Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-200C, 747-200F, 747-300, 747-400, 747-400D, 747-400F, 747SR, and 747SP Series Airplanes; and Model 767-200 and -300 Series Airplanes; Equipped with Certain Goodrich Evacuation Systems, 29452-29455 [E7-10239]

Download as PDF 29452 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 102 / Tuesday, May 29, 2007 / Proposed Rules DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2007–28299; Directorate Identifier 2005–NM–139–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 747–100, 747–100B, 747–100B SUD, 747–200B, 747–200C, 747–200F, 747–300, 747–400, 747–400D, 747– 400F, 747SR, and 747SP Series Airplanes; and Model 767–200 and –300 Series Airplanes; Equipped with Certain Goodrich Evacuation Systems Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). rwilkins on PROD1PC63 with PROPOSALS AGENCY: SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Boeing Model 747–100, 747– 100B, 747–100B SUD, 747–200B, 747– 200C, 747–200F, 747–300, 747–400, 747–400D, 747–400F, 747SR, and 747SP series airplanes; and Model 767–200 and –300 series airplanes equipped with certain Goodrich evacuation systems. For certain airplanes, this proposed AD would require replacing the evacuation systems shear-pin restraints with new ones. For certain other airplanes, this proposed AD would require an inspection for manufacturing lot numbers; and a general visual inspection of the shear-pin restraints for discrepancies, and corrective actions if necessary. This proposed AD results from several reports of corroded shearpin restraints that prevented Goodrich evacuation systems from deploying properly. We are proposing this AD to prevent failure of the evacuation system, which could impede an emergency evacuation and increase the chance of injury to passengers and flightcrew during the evacuation. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by July 13, 2007. 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. VerDate Aug<31>2005 18:04 May 25, 2007 Jkt 211001 • 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 Goodrich, Aircraft Interior Products, ATTN: Technical Publications, 3414 South Fifth Street, Phoenix, AZ 85040–1169, for the service information identified in this proposed AD. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tracy Ton, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety/Mechanical and Environmental Systems Branch, ANM–150L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California 90712–4137; telephone (562) 627–5352; fax (562) 627–5210. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to submit any relevant written data, views, or arguments regarding this proposed AD. Include the docket number ‘‘FAA–2007–28299; Directorate Identifier 2005-NM–139AD’’ 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 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 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 the AD docket shortly after the Docket Management System receives them. Discussion We have received several reports indicating that Goodrich evacuation systems have not deployed properly on certain Boeing Model 747 and 767 airplanes due to corroded shear-pin restraints. The corrosion problem arose concurrently with a 1998 change in the anodize specification for restraint bodies. Corrosion of the shear-pin restraints, if not corrected, could lead to higher than designed release values, and in severe cases, could cause the two halves of the restraints to freeze up, which could lead to improper deployment and/or loss of use of the evacuation system. That loss could impede passengers during an emergency evacuation and increase the chance of injury to passengers and flightcrew during an evacuation. Other Relevant Rulemaking Although there have been no reported deployment difficulties of certain Goodrich evacuation systems installed as a technical standard order (TSO) appliance on certain Airbus and McDonnell Douglas transport category airplanes, and certain Boeing Model 737 and 777 airplanes, the Goodrich evacuation systems installed on those airplanes use the same shear-pin restraints as those affected evacuation systems installed on the Boeing Model 747 and 767 airplanes affected by this proposed AD. Therefore, all technical standard ordered and type certificated Goodrich evacuation systems are subject to the identified unsafe condition. We are planning to issue similar rulemaking (Directorate Identifier 2003–NM–239– AD) for certain Goodrich units installed as a TSO appliance on certain Airbus, McDonnell Douglas, and Boeing Model 737 and 777 transport category airplanes. Relevant Service Information We have reviewed Goodrich Service Bulletin 25–343, Revision 3, dated January 12, 2007. For certain evacuation systems, the service bulletin describes procedures for replacing the shear-pin restraints with new, improved restraints. For certain other evacuation systems, the service bulletin describes procedures for an inspection to verify the manufacturing lot number of the restraints; and a general visual inspection of the restraints for discrepancies (i.e., corrosion, security of pin retainer/label, overall condition, and lack of play), and corrective action if necessary. The corrective action is replacing the shear-pin restraints with E:\FR\FM\29MYP1.SGM 29MYP1 29453 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 102 / Tuesday, May 29, 2007 / Proposed Rules new shear-pin restraints. Accomplishing the actions specified in the service information is intended to adequately address the unsafe condition. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of the Proposed AD We have evaluated all pertinent information and identified an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on other airplanes of this same type design. For this reason, we are proposing this AD, which would require accomplishing the actions specified in the service information described previously, except as discussed under ‘‘Difference Between the Proposed AD and the Service Bulletin.’’ Difference Between the Proposed AD and the Service Bulletin Although the service bulletin recommends accomplishing the replacement or inspection ‘‘at the next shop visit,’’ we have determined that this imprecise compliance time would not address the identified unsafe condition soon enough to ensure an adequate level of safety for the affected fleet. In developing an appropriate compliance time for this AD, we considered the manufacturer’s recommendation, the degree of urgency associated with the subject unsafe condition, and the average utilization of the affected fleet. In light of all of these factors, we find that a compliance time of 36 months represents an appropriate interval of time for affected airplanes to continue to operate without compromising safety. We have coordinated this difference with the manufacturer. Costs of Compliance There are about 1,063 airplanes of the affected design in the worldwide fleet. This proposed AD would affect about 144 airplanes of U.S. registry. The following table provides the estimated costs for U.S. operators to comply with this proposed AD. ESTIMATED COSTS Action Work hours per slide unit Average labor rate per hour Parts Number of slide units per airplane Cost per airplane Fleet cost Between $31,392 and $2,346,624. Between $23,040 and $1,244,160. Replacement ................. Between 2 and 9. $80 Between $58 and $638, depending on number of restraints. Between 1 and 12 ....... Between $218 and $16,296. Inspection ...................... Between 2 and 9. $80 None ............................ Between 1 and 12 ....... Between $160 and $8,640. rwilkins on PROD1PC63 with PROPOSALS 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 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 VerDate Aug<31>2005 18:04 May 25, 2007 Jkt 211001 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: PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 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): Boeing: Docket No. FAA–2007–28299; Directorate Identifier 2005–NM–139–AD. Comments Due Date (a) The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by July 13, 2007. Affected ADs (b) None. Applicability (c) This AD applies to Boeing Model 747– 100, 747–100B, 747–100B SUD, 747–200B, 747–200C, 747–200F, 747–300, 747–400, 747–400D, 747–400F, 747SR, and 747SP series airplanes; and Model 767–200 and –300 series airplanes; certificated in any category; equipped with any Goodrich evacuation system listed in Table 1 of this AD. E:\FR\FM\29MYP1.SGM 29MYP1 29454 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 102 / Tuesday, May 29, 2007 / Proposed Rules TABLE 1.—GOODRICH EVACUATION SYSTEMS Goodrich evacuation systems part No. Serial No. (S/N) (1) 101651–303 ............................... (2) 7A1412–3 through 7A1412–8 inclusive. (3) 101651–109 through 101651– 303 inclusive. (4) 7A1101–20 through 7A1101–24 inclusive. (5) 7A1102–20 through 7A1102–24 inclusive. (6) Even dash numbers 7A1103–46 through 7A1103–52. (7) Odd dash numbers 7A1103–45 through 7A1103–51. (8) 7A1104–14 through 7A1104–24 inclusive. (9) Odd dash numbers 7A1105–35 through 7A1105–43. (10) Even dash numbers 7A1105– 36 through 7A1105–44. (11) Odd dash numbers 7A1238–3 through 7A1238–69. (12) Even dash numbers 7A1238–4 through 7A1238–70. (13) Odd dash numbers 7A1239–3 through 7A1239–33. (14) Even dash numbers 7A1239–4 through 7A1239–34. (15) Odd dash numbers 7A1248–1 through 7A1248–35. (16) Even dash numbers 7A1248–2 through 7A1248–36. (17) Odd dash numbers 7A1252–1 through 7A1252–9. (18) Even dash numbers 7A1252–2 through 7A1252–10. (19) Odd dash numbers 7A1255–1 through 7A1255–29. (20) Even dash numbers 7A1255–2 through 7A1255–30. (21) Odd dash numbers 7A1256–1 through 7A1256–29. (22) Even dash numbers 7A1256–2 through 7A1256–30. (23) Odd dash numbers 7A1257–1 through 7A1257–29. (24) Even dash numbers 7A1257–2 through 7A1257–30. (25) Odd dash numbers 7A1261–1 through 7A1261–33. (26) Even dash numbers 7A1261–2 through 7A1261–34. (27) 7A1412–1 through 7A1412–8 inclusive. PA2475 through PA2955 inclusive ........................................................ GU0154 through GU0325 inclusive ....................................................... Slide/Raft, forward/aft doors. Slide, upper deck. All S/Ns with a B51 prefix, and S/Ns PA0001 through PA2474 inclusive. All S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and S/Ns GL0001 through GL0099 inclusive. All S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and S/Ns GN001 through GN121 inclusive. All even S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and even S/Ns GC0002 through GC0128. All odd S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and odd S/Ns GC0001 through GC0127. All S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and S/Ns GM0001 through GM0138 inclusive. All ........................................................................................................... Slide/Raft, forward/aft doors. All ........................................................................................................... Slide, off-wing, RH side. All odd S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and odd S/Ns GE0001 through GE2091. All even S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and even S/Ns GE0002 through GE2076. All odd S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and odd S/Ns GF0001 through GF0649. All even S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and even S/Ns GF0002 through GF0650. All odd S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and odd S/Ns GU001 through GU321. All even S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and even S/Ns GU002 through GU662. All odd S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and odd S/Ns GO001 through GO505. All even S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and even S/Ns GO002 through GO506. All odd S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and odd S/Ns WH0001 through WH0139. All even S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and even S/Ns WH0002 through WH0136. All odd S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and odd S/Ns with WI0001 through WI0143. All even S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and even S/Ns WI0002 through WI0144. All odd S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and odd S/Ns WJ0001 through WJ0167. All even S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and even S/Ns WJ0002 through WJ0160. All odd S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and odd S/Ns WG0001 through WG0165. All even S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and even S/Ns WG0002 through WG0162. All S/Ns with a single letter G prefix, and S/Ns GU001 through GU153. Slide/Raft, doors 1, 2, and 4, LH side. Slide/Raft, doors 1, 2, and 4, RH side. Slide/Raft, door 5, LH side. rwilkins on PROD1PC63 with PROPOSALS Unsafe Condition (d) This AD results from several reports of corroded shear-pin restraints that prevented Goodrich evacuation systems from deploying properly. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the evacuation system, which could impede an emergency evacuation and increase the chance of injury to passengers and flightcrew during the evacuation. Compliance (e) You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD performed within VerDate Aug<31>2005 18:04 May 25, 2007 Jkt 211001 Component/part name the compliance times specified, unless the actions have already been done. Service Bulletin Reference (f) The term ‘‘service bulletin,’’ as used in this AD, means the Accomplishment Instructions of Goodrich Service Bulletin 25–343, Revision 3, dated January 12, 2007. Replacement, or Inspections and Corrective Action (g) Within 36 months after the effective date of this AD, do the actions specified in paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD in accordance with the service bulletin. PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Slide, doors 1 and 2. Slide, door 4. Slide, door 5, right-hand (RH) side. Slide, door 5, left-hand (LH) side. Slide, crew door. Slide, off-wing, LH side. Slide/Raft, door 5, RH side. Slide, upper deck, LH side. Slide, upper deck, RH side. Slide, off-wing, LH side. Slide, off-wing, RH side. Slide/Raft, door 2, LH side. Slide/Raft, door 2, RH side. Slide/Raft, door 3, LH side. Slide/Raft, door 3, RH side. Slide/Raft, door 4, LH side. Slide/Raft, door 4, RH side. Slide/Raft, door 1, LH side. Slide/Raft, door 1, RH side. Slide, upper deck. (1) For airplanes equipped with any Goodrich evacuation system identified in paragraph (c)(1) or (c)(2) of this AD: Replace the shear-pin restraints with new restraints. (2) For airplanes equipped with any Goodrich evacuation system identified in paragraphs (c)(3) through (c)(27) of this AD: Do an inspection to verify the manufacturing lot number of the shear-pin restraint. A review of airplane maintenance records is acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the manufacturing lot number of the shear-pin restraint can be conclusively determined from that review. E:\FR\FM\29MYP1.SGM 29MYP1 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 102 / Tuesday, May 29, 2007 / Proposed Rules (i) If a manufacturing lot number from 3375 through 5551 inclusive is found, before further flight, replace the shear-pin restraint with a new restraint. (ii) If a manufacturing lot number from 3375 through 5551 inclusive is not found, do a general visual inspection of the shear-pin restraints for discrepancies (i.e., corrosion, security of pin retainer/label, overall condition, and lack of play). If any discrepancy is found, before further flight, replace the shear-pin restraint with a new restraint. 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.’’ Parts Installation (h) As of the effective date of this AD, no Goodrich evacuation system with a part number and serial number identified in paragraph (c)(1) or (c)(2) of this AD may be installed on any airplane, unless the shearpin restraints have been replaced with new restraints in accordance with paragraph (g)(1) of this AD. (i) As of the effective date of this AD, no Goodrich evacuation system with a part number and serial number identified in paragraphs (c)(3) through (c)(27) of this AD may be installed on any airplane, unless the shear-pin restraints have been inspected and found acceptable in accordance with paragraph (g)(2) of this AD. Credit for Actions Done Using Previous Service Information (j) Replacements and inspections done before the effective date of this AD in accordance with Goodrich Service Bulletin 25–343, dated October 15, 2003; Revision 1, dated January 31, 2005; or Revision 2, dated October 11, 2006; are acceptable for compliance with the requirements of paragraph (h) of this AD. rwilkins on PROD1PC63 with PROPOSALS Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (k)(1) The Manager, Los Angeles 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. VerDate Aug<31>2005 19:38 May 25, 2007 Jkt 211001 Issued in Renton, Washington, on May 21, 2007. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. E7–10239 Filed 5–25–07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2007–28139; Airspace Docket No. 07–AWP–3] RIN 2120–AA66 Proposed Modification of Class D Airspace; Castle Airport, Atwater, CA Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking. AGENCY: SUMMARY: This action proposes to modify Class D airspace at Castle Airport, Atwater, CA. This proposal would reduce the ceiling of the Atwater, CA, Class D airspace to below 2,000 feet mean sea level (MSL), change the southern boundary of the airspace and add an extension to the north to provide controlled airspace for the safety of aircraft executing Standard Instrument Approach Procedures (SIAPs) and other Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) operations at Castle Airport. DATES: Comments must be received on or before July 13, 2007. ADDRESSES: Send comments on this proposal to the Docket Management System, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Ave., SE., Washington, DC 20590; telephone: (202) 366–9826. You must identify FAA Docket No. FAA–2007–28139 and Airspace Docket No. 07–AWP–3, at the beginning of your comments. You may also submit comments through the Internet at https://dms.dot.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kathryn Higgins, Team Manager, System Support Group, Western Service Center, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057; telephone (425) 917–6715. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited Interested parties are invited to participate in this proposed rulemaking by submitting such written data, views, or arguments as they may desire. Comments that provide the factual basis supporting the views and suggestions presented are particularly helpful in PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 29455 developing reasoned regulatory decisions on the proposal. Comments are specifically invited on the overall regulatory, aeronautical, economic, environmental, and energy-related aspects of the proposal. Communications should identify both docket numbers (Docket No. FAA– 2007–28139/Airspace Docket No. 07– AWP–3) and be submitted in triplicate to the Docket Management System (see ADDRESSES section for address and phone number). You may also submit comments through the Internet at https://dms.dot.gov. Commenters wishing the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments on this action must submit with those comments a self-addressed, stamped postcard on which the following statement is made: ‘‘Comments to Docket No. FAA–2007–28139 and Airspace Docket No. 07–AWP–3.’’ The postcard will be date/time stamped and returned to the commenter. All communications received on or before the specified closing date for comments will be considered before taking action on the proposed rule. The proposal contained in this action may be changed in light of the comments received. All comments submitted will be available for examination in the public docket both before and after the closing date for comments. A report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel concerned with this rulemaking will be filed in the docket. Availability of NPRMs An electronic copy of this document may be downloaded through the Internet at https://dms.dot.gov. Recently published rulemaking documents can also be accessed through the FAA’s Web page at https://www.faa.gov or the Federal Register’s Web page at https:// www.gpoaccess.gov/fr/. You may review the public docket containing the proposal, any comments received, and any final disposition in person in the Dockets Office (see ADDRESSES section for address and phone number) between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. An informal docket may also be examined during normal business hours at the office of the Regional Air Traffic Division, Federal Aviation Administration, Western Service Center, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057. Persons interested in being placed on a mailing list for future NPRM’s should contact the FAA’s Office of Rulemaking, (202) 267–9677, for a copy of Advisory Circular No. 11–2A, Notice of Proposed E:\FR\FM\29MYP1.SGM 29MYP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 72, Number 102 (Tuesday, May 29, 2007)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 29452-29455]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E7-10239]

[[Page 29452]]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2007-28299; Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-139-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64

Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-
100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-200C, 747-200F, 747-300, 747-400, 747-400D,
747-400F, 747SR, and 747SP Series Airplanes; and Model 767-200 and -300
Series Airplanes; Equipped with Certain Goodrich Evacuation Systems

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 Boeing Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B,
747-200C, 747-200F, 747-300, 747-400, 747-400D, 747-400F, 747SR, and
747SP series airplanes; and Model 767-200 and -300 series airplanes
equipped with certain Goodrich evacuation systems. For certain
airplanes, this proposed AD would require replacing the evacuation
systems shear-pin restraints with new ones. For certain other
airplanes, this proposed AD would require an inspection for
manufacturing lot numbers; and a general visual inspection of the
shear-pin restraints for discrepancies, and corrective actions if
necessary. This proposed AD results from several reports of corroded
shear-pin restraints that prevented Goodrich evacuation systems from
deploying properly. We are proposing this AD to prevent failure of the
evacuation system, which could impede an emergency evacuation and
increase the chance of injury to passengers and flightcrew during the
evacuation.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by July 13, 2007.

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 Goodrich, Aircraft Interior Products, ATTN: Technical
Publications, 3414 South Fifth Street, Phoenix, AZ 85040-1169, for the
service information identified in this proposed AD.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tracy Ton, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin
Safety/Mechanical and Environmental Systems Branch, ANM-150L, FAA, Los
Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard,
Lakewood, California 90712-4137; telephone (562) 627-5352; fax (562)
627-5210.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

We invite you to submit any relevant written data, views, or
arguments regarding this proposed AD. Include the docket number ``FAA-
2007-28299; Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-139-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 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

We have received several reports indicating that Goodrich
evacuation systems have not deployed properly on certain Boeing Model
747 and 767 airplanes due to corroded shear-pin restraints. The
corrosion problem arose concurrently with a 1998 change in the anodize
specification for restraint bodies. Corrosion of the shear-pin
restraints, if not corrected, could lead to higher than designed
release values, and in severe cases, could cause the two halves of the
restraints to freeze up, which could lead to improper deployment and/or
loss of use of the evacuation system. That loss could impede passengers
during an emergency evacuation and increase the chance of injury to
passengers and flightcrew during an evacuation.

Other Relevant Rulemaking

Although there have been no reported deployment difficulties of
certain Goodrich evacuation systems installed as a technical standard
order (TSO) appliance on certain Airbus and McDonnell Douglas transport
category airplanes, and certain Boeing Model 737 and 777 airplanes, the
Goodrich evacuation systems installed on those airplanes use the same
shear-pin restraints as those affected evacuation systems installed on
the Boeing Model 747 and 767 airplanes affected by this proposed AD.
Therefore, all technical standard ordered and type certificated
Goodrich evacuation systems are subject to the identified unsafe
condition. We are planning to issue similar rulemaking (Directorate
Identifier 2003-NM-239-AD) for certain Goodrich units installed as a
TSO appliance on certain Airbus, McDonnell Douglas, and Boeing Model
737 and 777 transport category airplanes.

Relevant Service Information

We have reviewed Goodrich Service Bulletin 25-343, Revision 3,
dated January 12, 2007. For certain evacuation systems, the service
bulletin describes procedures for replacing the shear-pin restraints
with new, improved restraints. For certain other evacuation systems,
the service bulletin describes procedures for an inspection to verify
the manufacturing lot number of the restraints; and a general visual
inspection of the restraints for discrepancies (i.e., corrosion,
security of pin retainer/label, overall condition, and lack of play),
and corrective action if necessary. The corrective action is replacing
the shear-pin restraints with

[[Page 29453]]

new shear-pin restraints. Accomplishing the actions specified in the
service information is intended to adequately address the unsafe
condition.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of the Proposed AD

We have evaluated all pertinent information and identified an
unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on other airplanes
of this same type design. For this reason, we are proposing this AD,
which would require accomplishing the actions specified in the service
information described previously, except as discussed under
``Difference Between the Proposed AD and the Service Bulletin.''

Difference Between the Proposed AD and the Service Bulletin

Although the service bulletin recommends accomplishing the
replacement or inspection ``at the next shop visit,'' we have
determined that this imprecise compliance time would not address the
identified unsafe condition soon enough to ensure an adequate level of
safety for the affected fleet. In developing an appropriate compliance
time for this AD, we considered the manufacturer's recommendation, the
degree of urgency associated with the subject unsafe condition, and the
average utilization of the affected fleet. In light of all of these
factors, we find that a compliance time of 36 months represents an
appropriate interval of time for affected airplanes to continue to
operate without compromising safety. We have coordinated this
difference with the manufacturer.

Costs of Compliance

There are about 1,063 airplanes of the affected design in the
worldwide fleet. This proposed AD would affect about 144 airplanes of
U.S. registry. The following table provides the estimated costs for
U.S. operators to comply with this proposed AD.

Estimated Costs
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average
Action Work hours per slide labor rate Parts Number of slide Cost per airplane Fleet cost
unit per hour units per airplane
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacement...................... Between 2 and 9..... $80 Between $58 and Between 1 and 12... Between $218 and Between $31,392 and
$638, depending on $16,296. $2,346,624.
number of
restraints.
Inspection....................... Between 2 and 9..... $80 None............... Between 1 and 12... Between $160 and Between $23,040 and
$8,640. $1,244,160.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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 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):

Boeing: Docket No. FAA-2007-28299; Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-
139-AD.

Comments Due Date

(a) The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by July 13,
2007.

Affected ADs

(b) None.

Applicability

(c) This AD applies to Boeing Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B
SUD, 747-200B, 747-200C, 747-200F, 747-300, 747-400, 747-400D, 747-
400F, 747SR, and 747SP series airplanes; and Model 767-200 and -300
series airplanes; certificated in any category; equipped with any
Goodrich evacuation system listed in Table 1 of this AD.

[[Page 29454]]

Table 1.--Goodrich Evacuation Systems
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Goodrich evacuation systems Component/part
part No. Serial No. (S/N) name
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) 101651-303................ PA2475 through PA2955 Slide/Raft,
inclusive. forward/aft
doors.
(2) 7A1412-3 through 7A1412-8 GU0154 through GU0325 Slide, upper
inclusive. inclusive. deck.
(3) 101651-109 through 101651- All S/Ns with a B51 Slide/Raft,
303 inclusive. prefix, and S/Ns forward/aft
PA0001 through PA2474 doors.
inclusive.
(4) 7A1101-20 through 7A1101- All S/Ns with a single Slide, doors 1
24 inclusive. letter G prefix, and and 2.
S/Ns GL0001 through
GL0099 inclusive.
(5) 7A1102-20 through 7A1102- All S/Ns with a single Slide, door 4.
24 inclusive. letter G prefix, and
S/Ns GN001 through
GN121 inclusive.
(6) Even dash numbers 7A1103- All even S/Ns with a Slide, door 5,
46 through 7A1103-52. single letter G right-hand (RH)
prefix, and even S/Ns side.
GC0002 through GC0128.
(7) Odd dash numbers 7A1103-45 All odd S/Ns with a Slide, door 5,
through 7A1103-51. single letter G left-hand (LH)
prefix, and odd S/Ns side.
GC0001 through GC0127.
(8) 7A1104-14 through 7A1104- All S/Ns with a single Slide, crew
24 inclusive. letter G prefix, and door.
S/Ns GM0001 through
GM0138 inclusive.
(9) Odd dash numbers 7A1105-35 All................... Slide, off-wing,
through 7A1105-43. LH side.
(10) Even dash numbers 7A1105- All................... Slide, off-wing,
36 through 7A1105-44. RH side.
(11) Odd dash numbers 7A1238-3 All odd S/Ns with a Slide/Raft,
through 7A1238-69. single letter G doors 1, 2, and
prefix, and odd S/Ns 4, LH side.
GE0001 through GE2091.
(12) Even dash numbers 7A1238- All even S/Ns with a Slide/Raft,
4 through 7A1238-70. single letter G doors 1, 2, and
prefix, and even S/Ns 4, RH side.
GE0002 through GE2076.
(13) Odd dash numbers 7A1239-3 All odd S/Ns with a Slide/Raft, door
through 7A1239-33. single letter G 5, LH side.
prefix, and odd S/Ns
GF0001 through GF0649.
(14) Even dash numbers 7A1239- All even S/Ns with a Slide/Raft, door
4 through 7A1239-34. single letter G 5, RH side.
prefix, and even S/Ns
GF0002 through GF0650.
(15) Odd dash numbers 7A1248-1 All odd S/Ns with a Slide, upper
through 7A1248-35. single letter G deck, LH side.
prefix, and odd S/Ns
GU001 through GU321.
(16) Even dash numbers 7A1248- All even S/Ns with a Slide, upper
2 through 7A1248-36. single letter G deck, RH side.
prefix, and even S/Ns
GU002 through GU662.
(17) Odd dash numbers 7A1252-1 All odd S/Ns with a Slide, off-wing,
through 7A1252-9. single letter G LH side.
prefix, and odd S/Ns
GO001 through GO505.
(18) Even dash numbers 7A1252- All even S/Ns with a Slide, off-wing,
2 through 7A1252-10. single letter G RH side.
prefix, and even S/Ns
GO002 through GO506.
(19) Odd dash numbers 7A1255-1 All odd S/Ns with a Slide/Raft, door
through 7A1255-29. single letter G 2, LH side.
prefix, and odd S/Ns
WH0001 through WH0139.
(20) Even dash numbers 7A1255- All even S/Ns with a Slide/Raft, door
2 through 7A1255-30. single letter G 2, RH side.
prefix, and even S/Ns
WH0002 through WH0136.
(21) Odd dash numbers 7A1256-1 All odd S/Ns with a Slide/Raft, door
through 7A1256-29. single letter G 3, LH side.
prefix, and odd S/Ns
with WI0001 through
WI0143.
(22) Even dash numbers 7A1256- All even S/Ns with a Slide/Raft, door
2 through 7A1256-30. single letter G 3, RH side.
prefix, and even S/Ns
WI0002 through WI0144.
(23) Odd dash numbers 7A1257-1 All odd S/Ns with a Slide/Raft, door
through 7A1257-29. single letter G 4, LH side.
prefix, and odd S/Ns
WJ0001 through WJ0167.
(24) Even dash numbers 7A1257- All even S/Ns with a Slide/Raft, door
2 through 7A1257-30. single letter G 4, RH side.
prefix, and even S/Ns
WJ0002 through WJ0160.
(25) Odd dash numbers 7A1261-1 All odd S/Ns with a Slide/Raft, door
through 7A1261-33. single letter G 1, LH side.
prefix, and odd S/Ns
WG0001 through WG0165.
(26) Even dash numbers 7A1261- All even S/Ns with a Slide/Raft, door
2 through 7A1261-34. single letter G 1, RH side.
prefix, and even S/Ns
WG0002 through WG0162.
(27) 7A1412-1 through 7A1412-8 All S/Ns with a single Slide, upper
inclusive. letter G prefix, and deck.
S/Ns GU001 through
GU153.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Unsafe Condition

(d) This AD results from several reports of corroded shear-pin
restraints that prevented Goodrich evacuation systems from deploying
properly. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the
evacuation system, which could impede an emergency evacuation and
increase the chance of injury to passengers and flightcrew during
the evacuation.

Compliance

(e) You are responsible for having the actions required by this
AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the
actions have already been done.

Service Bulletin Reference

(f) The term ``service bulletin,'' as used in this AD, means the
Accomplishment Instructions of Goodrich Service Bulletin 25-343,
Revision 3, dated January 12, 2007.

Replacement, or Inspections and Corrective Action

(g) Within 36 months after the effective date of this AD, do the
actions specified in paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD in
accordance with the service bulletin.
(1) For airplanes equipped with any Goodrich evacuation system
identified in paragraph (c)(1) or (c)(2) of this AD: Replace the
shear-pin restraints with new restraints.
(2) For airplanes equipped with any Goodrich evacuation system
identified in paragraphs (c)(3) through (c)(27) of this AD: Do an
inspection to verify the manufacturing lot number of the shear-pin
restraint. A review of airplane maintenance records is acceptable in
lieu of this inspection if the manufacturing lot number of the
shear-pin restraint can be conclusively determined from that review.

[[Page 29455]]

(i) If a manufacturing lot number from 3375 through 5551
inclusive is found, before further flight, replace the shear-pin
restraint with a new restraint.
(ii) If a manufacturing lot number from 3375 through 5551
inclusive is not found, do a general visual inspection of the shear-
pin restraints for discrepancies (i.e., corrosion, security of pin
retainer/label, overall condition, and lack of play). If any
discrepancy is found, before further flight, replace the shear-pin
restraint with a new restraint.

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.''

Parts Installation

(h) As of the effective date of this AD, no Goodrich evacuation
system with a part number and serial number identified in paragraph
(c)(1) or (c)(2) of this AD may be installed on any airplane, unless
the shear-pin restraints have been replaced with new restraints in
accordance with paragraph (g)(1) of this AD.
(i) As of the effective date of this AD, no Goodrich evacuation
system with a part number and serial number identified in paragraphs
(c)(3) through (c)(27) of this AD may be installed on any airplane,
unless the shear-pin restraints have been inspected and found
acceptable in accordance with paragraph (g)(2) of this AD.

Credit for Actions Done Using Previous Service Information

(j) Replacements and inspections done before the effective date
of this AD in accordance with Goodrich Service Bulletin 25-343,
dated October 15, 2003; Revision 1, dated January 31, 2005; or
Revision 2, dated October 11, 2006; are acceptable for compliance
with the requirements of paragraph (h) of this AD.

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

(k)(1) The Manager, Los Angeles 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.

Issued in Renton, Washington, on May 21, 2007.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. E7-10239 Filed 5-25-07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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