Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 767 Airplanes, 7572-7576 [E7-2644]
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7572
Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 32 / Friday, February 16, 2007 / Rules and Regulations
Issued in Renton, Washington, on February
6, 2007.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E7–2640 Filed 2–15–07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2005–20351; Directorate
Identifier 2003–NM–269–AD; Amendment
39–14948; AD 2007–04–16]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing
Model 767 Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Boeing Model 767 airplanes. This AD
requires an inspection of each main tank
fuel boost pump for the presence of a
pump shaft flame arrestor, and if the
flame arrestor is missing, replacement of
that pump with a pump having a pump
shaft flame arrestor. This AD also
requires repetitive measurements of the
flame arrestor’s position in the pump,
and corrective actions if necessary. This
AD also requires the replacement of the
pump with a new or modified pump,
which ends the repetitive
measurements. This AD results from
reports that certain fuel boost pumps
may not have flame arrestors installed
in the pump shaft and reports that the
pin that holds the flame arrestor in
place can break due to metal fatigue. We
are issuing this AD to prevent the
possible migration of a flame from a
main tank fuel boost pump inlet to the
vapor space of that fuel tank, and
consequent ignition of fuel vapors,
which could result in a fire or
explosion.
This AD becomes effective
March 23, 2007.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in the AD
as of March 23, 2007.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD
docket on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov or in person at the Docket
Management Facility, U.S. Department
of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street,
SW., Nassif Building, Room PL–401,
Washington, DC.
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DATES:
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Contact Boeing Commercial
Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle,
Washington 98124–2207, for service
information identified in this AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Judith Coyle, Aerospace Engineer,
Propulsion Branch, ANM–140S, FAA,
Seattle Aircraft Certification Office,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98057–3356; telephone
(425) 917–6497; fax (425) 917–6590.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
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 street
address stated in the ADDRESSES section.
Discussion
The FAA issued a supplemental
notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM)
to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an
AD that would apply to all Boeing
Model 767 airplanes. That supplemental
NPRM was published in the Federal
Register on July 6, 2006 (71 FR 38304).
That supplemental NPRM proposed to
require an inspection of each main tank
fuel boost pump for the presence of a
pump shaft flame arrestor, and if the
flame arrestor is missing, replacement of
that pump with a pump having a pump
shaft flame arrestor. That supplemental
NPRM also proposed to require
repetitive measurements of the flame
arrestor’s position in the pump, and
corrective actions if necessary. That
supplemental NPRM also proposed to
require the replacement of the pump
with a new or modified pump, which
ends the repetitive measurements.
Comments
We provided the public the
opportunity to participate in the
development of this AD. We have
considered the comments received.
Request for Clarification of
Replacement Requirement
The Air Transport Association (ATA)
of America, on behalf of one of its
member operators, Delta Air Lines,
requests that we explain why we
propose to require replacing the pump
shaft without including the option of
replacing the shaft pin or periodically
inspecting the pin. Delta states that
replacing the entire shaft would be at a
considerable cost and that a more costeffective solution would be to develop
a pin replacement repair.
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We acknowledge that it may be
possible to develop a more cost-effective
solution than the replacement specified
in this AD. However, the manufacturer
has developed only a single design
solution (replacement of the pump
shaft) to fully address the identified
unsafe condition specified in this AD.
We have mandated this terminating
action because we can better ensure
long-term continued operational safety
by design changes to remove the source
of the problem, rather than by repetitive
inspections. We also recognize that
alternative methods of compliance
(AMOCs) that meet the intent of this AD
may also exist; operators may request an
AMOC in accordance with the
procedures specified in paragraph (l) of
this AD. We have not revised this AD
in this regard.
Request To Remove Terminating Action
Requirement
Delta Air Lines requests that we do
not mandate the terminating action
specified in paragraph (i) of the
supplemental NPRM that would require
replacing the pump within 36 months.
Delta Air Lines states that if the 6,000flight-hour or 24-month repetitive
interval specified in paragraphs (f) and
(g) of the supplemental NPRM provide
an acceptable level of safety, then the
repetitive interval should be adequate
until an operator can schedule the
terminating action specified in
paragraph (i) of the supplemental
NPRM, if desired.
We do not agree to remove the
requirement to do the terminating action
specified in paragraph (i) of this AD. We
can better ensure long-term continued
operational safety by modifications or
design changes to remove the source of
the problem, rather than by repetitive
inspections/testing. Long-term
inspections/testing may not provide the
degree of safety necessary for the
transport airplane fleet. This, coupled
with a better understanding of the
human factors associated with
numerous repetitive inspections, has led
us to consider placing less emphasis on
special procedures and more emphasis
on design improvements.
We developed the 36-month
compliance time for the replacement in
accordance with manufacturer
recommendations and we considered
the urgency associated with the subject
unsafe condition, the availability of
required parts, and the practical aspect
of accomplishing the required
modification within a period of time
that corresponds to the normal
scheduled maintenance for most
affected operators. However, according
to the procedures specified in paragraph
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(l) of this AD, we may approve requests
to adjust the compliance time if the
request includes data that substantiate
that the new compliance time would
provide an acceptable level of safety.
We have not revised this AD in this
regard.
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Request To Coordinate With Pending
Related Actions
ATA, on behalf of one its member
operators, Delta Air Lines, requests that
the supplemental NPRM be coordinated
with any action that may be pending to
address the fuel pump feed-through
connector in order to avoid more pump
removals than are required to
accomplish both actions. Delta Air Lines
believes that Boeing Alert Service
Bulletins 767–28A0095 and 767–
28A0096, both dated September 15,
2005, which address the fuel pump
feed-through connector, could be done
concurrently with this supplemental
NPRM.
We acknowledge that coordinating the
actions in this AD with the actions
specified in Boeing Alert Service
Bulletins 767–28A0095 and 767–
28A0096 may reduce the number of
pump removals. However, we have not
yet issued any AD rulemaking related to
those service bulletins, and to delay this
action would be inappropriate, since we
have determined that an unsafe
condition exists and the requirements of
this AD must be done to ensure
continued operational safety. We are
considering AD rulemaking related to
Boeing Alert Service Bulletins 767–
28A0095 and 767–28A0096, and we are
also considering how the compliance
times specified in this AD will fit with
the compliance times of that future
rulemaking. Operators should note that
it is always permitted to accomplish the
requirements of any AD at a time earlier
than the specified compliance time. We
have not revised this AD in this regard.
Request To Add Phrase to Unsafe
Condition Statement
Boeing requests that the phrase
‘‘should the pump inlets become
uncovered’’ be added to paragraph (d) of
the supplemental NPRM. The
commenter notes that the phrase was
removed by the FAA in the
supplemental NPRM because the FAA
stated that ‘‘the pump inlet does not
need to be uncovered for ignited vapors
in the pump to cause a tank explosion.’’
The commenter contends that the fuel
pump inlets being covered in fuel
mitigates the unsafe condition because
when the fuel pump inlets are covered,
the inlets and pump cavity are full of
liquid fuel in which no flame front
could develop.
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We acknowledge the need for
clarification of the unsafe condition
statement. We acknowledge that
operation of a fuel pump with its inlet
below the surface of the fuel in the tank
ensures that the ignition risk addressed
by this AD is eliminated for the majority
of the time the pump operates.
However, ground fuel transfer
conditions can lead to dry operation of
the fuel pump. After the pump inlet is
again covered by fuel by the addition of
fuel to the tank, the pump operates for
a brief period of time until it is reprimed. During this period of operation
with the inlet covered by fuel, there is
still some risk of a tank ignition event
if an ignition source generating failure
occurs within a pump with a missing
flame arrestor. Therefore, we have not
revised this AD in this regard.
Request To Incorporate Service
Information
The Modification and Replacement of
Parts Association (MARPA) states that
typically ADs are based on service
information originating with the type
certificate holder or its suppliers.
MARPA also states that manufacturer’s
service documents are privately
authored instruments generally enjoying
copyright protection against duplication
and distribution. MARPA contends that
when a service document is
incorporated by reference pursuant to 5
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51 into a
public document such as an AD, it loses
its private, protected status and becomes
itself a public document. MARPA
explains that if a service document is
used as a mandatory element of
compliance it should not simply be
referenced, but should be incorporated
into the regulatory document. MARPA
states that public laws by definition
must be public which means they
cannot rely for compliance upon private
writings. MARPA is concerned that
failure to incorporate essential service
information could result in a court
decision invalidating the AD.
MARPA also states that incorporation
by reference service documents should
be made available to the public by
publication in the Docket Management
System (DMS) keyed to the action that
incorporates them. MARPA explains
that the stated purpose of the
incorporation by reference method of
the Federal Register is brevity; to keep
from expanding the Federal Register
needlessly by publishing documents
already in the hands of the affected
individuals. MARPA notes that
traditionally, ‘‘affected individuals’’ has
meant aircraft owners and operators
who are generally provided service
information by the manufacturer.
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However, MARPA states that a new
class of affected individuals has
emerged since the majority of aircraft
maintenance is now performed by
specialty shops instead of aircraft
owners and operators. MARPA states
that this new class includes
maintenance and repair organizations
(MRO), component servicing and repair
shops, parts purveyors and distributors
and organizations manufacturing or
servicing alternatively certified parts
under section 21.303 (‘‘Replacement
and modification parts’’) of the Federal
Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.303).
Further, MARPA states that the concept
of brevity is now nearly archaic as
documents exist more frequently in
electronic format than on paper.
We acknowledge that the Office of the
Federal Register (OFR) requires that
documents that are necessary to
accomplish the requirements of the AD
be incorporated by reference during the
final rule phase of rulemaking. This
final rule incorporates by reference the
documents necessary for the
accomplishment of the requirements
mandated by this AD. Further, we point
out that while documents that are
incorporated by reference do become
public information, they do not lose
their copyright protection. For that
reason, we advise the public to contact
the manufacturer to obtain copies of the
referenced service information.
In regard to the commenter’s request
to post service bulletins on the
Department of Transportation’s DMS,
we are currently in the process of
reviewing issues surrounding the
posting of service bulletins on the DMS
as part of an AD docket. Once we have
thoroughly examined all aspects of this
issue and have made a final
determination, we will consider
whether our current practice needs to be
revised. No change to the AD is
necessary in response to this comment.
Request To Comply With FAA Order
8040.2
The same commenter requests that the
supplemental NPRM comply with FAA
Order 8040.2. The commenter states that
for mandatory continuing airworthiness
information (MCAI) (issued by an
aviation authority of another country)
that require replacement or installation
of certain parts, the Order allows for
replacement of parts approved under
section 21.303 (‘‘Replacement and
modification parts’’) of the Federal
Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.303)
based on a finding of identicality in the
FAA’s AD. The commenter notes that
the supplemental NPRM is not from an
MCAI but believes that the principles of
the order should be universal.
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We do not agree. The supplemental
NPRM did not address parts
manufacturer approval (PMA) parts, as
provided in draft FAA Order 8040.2,
because the Order was only a draft that
was out for comment at the time. After
issuance of the NPRM, the Order was
revised and issued as FAA Order 8040.5
with an effective date of September 29,
2006. FAA Order 8040.5 does not
address PMA parts in ADs and does not
apply to domestic ADs. Therefore, we
have not revised the AD in this regard.
Request To Address the Use of PMA
Parts
The same commenter also requests
that we revise the way we address the
use of PMA parts in the supplemental
NPRM.
• The commenter requests that the
language in the supplemental NPRM be
changed to permit installation of PMA
equivalent parts. The commenter states
that the mandated installation of a
certain part number in the NPRM ‘‘is at
variance with the higher authority of 14
CFR Section 21.303.’’ The commenter
notes that only safety issues can be
addressed in airworthiness directives as
set forth in Title 49 and ‘‘the prima facia
invalidation of FAR 21.303’’ by AD
action is an economic issue not within
purview of the AD.
• The commenter contends that it is
illogical to require an operator to
request approval of an AMOC in order
to install an ‘‘equivalent’’ PMA part.
• The commenter also requests that
the supplemental NPRM be revised to
cover possible defective PMA
alternative parts so that those defective
PMA parts also are subject to the
supplemental NPRM.
• The commenter also points out that
ADs issued by directorates other than
the Transport Airplane Directorate
contain wording that address PMA parts
and requests that we use the wording
specified in an AD from the Small
Airplane Directorate. The commenter
notes that because the supplemental
NPRM differs markedly in the treatment
of this issue, the mandates contained in
Section 1, paragraph (b)(10) of Executive
Order 12866 are not being met.
We recognize the need for
standardization on this issue and
currently are in the process of reviewing
such issues that address the use of
PMAs in ADs at the national level. The
Transport Airplane Directorate
considers that to delay this particular
AD action would be inappropriate, since
we have determined that an unsafe
condition exists and that replacement of
certain parts must be accomplished to
ensure continued safety. Therefore, we
have not revised the AD in this regard.
Clarification of Compliance Time
Paragraph (f)(2) of the supplemental
NPRM specifies a compliance time of
‘‘within 365 days after the date on
which the airplane accumulates 15,000
total flight hours.’’ We have revised the
compliance time specified in paragraph
(f)(2) of this AD to ‘‘within 365 days
after the date on which the airplane
accumulates 15,000 total flight hours or
within 24 months after performing the
initial inspection required by paragraph
(f) of this AD, whichever occurs later.’’
We made this change in order to give
airplanes identified in paragraph (f)(2)
that reach 15,000 total flight hours
shortly after performing the initial
inspection required by paragraph (f) a
similar compliance time of 24 months
after performing the initial inspection
that is specified for airplanes in
paragraphs (f)(1) and (g) of this AD. We
considered the safety issues and the
recommendations of the manufacturer
and have determined that a 24-month
interval after performing the initial
inspection will ensure an acceptable
level of safety.
Conclusion
We have carefully reviewed the
available data, including the comments
received, and determined that air safety
and the public interest require adopting
the AD with the change described
previously. We have determined that
this change will neither increase the
economic burden on any operator nor
increase the scope of the AD.
Costs of Compliance
This AD affects about 915 airplanes
worldwide, and 400 airplanes of U.S.
registry. The following table provides
the estimated costs for U.S. operators to
comply with this AD.
ESTIMATED COSTS
Action
Average labor
rate per hour
Work hours
Inspection of flame arrestor
presence/position.
Replacement .........................
Parts
Cost per airplane
5
$80
None
$400, per inspection cycle ....
3
80
$25,004
$25,244 .................................
Fleet cost
$160,000, per inspection
cycle.
1 $10,097,600.
1 The
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parts manufacturer states that it may cover the cost of replacement parts associated with this AD for certain affected airplanes, subject
to warranty conditions. As a result, the costs attributable to this AD may be less than stated above.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
Section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII,
Aviation Programs, describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under
the authority described in Subtitle VII,
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701,
‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that
section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
air commerce by prescribing regulations
for practices, methods, and procedures
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the Administrator finds necessary for
safety in air commerce. This regulation
is within the scope of that authority
because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on
products identified in this rulemaking
action.
Regulatory Findings
We have determined that this AD will
not have federalism implications under
Executive Order 13132. This AD will
not have a substantial direct effect on
the States, on the relationship between
the national government and the States,
or on the distribution of power and
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responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
(2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
(3) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation
of the estimated costs to comply with
this AD and placed it in the AD docket.
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See the ADDRESSES section for a location
to examine the regulatory evaluation.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
I
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
I
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) amends § 39.13
by adding the following new
airworthiness directive (AD):
I
2007–04–16 Boeing: Amendment 39–14948.
Docket No. FAA–2005–20351;
Directorate Identifier 2003–NM–269–AD.
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective March 23,
2007.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to all Boeing Model
767–200, –300, –300F, and –400ER series
airplanes, certificated in any category.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from reports that
certain fuel boost pumps may not have flame
arrestors installed in the pump shaft and
reports that the pin that holds the flame
arrestor in place can break due to metal
fatigue. We are issuing this AD to prevent the
possible migration of a flame from a main
tank fuel boost pump inlet to the vapor space
of that fuel tank, and consequent ignition of
fuel vapors, which could result in a fire or
explosion.
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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 for Presence/Position of Flame
Arrestor in Main Tank Fuel Boost Pumps
(f) For airplanes having line numbers
(L/Ns) 1 through 914 inclusive, except as
provided by paragraph (h) of this AD: Within
365 days after the effective date of this AD,
do a detailed inspection of each main tank
fuel boost pump to determine if the pump
shaft flame arrestor is installed, a
measurement of the flame arrestor’s position
in the pump, and all applicable corrective
actions, by accomplishing all the actions
specified in the Accomplishment
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Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
767–28A0077 (for Model 767–200, –300, and
–300F series airplanes) or Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 767–28A0081 (for Model
767–400ER series airplanes), both Revision 1,
both dated July 8, 2004, as applicable. Repeat
the measurement of the flame arrestor’s
position in the pump thereafter at intervals
not to exceed the applicable time specified in
paragraph (f)(1) or (f)(2) of this AD, until the
replacement required by paragraph (i) of this
AD is accomplished. All applicable
corrective actions must be done before
further flight.
Note 1: Any inspection/measurement of
the pumps on the left and right main fuel
tanks may be done separately provided that
the actions are done on all pumps within the
compliance time specified in paragraph (f) of
this AD.
(1) For airplanes that have accumulated
more than 15,000 total flight hours as of the
date the initial actions are done in
accordance with paragraph (f) of this AD:
Repeat the measurement thereafter at
intervals not to exceed 6,000 flight hours or
24 months, whichever comes first.
(2) For airplanes that have accumulated
15,000 total flight hours or fewer as of the
date the initial actions are done in
accordance with paragraph (f) of this AD: Do
the measurement specified in paragraph (f) of
this AD within 365 days after the date on
which the airplane accumulates 15,000 total
flight hours or within 24 months after
performing the initial inspection required by
paragraph (f) of this AD, whichever occurs
later. Repeat the measurement thereafter at
intervals not to exceed 6,000 flight hours or
24 months, whichever comes first.
Note 2: Boeing Alert Service Bulletins 767–
28A0077 and 767–28A0081 reference
Hamilton Sundstrand Service Bulletin
5006003–28–2, dated October 25, 2002, as an
additional source of service information for
accomplishment of the inspection and
corrective actions. Although the Hamilton
Sundstrand service bulletin specifies to
return main tank fuel boost pumps with
damaged, broken, or out-of-position flame
arrestors to a repair shop, that action is not
required by this AD.
Note 3: For the purposes of this AD, a
detailed inspection is: ‘‘An intensive
examination of a specific item, installation,
or assembly to detect damage, failure, or
irregularity. Available lighting is normally
supplemented with a direct source of good
lighting at an intensity deemed appropriate.
Inspection aids such as mirror, magnifying
lenses, etc., may be necessary. Surface
cleaning and elaborate procedures may be
required.’’
(g) For airplanes having L/Ns 915 and on,
except as provided by paragraph (h) of this
AD: At the applicable time specified in
paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD, do a
detailed inspection of each main tank fuel
boost pump to determine if the pump shaft
flame arrestor is installed, a measurement of
the flame arrestor’s position in the pump,
and all applicable corrective actions, by
accomplishing all the actions specified in the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert
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Service Bulletin 767–28A0077 (for Model
767–200, –300, and –300F series airplanes) or
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767–28A0081
(for Model 767–400ER series airplanes), both
Revision 1, both dated July 8, 2004, as
applicable. Repeat the measurement of the
flame arrestor’s position in the pump
thereafter at intervals not to exceed 6,000
flight hours or 24 months, whichever comes
first, until the replacement required by
paragraph (i) of this AD is accomplished. All
applicable corrective actions must be done
before further flight.
Note 4: Any inspection/measurement of
the pumps on the left and right main fuel
tanks may be done separately provided that
the actions are done on all pumps within the
compliance time specified in paragraph (g) of
this AD.
(1) For airplanes that have accumulated
more than 15,000 total flight hours as of the
effective date of this AD, do the actions
within 365 days after the effective date of this
AD.
(2) For airplanes that have accumulated
15,000 total flight hours or fewer as of the
effective date of this AD, do the actions
within 365 days after the date on which the
airplane accumulates 15,000 total flight
hours.
Optional Terminating Action—Records
Review
(h) For any period when the part number
(P/N) of a main tank fuel boost pump
installed on any airplane, as conclusively
determined from a review of airplane
maintenance records, is P/N 5006003D, no
further action is required by paragraphs (f),
(g), and (i) of this AD for that pump only.
Replacement of the Main Tank Fuel Boost
Pumps
(i) Within 36 months after the effective
date of this AD, replace the left and right
main tank fuel boost pumps with new or
modified pumps in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 767–28A0088 (for Model
767–200, –300, and –300F series airplanes) or
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767–28A0089
(for Model 767–400ER series airplanes), both
dated February 24, 2005, as applicable.
Accomplishment of the replacement
terminates the repetitive measurement
requirements of paragraphs (f) and (g) of this
AD for that pump only.
Note 5: Any replacement of the pumps on
the left and right main fuel tanks may be
done separately provided that all pumps are
replaced within the compliance time
specified in paragraph (i) of this AD.
Note 6: Boeing Alert Service Bulletins 767–
28A0088 and 767–28A0089 reference
Hamilton Sundstrand Service Bulletin
5006003–28–3, dated December 8, 2004, as
the appropriate source of service information
for modifying the pump.
Inspections Accomplished According to
Previous Issue of Service Bulletin
(j) Inspections accomplished before the
effective date of this AD in accordance with
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767–28A0077,
dated March 6, 2003; or Boeing Alert Service
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Bulletin 767–28A0081, dated March 6, 2003;
are considered acceptable for compliance
with the corresponding action specified in
paragraphs (f) and (g) of this AD.
Parts Installation
(k) As of the effective date of this AD, only
main tank fuel boost pumps identified in
paragraphs (k)(1) and (k)(2) of this AD may
be installed on any airplane.
(1) Any main tank fuel boost pump that has
been inspected, and on which all applicable
corrective actions have been performed, in
accordance with paragraph (f) or (g) of this
AD.
(2) Any main tank fuel boost pump having
P/N 5006003D.
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(l)(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft
Certification Office, FAA, has the authority to
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested in
accordance with the procedures found in 14
CFR 39.19.
(2) Before using any AMOC approved in
accordance with § 39.19 on any airplane to
which the AMOC applies, notify the
appropriate principal inspector in the FAA
Flight Standards Certificate Holding District
Office.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(m) You must use the applicable service
bulletin specified in Table 1 of this AD to
perform the actions that are required by this
AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. The
Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of these
documents in accordance with 5 U.S.C.
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Contact Boeing
Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707,
Seattle, Washington 98124–2207, for a copy
of this service information. You may review
copies at the FAA, Transport Airplane
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, S.W., Renton,
Washington; or at the National Archives and
Records Administration (NARA). For
information on the availability of this
material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go
to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/
cfr/ibr-locations.html.
TABLE 1.—MATERIAL INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Boeing alert service bulletin
767–28A0077
767–28A0081
767–28A0088
767–28A0089
................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................................................
Issued in Renton, Washington, on February
5, 2007.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E7–2644 Filed 2–15–07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2006–26235; Directorate
Identifier 2006–CE–65–AD; Amendment 39–
14945; AD 2007–04–13]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; EADS
SOCATA Model TBM 700 Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
rmajette on PROD1PC67 with RULES
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for the
products listed above. This AD results
from mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI)
issued by an aviation authority of
another country to identify and correct
an unsafe condition on an aviation
product. The MCAI describes the unsafe
condition as cracks found on several
main landing gear cylinders. We are
issuing this AD to require actions to
correct the unsafe condition on these
products.
14:54 Feb 15, 2007
Jkt 211001
This AD becomes effective
March 23, 2007.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in this AD
as of March 23, 2007.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD
docket on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov or in person at the Docket
Management Facility, U.S. Department
of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street,
SW., Nassif Building, Room PL–401,
Washington, DC.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Albert J. Mercado, Aerospace Engineer,
FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901
Locust, Room 301, Kansas City,
Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–
4119; fax: (816) 329–4090.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
DATES:
Streamlined Issuance of AD
AGENCY:
VerDate Aug<31>2005
Revision level
The FAA is implementing a new
process for streamlining the issuance of
ADs related to MCAI. The streamlined
process will allow us to adopt MCAI
safety requirements in a more efficient
manner and will reduce safety risks to
the public. This process continues to
follow all FAA AD issuance processes to
meet legal, economic, Administrative
Procedure Act, and Federal Register
requirements. We also continue to meet
our technical decision-making
responsibilities to identify and correct
unsafe conditions on U.S.-certificated
products.
This AD references the MCAI and
related service information that we
considered in forming the engineering
basis to correct the unsafe condition.
The AD contains text copied from the
PO 00000
Frm 00030
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
1 ...................
1 ...................
Original .........
Original .........
Date
July 8, 2004.
July 8, 2004.
February 24, 2005.
February 24, 2005.
MCAI and for this reason might not
follow our plain language principles.
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to include an AD that would
apply to the specified products. That
NPRM was published in the Federal
Register on December 22, 2006 (71 FR
76950). That NPRM proposed to correct
an unsafe condition for the specified
products. The MCAI states reports of
cracks found on several main landing
gear (MLG) cylinders. If not detected
and corrected, fatigue cracks in the
shock strut cylinder of the MLG could
result in a collapsed MLG during takeoff
or landing, and possible reduced
structural integrity of the airplane. The
MCAI requires inspecting the MLG
forging body for cracks and repairing
any cracks found.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to
participate in developing this AD. We
considered the comments received.
Comment Issue No. 1: Change the
Required Parts Cost in the Compliance
Section
EADS SOCATA comments the cost for
the parts required to do the actions in
the proposed AD are totally out of
proportion. EADS SOCATA states the
application of SB 70–130, ATA No. 32,
dated January 2006, requires only two
cotter pins and this cost is negligible.
The proposed AD states it will take
approximately $125,600 to comply with
the AD.
E:\FR\FM\16FER1.SGM
16FER1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 72, Number 32 (Friday, February 16, 2007)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 7572-7576]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E7-2644]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2005-20351; Directorate Identifier 2003-NM-269-AD;
Amendment 39-14948; AD 2007-04-16]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 767 Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Boeing Model 767 airplanes. This AD requires an inspection of each main
tank fuel boost pump for the presence of a pump shaft flame arrestor,
and if the flame arrestor is missing, replacement of that pump with a
pump having a pump shaft flame arrestor. This AD also requires
repetitive measurements of the flame arrestor's position in the pump,
and corrective actions if necessary. This AD also requires the
replacement of the pump with a new or modified pump, which ends the
repetitive measurements. This AD results from reports that certain fuel
boost pumps may not have flame arrestors installed in the pump shaft
and reports that the pin that holds the flame arrestor in place can
break due to metal fatigue. We are issuing this AD to prevent the
possible migration of a flame from a main tank fuel boost pump inlet to
the vapor space of that fuel tank, and consequent ignition of fuel
vapors, which could result in a fire or explosion.
DATES: This AD becomes effective March 23, 2007.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of March 23,
2007.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov or in person at the Docket Management Facility, U.S.
Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building,
Room PL-401, Washington, DC.
Contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle,
Washington 98124-2207, for service information identified in this AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Judith Coyle, Aerospace Engineer,
Propulsion Branch, ANM-140S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification
Office, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone
(425) 917-6497; fax (425) 917-6590.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
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 street address stated in the
ADDRESSES section.
Discussion
The FAA issued a supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM)
to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to all Boeing
Model 767 airplanes. That supplemental NPRM was published in the
Federal Register on July 6, 2006 (71 FR 38304). That supplemental NPRM
proposed to require an inspection of each main tank fuel boost pump for
the presence of a pump shaft flame arrestor, and if the flame arrestor
is missing, replacement of that pump with a pump having a pump shaft
flame arrestor. That supplemental NPRM also proposed to require
repetitive measurements of the flame arrestor's position in the pump,
and corrective actions if necessary. That supplemental NPRM also
proposed to require the replacement of the pump with a new or modified
pump, which ends the repetitive measurements.
Comments
We provided the public the opportunity to participate in the
development of this AD. We have considered the comments received.
Request for Clarification of Replacement Requirement
The Air Transport Association (ATA) of America, on behalf of one of
its member operators, Delta Air Lines, requests that we explain why we
propose to require replacing the pump shaft without including the
option of replacing the shaft pin or periodically inspecting the pin.
Delta states that replacing the entire shaft would be at a considerable
cost and that a more cost-effective solution would be to develop a pin
replacement repair.
We acknowledge that it may be possible to develop a more cost-
effective solution than the replacement specified in this AD. However,
the manufacturer has developed only a single design solution
(replacement of the pump shaft) to fully address the identified unsafe
condition specified in this AD. We have mandated this terminating
action because we can better ensure long-term continued operational
safety by design changes to remove the source of the problem, rather
than by repetitive inspections. We also recognize that alternative
methods of compliance (AMOCs) that meet the intent of this AD may also
exist; operators may request an AMOC in accordance with the procedures
specified in paragraph (l) of this AD. We have not revised this AD in
this regard.
Request To Remove Terminating Action Requirement
Delta Air Lines requests that we do not mandate the terminating
action specified in paragraph (i) of the supplemental NPRM that would
require replacing the pump within 36 months. Delta Air Lines states
that if the 6,000-flight-hour or 24-month repetitive interval specified
in paragraphs (f) and (g) of the supplemental NPRM provide an
acceptable level of safety, then the repetitive interval should be
adequate until an operator can schedule the terminating action
specified in paragraph (i) of the supplemental NPRM, if desired.
We do not agree to remove the requirement to do the terminating
action specified in paragraph (i) of this AD. We can better ensure
long-term continued operational safety by modifications or design
changes to remove the source of the problem, rather than by repetitive
inspections/testing. Long-term inspections/testing may not provide the
degree of safety necessary for the transport airplane fleet. This,
coupled with a better understanding of the human factors associated
with numerous repetitive inspections, has led us to consider placing
less emphasis on special procedures and more emphasis on design
improvements.
We developed the 36-month compliance time for the replacement in
accordance with manufacturer recommendations and we considered the
urgency associated with the subject unsafe condition, the availability
of required parts, and the practical aspect of accomplishing the
required modification within a period of time that corresponds to the
normal scheduled maintenance for most affected operators. However,
according to the procedures specified in paragraph
[[Page 7573]]
(l) of this AD, we may approve requests to adjust the compliance time
if the request includes data that substantiate that the new compliance
time would provide an acceptable level of safety. We have not revised
this AD in this regard.
Request To Coordinate With Pending Related Actions
ATA, on behalf of one its member operators, Delta Air Lines,
requests that the supplemental NPRM be coordinated with any action that
may be pending to address the fuel pump feed-through connector in order
to avoid more pump removals than are required to accomplish both
actions. Delta Air Lines believes that Boeing Alert Service Bulletins
767-28A0095 and 767-28A0096, both dated September 15, 2005, which
address the fuel pump feed-through connector, could be done
concurrently with this supplemental NPRM.
We acknowledge that coordinating the actions in this AD with the
actions specified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletins 767-28A0095 and
767-28A0096 may reduce the number of pump removals. However, we have
not yet issued any AD rulemaking related to those service bulletins,
and to delay this action would be inappropriate, since we have
determined that an unsafe condition exists and the requirements of this
AD must be done to ensure continued operational safety. We are
considering AD rulemaking related to Boeing Alert Service Bulletins
767-28A0095 and 767-28A0096, and we are also considering how the
compliance times specified in this AD will fit with the compliance
times of that future rulemaking. Operators should note that it is
always permitted to accomplish the requirements of any AD at a time
earlier than the specified compliance time. We have not revised this AD
in this regard.
Request To Add Phrase to Unsafe Condition Statement
Boeing requests that the phrase ``should the pump inlets become
uncovered'' be added to paragraph (d) of the supplemental NPRM. The
commenter notes that the phrase was removed by the FAA in the
supplemental NPRM because the FAA stated that ``the pump inlet does not
need to be uncovered for ignited vapors in the pump to cause a tank
explosion.'' The commenter contends that the fuel pump inlets being
covered in fuel mitigates the unsafe condition because when the fuel
pump inlets are covered, the inlets and pump cavity are full of liquid
fuel in which no flame front could develop.
We acknowledge the need for clarification of the unsafe condition
statement. We acknowledge that operation of a fuel pump with its inlet
below the surface of the fuel in the tank ensures that the ignition
risk addressed by this AD is eliminated for the majority of the time
the pump operates. However, ground fuel transfer conditions can lead to
dry operation of the fuel pump. After the pump inlet is again covered
by fuel by the addition of fuel to the tank, the pump operates for a
brief period of time until it is re-primed. During this period of
operation with the inlet covered by fuel, there is still some risk of a
tank ignition event if an ignition source generating failure occurs
within a pump with a missing flame arrestor. Therefore, we have not
revised this AD in this regard.
Request To Incorporate Service Information
The Modification and Replacement of Parts Association (MARPA)
states that typically ADs are based on service information originating
with the type certificate holder or its suppliers. MARPA also states
that manufacturer's service documents are privately authored
instruments generally enjoying copyright protection against duplication
and distribution. MARPA contends that when a service document is
incorporated by reference pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51
into a public document such as an AD, it loses its private, protected
status and becomes itself a public document. MARPA explains that if a
service document is used as a mandatory element of compliance it should
not simply be referenced, but should be incorporated into the
regulatory document. MARPA states that public laws by definition must
be public which means they cannot rely for compliance upon private
writings. MARPA is concerned that failure to incorporate essential
service information could result in a court decision invalidating the
AD.
MARPA also states that incorporation by reference service documents
should be made available to the public by publication in the Docket
Management System (DMS) keyed to the action that incorporates them.
MARPA explains that the stated purpose of the incorporation by
reference method of the Federal Register is brevity; to keep from
expanding the Federal Register needlessly by publishing documents
already in the hands of the affected individuals. MARPA notes that
traditionally, ``affected individuals'' has meant aircraft owners and
operators who are generally provided service information by the
manufacturer. However, MARPA states that a new class of affected
individuals has emerged since the majority of aircraft maintenance is
now performed by specialty shops instead of aircraft owners and
operators. MARPA states that this new class includes maintenance and
repair organizations (MRO), component servicing and repair shops, parts
purveyors and distributors and organizations manufacturing or servicing
alternatively certified parts under section 21.303 (``Replacement and
modification parts'') of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR
21.303). Further, MARPA states that the concept of brevity is now
nearly archaic as documents exist more frequently in electronic format
than on paper.
We acknowledge that the Office of the Federal Register (OFR)
requires that documents that are necessary to accomplish the
requirements of the AD be incorporated by reference during the final
rule phase of rulemaking. This final rule incorporates by reference the
documents necessary for the accomplishment of the requirements mandated
by this AD. Further, we point out that while documents that are
incorporated by reference do become public information, they do not
lose their copyright protection. For that reason, we advise the public
to contact the manufacturer to obtain copies of the referenced service
information.
In regard to the commenter's request to post service bulletins on
the Department of Transportation's DMS, we are currently in the process
of reviewing issues surrounding the posting of service bulletins on the
DMS as part of an AD docket. Once we have thoroughly examined all
aspects of this issue and have made a final determination, we will
consider whether our current practice needs to be revised. No change to
the AD is necessary in response to this comment.
Request To Comply With FAA Order 8040.2
The same commenter requests that the supplemental NPRM comply with
FAA Order 8040.2. The commenter states that for mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) (issued by an aviation authority of
another country) that require replacement or installation of certain
parts, the Order allows for replacement of parts approved under section
21.303 (``Replacement and modification parts'') of the Federal Aviation
Regulations (14 CFR 21.303) based on a finding of identicality in the
FAA's AD. The commenter notes that the supplemental NPRM is not from an
MCAI but believes that the principles of the order should be universal.
[[Page 7574]]
We do not agree. The supplemental NPRM did not address parts
manufacturer approval (PMA) parts, as provided in draft FAA Order
8040.2, because the Order was only a draft that was out for comment at
the time. After issuance of the NPRM, the Order was revised and issued
as FAA Order 8040.5 with an effective date of September 29, 2006. FAA
Order 8040.5 does not address PMA parts in ADs and does not apply to
domestic ADs. Therefore, we have not revised the AD in this regard.
Request To Address the Use of PMA Parts
The same commenter also requests that we revise the way we address
the use of PMA parts in the supplemental NPRM.
The commenter requests that the language in the
supplemental NPRM be changed to permit installation of PMA equivalent
parts. The commenter states that the mandated installation of a certain
part number in the NPRM ``is at variance with the higher authority of
14 CFR Section 21.303.'' The commenter notes that only safety issues
can be addressed in airworthiness directives as set forth in Title 49
and ``the prima facia invalidation of FAR 21.303'' by AD action is an
economic issue not within purview of the AD.
The commenter contends that it is illogical to require an
operator to request approval of an AMOC in order to install an
``equivalent'' PMA part.
The commenter also requests that the supplemental NPRM be
revised to cover possible defective PMA alternative parts so that those
defective PMA parts also are subject to the supplemental NPRM.
The commenter also points out that ADs issued by
directorates other than the Transport Airplane Directorate contain
wording that address PMA parts and requests that we use the wording
specified in an AD from the Small Airplane Directorate. The commenter
notes that because the supplemental NPRM differs markedly in the
treatment of this issue, the mandates contained in Section 1, paragraph
(b)(10) of Executive Order 12866 are not being met.
We recognize the need for standardization on this issue and
currently are in the process of reviewing such issues that address the
use of PMAs in ADs at the national level. The Transport Airplane
Directorate considers that to delay this particular AD action would be
inappropriate, since we have determined that an unsafe condition exists
and that replacement of certain parts must be accomplished to ensure
continued safety. Therefore, we have not revised the AD in this regard.
Clarification of Compliance Time
Paragraph (f)(2) of the supplemental NPRM specifies a compliance
time of ``within 365 days after the date on which the airplane
accumulates 15,000 total flight hours.'' We have revised the compliance
time specified in paragraph (f)(2) of this AD to ``within 365 days
after the date on which the airplane accumulates 15,000 total flight
hours or within 24 months after performing the initial inspection
required by paragraph (f) of this AD, whichever occurs later.'' We made
this change in order to give airplanes identified in paragraph (f)(2)
that reach 15,000 total flight hours shortly after performing the
initial inspection required by paragraph (f) a similar compliance time
of 24 months after performing the initial inspection that is specified
for airplanes in paragraphs (f)(1) and (g) of this AD. We considered
the safety issues and the recommendations of the manufacturer and have
determined that a 24-month interval after performing the initial
inspection will ensure an acceptable level of safety.
Conclusion
We have carefully reviewed the available data, including the
comments received, and determined that air safety and the public
interest require adopting the AD with the change described previously.
We have determined that this change will neither increase the economic
burden on any operator nor increase the scope of the AD.
Costs of Compliance
This AD affects about 915 airplanes worldwide, and 400 airplanes of
U.S. registry. The following table provides the estimated costs for
U.S. operators to comply with this AD.
Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average labor Cost per
Action Work hours rate per hour Parts airplane Fleet cost
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection of flame arrestor 5 $80 None $400, per $160,000, per
presence/position. inspection inspection
cycle. cycle.
Replacement.................. 3 80 $25,004 $25,244......... \1\
$10,097,600.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ The parts manufacturer states that it may cover the cost of replacement parts associated with this AD for
certain affected airplanes, subject to warranty conditions. As a result, the costs attributable to this AD may
be less than stated above.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, Section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701, ``General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
We have determined that this AD will not have federalism
implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between
the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power
and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866;
(2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to
comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket.
[[Page 7575]]
See the ADDRESSES section for a location to examine the regulatory
evaluation.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
0
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends Sec. 39.13 by
adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD):
2007-04-16 Boeing: Amendment 39-14948. Docket No. FAA-2005-20351;
Directorate Identifier 2003-NM-269-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective March 23, 2007.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to all Boeing Model 767-200, -300, -300F,
and -400ER series airplanes, certificated in any category.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from reports that certain fuel boost pumps
may not have flame arrestors installed in the pump shaft and reports
that the pin that holds the flame arrestor in place can break due to
metal fatigue. We are issuing this AD to prevent the possible
migration of a flame from a main tank fuel boost pump inlet to the
vapor space of that fuel tank, and consequent ignition of fuel
vapors, which could result in a fire or explosion.
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 for Presence/Position of Flame Arrestor in Main Tank Fuel
Boost Pumps
(f) For airplanes having line numbers (L/Ns) 1 through 914
inclusive, except as provided by paragraph (h) of this AD: Within
365 days after the effective date of this AD, do a detailed
inspection of each main tank fuel boost pump to determine if the
pump shaft flame arrestor is installed, a measurement of the flame
arrestor's position in the pump, and all applicable corrective
actions, by accomplishing all the actions specified in the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767-
28A0077 (for Model 767-200, -300, and -300F series airplanes) or
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767-28A0081 (for Model 767-400ER
series airplanes), both Revision 1, both dated July 8, 2004, as
applicable. Repeat the measurement of the flame arrestor's position
in the pump thereafter at intervals not to exceed the applicable
time specified in paragraph (f)(1) or (f)(2) of this AD, until the
replacement required by paragraph (i) of this AD is accomplished.
All applicable corrective actions must be done before further
flight.
Note 1: Any inspection/measurement of the pumps on the left and
right main fuel tanks may be done separately provided that the
actions are done on all pumps within the compliance time specified
in paragraph (f) of this AD.
(1) For airplanes that have accumulated more than 15,000 total
flight hours as of the date the initial actions are done in
accordance with paragraph (f) of this AD: Repeat the measurement
thereafter at intervals not to exceed 6,000 flight hours or 24
months, whichever comes first.
(2) For airplanes that have accumulated 15,000 total flight
hours or fewer as of the date the initial actions are done in
accordance with paragraph (f) of this AD: Do the measurement
specified in paragraph (f) of this AD within 365 days after the date
on which the airplane accumulates 15,000 total flight hours or
within 24 months after performing the initial inspection required by
paragraph (f) of this AD, whichever occurs later. Repeat the
measurement thereafter at intervals not to exceed 6,000 flight hours
or 24 months, whichever comes first.
Note 2: Boeing Alert Service Bulletins 767-28A0077 and 767-
28A0081 reference Hamilton Sundstrand Service Bulletin 5006003-28-2,
dated October 25, 2002, as an additional source of service
information for accomplishment of the inspection and corrective
actions. Although the Hamilton Sundstrand service bulletin specifies
to return main tank fuel boost pumps with damaged, broken, or out-
of-position flame arrestors to a repair shop, that action is not
required by this AD.
Note 3: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed inspection is:
``An intensive examination of a specific item, installation, or
assembly to detect damage, failure, or irregularity. Available
lighting is normally supplemented with a direct source of good
lighting at an intensity deemed appropriate. Inspection aids such as
mirror, magnifying lenses, etc., may be necessary. Surface cleaning
and elaborate procedures may be required.''
(g) For airplanes having L/Ns 915 and on, except as provided by
paragraph (h) of this AD: At the applicable time specified in
paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD, do a detailed inspection of
each main tank fuel boost pump to determine if the pump shaft flame
arrestor is installed, a measurement of the flame arrestor's
position in the pump, and all applicable corrective actions, by
accomplishing all the actions specified in the Accomplishment
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767-28A0077 (for Model
767-200, -300, and -300F series airplanes) or Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 767-28A0081 (for Model 767-400ER series airplanes), both
Revision 1, both dated July 8, 2004, as applicable. Repeat the
measurement of the flame arrestor's position in the pump thereafter
at intervals not to exceed 6,000 flight hours or 24 months,
whichever comes first, until the replacement required by paragraph
(i) of this AD is accomplished. All applicable corrective actions
must be done before further flight.
Note 4: Any inspection/measurement of the pumps on the left and
right main fuel tanks may be done separately provided that the
actions are done on all pumps within the compliance time specified
in paragraph (g) of this AD.
(1) For airplanes that have accumulated more than 15,000 total
flight hours as of the effective date of this AD, do the actions
within 365 days after the effective date of this AD.
(2) For airplanes that have accumulated 15,000 total flight
hours or fewer as of the effective date of this AD, do the actions
within 365 days after the date on which the airplane accumulates
15,000 total flight hours.
Optional Terminating Action--Records Review
(h) For any period when the part number (P/N) of a main tank
fuel boost pump installed on any airplane, as conclusively
determined from a review of airplane maintenance records, is P/N
5006003D, no further action is required by paragraphs (f), (g), and
(i) of this AD for that pump only.
Replacement of the Main Tank Fuel Boost Pumps
(i) Within 36 months after the effective date of this AD,
replace the left and right main tank fuel boost pumps with new or
modified pumps in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767-28A0088 (for Model 767-200, -300,
and -300F series airplanes) or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767-
28A0089 (for Model 767-400ER series airplanes), both dated February
24, 2005, as applicable. Accomplishment of the replacement
terminates the repetitive measurement requirements of paragraphs (f)
and (g) of this AD for that pump only.
Note 5: Any replacement of the pumps on the left and right main
fuel tanks may be done separately provided that all pumps are
replaced within the compliance time specified in paragraph (i) of
this AD.
Note 6: Boeing Alert Service Bulletins 767-28A0088 and 767-
28A0089 reference Hamilton Sundstrand Service Bulletin 5006003-28-3,
dated December 8, 2004, as the appropriate source of service
information for modifying the pump.
Inspections Accomplished According to Previous Issue of Service
Bulletin
(j) Inspections accomplished before the effective date of this
AD in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767-28A0077,
dated March 6, 2003; or Boeing Alert Service
[[Page 7576]]
Bulletin 767-28A0081, dated March 6, 2003; are considered acceptable
for compliance with the corresponding action specified in paragraphs
(f) and (g) of this AD.
Parts Installation
(k) As of the effective date of this AD, only main tank fuel
boost pumps identified in paragraphs (k)(1) and (k)(2) of this AD
may be installed on any airplane.
(1) Any main tank fuel boost pump that has been inspected, and
on which all applicable corrective actions have been performed, in
accordance with paragraph (f) or (g) of this AD.
(2) Any main tank fuel boost pump having P/N 5006003D.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(l)(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, FAA,
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested in
accordance with the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
(2) Before using any AMOC approved in accordance with Sec.
39.19 on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify the
appropriate principal inspector in the FAA Flight Standards
Certificate Holding District Office.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(m) You must use the applicable service bulletin specified in
Table 1 of this AD to perform the actions that are required by this
AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. The Director of the Federal
Register approved the incorporation by reference of these documents
in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Contact Boeing
Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle, Washington 98124-2207,
for a copy of this service information. You may review copies at the
FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, S.W., Renton,
Washington; or at the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-
register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Table 1.--Material Incorporated by Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Boeing alert service bulletin Revision level Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
767-28A0077.............................. 1............................ July 8, 2004.
767-28A0081.............................. 1............................ July 8, 2004.
767-28A0088.............................. Original..................... February 24, 2005.
767-28A0089.............................. Original..................... February 24, 2005.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Issued in Renton, Washington, on February 5, 2007.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. E7-2644 Filed 2-15-07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P