mechanisms.
(b) The manual lift must be accessible and operable by a range of
occupants, including a fifth percentile female.
(c) The manual lift must be capable of lowering the stowage
compartment to the main deck quickly enough to fight a fire in the
stowage compartment before overhead cross aisle stowage compartment
fire containment is compromised.
(d) The manual lift must be capable of quickly raising the stowage
compartment such that the cross aisle is not blocked in the event of an
emergency.
(e) Stowage compartment firefighting training procedures must be
added to the appropriate flight attendant manuals.
4. Fire Extinguisher. The means to manually fight a fire in the
overhead cross aisle stowage compartment or involving the compartment
motor must
[[Page 61435]]
consider the additional stowage volume and time required to manually
lower the compartment after indication. The following equipment must be
provided directly adjacent to each overhead cross aisle stowage
compartment: at least one approved handheld fire extinguisher
appropriate for the kinds of fires likely to occur within the overhead
stowage compartment and fires involving the compartment motor.
5. Fire Containment. Fires originating within the overhead cross
aisle stowage compartment or at the drive motor must be controlled
without a crewmember having to access the compartment. Alternatively,
the design of the access provisions must allow crewmembers equipped for
firefighting to have unrestricted access to the compartment and drive
motor. If the latter approach is elected it must be demonstrated that a
crewmember has sufficient access to enable them to extinguish a fire.
The time for a crewmember on the main deck to react to the fire alarm,
(and, if applicable, to don the firefighting equipment and to open the
compartment) must not exceed the flammability and fire containment
capabilities of the stowage compartment.
6. Smoke Penetration. There must be a means provided to exclude
hazardous quantities of smoke or extinguishing agent originating in the
overhead cross aisle stowage compartment or drive motor from entering
any other compartment occupied by crewmembers or passengers. If access
is required to comply with Special Condition 5., this means must
include the time period when accessing the stowage compartment to
manually fight a fire. Smoke entering any other compartment occupied by
crewmembers or passengers, when access to the stowage compartment is
opened to manually fight a fire, must dissipate within five minutes
after the access to the stowage compartment is closed. Prior to the one
minute smoke detection time (reference note 2 in paragraph (7))
penetration of a small quantity of smoke from the stowage compartment
into an occupied area is acceptable. Flight tests must be conducted to
show compliance with this requirement.
7. Compartment Design Criteria. The overhead cross aisle stowage
compartment must be designed to minimize the hazards to the airplane in
the event of a fire originating in the stowage compartment or drive
motor.
(a) Fire Extinguishing System. If a built-in fire extinguishing
system is used in lieu of manual firefighting, then the fire
extinguishing system must be designed so no hazardous quantities of
extinguishing agent will enter other compartments occupied by
passengers or crew. The system must have adequate capacity to suppress
any fire occurring in the stowage compartment or drive motor,
considering the fire threat, volume of the compartment, and the
ventilation rate.
(b) Compartment Size. All enclosed remote stowage compartments,
including the overhead cross aisle stowage compartment, must meet the
design criteria given in the table below. As indicated by the table
below, enclosed stowage compartments greater than 200 ft \3\ in
interior volume are not addressed by this special condition.
Stowage Compartment Interior Volumes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fire protection features less than 25 ft \3\ 25 ft \3\ to 57 ft \3\ 57 ft \3\ to 200 ft \3\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Materials of Construction \1\.... Yes...................... Yes..................... Yes.
Detectors \2\.................... No....................... Yes..................... Yes.
Liner \3\........................ No....................... Yes..................... Yes.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Material. The material used to construct each enclosed stowage compartment must be at least fire resistant
and must meet the flammability standards established for interior components (that is, 14 CFR Part 25 Appendix
F, Parts I, IV, and V) per the requirements of Sec. 25.853. For compartments less than 25 ft \3\ in interior
volume, the design must ensure the ability to contain a fire likely to occur within the compartment under
normal use.
\2\ Detectors. Enclosed stowage compartments equal to or exceeding 25 ft \3\ in interior volume must be provided
with a smoke or fire detection system to ensure that a fire can be detected within one minute. Flight tests
must be conducted to show compliance with this requirement. Each system (or systems) must provide:
(a) A visual indication in the flight deck within one minute after the start of a fire;
(b) A warning in the main passenger cabin. This warning must be readily detectable by a flight attendant, taking
into consideration the positioning of flight attendants throughout the main passenger compartment during
various phases of flight.
\3\ Liner. If it can be shown the material used to construct the stowage compartment meets the flammability
requirements of a liner for a Class B cargo compartment (that is, Sec. 25.855 at Amendment 25-93 and
Appendix F, part I, paragraph (a)(2)(ii)), in addition to the above.
\1\ Material requirement, then no liner would be required for enclosed stowage compartments equal to or greater
than 25 ft \3\ in interior volume but less than 57 ft \3\ in interior volume. For all enclosed stowage
compartments equal to or greater than 57 ft \3\ in interior volume but less than or equal to 200 ft \3\, a
liner must be provided that meets the requirements of Sec. 25.855 for a Class B cargo compartment.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on October 10, 2006.
Kalene C. Yanamura,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. E6-17345 Filed 10-17-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
