Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier Model CL-600-1A11 (CL-600), CL-600-2A12 (CL-601), CL-600-2B16 (CL-601-3A, CL-601-3R, and CL-604) Airplanes, 67079-67082 [E6-19539]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 223 / Monday, November 20, 2006 / Proposed Rules Comments Due Date (a) The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by December 20, 2006. (2) Reposition the existing clamps and install additional clamps to obtain a minimum clearance of 3 mm between the fuel and hydraulic lines, as applicable, in accordance with Part 2 of the Accomplishment Instructions of Fokker Service Bulletin SBF100–28–041, dated July 20, 2005. Affected ADs (b) None. Applicability (c) This AD applies to all Fokker Model F.28 Mark 0070 and 0100 airplanes, certificated in any category. Unsafe Condition (d) This AD results from a fuel leak found in the left main landing gear (MLG) bay. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct inadequate clearance between fuel and hydraulic lines in the MLG bay, which could lead to chafing of a fuel line and fuel leakage. A fuel leak near hot brakes could result in a fire in the MLG bay. 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. sroberts on PROD1PC70 with PROPOSALS Inspections for Clearance and Chafing (f) Within 6 months after the effective date of this AD, do a general visual inspection of the fuel lines located in the left and right MLG bays to determine the clearance between the fuel and hydraulic lines, in accordance with Part 1 of the Accomplishment Instructions of Fokker Service Bulletin SBF100–28–041, dated July 20, 2005. If the clearance of a fuel line is 3 mm (millimeters) or more, no further action is required by this AD for that fuel line only. If the clearance of a fuel line is less than 3 mm, before further flight, do a general visual inspection of the fuel line for chafing in accordance with Part 1 of the Accomplishment Instructions of the service bulletin. Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a general visual inspection is: ‘‘A visual examination of an interior or exterior area, installation, or assembly to detect obvious damage, failure, or irregularity. This level of inspection is made from within touching distance unless otherwise specified. A mirror may be necessary to ensure visual access to all surfaces in the inspection area. This level of inspection is made under normally available lighting conditions such as daylight, hangar lighting, flashlight, or droplight and may require removal or opening of access panels or doors. Stands, ladders, or platforms may be required to gain proximity to the area being checked.’’ Corrective Actions (g) If the fuel line is found chafed during the inspection for chafing specified in paragraph (f) of this AD, before further flight after that inspection, do the actions in paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD. If the fuel line is not found chafed, within 6 months after the inspection for chafing, do the actions in paragraph (g)(2) of this AD. (1) Replace the chafed fuel line with a new fuel line in accordance with Part 1 of the Accomplishment Instructions of Fokker Service Bulletin SBF100–28–041, dated July 20, 2005. VerDate Aug<31>2005 17:07 Nov 17, 2006 Jkt 211001 Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (h)(1) The Manager, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, 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. Related Information (i) Dutch airworthiness directive NL–2005– 010 R1, dated September 7, 2005, also addresses the subject of this AD. Issued in Renton, Washington, on November 8, 2006. Kalene C. Yanamura, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. E6–19538 Filed 11–17–06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2006–26353; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–189–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier Model CL–600–1A11 (CL–600), CL– 600–2A12 (CL–601), CL–600–2B16 (CL– 601–3A, CL–601–3R, and CL–604) Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier Model CL–600– 1A11 (CL–600) airplanes, CL–600–2A12 (CL–601) airplanes, and CL–600–2B16 (CL–601–3A, CL–601–3R, and CL–604) airplanes. This proposed AD would require inspecting to identify the part number and serial number of the selector valves of the nose landing gear (NLG) and the nose gear door; and doing related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. This proposed AD results from reports of uncommanded PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 67079 partial retractions of the NLG. We are proposing this AD to prevent internal leakage of the selector valve, which, under certain conditions, could result in an uncommanded retraction of the NLG with consequent damage to the airplane and possible serious injury to ground personnel. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by December 20, 2006. ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on this proposed AD. • DOT Docket Web site: Go to https:// dms.dot.gov and follow the instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Government-wide rulemaking Web site: Go to https://www.regulations.gov and follow the instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Mail: Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building, Room PL–401, Washington, DC 20590. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. • Hand Delivery: Room PL–401 on the plaza level of the Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. Contact Bombardier, Inc., Canadair, Aerospace Group, P.O. Box 6087, Station Centre-ville, Montreal, Quebec H3C 3G9, Canada, for service information identified in this proposed AD. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Daniel Parrillo, Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Flight Test Branch, ANE– 172, FAA, New York Aircraft Certification Office, 1600 Stewart Avenue, suite 410, Westbury, New York 11590; telephone (516) 228–7305; fax (516) 794–5531. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to submit any relevant written data, views, or arguments regarding this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed in the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number ‘‘FAA–2006–26353; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–189–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend the proposed AD in light of those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// dms.dot.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also E:\FR\FM\20NOP1.SGM 20NOP1 67080 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 223 / Monday, November 20, 2006 / Proposed Rules post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact with FAA personnel concerning this proposed AD. Using the search function of that Web site, anyone can find and read the comments in any of our dockets, including the name of the individual who sent the comment (or signed the comment on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). You may review the DOT’s complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477–78), or you may visit https:// dms.dot.gov. Examining the Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://dms.dot.gov, or in person at the Docket Management Facility office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The Docket Management Facility office (telephone (800) 647–5227) is located on the plaza level of the Nassif Building at the DOT street address stated in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after the Docket Management System receives them. Discussion Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA), which is the airworthiness authority for Canada, notified us that an unsafe condition may exist on certain Bombardier Model CL–600–1A11 (CL– 600), CL–600–2A12 (CL–601), and CL– 600–2B16 (CL–601–3A, CL–601–3R, and CL–604) airplanes. TCCA reports several cases of uncommanded retraction of the nose landing gear (NLG) of Model CL– 600–2B19 airplanes caused by discrepant selector valves; the same selector valves may be installed on the airplanes identified in this proposed AD. (Further rulemaking will address the unsafe condition in Model CL–600– 2B19 airplanes.) Investigation revealed that the end caps of certain NLG and nose gear door selector valves may have been incorrectly lock-wired or improperly torqued during manufacture. This could allow the valve end cap to back off and damage the valve seal, resulting in internal leakage of the valve. Such internal leakage, under certain conditions, could result in an uncommanded retraction of the NLG with consequent damage to the airplane and possible serious injury to ground personnel. Certain conditions involve the transfer or removal of electrical power from the airplane on the ground before the NLG safety pin is installed, when any pressure, including residual pressure, is present in the No. 3 hydraulic system. Operators should be aware that selector valves having Bombardier P/N 601R75146–1, which are the subject of this proposed AD, may be supplied by different manufacturers and have different manufacturer part numbers. Only selector valves manufactured by Tactair Fluid Controls, having P/N 750006000, would be affected by this proposed AD. Relevant Service Information Bombardier has issued the service bulletins identified in the following table. BOMBARDIER SERVICE BULLETINS Revision level Service Bulletin sroberts on PROD1PC70 with PROPOSALS 600–0721 (for Model CL–600–1A11 (CL–600) airplanes) .................................................................................... 601–0558 (for Model CL–600–2A12 (CL–601), CL–600–2B16 (CL–601–3A and CL–601–3R) airplanes) ......... 604–32–021 (for Model CL–600–2B16 (CL–604) airplanes) ................................................................................ The service bulletins describe procedures for inspecting for certain S/ Ns of the selector valves of the NLG and the nose gear door, and doing related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. Related investigative actions include checking for proper installation of the lock wire of the end cap and verifying the torqued value of the end cap. Corrective actions include ensuring that any selector valve that has a properly installed lock wire and properly torqued end cap is marked with a new manufacturer part number and replacing any discrepant selector valve with a new or serviceable selector valve marked with the correct part number. Accomplishing the actions specified in the service information is intended to adequately address the unsafe condition. TCCA mandated the service information and issued Canadian airworthiness directive CF– 2006–16, dated July 6, 2006, to ensure the continued airworthiness of these airplanes in Canada. The Bombardier service bulletins refer to Tactair Fluid Controls Service Bulletin SB750006000–1, Revision A, dated September 6, 2005, as an VerDate Aug<31>2005 17:07 Nov 17, 2006 Jkt 211001 additional source of service information for doing the related investigative and corrective actions previously described. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of the Proposed AD These airplane models are manufactured in Canada and are type certificated for operation in the United States under the provisions of section 21.29 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.29) and the applicable bilateral airworthiness agreement. Pursuant to this bilateral airworthiness agreement, TCCA has kept the FAA informed of the situation described above. We have examined TCCA’s findings, evaluated all pertinent information, and determined that we need to issue an AD for airplanes of this type design that are certificated for operation in the United States. Therefore, we are proposing this AD, which would require accomplishing the actions specified in the service information described previously. Clarification of Inspection Terminology The service bulletins specify checking for proper installation of the lock wire; PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 01 01 01 Date February 20, 2006. February 20, 2006. February 20, 2006. however, we have determined that this check should be a ‘‘general visual’’ inspection. We have included a definition of this type of inspection in Note 2 of this proposed AD. Costs of Compliance This proposed AD would affect about 492 airplanes of U.S. registry. The inspection to determine the manufacturer P/N and S/N of the selector valve(s) would take about 1 work hour per airplane, at an average labor rate of $80 per work hour. Based on these figures, the estimated cost of the proposed AD for U.S. operators is $39,360, or $80 per airplane. The general visual inspection of the selector valve(s), if accomplished, would take about 1 work hour per airplane, at an average labor rate of $80 per work hour. Based on these figures, the estimated cost of the proposed AD for U.S. operators is $80 per airplane. 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, E:\FR\FM\20NOP1.SGM 20NOP1 67081 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 223 / Monday, November 20, 2006 / Proposed Rules 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 proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the proposed regulation: 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and 3. 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 proposed 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, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): Bombardier, Inc. (Formerly Canadair): Docket No. FAA–2006–26353; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–189–AD. Comments Due Date (a) The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by December 20, 2006. Affected ADs (b) None. Applicability (c) This AD applies to Bombardier Model CL–600–1A11 (CL–600) airplanes, CL–600– 2A12 (CL–601) airplanes, and CL–600–2B16 (CL–601–3A, CL–601–3R, and CL–604) airplanes; certificated in any category; having serial numbers (S/Ns) as identified in the service bulletins specified in Table 1 of this AD, as applicable. TABLE 1.—BOMBARDIER SERVICE BULLETINS Revision level Service Bulletin 600–0721 (for Model CL–600–1A11 (CL–600) airplanes) ................................................................................ 601–0558 (for Model CL–600–2A12 (CL–601) airplanes, and CL–600–2B16 (CL–601–3A and CL–601–3R) airplanes). 604–32–021 (for Model CL–600–2B16 (CL–604) airplanes) ............................................................................ 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. further flight, do related investigative (including a general visual inspection for proper installation of the lock wire of the end cap) and corrective actions; in accordance with the applicable service bulletins identified in Table 1 of this AD. Note 1: Operators should be aware that selector valves having Bombardier P/N 601R75146–1 may be supplied by different manufacturers and have different manufacturer part numbers. Only airplanes having selector valves manufactured by Tactair Fluid Controls, having P/N 750006000, are subject to the investigative and corrective actions specified in paragraph (f) of this AD. Inspection and Corrective Actions (f) Within 500 flight hours or 12 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first, inspect to determine the manufacturer part number (P/N) and S/N of the selector valves of the NLG and nose gear door. A review of airplane maintenance records is acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the S/Ns of the selector valves can be conclusively determined from that review. For any subject selector valve having Tactair Fluid Controls P/N 750006000 and a S/N from 0001 through 0767 inclusive, before Note 2: For the purposes of this AD, a general visual inspection is: ‘‘A visual examination of an interior or exterior area, installation, or assembly to detect obvious damage, failure, or irregularity. This level of inspection is made from within touching distance unless otherwise specified. A mirror may be necessary to ensure visual access to all surfaces in the inspection area. This level of inspection is made under normally available lighting conditions such as daylight, hangar lighting, flashlight, or droplight and may require removal or opening of access panels or doors. Stands, sroberts on PROD1PC70 with PROPOSALS Unsafe Condition (d) This AD results from reports of uncommanded partial retractions of the nose landing gear (NLG). We are issuing this AD to prevent internal leakage of the selector valve, which, under certain conditions, could result in an uncommanded retraction of the NLG with consequent damage to the airplane and possible serious injury to ground personnel. VerDate Aug<31>2005 17:07 Nov 17, 2006 Jkt 211001 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Date 01 01 February 20, 2006. February 20, 2006. 01 February 20, 2006. ladders, or platforms may be required to gain proximity to the area being checked.’’ Note 3: The service bulletins identified in Table 1 of this AD refer to Tactair Fluid Controls Service Bulletin SB750006000–1, Revision A, dated September 6, 2005, as an additional source of service information for doing the related investigative and corrective actions required by this AD. Parts Installation (g) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install on any airplane a subject selector valve having a S/N from 0001 through 0767 inclusive, unless that selector valve meets the requirements of paragraph (f) of this AD. Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (h)(1) The Manager, New York Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested in accordance with the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. (2) Before using any AMOC approved in accordance with § 39.19 on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify the appropriate principal inspector in the FAA E:\FR\FM\20NOP1.SGM 20NOP1 67082 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 223 / Monday, November 20, 2006 / Proposed Rules Flight Standards Certificate Holding District Office. Related Information (i) Canadian airworthiness directive CF– 2006–16, dated July 6, 2006, also addresses the subject of this AD. Issued in Renton, Washington, on November 8, 2006. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. E6–19539 Filed 11–17–06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2006–26354; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–196–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica S.A. (EMBRAER) Model EMB–135 Airplanes and Model EMB–145, –145ER, –145MR, –145LR, –145XR, –145MP, and –145EP Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). sroberts on PROD1PC70 with PROPOSALS AGENCY: SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain EMBRAER Model EMB–135 airplanes and Model EMB–145, –145ER, –145MR, –145LR, –145XR, –145MP, and –145EP airplanes. This proposed AD would require replacing the metallic tubes enclosing the vent and pilot valve wires in the left- and right-hand wing fuel tanks with non-conductive hoses. This proposed AD results from fuel system reviews conducted by the manufacturer. We are proposing this AD to prevent an ignition source inside the fuel tank that could ignite fuel vapor and cause a fuel tank explosion and loss of the airplane. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by December 20, 2006. ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on this proposed AD. • DOT Docket Web site: Go to https://dms.dot.gov and follow the instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Government-wide rulemaking Web site: Go to https://www.regulations.gov and follow the instructions for sending your comments electronically. VerDate Aug<31>2005 17:07 Nov 17, 2006 Jkt 211001 • Mail: Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building, Room PL–401, Washington, DC 20590. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. • Hand Delivery: Room PL–401 on the plaza level of the Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. Contact Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica S.A. (EMBRAER), P.O. Box 343—CEP 12.225, Sao Jose dos Campos—SP, Brazil, for service information identified in this proposed AD. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Rosanne Ryburn, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–2139; fax (425) 227–1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to submit any relevant written data, views, or arguments regarding this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed in the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number ‘‘FAA–2006–26354; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–196–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend the proposed AD in light of those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// dms.dot.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact with FAA personnel concerning this proposed AD. Using the search function of that Web site, anyone can find and read the comments in any of our dockets, including the name of the individual who sent the comment (or signed the comment on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). You may review the DOT’s complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477–78), or you may visit https:// dms.dot.gov. Examining the Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://dms.dot.gov, or in person at the Docket Management Facility office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The Docket PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Management Facility office (telephone (800) 647–5227) is located on the plaza level of the Nassif Building at the DOT street address stated in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after the Docket Management System receives them. Discussion The FAA has examined the underlying safety issues involved in fuel tank explosions on several large transport airplanes, including the adequacy of existing regulations, the service history of airplanes subject to those regulations, and existing maintenance practices for fuel tank systems. As a result of those findings, we issued a regulation titled ‘‘Transport Airplane Fuel Tank System Design Review, Flammability Reduction and Maintenance and Inspection Requirements’’ (66 FR 23086, May 7, 2001). In addition to new airworthiness standards for transport airplanes and new maintenance requirements, this rule included Special Federal Aviation Regulation No. 88 (‘‘SFAR 88,’’ Amendment 21–78, and subsequent Amendments 21–82 and 21–83). Among other actions, SFAR 88 requires certain type design (i.e., type certificate (TC) and supplemental type certificate (STC)) holders to substantiate that their fuel tank systems can prevent ignition sources in the fuel tanks. This requirement applies to type design holders for large turbine-powered transport airplanes and for subsequent modifications to those airplanes. It requires them to perform design reviews and to develop design changes and maintenance procedures if their designs do not meet the new fuel tank safety standards. As explained in the preamble to the rule, we intended to adopt airworthiness directives to mandate any changes found necessary to address unsafe conditions identified as a result of these reviews. In evaluating these design reviews, we have established four criteria intended to define the unsafe conditions associated with fuel tank systems that require corrective actions. The percentage of operating time during which fuel tanks are exposed to flammable conditions is one of these criteria. The other three criteria address the failure types under evaluation: single failures, single failures in combination with a latent condition(s), and in-service failure experience. For all four criteria, the evaluations included consideration of previous actions taken that may mitigate the need for further action. We have determined that the actions identified in this AD are necessary to E:\FR\FM\20NOP1.SGM 20NOP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 223 (Monday, November 20, 2006)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 67079-67082]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E6-19539]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2006-26353; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-189-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier Model CL-600-1A11 (CL-600), 
CL-600-2A12 (CL-601), CL-600-2B16 (CL-601-3A, CL-601-3R, and CL-604) 
Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) 
for certain Bombardier Model CL-600-1A11 (CL-600) airplanes, CL-600-
2A12 (CL-601) airplanes, and CL-600-2B16 (CL-601-3A, CL-601-3R, and CL-
604) airplanes. This proposed AD would require inspecting to identify 
the part number and serial number of the selector valves of the nose 
landing gear (NLG) and the nose gear door; and doing related 
investigative and corrective actions if necessary. This proposed AD 
results from reports of uncommanded partial retractions of the NLG. We 
are proposing this AD to prevent internal leakage of the selector 
valve, which, under certain conditions, could result in an uncommanded 
retraction of the NLG with consequent damage to the airplane and 
possible serious injury to ground personnel.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by December 20, 
2006.

ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on 
this proposed AD.
     DOT Docket Web site: Go to https://dms.dot.gov and follow 
the instructions for sending your comments electronically.
     Government-wide rulemaking Web site: Go to https://
www.regulations.gov and follow the instructions for sending your 
comments electronically.
     Mail: Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of 
Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building, Room PL-401, 
Washington, DC 20590.
     Fax: (202) 493-2251.
     Hand Delivery: Room PL-401 on the plaza level of the 
Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    Contact Bombardier, Inc., Canadair, Aerospace Group, P.O. Box 6087, 
Station Centre-ville, Montreal, Quebec H3C 3G9, Canada, for service 
information identified in this proposed AD.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Daniel Parrillo, Aerospace Engineer, 
Systems and Flight Test Branch, ANE-172, FAA, New York Aircraft 
Certification Office, 1600 Stewart Avenue, suite 410, Westbury, New 
York 11590; telephone (516) 228-7305; fax (516) 794-5531.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    We invite you to submit any relevant written data, views, or 
arguments regarding this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed in the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number ``FAA-2006-
26353; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-189-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the proposed AD. We will 
consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend the 
proposed AD in light of those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://
dms.dot.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will 
also

[[Page 67080]]

post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact with FAA 
personnel concerning this proposed AD. Using the search function of 
that Web site, anyone can find and read the comments in any of our 
dockets, including the name of the individual who sent the comment (or 
signed the comment on behalf of an association, business, labor union, 
etc.). You may review the DOT's complete Privacy Act Statement in the 
Federal Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477-78), or you 
may visit https://dms.dot.gov.

Examining the Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov, or in person at the Docket Management Facility office 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The Docket Management Facility office (telephone (800) 647-
5227) is located on the plaza level of the Nassif Building at the DOT 
street address stated in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be 
available in the AD docket shortly after the Docket Management System 
receives them.

Discussion

    Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA), which is the airworthiness 
authority for Canada, notified us that an unsafe condition may exist on 
certain Bombardier Model CL-600-1A11 (CL-600), CL-600-2A12 (CL-601), 
and CL-600-2B16 (CL-601-3A, CL-601-3R, and CL-604) airplanes. TCCA 
reports several cases of uncommanded retraction of the nose landing 
gear (NLG) of Model CL-600-2B19 airplanes caused by discrepant selector 
valves; the same selector valves may be installed on the airplanes 
identified in this proposed AD. (Further rulemaking will address the 
unsafe condition in Model CL-600-2B19 airplanes.) Investigation 
revealed that the end caps of certain NLG and nose gear door selector 
valves may have been incorrectly lock-wired or improperly torqued 
during manufacture. This could allow the valve end cap to back off and 
damage the valve seal, resulting in internal leakage of the valve. Such 
internal leakage, under certain conditions, could result in an 
uncommanded retraction of the NLG with consequent damage to the 
airplane and possible serious injury to ground personnel. Certain 
conditions involve the transfer or removal of electrical power from the 
airplane on the ground before the NLG safety pin is installed, when any 
pressure, including residual pressure, is present in the No. 3 
hydraulic system.
    Operators should be aware that selector valves having Bombardier P/
N 601R75146-1, which are the subject of this proposed AD, may be 
supplied by different manufacturers and have different manufacturer 
part numbers. Only selector valves manufactured by Tactair Fluid 
Controls, having P/N 750006000, would be affected by this proposed AD.

Relevant Service Information

    Bombardier has issued the service bulletins identified in the 
following table.

                      Bombardier Service Bulletins
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  Revision
        Service Bulletin           level                Date
------------------------------------------------------------------------
600-0721 (for Model CL-600-1A11         01  February 20, 2006.
 (CL-600) airplanes).
601-0558 (for Model CL-600-2A12         01  February 20, 2006.
 (CL-601), CL-600-2B16 (CL-601-
 3A and CL-601-3R) airplanes).
604-32-021 (for Model CL-600-           01  February 20, 2006.
 2B16 (CL-604) airplanes).
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The service bulletins describe procedures for inspecting for 
certain S/Ns of the selector valves of the NLG and the nose gear door, 
and doing related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. 
Related investigative actions include checking for proper installation 
of the lock wire of the end cap and verifying the torqued value of the 
end cap. Corrective actions include ensuring that any selector valve 
that has a properly installed lock wire and properly torqued end cap is 
marked with a new manufacturer part number and replacing any discrepant 
selector valve with a new or serviceable selector valve marked with the 
correct part number. Accomplishing the actions specified in the service 
information is intended to adequately address the unsafe condition. 
TCCA mandated the service information and issued Canadian airworthiness 
directive CF-2006-16, dated July 6, 2006, to ensure the continued 
airworthiness of these airplanes in Canada.
    The Bombardier service bulletins refer to Tactair Fluid Controls 
Service Bulletin SB750006000-1, Revision A, dated September 6, 2005, as 
an additional source of service information for doing the related 
investigative and corrective actions previously described.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of the Proposed AD

    These airplane models are manufactured in Canada and are type 
certificated for operation in the United States under the provisions of 
section 21.29 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.29) and 
the applicable bilateral airworthiness agreement. Pursuant to this 
bilateral airworthiness agreement, TCCA has kept the FAA informed of 
the situation described above. We have examined TCCA's findings, 
evaluated all pertinent information, and determined that we need to 
issue an AD for airplanes of this type design that are certificated for 
operation in the United States.
    Therefore, we are proposing this AD, which would require 
accomplishing the actions specified in the service information 
described previously.

Clarification of Inspection Terminology

    The service bulletins specify checking for proper installation of 
the lock wire; however, we have determined that this check should be a 
``general visual'' inspection. We have included a definition of this 
type of inspection in Note 2 of this proposed AD.

Costs of Compliance

    This proposed AD would affect about 492 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    The inspection to determine the manufacturer P/N and S/N of the 
selector valve(s) would take about 1 work hour per airplane, at an 
average labor rate of $80 per work hour. Based on these figures, the 
estimated cost of the proposed AD for U.S. operators is $39,360, or $80 
per airplane.
    The general visual inspection of the selector valve(s), if 
accomplished, would take about 1 work hour per airplane, at an average 
labor rate of $80 per work hour. Based on these figures, the estimated 
cost of the proposed AD for U.S. operators is $80 per airplane.

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,

[[Page 67081]]

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 proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the proposed 
regulation:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
    3. 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 proposed 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, Safety.

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

    1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

    2. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends Sec.  39.13 by 
adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD):

Bombardier, Inc. (Formerly Canadair): Docket No. FAA-2006-26353; 
Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-189-AD.

Comments Due Date

    (a) The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by December 
20, 2006.

Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to Bombardier Model CL-600-1A11 (CL-600) 
airplanes, CL-600-2A12 (CL-601) airplanes, and CL-600-2B16 (CL-601-
3A, CL-601-3R, and CL-604) airplanes; certificated in any category; 
having serial numbers (S/Ns) as identified in the service bulletins 
specified in Table 1 of this AD, as applicable.

                                     Table 1.--Bombardier Service Bulletins
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                            Revision
                    Service Bulletin                         level                        Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
600-0721 (for Model CL-600-1A11 (CL-600) airplanes).....           01  February 20, 2006.
601-0558 (for Model CL-600-2A12 (CL-601) airplanes, and            01  February 20, 2006.
 CL-600-2B16 (CL-601-3A and CL-601-3R) airplanes).
604-32-021 (for Model CL-600-2B16 (CL-604) airplanes)...           01  February 20, 2006.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Unsafe Condition

    (d) This AD results from reports of uncommanded partial 
retractions of the nose landing gear (NLG). We are issuing this AD 
to prevent internal leakage of the selector valve, which, under 
certain conditions, could result in an uncommanded retraction of the 
NLG with consequent damage to the airplane and possible serious 
injury to ground personnel.

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.

Inspection and Corrective Actions

    (f) Within 500 flight hours or 12 months after the effective 
date of this AD, whichever occurs first, inspect to determine the 
manufacturer part number (P/N) and S/N of the selector valves of the 
NLG and nose gear door. A review of airplane maintenance records is 
acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the S/Ns of the selector 
valves can be conclusively determined from that review. For any 
subject selector valve having Tactair Fluid Controls P/N 750006000 
and a S/N from 0001 through 0767 inclusive, before further flight, 
do related investigative (including a general visual inspection for 
proper installation of the lock wire of the end cap) and corrective 
actions; in accordance with the applicable service bulletins 
identified in Table 1 of this AD.

    Note 1: Operators should be aware that selector valves having 
Bombardier P/N 601R75146-1 may be supplied by different 
manufacturers and have different manufacturer part numbers. Only 
airplanes having selector valves manufactured by Tactair Fluid 
Controls, having P/N 750006000, are subject to the investigative and 
corrective actions specified in paragraph (f) of this AD.


    Note 2: For the purposes of this AD, a general visual inspection 
is: ``A visual examination of an interior or exterior area, 
installation, or assembly to detect obvious damage, failure, or 
irregularity. This level of inspection is made from within touching 
distance unless otherwise specified. A mirror may be necessary to 
ensure visual access to all surfaces in the inspection area. This 
level of inspection is made under normally available lighting 
conditions such as daylight, hangar lighting, flashlight, or 
droplight and may require removal or opening of access panels or 
doors. Stands, ladders, or platforms may be required to gain 
proximity to the area being checked.''


    Note 3: The service bulletins identified in Table 1 of this AD 
refer to Tactair Fluid Controls Service Bulletin SB750006000-1, 
Revision A, dated September 6, 2005, as an additional source of 
service information for doing the related investigative and 
corrective actions required by this AD.

Parts Installation

    (g) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install 
on any airplane a subject selector valve having a S/N from 0001 
through 0767 inclusive, unless that selector valve meets the 
requirements of paragraph (f) of this AD.

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

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

[[Page 67082]]

Flight Standards Certificate Holding District Office.

Related Information

    (i) Canadian airworthiness directive CF-2006-16, dated July 6, 
2006, also addresses the subject of this AD.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on November 8, 2006.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. E6-19539 Filed 11-17-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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