Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and -400ER Series Airplanes, 36391-36397 [E7-12817]

Download as PDF 36391 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 127 / Tuesday, July 3, 2007 / Proposed Rules APPENDIX 1.—IMPLEMENTING FUEL TANK SYSTEM AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS ON MODEL 747–400, –400D, AND –400F SERIES AIRPLANES—Continued AWL No. 28–AWL–20 ............................. ALI/CDCCL CDCCL ........ ATA section or CMM document AMM 28–22–07/401 ............... Task title Task No. CMCS Message MAIN TK 3 FWD OVERRIDE/JETTISON PUMP SYSTEM FAIL—Fault Isolation. Front Spar Bulkhead Fitting— Installation. 28–31 Task 831. 28–22–07–400–805–001. 28–22–07–400–806–002. 28–22–07–400–807–003. 28–22–07–400–808–004. 28–AWL–21 ............................. ALI ............... AMM 28–22–00/501. AMM 28–17–00/501. AMM 28–22–03/401 ............... 28–AWL–22 ............................. CDCCL ........ 28–AWL–23 47–AWL–01 47–AWL–02 47–AWL–03 ............................. ............................. ............................. ............................. CDCCL ........ CDCCL ........ CDCCL. ALI ............... AMM 47–00–01/501 ............... 47–AWL–04 ............................. ALI ............... AMM 47–43–02/501 ............... Main Tank Boost Pump Motor/Impeller Unit Installation. 28–22–03–404–019–001. 28–22–03–404–026–002. 47–AWL–05 ............................. 47–AWL–06 ............................. ALI ............... ALI ............... Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 22, 2007. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. E7–12816 Filed 7–2–07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2007–28388; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–163–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 767–200, –300, –300F, and –400ER Series Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). jlentini on PROD1PC65 with PROPOSALS AGENCY: SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Boeing Model 767–200, –300, –300F, and –400ER series airplanes. This proposed AD would require revising the FAA-approved maintenance program to incorporate new airworthiness limitations (AWLs) for fuel tank systems to satisfy Special VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:13 Jul 02, 2007 Jkt 211001 AMM 28–41–24/401. AMM 47–21–06/401 ............... Flame Arrestor Installation ..... 47–21–06–400–801. Functional Test of the Nitrogen Generation System. Thermal Switch Functional Test. Thermal Switch Operational Test. 47–00–01–720–801. 47–43–02–700–801. 47–43–02–700–802. AMM 47. AMM 47. Federal Aviation Regulation No. 88 requirements. This proposed AD would also require the initial inspection of certain repetitive AWL inspections to phase in those inspections, and repair if necessary. This proposed AD results from a design review of the fuel tank systems. We are proposing this AD to prevent the potential for ignition sources inside fuel tanks caused by latent failures, alterations, repairs, or maintenance actions, which, in combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result in a fuel tank explosion and consequent loss of the airplane. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 17, 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: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. • Hand Delivery: Room W12–140 on the ground floor of the West Building, PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. Contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle, Washington 98124–2207, for the service information identified in this proposed AD. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kathrine Rask, Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Branch, ANM–140S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Ave SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 917–6505; fax (425) 917–6590. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to submit any relevant written data, views, or arguments regarding this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed in the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number ‘‘FAA–2007–28388; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–163–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 E:\FR\FM\03JYP1.SGM 03JYP1 36392 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 127 / Tuesday, July 3, 2007 / Proposed Rules 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. jlentini on PROD1PC65 with PROPOSALS Examining the Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://dms.dot.gov, or in person at the Docket Operations office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647–5527) is located on the ground floor of the West Building at the DOT street address stated in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after the Docket Management System receives them. Discussion The FAA has examined the underlying safety issues involved in fuel tank explosions on several large transport airplanes, including the adequacy of existing regulations, the service history of airplanes subject to those regulations, and existing maintenance practices for fuel tank systems. As a result of those findings, we issued a regulation titled ‘‘Transport Airplane Fuel Tank System Design Review, Flammability Reduction and Maintenance and Inspection Requirements’’ (67 FR 23086, May 7, 2001). In addition to new airworthiness standards for transport airplanes and new maintenance requirements, this rule included Special Federal Aviation Regulation No. 88 (‘‘SFAR 88,’’ Amendment 21–78, and subsequent Amendments 21–82 and 21–83). Among other actions, SFAR 88 requires certain type design (i.e., type certificate (TC) and supplemental type certificate (STC)) holders to substantiate that their fuel tank systems can prevent ignition sources in the fuel tanks. This requirement applies to type design holders for large turbine-powered transport airplanes and for subsequent modifications to those airplanes. It requires them to perform design reviews and to develop design changes and maintenance procedures if their designs do not meet the new fuel tank safety standards. As explained in the preamble VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:13 Jul 02, 2007 Jkt 211001 to the rule, we intended to adopt airworthiness directives to mandate any changes found necessary to address unsafe conditions identified as a result of these reviews. In evaluating these design reviews, we have established four criteria intended to define the unsafe conditions associated with fuel tank systems that require corrective action. The percentage of operating time during which fuel tanks are exposed to flammable conditions is one of these criteria. The other three criteria address the failure types under evaluation: Single failures, single failures in combination with another latent condition(s), and in-service failure experience. For all four criteria, the evaluations included consideration of previous actions taken that may mitigate the need for further action. We have determined that the actions identified in this proposed AD are necessary to reduce the potential of ignition sources inside fuel tanks, which, in combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result in a fuel tank explosion and consequent loss of the airplane. Relevant Service Information We have reviewed Subsection D, ‘‘AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS— SYSTEMS,’’ of Boeing 767 Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) Document, D622T001–9, Section 9, Revision March 2006 (hereafter referred to as ‘‘Revision March 2006 of the MPD’’). Subsection D of Revision March 2006 of the MPD describes new airworthiness limitations (AWLs) for fuel tank systems. The new AWLs include: • AWL inspections, which are periodic inspections of certain features for latent failures that could contribute to an ignition source; and • Critical design configuration control limitations (CDCCLs), which are limitation requirements to preserve a critical ignition source prevention feature of the fuel tank system design that is necessary to prevent the occurrence of an unsafe condition. The purpose of a CDCCL is to provide instruction to retain the critical ignition source prevention feature during configuration change that may be caused by alterations, repairs, or maintenance actions. A CDCCL is not a periodic inspection. Accomplishing the actions specified in the service information is intended to adequately address the unsafe condition. PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 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 revising the FAA-approved maintenance program to incorporate the information in Subsection D of Revision March 2006 of the MPD. This proposed AD would also require the initial inspection of certain repetitive AWL inspections to phase in those inspections, and repair if necessary. Explanation of Compliance Time In most ADs, we adopt a compliance time allowing a specified amount of time after the AD’s effective date. In this case, however, the FAA has already issued regulations that require operators to revise their maintenance/inspection programs to address fuel tank safety issues. The compliance date for these regulations is December 16, 2008. To provide for efficient and coordinated implementation of these regulations and this proposed AD, we are using this same compliance date in this proposed AD, instead of the 18-month compliance time recommended by Boeing. Rework Required When Implementing AWLs Into an Existing Fleet The maintenance program revision for the fuel tank systems specified in paragraph (g) of this proposed AD, which involves incorporating the information specified in Revision March 2006 of the MPD, would affect how operators maintain their airplanes. After doing that maintenance program revision, operators would need to do any maintenance on the fuel tank system as specified in the CDCCLs. Maintenance done before the maintenance program revision specified in paragraph (g) would not need to be redone in order to comply with paragraph (g). For example, the AWL that requires fuel pumps to be repaired and overhauled per an FAA-approved component maintenance manual (CMM) applies to fuel pumps repaired after the maintenance programs are revised; spare or on-wing fuel pumps do not need to be reworked. For AWLs that require repetitive inspections, the initial inspection interval (threshold) starts from the date the maintenance program revision specified in paragraph (g) is done, except as provided by paragraph (h) of this proposed AD. This proposed AD would require only the maintenance program revision specified in paragraph (g), and initial inspections specified in E:\FR\FM\03JYP1.SGM 03JYP1 36393 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 127 / Tuesday, July 3, 2007 / Proposed Rules paragraph (h). No other fleet-wide inspections need to be done. Changes to Fuel Tank System AWLs Paragraph (g) of this proposed AD would require revising the FAAapproved maintenance program by incorporating certain information specified in Revision March 2006 of the MPD. Paragraph (g) allows accomplishing the maintenance program revision in accordance with later revisions of the MPD as an acceptable method of compliance if they are approved by the Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA. Paragraph (h) allows accomplishing the initial inspections and repair in accordance with later revisions of the MPD as an acceptable method of compliance if they are approved by the Manager, Seattle ACO. In addition, Subsection D of Revision March 2006 of the MPD specifies that any deviations from the published AWL instructions, including AWL intervals, in that MPD must be approved by the Manager, Seattle ACO. Therefore, after the maintenance program revision, any further revision to an AWL or AWL interval should be done as an AWL change, not as an alternative method of compliance (AMOC). For U.S.-registered airplanes, operators must make requests through an appropriate FAA Principal Maintenance Inspector (PMI) or Principal Avionics Inspector (PAI) for approval by the Manager, Seattle ACO. A non-U.S. operator should coordinate changes with its governing regulatory agency. Exceptional Short-Term Extensions Subsection D of Revision March 2006 of the MPD has provisions for an exceptional short-term extension of 30 days. An exceptional short-term extension is an increase in an AWL interval that may be needed to cover an uncontrollable or unexpected situation. For U.S.-registered airplanes, the FAA PMI or PAI must concur with any exceptional short-term extension before it is used, unless the operator has identified another appropriate procedure with the local regulatory authority. The FAA PMI or PAI may grant the exceptional short-term extensions described in Subsection D without consultation with the Manager, Seattle ACO. A non-U.S. operator should coordinate changes with its governing regulatory agency. As explained in Revision March 2006 of the MPD, exceptional short-term extensions must not be used for fleet AWL extensions. An exceptional short-term extension should not be confused with an operator’s short-term escalation authorization approved in accordance with the Operations Specifications or the operator’s reliability program. Ensuring Compliance With Fuel Tank System AWLs Boeing has revised applicable maintenance manuals and task cards to address AWLs and to include notes about CDCCLs. Operators that do not use Boeing’s revision service should revise their maintenance manuals and task cards to highlight actions tied to CDCCLs to ensure that maintenance personnel are complying with the CDCCLs. Appendix 1 of this proposed AD contains a list of Air Transport Association (ATA) sections for the revised maintenance manuals. Operators might wish to use the appendix as an aid to implement the AWLs. Recording Compliance With Fuel Tank System AWLs The applicable operating rules of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR parts 91, 121, 125, and 129) require operators to maintain records with the identification of the current inspection status of an airplane. Some of the AWLs contained in Subsection D of Revision March 2006 of the MPD are inspections for which the applicable sections of the operating rules apply. Other AWLs are CDCCLs, which are tied to conditional maintenance actions. An entry into an operator’s existing maintenance record system for corrective action is sufficient for recording compliance with CDCCLs, as long as the applicable maintenance manual and task cards identify actions that are CDCCLs. Changes to CMMs Cited in Fuel Tank System AWLs Some of the AWLs in Subsection D of Revision March 2006 of the MPD refer to specific revision levels of the CMMs as additional sources of service information for doing the AWLs. Boeing is referring to the CMMs by revision level in the applicable AWL for certain components rather than including information directly in the MPD because of the volume of that information. As a result, the Manager, Seattle ACO, must approve the CMMs. Any later revision of those CMMs will be handled like a change to the AWL itself. Any use of parts (including the use of parts manufacturer approval (PMA) approved parts), methods, techniques, and practices not contained in the CMMs need to be approved by the Manager, Seattle ACO, or governing regulatory authority. For example, certain pump repair/overhaul manuals must be approved by the Manager, Seattle ACO. Changes to AMMs Referenced in Fuel Tank System AWLs In other AWLs in Subsection D of Revision March 2006 of the MPD, the AWLs contain all the necessary data. The applicable section of the maintenance manual is usually included in the AWLs. Boeing intended this information to assist operators in maintaining the maintenance manuals. A maintenance manual change to these tasks may be made without approval by the Manager, Seattle ACO, through an appropriate FAA PMI or PAI, by the governing regulatory authority, or by using the operator’s standard process for revising maintenance manuals. An acceptable change would have to maintain the information specified in the AWL such as the pass/fail criteria or special test equipment. Costs of Compliance There are about 824 airplanes of the affected design in the worldwide fleet. The following table provides the estimated costs, at an average labor rate of $80 per hour, for U.S. operators to comply with this proposed AD. ESTIMATED COSTS jlentini on PROD1PC65 with PROPOSALS Action Work hours Maintenance program revision .............................................. Inspections ............................................................................ VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:13 Jul 02, 2007 Jkt 211001 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Parts 8 8 Fmt 4702 Cost per airplane None ............ None ............ Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\03JYP1.SGM $640 640 03JYP1 Number of U.S.-registered airplanes 332 332 Fleet cost $212,480 212,480 36394 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 127 / Tuesday, July 3, 2007 / Proposed Rules 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. jlentini on PROD1PC65 with PROPOSALS The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:13 Jul 02, 2007 Jkt 211001 the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: flammable fuel vapors, could result in a fuel tank explosion and consequent loss of the airplane. PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES Compliance 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 (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 Information Reference [Amended] 2. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): Boeing: Docket No. FAA–2007–28388; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–163–AD. (f) The term ‘‘Revision March 2006 of the MPD’’ as used in this AD, means Boeing 767 Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) Document, D622T001–9, Section 9, Revision March 2006. Maintenance Program Revision Comments Due Date (a) The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by August 17, 2007. Affected ADs (b) None. Applicability (c) This AD applies to Boeing Model 767– 200, –300, –300F, and –400ER series airplanes, certificated in any category; with an original standard airworthiness certificate or original export certificate of airworthiness issued before April 22, 2006. Note 1: Airplanes with an original standard airworthiness certificate or original export certificate of airworthiness issued on or after April 22, 2006, must already be in compliance with the airworthiness limitations specified in this AD because those limitations were applicable as part of the airworthiness certification of those airplanes. Note 2: This AD requires revisions to certain operator maintenance documents to include new inspections and maintenance actions. Compliance with these limitations is required by 14 CFR 43.16 and 91.403(c). For airplanes that have been previously modified, altered, or repaired in the areas addressed by these limitations, the operator may not be able to accomplish the actions described in the revisions. In this situation, to comply with 14 CFR 43.16 and 91.403(c), the operator must request approval for revision to the airworthiness limitations (AWLs) in the Boeing 767 Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) Document, D622T001–9, according to paragraph (g) or (i) of this AD, as applicable. Unsafe Condition (d) This AD results from a design review of the fuel tank systems. We are issuing this AD to prevent the potential for ignition sources inside fuel tanks caused by latent failures, alterations, repairs, or maintenance actions, which, in combination with PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 (g) Before December 16, 2008, revise the FAA-approved maintenance program by incorporating the information in Subsection D, ‘‘AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS— SYSTEMS,’’ of Revision March 2006 of the MPD; except that the initial inspections specified in Table 1 of this AD must be done at the compliance times specified in Table 1. Accomplishing the revision in accordance with a later revision of the MPD is an acceptable method of compliance if the revision is approved by the Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA. Initial Inspections and Repair if Necessary (h) Do the inspections specified in Table 1 of this AD and repair any discrepancy, in accordance with Subsection D, ‘‘AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS— SYSTEMS,’’ of Revision March 2006 of the MPD. The repair must be done before further flight. Accomplishing the actions required by this paragraph in accordance with a later revision of the MPD is an acceptable method of compliance if the revision is approved by the Manager, Seattle ACO. 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.’’ Note 4: For the purposes of this AD, a special detailed inspection is: ‘‘An intensive examination of a specific item, installation, or assembly to detect damage, failure, or irregularity. The examination is likely to make extensive use of specialized inspection techniques and/or equipment. Intricate cleaning and substantial access or disassembly procedure may be required.’’ E:\FR\FM\03JYP1.SGM 03JYP1 36395 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 127 / Tuesday, July 3, 2007 / Proposed Rules TABLE 1.—INITIAL INSPECTIONS Compliance time (whichever occurs later) AWL No. Description Threshold 28–AWL–01 ................. A detailed inspection of external wires over the center fuel tank for damaged clamps, wire chafing, and wire bundles in contact with the surface of the center fuel tank. 8–AWL–05 ............... A special detailed inspection of the bulkhead fitting bond for the hydraulic line tank penetration. 8–AWL–18 ............... A special detailed inspection of the lightning shield to ground termination on the out-oftank fuel quantity indicating system to verify functional integrity. 8–AWL–26 ............... A special detailed inspection of the lightning shield to ground termination on the out-oftank surge tank fuel level sensor to verify functional integrity. Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (i)(1) The Manager, Seattle ACO, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, Grace period Before the accumulation of 36,000 total flight cycles, or within 144 months since the date of issuance of the original standard airworthiness certificate or the date of issuance of the original export certificate of airworthiness, whichever occurs first. Before the accumulation of 25,000 total flight cycles, or within 72 months since the date of issuance of the original standard airworthiness certificate or the date of issuance of the original export certificate of airworthiness, whichever occurs first. Before the accumulation of 36,000 total flight cycles, or within 144 months since the date of issuance of the original standard airworthiness certificate or the date of issuance of the original export certificate of airworthiness, whichever occurs first. Before the accumulation of 36,000 total flight cycles, or within 144 months since the date of issuance of the original standard airworthiness certificate or the date of issuance of the original export certificate of airworthiness, whichever occurs first. Within 72 months after the effective date of this AD. if requested in accordance with the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. (2) To request a different method of compliance or a different compliance time for this AD, follow the procedures in 14 CFR 39.19. Before using any approved AMOC on Within 60 months after the effective date of this AD. Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD. Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD. any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO. APPENDIX 1.—IMPLEMENTING FUEL TANK SYSTEM AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS ON MODEL 767–200, –300, –300F, AND –400ER SERIES AIRPLANES AWL No. ALI/CDCCL ATA section or CMM document Task title 28–AWL–01 ............................. ALI ............... AMM 28–11–00/601 ............... 28–11–00–206–258. 28–AWL–02 ............................. CDCCL ........ SWPM 20–10–11 ................... 28–AWL–03 ............................. CDCCL ........ AMM 28–22–07/401 ............... 28–AWL–04 ............................. 28–AWL–05 ............................. CDCCL ........ ALI ............... AMM 29–11–27/401 ............... AMM 29–11–27/601 ............... External Wires Over the Center Tank Inspection. Wiring Assembly and Installation Configuration. Install the Fuel Lines and Fittings. Install the Heat Exchanger ..... Bonding Resistance Check of the Heat Exchanger Lines. 28–AWL–06 ............................. CDCCL ........ 28–AWL–07 ............................. CDCCL ........ CMM 28–22–01, Revision 12; CMM 28–22–12, Revision 16; CMM 28–22–21, Revision 7; or subsequent revisions. AMM 28–22–03/401 ............... Install the Housing of the Fuel Boost Pump. Install the Housing of the Override (or Override/jettison) Pump. 28–22–03–404–027. Varies with configuration. Wiring Assembly and Installation Configuration. Install the Fueling Shutoff Valve. Install the Control Unit of the Fueling Shutoff Valve. 28–21–02–404–021. AMM 28–22–05/401 ............... jlentini on PROD1PC65 with PROPOSALS 28–AWL–08 ............................. 28–AWL–09 ............................. CDCCL. CDCCL ........ SWPM 20–10–11 ................... 28–AWL–10 ............................. CDCCL ........ AMM 28–21–02/401 ............... AMM 28–21–12/401 ............... 28–AWL–11 ............................. VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:13 Jul 02, 2007 CDCCL ........ Jkt 211001 Task No. CMM 28–41–68, Revision 4 or subsequent revisions. PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\03JYP1.SGM 03JYP1 Varies with configuration. 29–11–27–424–015. 29–11–27–026–001. 28–21–12–404–021. 36396 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 127 / Tuesday, July 3, 2007 / Proposed Rules APPENDIX 1.—IMPLEMENTING FUEL TANK SYSTEM AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS ON MODEL 767–200, –300, –300F, AND –400ER SERIES AIRPLANES—Continued AWL No. ALI/CDCCL ATA section or CMM document 28–AWL–12 ............................. CDCCL ........ 28–AWL–13 ............................. CDCCL ........ CMM 28–40–56, Revision 4; CMM 28–40–59, Revision 4; CMM 28–40–62, Revision 3; CMM 28–41–68, Revision 4; CMM 28–41– 01, Revision 5; CMM 28– 41–07, Revision 4; CMM 28–41–09, Revision 6; CMM 28–41–30, Revision 1; CMM 28–41–33, Revision 2; CMM 28–41–34, Revision 1; CMM 28–41– 35, Revision 1; CMM 28– 41–36, Revision 7; CMM 28–41–39, Revision 7; CMM 28–41–41, Revision 5; CMM 28–41–42, Revision 0; or subsequent revisions. SWPM 20–14–12 ................... AMM 28–41–09/401 ............... 28–AWL–14 ............................. CDCCL ........ AMM 28–11–01/401 ............... AMM 28–11–02/401 ............... AMM 28–11–03/401 ............... 28–AWL–15 ............................. CDCCL ........ 28–AWL–16 ............................. CDCCL ........ CMM 28–21–01, Revision 1 or subsequent revisions. SWPM 20–14–12 ................... AMM 28–21–11/401 ............... 28–AWL–17 ............................. 28–AWL–18 ............................. CDCCL ........ ALI ............... FIM 28–22–00/101. AMM 20–55–54/601 ............... 28–AWL–19 ............................. CDCCL ........ SWPM 20–10–15 ................... 28–AWL–20 ............................. ALI ............... AMM 28–22–00/501 ............... 28–AWL–21 ............................. 28–AWL–22 ............................. CDCCL ........ AMM 28–41–24/401 ............... 28–AWL–23 ............................. CDCCL ........ AMM 28–22–01/401 ............... AMM 28–22–02/401 ............... AMM 28–22–11/401 ............... AMM 28–22–12/401 ............... AMM 28–26–01/401 ............... AMM 28–26–02/401 ............... jlentini on PROD1PC65 with PROPOSALS 28–AWL–24 ............................. 28–AWL–25 ............................. CDCCL ........ CDCCL ........ CMM 28–20–21. SWPM 20–10–15 ................... 28–AWL–26 ............................. ALI ............... Task title Task No. Repair of Fuel Quantity Indicator System (FQIS) Wire Harness. Install the Tank Wiring Harness. Install the Main Tank Access Door. Install the Auxiliary Tank Access Door. Install the Surge Tank Access Door. Repair of Fuel Quantity Indicator System (FQIS) Wire Harness. Surge Tank Sensor Harness Installation. 16:13 Jul 02, 2007 Jkt 211001 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 28–11–01–404–005. 28–11–02–404–013. 28–11–03–404–011. 28–21–11–424–032. FQIS Wiring and Bonding Inspection/Check. Assembly of Shield Ground Wires. Override Pump Auto Shutoff Functional Test. 20–55–54–206–002. Densitometer Hot Short Protector Installation. Install the Adapter Shaft of the Engine Fuel Shutoff Valve. Install the Adapter Shaft of the Engine Crossfeed Valve. Install the Actuator of the Engine Fuel Shutoff Valve. Install the Actuator of the Engine Fuel Crossfeed Valve. Install the Adapter Shaft of the Defueling Valve. Install the Defueling Valve Actuator. 28–41–24–404–017. AMM 20–55–54/601. VerDate Aug<31>2005 Varies with configuration. Assembly of Shield Ground Wires. E:\FR\FM\03JYP1.SGM 03JYP1 28–22–00–725–529. 28–22–01–404–030. 28–22–02–404–023. 28–22–11–404–008. 28–22–12–404–010. 28–26–01–404–059. 28–26–11–404–020. Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 127 / Tuesday, July 3, 2007 / Proposed Rules Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 22, 2007. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. E7–12817 Filed 7–2–07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2007–28235; Airspace Docket No. 07–ANM–9] Proposed Establishment of Class E Airspace; Hulett, WY Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking. AGENCY: SUMMARY: This action proposes to establish Class E airspace at Hulett, WY. Additional controlled airspace is necessary to accommodate aircraft using a new Area Navigation (RNAV) Global Positioning System (GPS) Instrument Approach Procedure (IAP) at Hulett Municipal Airport. The FAA is proposing this action to enhance the safety and management of aircraft operations at Hulett Municipal Airport, Hulett, WY. DATES: Comments must be received on or before August 17, 2007. ADDRESSES: Send comments on this proposal to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room @12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590. Telephone (202) 366–9826. You must identify FAA Docket No. FAA–2007–28235; Airspace Docket No. 07–ANM–9, at the beginning of your comments. You may also submit comments through the Internet at https:// dms.dot.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ed Haeseker, Federal Aviation Administration, Western Service Area Office, System Support Group, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, WA 98057; telephone (425) 917–6714. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: jlentini on PROD1PC65 with PROPOSALS 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 developing reasoned regulatory decisions on the proposal. Comments VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:13 Jul 02, 2007 Jkt 211001 are specifically invited on the overall regulatory, aeronautical, economic, environmental, and energy-related aspects of the proposal. Communications should identify both docket numbers (FAA Docket No. FAA– 2007–28235 and Airspace Docket No. 07–ANM–9) and be submitted in triplicate to Docket Operations (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 FAA Docket No. FAA–2007–28235 and Airspace Docket No. 07–ANM–9’’. 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 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 NPRM’s 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 the ‘‘ADDRESSES’’ section for the 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 Northwest Mountain Regional Office of the Federal Aviation Administration, Air Traffic Organization, Western Service Area, System Support Group, 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 Rulemaking Distribution System, which describes the application procedure. PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 36397 The Proposal The FAA is proposing an amendment to Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 71 by establishing Class E airspace at Hulett, WY. Controlled airspace is necessary to accommodate aircraft using the new RNAV (GPS) IAP at Hulett Municipal Airport. This action would enhance the safety and management of aircraft operations at Hulett Municipal Airport, Hulett, WY. Class E airspace designations are published in paragraph 6005 of FAA Order 7400.9P, dated September 1, 2006, and effective September 15, 2006, which is incorporated by reference in 14 CFR 71.1. The Class E airspace designation listed in this document will be published subsequently in this Order. The FAA has determined that this proposed regulation only involves an established body of technical regulations for which frequent and routine amendments are necessary to keep them operationally current. Therefore, this proposed regulation: (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) does not warrant preparation of a regulatory evaluation as the anticipated impact is so minimal. Since this is a routine matter that will only affect air traffic procedures and air navigation, it is certified that this proposed rule, when promulgated, would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 71 Airspace, Incorporation by reference, Navigation (air). The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me, the Federal Aviation Administration proposes to amend 14 CFR part 71 as follows: PART 71—DESIGNATION OF CLASS A, B, C, D, AND E AIRSPACE AREAS; AIR TRAFFIC SERVICE ROUTES; AND REPORTING POINTS 1. The authority citation for 14 CFR part 71 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40103, 40113, 40120; E.O. 10854, 24 FR 9565, 3 CFR, 1959– 1963 Comp., p. 389. § 71.1 [Amended] 2. The incorporation by reference in 14 CFR 71.1 of the FAA Order 7400.9P, Airspace Designations and Reporting E:\FR\FM\03JYP1.SGM 03JYP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 72, Number 127 (Tuesday, July 3, 2007)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 36391-36397]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E7-12817]

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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2007-28388; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-163-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64

Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and
-400ER Series Airplanes

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

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD)
for certain Boeing Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and -400ER series
airplanes. This proposed AD would require revising the FAA-approved
maintenance program to incorporate new airworthiness limitations (AWLs)
for fuel tank systems to satisfy Special Federal Aviation Regulation
No. 88 requirements. This proposed AD would also require the initial
inspection of certain repetitive AWL inspections to phase in those
inspections, and repair if necessary. This proposed AD results from a
design review of the fuel tank systems. We are proposing this AD to
prevent the potential for ignition sources inside fuel tanks caused by
latent failures, alterations, repairs, or maintenance actions, which,
in combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result in a fuel tank
explosion and consequent loss of the airplane.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 17, 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: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
Fax: (202) 493-2251.
Hand Delivery: Room W12-140 on the ground floor of the
West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
Contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle,
Washington 98124-2207, for the service information identified in this
proposed AD.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kathrine Rask, Aerospace Engineer,
Propulsion Branch, ANM-140S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification
Office, 1601 Lind Ave SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone
(425) 917-6505; fax (425) 917-6590.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

We invite you to submit any relevant written data, views, or
arguments regarding this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address
listed in the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number ``FAA-2007-
28388; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-163-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

[[Page 36392]]

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 Operations office between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The
Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is located on the
ground floor of the West Building at the DOT street address stated in
the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket
shortly after the Docket Management System receives them.

Discussion

The FAA has examined the underlying safety issues involved in fuel
tank explosions on several large transport airplanes, including the
adequacy of existing regulations, the service history of airplanes
subject to those regulations, and existing maintenance practices for
fuel tank systems. As a result of those findings, we issued a
regulation titled ``Transport Airplane Fuel Tank System Design Review,
Flammability Reduction and Maintenance and Inspection Requirements''
(67 FR 23086, May 7, 2001). In addition to new airworthiness standards
for transport airplanes and new maintenance requirements, this rule
included Special Federal Aviation Regulation No. 88 (``SFAR 88,''
Amendment 21-78, and subsequent Amendments 21-82 and 21-83).
Among other actions, SFAR 88 requires certain type design (i.e.,
type certificate (TC) and supplemental type certificate (STC)) holders
to substantiate that their fuel tank systems can prevent ignition
sources in the fuel tanks. This requirement applies to type design
holders for large turbine-powered transport airplanes and for
subsequent modifications to those airplanes. It requires them to
perform design reviews and to develop design changes and maintenance
procedures if their designs do not meet the new fuel tank safety
standards. As explained in the preamble to the rule, we intended to
adopt airworthiness directives to mandate any changes found necessary
to address unsafe conditions identified as a result of these reviews.
In evaluating these design reviews, we have established four
criteria intended to define the unsafe conditions associated with fuel
tank systems that require corrective action. The percentage of
operating time during which fuel tanks are exposed to flammable
conditions is one of these criteria. The other three criteria address
the failure types under evaluation: Single failures, single failures in
combination with another latent condition(s), and in-service failure
experience. For all four criteria, the evaluations included
consideration of previous actions taken that may mitigate the need for
further action.
We have determined that the actions identified in this proposed AD
are necessary to reduce the potential of ignition sources inside fuel
tanks, which, in combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result
in a fuel tank explosion and consequent loss of the airplane.

Relevant Service Information

We have reviewed Subsection D, ``AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS--
SYSTEMS,'' of Boeing 767 Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) Document,
D622T001-9, Section 9, Revision March 2006 (hereafter referred to as
``Revision March 2006 of the MPD''). Subsection D of Revision March
2006 of the MPD describes new airworthiness limitations (AWLs) for fuel
tank systems. The new AWLs include:
AWL inspections, which are periodic inspections of certain
features for latent failures that could contribute to an ignition
source; and
Critical design configuration control limitations
(CDCCLs), which are limitation requirements to preserve a critical
ignition source prevention feature of the fuel tank system design that
is necessary to prevent the occurrence of an unsafe condition. The
purpose of a CDCCL is to provide instruction to retain the critical
ignition source prevention feature during configuration change that may
be caused by alterations, repairs, or maintenance actions. A CDCCL is
not a periodic inspection.
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 revising the FAA-approved maintenance program to
incorporate the information in Subsection D of Revision March 2006 of
the MPD. This proposed AD would also require the initial inspection of
certain repetitive AWL inspections to phase in those inspections, and
repair if necessary.

Explanation of Compliance Time

In most ADs, we adopt a compliance time allowing a specified amount
of time after the AD's effective date. In this case, however, the FAA
has already issued regulations that require operators to revise their
maintenance/inspection programs to address fuel tank safety issues. The
compliance date for these regulations is December 16, 2008. To provide
for efficient and coordinated implementation of these regulations and
this proposed AD, we are using this same compliance date in this
proposed AD, instead of the 18-month compliance time recommended by
Boeing.

Rework Required When Implementing AWLs Into an Existing Fleet

The maintenance program revision for the fuel tank systems
specified in paragraph (g) of this proposed AD, which involves
incorporating the information specified in Revision March 2006 of the
MPD, would affect how operators maintain their airplanes. After doing
that maintenance program revision, operators would need to do any
maintenance on the fuel tank system as specified in the CDCCLs.
Maintenance done before the maintenance program revision specified in
paragraph (g) would not need to be redone in order to comply with
paragraph (g). For example, the AWL that requires fuel pumps to be
repaired and overhauled per an FAA-approved component maintenance
manual (CMM) applies to fuel pumps repaired after the maintenance
programs are revised; spare or on-wing fuel pumps do not need to be
reworked. For AWLs that require repetitive inspections, the initial
inspection interval (threshold) starts from the date the maintenance
program revision specified in paragraph (g) is done, except as provided
by paragraph (h) of this proposed AD. This proposed AD would require
only the maintenance program revision specified in paragraph (g), and
initial inspections specified in

[[Page 36393]]

paragraph (h). No other fleet-wide inspections need to be done.

Changes to Fuel Tank System AWLs

Paragraph (g) of this proposed AD would require revising the FAA-
approved maintenance program by incorporating certain information
specified in Revision March 2006 of the MPD. Paragraph (g) allows
accomplishing the maintenance program revision in accordance with later
revisions of the MPD as an acceptable method of compliance if they are
approved by the Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO),
FAA. Paragraph (h) allows accomplishing the initial inspections and
repair in accordance with later revisions of the MPD as an acceptable
method of compliance if they are approved by the Manager, Seattle ACO.
In addition, Subsection D of Revision March 2006 of the MPD specifies
that any deviations from the published AWL instructions, including AWL
intervals, in that MPD must be approved by the Manager, Seattle ACO.
Therefore, after the maintenance program revision, any further revision
to an AWL or AWL interval should be done as an AWL change, not as an
alternative method of compliance (AMOC). For U.S.-registered airplanes,
operators must make requests through an appropriate FAA Principal
Maintenance Inspector (PMI) or Principal Avionics Inspector (PAI) for
approval by the Manager, Seattle ACO. A non-U.S. operator should
coordinate changes with its governing regulatory agency.

Exceptional Short-Term Extensions

Subsection D of Revision March 2006 of the MPD has provisions for
an exceptional short-term extension of 30 days. An exceptional short-
term extension is an increase in an AWL interval that may be needed to
cover an uncontrollable or unexpected situation. For U.S.-registered
airplanes, the FAA PMI or PAI must concur with any exceptional short-
term extension before it is used, unless the operator has identified
another appropriate procedure with the local regulatory authority. The
FAA PMI or PAI may grant the exceptional short-term extensions
described in Subsection D without consultation with the Manager,
Seattle ACO. A non-U.S. operator should coordinate changes with its
governing regulatory agency. As explained in Revision March 2006 of the
MPD, exceptional short-term extensions must not be used for fleet AWL
extensions. An exceptional short-term extension should not be confused
with an operator's short-term escalation authorization approved in
accordance with the Operations Specifications or the operator's
reliability program.

Ensuring Compliance With Fuel Tank System AWLs

Boeing has revised applicable maintenance manuals and task cards to
address AWLs and to include notes about CDCCLs. Operators that do not
use Boeing's revision service should revise their maintenance manuals
and task cards to highlight actions tied to CDCCLs to ensure that
maintenance personnel are complying with the CDCCLs. Appendix 1 of this
proposed AD contains a list of Air Transport Association (ATA) sections
for the revised maintenance manuals. Operators might wish to use the
appendix as an aid to implement the AWLs.

Recording Compliance With Fuel Tank System AWLs

The applicable operating rules of the Federal Aviation Regulations
(14 CFR parts 91, 121, 125, and 129) require operators to maintain
records with the identification of the current inspection status of an
airplane. Some of the AWLs contained in Subsection D of Revision March
2006 of the MPD are inspections for which the applicable sections of
the operating rules apply. Other AWLs are CDCCLs, which are tied to
conditional maintenance actions. An entry into an operator's existing
maintenance record system for corrective action is sufficient for
recording compliance with CDCCLs, as long as the applicable maintenance
manual and task cards identify actions that are CDCCLs.

Changes to CMMs Cited in Fuel Tank System AWLs

Some of the AWLs in Subsection D of Revision March 2006 of the MPD
refer to specific revision levels of the CMMs as additional sources of
service information for doing the AWLs. Boeing is referring to the CMMs
by revision level in the applicable AWL for certain components rather
than including information directly in the MPD because of the volume of
that information. As a result, the Manager, Seattle ACO, must approve
the CMMs. Any later revision of those CMMs will be handled like a
change to the AWL itself. Any use of parts (including the use of parts
manufacturer approval (PMA) approved parts), methods, techniques, and
practices not contained in the CMMs need to be approved by the Manager,
Seattle ACO, or governing regulatory authority. For example, certain
pump repair/overhaul manuals must be approved by the Manager, Seattle
ACO.

Changes to AMMs Referenced in Fuel Tank System AWLs

In other AWLs in Subsection D of Revision March 2006 of the MPD,
the AWLs contain all the necessary data. The applicable section of the
maintenance manual is usually included in the AWLs. Boeing intended
this information to assist operators in maintaining the maintenance
manuals. A maintenance manual change to these tasks may be made without
approval by the Manager, Seattle ACO, through an appropriate FAA PMI or
PAI, by the governing regulatory authority, or by using the operator's
standard process for revising maintenance manuals. An acceptable change
would have to maintain the information specified in the AWL such as the
pass/fail criteria or special test equipment.

Costs of Compliance

There are about 824 airplanes of the affected design in the
worldwide fleet. The following table provides the estimated costs, at
an average labor rate of $80 per hour, for U.S. operators to comply
with this proposed AD.

Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of U.S.-
Action Work hours Parts Cost per registered Fleet cost
airplane airplanes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maintenance program revision. 8 None............. $640 332 $212,480
Inspections.................. 8 None............. 640 332 212,480
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[[Page 36394]]

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-2007-28388; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-
163-AD.

Comments Due Date

(a) The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by August
17, 2007.

Affected ADs

(b) None.

Applicability

(c) This AD applies to Boeing Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and -
400ER series airplanes, certificated in any category; with an
original standard airworthiness certificate or original export
certificate of airworthiness issued before April 22, 2006.

Note 1: Airplanes with an original standard airworthiness
certificate or original export certificate of airworthiness issued
on or after April 22, 2006, must already be in compliance with the
airworthiness limitations specified in this AD because those
limitations were applicable as part of the airworthiness
certification of those airplanes.

Note 2: This AD requires revisions to certain operator
maintenance documents to include new inspections and maintenance
actions. Compliance with these limitations is required by 14 CFR
43.16 and 91.403(c). For airplanes that have been previously
modified, altered, or repaired in the areas addressed by these
limitations, the operator may not be able to accomplish the actions
described in the revisions. In this situation, to comply with 14 CFR
43.16 and 91.403(c), the operator must request approval for revision
to the airworthiness limitations (AWLs) in the Boeing 767
Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) Document, D622T001-9, according to
paragraph (g) or (i) of this AD, as applicable.

Unsafe Condition

(d) This AD results from a design review of the fuel tank
systems. We are issuing this AD to prevent the potential for
ignition sources inside fuel tanks caused by latent failures,
alterations, repairs, or maintenance actions, which, in combination
with flammable fuel vapors, could result in a fuel tank explosion
and consequent loss of the airplane.

Compliance

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

Service Information Reference

(f) The term ``Revision March 2006 of the MPD'' as used in this
AD, means Boeing 767 Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) Document,
D622T001-9, Section 9, Revision March 2006.

Maintenance Program Revision

(g) Before December 16, 2008, revise the FAA-approved
maintenance program by incorporating the information in Subsection
D, ``AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS--SYSTEMS,'' of Revision March 2006 of
the MPD; except that the initial inspections specified in Table 1 of
this AD must be done at the compliance times specified in Table 1.
Accomplishing the revision in accordance with a later revision of
the MPD is an acceptable method of compliance if the revision is
approved by the Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office
(ACO), FAA.

Initial Inspections and Repair if Necessary

(h) Do the inspections specified in Table 1 of this AD and
repair any discrepancy, in accordance with Subsection D,
``AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS--SYSTEMS,'' of Revision March 2006 of
the MPD. The repair must be done before further flight.
Accomplishing the actions required by this paragraph in accordance
with a later revision of the MPD is an acceptable method of
compliance if the revision is approved by the Manager, Seattle ACO.

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.''

Note 4: For the purposes of this AD, a special detailed
inspection is: ``An intensive examination of a specific item,
installation, or assembly to detect damage, failure, or
irregularity. The examination is likely to make extensive use of
specialized inspection techniques and/or equipment. Intricate
cleaning and substantial access or disassembly procedure may be
required.''

[[Page 36395]]

Table 1.--Initial Inspections
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Compliance time (whichever occurs later)
AWL No. Description -------------------------------------------------
Threshold Grace period
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
28-AWL-01......................... A detailed inspection of Before the accumulation of Within 72 months
external wires over the 36,000 total flight after the effective
center fuel tank for cycles, or within 144 date of this AD.
damaged clamps, wire months since the date of
chafing, and wire bundles issuance of the original
in contact with the standard airworthiness
surface of the center certificate or the date
fuel tank. of issuance of the
original export
certificate of
airworthiness, whichever
occurs first.
8-AWL-05........................ A special detailed Before the accumulation of Within 60 months
inspection of the 25,000 total flight after the effective
bulkhead fitting bond for cycles, or within 72 date of this AD.
the hydraulic line tank months since the date of
penetration. issuance of the original
standard airworthiness
certificate or the date
of issuance of the
original export
certificate of
airworthiness, whichever
occurs first.
8-AWL-18........................ A special detailed Before the accumulation of Within 24 months
inspection of the 36,000 total flight after the effective
lightning shield to cycles, or within 144 date of this AD.
ground termination on the months since the date of
out-of-tank fuel quantity issuance of the original
indicating system to standard airworthiness
verify functional certificate or the date
integrity. of issuance of the
original export
certificate of
airworthiness, whichever
occurs first.
8-AWL-26........................ A special detailed Before the accumulation of Within 24 months
inspection of the 36,000 total flight after the effective
lightning shield to cycles, or within 144 date of this AD.
ground termination on the months since the date of
out-of-tank surge tank issuance of the original
fuel level sensor to standard airworthiness
verify functional certificate or the date
integrity. of issuance of the
original export
certificate of
airworthiness, whichever
occurs first.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

(i)(1) The Manager, Seattle ACO, FAA, has the authority to
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested in accordance with the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
(2) To request a different method of compliance or a different
compliance time for this AD, follow the procedures in 14 CFR 39.19.
Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC
applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA
Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local
FSDO.

Appendix 1.--Implementing Fuel Tank System Airworthiness Limitations on Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and -400ER
Series Airplanes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ATA section or CMM
AWL No. ALI/CDCCL document Task title Task No.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
28-AWL-01...................... ALI................ AMM 28-11-00/601.. External Wires 28-11-00-206-258.
Over the Center
Tank Inspection.
28-AWL-02...................... CDCCL.............. SWPM 20-10-11..... Wiring Assembly ..................
and Installation
Configuration.
28-AWL-03...................... CDCCL.............. AMM 28-22-07/401.. Install the Fuel Varies with
Lines and configuration.
Fittings.
28-AWL-04...................... CDCCL.............. AMM 29-11-27/401.. Install the Heat 29-11-27-424-015.
Exchanger.
28-AWL-05...................... ALI................ AMM 29-11-27/601.. Bonding Resistance 29-11-27-026-001.
Check of the Heat
Exchanger Lines.
28-AWL-06...................... CDCCL.............. CMM 28-22-01, ..................
Revision 12; CMM
28-22-12,
Revision 16; CMM
28-22-21,
Revision 7; or
subsequent
revisions.
28-AWL-07...................... CDCCL.............. AMM 28-22-03/401.. Install the 28-22-03-404-027.
Housing of the
Fuel Boost Pump.
AMM 28-22-05/401.. Install the Varies with
Housing of the configuration.
Override (or
Override/
jettison) Pump.
28-AWL-08...................... CDCCL. ..................
28-AWL-09...................... CDCCL.............. SWPM 20-10-11..... Wiring Assembly ..................
and Installation
Configuration.
28-AWL-10...................... CDCCL.............. AMM 28-21-02/401.. Install the 28-21-02-404-021.
Fueling Shutoff
Valve.
AMM 28-21-12/401.. Install the 28-21-12-404-021.
Control Unit of
the Fueling
Shutoff Valve.
28-AWL-11...................... CDCCL.............. CMM 28-41-68, ..................
Revision 4 or
subsequent
revisions.

[[Page 36396]]

28-AWL-12...................... CDCCL.............. CMM 28-40-56, ..................
Revision 4; CMM
28-40-59,
Revision 4; CMM
28-40-62,
Revision 3; CMM
28-41-68,
Revision 4; CMM
28-41-01,
Revision 5; CMM
28-41-07,
Revision 4; CMM
28-41-09,
Revision 6; CMM
28-41-30,
Revision 1; CMM
28-41-33,
Revision 2; CMM
28-41-34,
Revision 1; CMM
28-41-35,
Revision 1; CMM
28-41-36,
Revision 7; CMM
28-41-39,
Revision 7; CMM
28-41-41,
Revision 5; CMM
28-41-42,
Revision 0; or
subsequent
revisions.
28-AWL-13...................... CDCCL.............. SWPM 20-14-12..... Repair of Fuel ..................
Quantity
Indicator System
(FQIS) Wire
Harness.
AMM 28-41-09/401.. Install the Tank Varies with
Wiring Harness. configuration.
28-AWL-14...................... CDCCL.............. AMM 28-11-01/401.. Install the Main 28-11-01-404-005.
Tank Access Door.
AMM 28-11-02/401.. Install the 28-11-02-404-013.
Auxiliary Tank
Access Door.
AMM 28-11-03/401.. Install the Surge 28-11-03-404-011.
Tank Access Door.
28-AWL-15...................... CDCCL.............. CMM 28-21-01, ..................
Revision 1 or
subsequent
revisions.
28-AWL-16...................... CDCCL.............. SWPM 20-14-12..... Repair of Fuel ..................
Quantity
Indicator System
(FQIS) Wire
Harness.
AMM 28-21-11/401.. Surge Tank Sensor 28-21-11-424-032.
Harness
Installation.
28-AWL-17...................... CDCCL.............. FIM 28-22-00/101. ..................
28-AWL-18...................... ALI................ AMM 20-55-54/601.. FQIS Wiring and 20-55-54-206-002.
Bonding
Inspection/Check.
28-AWL-19...................... CDCCL.............. SWPM 20-10-15..... Assembly of Shield ..................
Ground Wires.
28-AWL-20...................... ALI................ AMM 28-22-00/501.. Override Pump Auto 28-22-00-725-529.
Shutoff
Functional Test.
28-AWL-21...................... ..................
28-AWL-22...................... CDCCL.............. AMM 28-41-24/401.. Densitometer Hot 28-41-24-404-017.
Short Protector
Installation.
28-AWL-23...................... CDCCL.............. AMM 28-22-01/401.. Install the 28-22-01-404-030.
Adapter Shaft of
the Engine Fuel
Shutoff Valve.
AMM 28-22-02/401.. Install the 28-22-02-404-023.
Adapter Shaft of
the Engine
Crossfeed Valve.
AMM 28-22-11/401.. Install the 28-22-11-404-008.
Actuator of the
Engine Fuel
Shutoff Valve.
AMM 28-22-12/401.. Install the 28-22-12-404-010.
Actuator of the
Engine Fuel
Crossfeed Valve.
AMM 28-26-01/401.. Install the 28-26-01-404-059.
Adapter Shaft of
the Defueling
Valve.
AMM 28-26-02/401.. Install the 28-26-11-404-020.
Defueling Valve
Actuator.
28-AWL-24...................... CDCCL.............. CMM 28-20-21. ..................
28-AWL-25...................... CDCCL.............. SWPM 20-10-15..... Assembly of Shield ..................
Ground Wires.
28-AWL-26...................... ALI................ AMM 20-55-54/601..
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[[Page 36397]]

Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 22, 2007.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. E7-12817 Filed 7-2-07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.