Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A319-100 and A320-200 Series Airplanes, 44750-44753 [E7-15225]
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Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 153 / Thursday, August 9, 2007 / Rules and Regulations
2007–16–07 Airbus: Amendment 39–
15146. Docket No. FAA–2007–28017;
Directorate Identifier 2007–NM–005–AD.
Effective Date
(a) This airworthiness directive (AD)
becomes effective September 13, 2007.
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A310–
203, A310–204, A310–222, A310–304, A310–
322, and A310–324 airplanes, certificated in
any category, manufacturing serial numbers
283 through 434 inclusive. Airplanes which
have received application of Airbus Service
Bulletin A310–53–2045 at original issue up
to Revision 05 are not affected by this AD.
Subject
(d) Fuselage.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) states:
During the A310 life extension exercise
performed by Airbus, the Airlines
Representatives and the Airworthiness
Authorities, some structural areas have been
identified for which existing recommended
SB (service bulletin) needs to be rendered
mandatory.
As a consequence, and because it has been
shown that the torque applied to the tension
bolts connecting the beam (stringer 49) to the
forward and aft beam extension at FR11 and
FR17 may be insufficient, this AD renders
mandatory the replacement of those tension
bolts, in order to limit the risks of damage or
corrosion of the specified areas.
Damage or corrosion of the specified areas
could result in reduced structural integrity of
the airplane.
jlentini on PROD1PC65 with RULES
Actions and Compliance
(f) Unless already done, do the following
actions at the applicable time specified in
paragraph (f)(1) or (f)(2) of this AD: Rework
the structure between frame 11 and frame 17
of the nose landing gear well of the fuselage
in accordance with the instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A310–53–2045, Revision 05,
dated July 20, 2006.
(1) For Model A310–300 airplanes: Prior to
accumulation of 35,000 total flight cycles
from first flight of the airplane, or within 30
days after the effective date of this AD,
whichever occurs later.
(2) For Model A310–200 airplanes: Prior to
the accumulation of 40,000 total flight cycles
from the first flight of the airplane, or within
30 days after the effective date of this AD,
whichever occurs later.
(3) Actions done before the effective date
of this AD in accordance with Airbus Service
Bulletin A310–53–2045, dated March 11,
1988; Revision 1, dated June 16, 1988;
Revision 2, dated September 7, 1988;
Revision 3, dated October 4, 1989; or
Revision 4, dated April 20, 1990; is
acceptable for compliance with the
requirements of this AD.
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Jkt 211001
Note: This AD differs from the MCAI and/
or service information as follows: No
differences.
Other FAA AD Provisions
Affected ADs
VerDate Aug<31>2005
FAA AD Differences
(g) The following provisions also apply to
this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): The Manager, International
Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane
Directorate, FAA, has the authority to
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
Send information to ATTN: Tom Stafford,
Aerospace Engineer, International Branch,
ANM–116, FAA, Transport Airplane
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton,
Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425)
227–1622; fax (425) 227–1149. Before using
any AMOC approved in accordance with
§ 39.19 on any airplane to which the AMOC
applies, notify the appropriate principal
inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards
District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your
local FSDO.
(2) Airworthy Product: For any
requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
actions from a manufacturer or other source,
use these actions if they are FAA-approved.
Corrective actions are considered FAAapproved if they are approved by the State
of Design Authority (or their delegated
agent). You are required to assure the product
is airworthy before it is returned to service.
(3) Reporting Requirements: For any
reporting requirement in this AD, under the
provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act,
the Office of Management and Budget (OMB)
has approved the information collection
requirements and has assigned OMB Control
Number 2120–0056.
Related Information
(h) Refer to MCAI European Aviation
Safety Agency Airworthiness Directive 2006–
0367, dated December 5, 2006; and Airbus
Service Bulletin A310–53–2045, Revision 05,
dated July 20, 2006; for related information.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(i) You must use Airbus Service Bulletin
A310–53–2045, Revision 05, dated July 20,
2006, to do the actions required by this AD,
unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
this service information under 5 U.S.C.
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Airbus, 1 Rond Point
Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex,
France.
(3) You may review copies at the FAA,
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind
Avenue SW., Renton, Washington; or at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call
(202) 741–6030, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
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Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 30,
2007.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E7–15414 Filed 8–8–07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2005–22918; Directorate
Identifier 2005–NM–172–AD; Amendment
39–15143; AD 2007–16–04]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model
A319–100 and A320–200 Series
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Airbus Model A319–100 and A320–200
series airplanes. This AD requires
repetitive inspections of the wing-tank
fuel pumps, canisters, and wing fuel
tanks for detached identification labels,
and corrective action if necessary. This
AD also requires modification of the
fuel strainers at the fuel pump and
suction bypass intakes, which would
end the repetitive inspections. This AD
results from several incidents of
detached plastic identification labels
found floating in the wing fuel tanks.
We are issuing this AD to prevent
plastic identification labels being
ingested into the fuel pumps and
consequently entering the engine fuel
feed system, which could result in an
engine shutdown.
DATES: This AD becomes effective
September 13, 2007.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in the AD
as of September 13, 2007.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD
docket on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov or in person at the U.S.
Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M–30, West Building
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington,
DC.
Contact Airbus, 1 Rond Point Maurice
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France,
for service information identified in this
AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tim
Dulin, Aerospace Engineer,
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Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 153 / Thursday, August 9, 2007 / Rules and Regulations
International Branch, ANM–116, FAA,
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601
Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington
98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–2141;
fax (425) 227–1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Examining the Docket
You may examine the airworthiness
directive (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 street address
stated in the ADDRESSES section.
Discussion
The FAA issued a supplemental
notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM)
to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an
AD that would apply to certain Airbus
Model A319–100 and Model A320–200
series airplanes. That supplemental
NPRM was published in the Federal
Register on March 29, 2007 (72 FR
14715). That supplemental NPRM
proposed to require repetitive
inspections of the wing-tank fuel
pumps, canisters, and wing fuel tanks
for detached identification labels, and
corrective action if necessary. That
supplemental NPRM also proposed to
mandate modification of the fuel
strainers at the fuel pump and suction
bypass intakes.
Comments
We provided the public the
opportunity to participate in the
development of this AD. We have
considered the comments received.
jlentini on PROD1PC65 with RULES
Request To Add Revised Service
Information
Air Transport Association (ATA), on
behalf of US Airways, asks that we
update the service bulletin reference for
the modification specified in paragraph
(j) of the supplemental NPRM to
Revision 01 of Airbus Service Bulletin
A320–28–1149, dated October 9, 2006.
We agree with the request. Airbus has
issued Service Bulletin A320–28–1149,
Revision 01, dated October 9, 2006. We
referred to the original issue of the
service bulletin, dated June 14, 2006, as
the appropriate source of service
information for accomplishing the
modification. The procedures in
Revision 01 are essentially the same as
those in the original issue; however, the
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17:01 Aug 08, 2007
Jkt 211001
procedures in Revision 01 add certain
clarifications, and the work hours for
accomplishing the modification have
been increased. We have changed
paragraph (j) of this AD to refer to
Revision 01 of the service bulletin,
added a new paragraph (k) to this AD to
give credit for the original issue of the
service bulletin, and re-identified
subsequent paragraphs accordingly.
Request To Change Applicability/Add
Revised Service Information
Airbus asks that we change the
applicability specified in paragraph (c)
of the supplemental NPRM. Airbus
states that the applicability refers to
Airbus Service Bulletins A320–28–1102,
Revision 02, dated July 10, 2006; and
A320–57–1117, Revision 02, dated
March 13, 2006. Airbus notes that the
service bulletins are being revised to
remove manufacturer’s serial numbers
(MSNs) 1083, 1310, 1314, and 1360,
because Airbus has confirmed that
labels were never installed on these
airplanes. Airbus also notes that
European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) airworthiness directive 2006–
0236, also referred to in the
supplemental NPRM, has been revised
to remove the MSNs; however, due to an
administrative error, MSN 1083 remains
in the compliance section of the EASA
airworthiness directive. In conclusion,
Airbus asks that the applicability
section be updated to reflect these
changes.
We agree to change the applicability
specified in paragraph (c) of this AD to
exclude airplanes having MSNs 1083,
1310, 1314, and 1360. However, since
the referenced service bulletins have not
yet been revised to remove these
airplanes, we will retain the reference to
Revision 2 of the service bulletin in
paragraph (c) as well as paragraph (f) of
this AD, which is repetitive inspections
and corrective actions of the four wingtank fuel pumps and canisters.
Request To Change Costs of Compliance
Section
Northwest Airlines (NWA) states that
it is in the process of implementing the
modification of the fuel pump strainers
specified in Service Bulletin A320–28–
1149. NWA adds that its work-hour
estimate is 54 hours for implementation,
after access to the tanks is gained. NWA
does not provide a specific request.
We infer that NWA is asking that we
increase the number of work hours for
accomplishing the modification, as
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44751
specified in the Costs of Compliance
section of the supplemental NPRM.
Revision 01 of Service Bulletin A320–
28–1149 specifies an increase in the
work hours for accomplishing the
modification from 20 to 36; therefore,
we have changed the work hours in the
Costs of Compliance section of this AD
to match the work hours specified in the
subject service bulletin. However,
modification costs will likely vary
depending on the operator and the
airplane configuration.
Request To Change Repetitive
Inspection Requirement
NWA agrees with the 3,000-flighthour repetitive inspection interval after
the initial label removal has been
completed. However, NWA has not
found any labels in the wing pumps on
affected airplanes after the removal
procedure has been done. NWA would
like the exception ‘‘following any wingtank fuel pump failure’’ removed from
the repetitive inspection requirement
specified in paragraph (g)(2) of the
supplemental NPRM to simplify the
continued inspections.
We do not agree with the NWA
request. Accomplishment of the label
removal procedure does not completely
remove the risk of detached labels
getting into the fuel system, since some
of the labels are not accessible during
the label removal procedure. The FAAapproved Master Minimum Equipment
List prohibits dispatch with one wingtank fuel pump inoperative on the
airplanes affected by the requirements
in this AD. Therefore, the fuel pump
would have to be repaired before further
flight, and inspecting for labels would
not impose any additional burden. We
have made no change to the AD in this
regard.
Conclusion
We have carefully reviewed the
available data, including the comments
received, and determined that air safety
and the public interest require adopting
the AD with the changes described
previously. We have determined that
these changes will neither increase the
economic burden on any operator nor
increase the scope of the AD.
Costs of Compliance
The following table provides the
estimated costs for U.S. operators to
comply with this AD.
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Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 153 / Thursday, August 9, 2007 / Rules and Regulations
ESTIMATED COSTS
Action
Average labor
rate per hour
Work hours
Inspection specified in
Service Bulletin A320–
28–1102.
Inspection specified in
Service Bulletin A320–
57–1117.
Modification specified in
Service Bulletin A320–
28–1149, Revision 01.
Parts
3
$80
$0
20
80
36
80
70
$16,800, per inspection
cycle.
0
$1,600, per inspection
cycle.
70
$112,000, per inspection
cycle.
0
$2,880 ............................
70
$201,600.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
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.
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
jlentini on PROD1PC65 with RULES
Regulatory Findings
We have determined that this AD will
not have federalism implications under
Executive Order 13132. This AD will
not have a substantial direct effect on
the States, on the relationship between
the national government and the States,
or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
(2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
(3) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation
of the estimated costs to comply with
this AD and placed it in the AD docket.
See the ADDRESSES section for a location
to examine the regulatory evaluation.
VerDate Aug<31>2005
17:01 Aug 08, 2007
Jkt 211001
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
I
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
I
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
[Amended]
2. The Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) amends § 39.13
by adding the following new
airworthiness directive (AD):
I
2007–16–04 Airbus: Amendment 39–15143.
Docket No. FAA–2005–22918;
Directorate Identifier 2005–NM–172–AD.
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective September
13, 2007.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A319–
100 and Model A320–200 series airplanes,
certificated in any category; as identified in
Airbus Service Bulletins A320–28–1102,
Revision 02, dated July 10, 2006; and A320–
57–1117, Revision 02, dated March 13, 2006;
except airplanes having manufacturer’s serial
numbers 1083, 1310, 1314, and 1360.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from several incidents
of detached plastic identification labels
found floating in the wing fuel tanks. We are
issuing this AD to prevent plastic
identification labels being ingested into the
fuel pumps and consequently entering the
engine fuel feed system, which could result
in an engine shutdown.
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Frm 00028
Fleet cost
$240, per inspection
cycle.
Authority for This Rulemaking
§ 39.13
Number of
U.S.-registered
airplanes
Cost per airplane
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
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.
Repetitive Inspections/Corrective Actions of
Four Wing-Tank Fuel Pumps and Canisters
(f) Perform a detailed inspection for
detached identification labels in the four
wing-tank fuel pumps and canisters, and do
all applicable corrective actions, by doing all
the actions in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A320–28–1102, Revision 02,
dated July 10, 2006; except as provided by
paragraph (j) of this AD. Do all applicable
corrective actions before further flight.
Inspect at the earlier of the compliance times
specified in paragraphs (f)(1) and (f)(2) of this
AD.
(1) Within 600 flight hours after the
effective date of this AD.
(2) Before the next flight following any
wing-tank fuel pump failure.
(g) Repeat the inspection required by
paragraph (f) of this AD thereafter at the
applicable time specified in paragraph (g)(1)
or (g)(2) of this AD, until accomplishment of
paragraph (j) of this AD.
(1) For airplanes on which the inspection
required by paragraph (i) of this AD has not
been done: Repeat the inspection at intervals
not to exceed the earlier of the times
specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) and (g)(1)(ii)
of this AD.
(i) 600 flight hours.
(ii) Before the next flight following any
wing-tank fuel pump failure.
(2) For airplanes on which the inspection
required by paragraph (i) of this AD has been
done: Repeat the inspection at intervals not
to exceed the earlier of the times specified in
paragraphs (g)(2)(i) and (g)(2)(ii) of this AD.
(i) 3,000 flight hours.
(ii) Before the next flight following any
wing-tank fuel pump failure.
Note 1: 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.’’
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Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 153 / Thursday, August 9, 2007 / Rules and Regulations
Credit for Actions Accomplished Using
Previous Service Information
(h) Inspections and corrective actions
accomplished before the effective date of this
AD in accordance with Airbus Service
Bulletin A320–28–1102, dated August 20,
2002; or Revision 01, dated February 11,
2005; are considered acceptable for
compliance with the corresponding actions
specified in paragraph (f) of this AD.
at the fuel pump and suction bypass intakes
by doing all the actions in accordance with
Airbus Service Bulletin A320–28–1149,
Revision 01, dated October 9, 2006.
Accomplishment of the modification in this
paragraph ends the repetitive inspections
required by paragraph (g) of this AD.
Inspection/Corrective Actions of the
Collector Cells, Surge Tank, Wing Fuel Tank
and Vent Box
(i) Within 60 months after the effective
date of this AD: Perform a detailed inspection
for detached identification labels in the
collector cells between ribs 1 and 2, the surge
tank between ribs 22 and 26, and the wing
fuel tank and vent box, and do any applicable
corrective actions, by doing all the applicable
actions in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A320–57–1117, Revision 02,
including Appendix 01, dated March 13,
2006. Do any applicable corrective action
before further flight.
(k) Modifications accomplished before the
effective date of this AD in accordance with
Airbus Service Bulletin A320–28–1149,
dated June 14, 2006, are considered
acceptable for compliance with the
corresponding actions specified in paragraph
(j) of this AD.
Modification
(j) Before the accumulation of 162 months
since first flight of the airplane, or within 6
months after the effective date of this AD,
whichever is later: Modify the fuel strainers
(m)(1) The Manager, International Branch,
ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate,
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs
for this AD, if requested in accordance with
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
Credit for Actions Accomplished Using
Previous Service Information
No Reporting Required
(l) Although Airbus Service Bulletin A320–
28–1102, Revision 02, dated July 10, 2006,
specifies submitting an inspection report to
the manufacturer, this AD does not include
that requirement.
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(2) Before using any AMOC approved in
accordance with § 39.19 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.
Related Information
(n) European Aviation Safety Agency
airworthiness directive 2006–0236R1, dated
March 9, 2007, also addresses the subject of
this AD.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(o) You must use the Airbus service
bulletins specified in Table 1 of this AD to
perform the actions that are required by this
AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. The
Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of these
documents in accordance with 5 U.S.C.
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Contact Airbus, 1
Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac
Cedex, France, for a copy of this service
information. You may review copies at the
FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601
Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at
the National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call
202–741–6030, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
TABLE 1.—MATERIAL INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Airbus Service Bulletin
Revision level
A320–28–1102, excluding Appendix 01 ......................................................................................................
A320–57–1117, including Appendix 01 .......................................................................................................
A320–28–1149 .............................................................................................................................................
Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 30,
2007.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E7–15225 Filed 8–8–07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2007–28920; Directorate
Identifier 2007–NM–162–AD; Amendment
39–15152; AD 2007–16–13]
RIN 2120–AA64
jlentini on PROD1PC65 with RULES
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing
Model 757–200, –200PF, and –200CB
Series Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule; request for
comments.
AGENCY:
VerDate Aug<31>2005
17:01 Aug 08, 2007
Jkt 211001
SUMMARY: The FAA is superseding an
existing airworthiness directive (AD)
that applies to certain Boeing Model
757–200, –200PF, and –200CB series
airplanes. The existing AD currently
requires repetitive inspections of the
shim installation between the vertical
flange and bulkhead, and repair if
necessary. This new AD adds, for
certain airplanes, an inspection for
cracking of the four critical fastener
holes in the horizontal flange, and
repair if necessary. This AD results from
reports of cracking in the pylon under
bolts that appear to be undamaged
during the existing AD inspections. We
are issuing this AD to detect and correct
cracks, loose and broken bolts, and shim
migration in the joint between the aft
torque bulkhead and the strut-todiagonal brace fitting, which could
result in damage to the strut and
consequent separation of the strut and
engine from the airplane.
This AD becomes effective
August 24, 2007.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
DATES:
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02
02
01
Date
July 10, 2006.
March 13, 2006.
October 9, 2006.
of a certain publication listed in the AD
as of August 24, 2007.
We must receive any comments on
this AD by October 9, 2007.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following
addresses to submit comments on this
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,
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 72, Number 153 (Thursday, August 9, 2007)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 44750-44753]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E7-15225]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2005-22918; Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-172-AD;
Amendment 39-15143; AD 2007-16-04]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A319-100 and A320-200
Series Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Airbus Model A319-100 and A320-200 series airplanes. This AD
requires repetitive inspections of the wing-tank fuel pumps, canisters,
and wing fuel tanks for detached identification labels, and corrective
action if necessary. This AD also requires modification of the fuel
strainers at the fuel pump and suction bypass intakes, which would end
the repetitive inspections. This AD results from several incidents of
detached plastic identification labels found floating in the wing fuel
tanks. We are issuing this AD to prevent plastic identification labels
being ingested into the fuel pumps and consequently entering the engine
fuel feed system, which could result in an engine shutdown.
DATES: This AD becomes effective September 13, 2007.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of September 13,
2007.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://
dms.dot.gov or in person at the U.S. Department of Transportation,
Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC.
Contact Airbus, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex,
France, for service information identified in this AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tim Dulin, Aerospace Engineer,
[[Page 44751]]
International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425)
227-2141; fax (425) 227-1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Examining the Docket
You may examine the airworthiness directive (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 street address
stated in the ADDRESSES section.
Discussion
The FAA issued a supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM)
to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to certain
Airbus Model A319-100 and Model A320-200 series airplanes. That
supplemental NPRM was published in the Federal Register on March 29,
2007 (72 FR 14715). That supplemental NPRM proposed to require
repetitive inspections of the wing-tank fuel pumps, canisters, and wing
fuel tanks for detached identification labels, and corrective action if
necessary. That supplemental NPRM also proposed to mandate modification
of the fuel strainers at the fuel pump and suction bypass intakes.
Comments
We provided the public the opportunity to participate in the
development of this AD. We have considered the comments received.
Request To Add Revised Service Information
Air Transport Association (ATA), on behalf of US Airways, asks that
we update the service bulletin reference for the modification specified
in paragraph (j) of the supplemental NPRM to Revision 01 of Airbus
Service Bulletin A320-28-1149, dated October 9, 2006.
We agree with the request. Airbus has issued Service Bulletin A320-
28-1149, Revision 01, dated October 9, 2006. We referred to the
original issue of the service bulletin, dated June 14, 2006, as the
appropriate source of service information for accomplishing the
modification. The procedures in Revision 01 are essentially the same as
those in the original issue; however, the procedures in Revision 01 add
certain clarifications, and the work hours for accomplishing the
modification have been increased. We have changed paragraph (j) of this
AD to refer to Revision 01 of the service bulletin, added a new
paragraph (k) to this AD to give credit for the original issue of the
service bulletin, and re-identified subsequent paragraphs accordingly.
Request To Change Applicability/Add Revised Service Information
Airbus asks that we change the applicability specified in paragraph
(c) of the supplemental NPRM. Airbus states that the applicability
refers to Airbus Service Bulletins A320-28-1102, Revision 02, dated
July 10, 2006; and A320-57-1117, Revision 02, dated March 13, 2006.
Airbus notes that the service bulletins are being revised to remove
manufacturer's serial numbers (MSNs) 1083, 1310, 1314, and 1360,
because Airbus has confirmed that labels were never installed on these
airplanes. Airbus also notes that European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) airworthiness directive 2006-0236, also referred to in the
supplemental NPRM, has been revised to remove the MSNs; however, due to
an administrative error, MSN 1083 remains in the compliance section of
the EASA airworthiness directive. In conclusion, Airbus asks that the
applicability section be updated to reflect these changes.
We agree to change the applicability specified in paragraph (c) of
this AD to exclude airplanes having MSNs 1083, 1310, 1314, and 1360.
However, since the referenced service bulletins have not yet been
revised to remove these airplanes, we will retain the reference to
Revision 2 of the service bulletin in paragraph (c) as well as
paragraph (f) of this AD, which is repetitive inspections and
corrective actions of the four wing-tank fuel pumps and canisters.
Request To Change Costs of Compliance Section
Northwest Airlines (NWA) states that it is in the process of
implementing the modification of the fuel pump strainers specified in
Service Bulletin A320-28-1149. NWA adds that its work-hour estimate is
54 hours for implementation, after access to the tanks is gained. NWA
does not provide a specific request.
We infer that NWA is asking that we increase the number of work
hours for accomplishing the modification, as specified in the Costs of
Compliance section of the supplemental NPRM. Revision 01 of Service
Bulletin A320-28-1149 specifies an increase in the work hours for
accomplishing the modification from 20 to 36; therefore, we have
changed the work hours in the Costs of Compliance section of this AD to
match the work hours specified in the subject service bulletin.
However, modification costs will likely vary depending on the operator
and the airplane configuration.
Request To Change Repetitive Inspection Requirement
NWA agrees with the 3,000-flight-hour repetitive inspection
interval after the initial label removal has been completed. However,
NWA has not found any labels in the wing pumps on affected airplanes
after the removal procedure has been done. NWA would like the exception
``following any wing-tank fuel pump failure'' removed from the
repetitive inspection requirement specified in paragraph (g)(2) of the
supplemental NPRM to simplify the continued inspections.
We do not agree with the NWA request. Accomplishment of the label
removal procedure does not completely remove the risk of detached
labels getting into the fuel system, since some of the labels are not
accessible during the label removal procedure. The FAA-approved Master
Minimum Equipment List prohibits dispatch with one wing-tank fuel pump
inoperative on the airplanes affected by the requirements in this AD.
Therefore, the fuel pump would have to be repaired before further
flight, and inspecting for labels would not impose any additional
burden. We have made no change to the AD in this regard.
Conclusion
We have carefully reviewed the available data, including the
comments received, and determined that air safety and the public
interest require adopting the AD with the changes described previously.
We have determined that these changes will neither increase the
economic burden on any operator nor increase the scope of the AD.
Costs of Compliance
The following table provides the estimated costs for U.S. operators
to comply with this AD.
[[Page 44752]]
Estimated Costs
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of U.S.-
Action Work hours Average labor Parts Cost per airplane registered Fleet cost
rate per hour airplanes
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection specified in Service 3 $80 $0 $240, per inspection 70 $16,800, per inspection
Bulletin A320-28-1102. cycle. cycle.
Inspection specified in Service 20 80 0 $1,600, per inspection 70 $112,000, per inspection
Bulletin A320-57-1117. cycle. cycle.
Modification specified in Service 36 80 0 $2,880................... 70 $201,600.
Bulletin A320-28-1149, Revision 01.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, Section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701, ``General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
We have determined that this AD will not have federalism
implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between
the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power
and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866;
(2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to
comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket. See the ADDRESSES
section for a location to examine the regulatory evaluation.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
0
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends Sec. 39.13 by
adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD):
2007-16-04 Airbus: Amendment 39-15143. Docket No. FAA-2005-22918;
Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-172-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective September 13, 2007.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A319-100 and Model A320-200
series airplanes, certificated in any category; as identified in
Airbus Service Bulletins A320-28-1102, Revision 02, dated July 10,
2006; and A320-57-1117, Revision 02, dated March 13, 2006; except
airplanes having manufacturer's serial numbers 1083, 1310, 1314, and
1360.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from several incidents of detached plastic
identification labels found floating in the wing fuel tanks. We are
issuing this AD to prevent plastic identification labels being
ingested into the fuel pumps and consequently entering the engine
fuel feed system, which could result in an engine shutdown.
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.
Repetitive Inspections/Corrective Actions of Four Wing-Tank Fuel Pumps
and Canisters
(f) Perform a detailed inspection for detached identification
labels in the four wing-tank fuel pumps and canisters, and do all
applicable corrective actions, by doing all the actions in
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service
Bulletin A320-28-1102, Revision 02, dated July 10, 2006; except as
provided by paragraph (j) of this AD. Do all applicable corrective
actions before further flight. Inspect at the earlier of the
compliance times specified in paragraphs (f)(1) and (f)(2) of this
AD.
(1) Within 600 flight hours after the effective date of this AD.
(2) Before the next flight following any wing-tank fuel pump
failure.
(g) Repeat the inspection required by paragraph (f) of this AD
thereafter at the applicable time specified in paragraph (g)(1) or
(g)(2) of this AD, until accomplishment of paragraph (j) of this AD.
(1) For airplanes on which the inspection required by paragraph
(i) of this AD has not been done: Repeat the inspection at intervals
not to exceed the earlier of the times specified in paragraphs
(g)(1)(i) and (g)(1)(ii) of this AD.
(i) 600 flight hours.
(ii) Before the next flight following any wing-tank fuel pump
failure.
(2) For airplanes on which the inspection required by paragraph
(i) of this AD has been done: Repeat the inspection at intervals not
to exceed the earlier of the times specified in paragraphs (g)(2)(i)
and (g)(2)(ii) of this AD.
(i) 3,000 flight hours.
(ii) Before the next flight following any wing-tank fuel pump
failure.
Note 1: 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.''
[[Page 44753]]
Credit for Actions Accomplished Using Previous Service Information
(h) Inspections and corrective actions accomplished before the
effective date of this AD in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin
A320-28-1102, dated August 20, 2002; or Revision 01, dated February
11, 2005; are considered acceptable for compliance with the
corresponding actions specified in paragraph (f) of this AD.
Inspection/Corrective Actions of the Collector Cells, Surge Tank, Wing
Fuel Tank and Vent Box
(i) Within 60 months after the effective date of this AD:
Perform a detailed inspection for detached identification labels in
the collector cells between ribs 1 and 2, the surge tank between
ribs 22 and 26, and the wing fuel tank and vent box, and do any
applicable corrective actions, by doing all the applicable actions
in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service
Bulletin A320-57-1117, Revision 02, including Appendix 01, dated
March 13, 2006. Do any applicable corrective action before further
flight.
Modification
(j) Before the accumulation of 162 months since first flight of
the airplane, or within 6 months after the effective date of this
AD, whichever is later: Modify the fuel strainers at the fuel pump
and suction bypass intakes by doing all the actions in accordance
with Airbus Service Bulletin A320-28-1149, Revision 01, dated
October 9, 2006. Accomplishment of the modification in this
paragraph ends the repetitive inspections required by paragraph (g)
of this AD.
Credit for Actions Accomplished Using Previous Service Information
(k) Modifications accomplished before the effective date of this
AD in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A320-28-1149, dated
June 14, 2006, are considered acceptable for compliance with the
corresponding actions specified in paragraph (j) of this AD.
No Reporting Required
(l) Although Airbus Service Bulletin A320-28-1102, Revision 02,
dated July 10, 2006, specifies submitting an inspection report to
the manufacturer, this AD does not include that requirement.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(m)(1) The Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport
Airplane Directorate, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for
this AD, if requested in accordance with the procedures found in 14
CFR 39.19.
(2) Before using any AMOC approved in accordance with Sec.
39.19 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.
Related Information
(n) European Aviation Safety Agency airworthiness directive
2006-0236R1, dated March 9, 2007, also addresses the subject of this
AD.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(o) You must use the Airbus service bulletins specified in Table
1 of this AD to perform the actions that are required by this AD,
unless the AD specifies otherwise. The Director of the Federal
Register approved the incorporation by reference of these documents
in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Contact
Airbus, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France,
for a copy of this service information. You may review copies at the
FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington; or at the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-
register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Table 1.--Material Incorporated by Reference
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus Service Bulletin Revision level Date
------------------------------------------------------------------------
A320-28-1102, excluding 02 July 10, 2006.
Appendix 01.
A320-57-1117, including 02 March 13, 2006.
Appendix 01.
A320-28-1149................ 01 October 9, 2006.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 30, 2007.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. E7-15225 Filed 8-8-07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
