Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330-200 and A330-300 Series Airplanes; and Model A340-200, A340-300, A340-500, and A340-600 Series Airplanes, 44737-44740 [E7-15413]

Download as PDF 44737 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 153 / Thursday, August 9, 2007 / Rules and Regulations TABLE 2.—NEW MATERIAL INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE—Continued Service Bulletin Revision level EMBRAER Service Bulletin 190–36–0004 ...................................................................................... 01 .............................. (2) On November 29, 2005 (70 FR 69075, November 14, 2005), the Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of EMBRAER Alert Service Bulletin 170–36–A004, dated September 28, 2005. (3) Contact Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica S.A. (EMBRAER), P.O. Box 343—CEP 12.225, Sao Jose dos Campos—SP, Brazil, 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. cable, a new anchor block for the slide raft packboard and a new folding procedure. The MCAI states that several operators have reported non-automatic deployment of slide rafts during ground operational testing. In all cases, the slide raft released correctly from the door but did not inflate automatically. Pulling the manual backup handle correctly inflated the slide raft. Investigation conducted by the slide raft manufacturer showed that nonautomatic deployments have two potential root causes: non-opening of the lacing; and stiffness and stiction (static friction) on the painted inflatable material. This situation, if not corrected, could delay the evacuation of passengers in case of an emergency. A new design solution has been developed to ensure the automatic slide raft deployment, which consists of: continuous ‘‘speed lacing’’ cord and new soft covers with rounded grommets (this modification ensures that the lacing opens); and a new shorter firing cable, a new anchor block for the slide raft packboard and a new folding procedure (this modification ensures automatic deployment regardless of the inflatable paint condition). Both modifications together ensure the automatic deployment function. The MCAI requires accomplishment of the set of modifications. Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 30, 2007. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. E7–15412 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–2007–28036; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–278–AD; Amendment 39–15145; AD 2007–16–06] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330–200 and A330–300 Series Airplanes; and Model A340–200, A340– 300, A340–500, and A340–600 Series Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. jlentini on PROD1PC65 with RULES AGENCY: SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an airworthiness authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as failure of an evacuation slide raft to inflate, which could delay the evacuation of passengers in case of an emergency. We are issuing this AD VerDate Aug<31>2005 17:01 Aug 08, 2007 Jkt 211001 to require actions to correct the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD becomes effective September 13, 2007. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this 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. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tim Backman, Aerospace Engineer, ANM– 116, International Branch, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–2797; fax (425) 227–1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion The FAA is implementing a new process for streamlining the issuance of ADs related to MCAI. This streamlined process will allow us to adopt MCAI safety requirements in a more efficient manner and will reduce safety risks to the public. This process continues to allow all FAA AD issuance processes to meet legal, economic, Administrative Procedure Act, and Federal Register requirements. We also continue to meet our technical decision-making responsibilities to identify and correct unsafe conditions on U.S.-certificated products. This AD references the MCAI and related service information that we considered in forming the engineering basis to correct the unsafe condition. The AD contains text copied from the MCAI and for this reason might not follow our plain language principles. We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to the specified products. That NPRM was published in the Federal Register on April 30, 2007 (72 FR 21164). That NPRM proposed to require a set of modifications of the slide raft assembly of each door and the slide raft, as applicable, which consists of: continuous ‘‘speed lacing’’ cord and new soft covers with rounded grommets; and a new shorter firing PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Date November 14, 2006. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. We received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of the cost to the public. Clarification of Applicability We have revised the applicability of this AD to match the MCAI and the current FAA type certification data sheet for the affected airplanes. The revision clarifies the applicability and does not add to or change the affected airplanes. Conclusion We reviewed the available data and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD with the change described previously. We determined that this change will not increase the economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of the AD. E:\FR\FM\09AUR1.SGM 09AUR1 44738 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 153 / Thursday, August 9, 2007 / Rules and Regulations 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. Differences Between This AD and the MCAI or Service Information We have reviewed the MCAI and related service information and, in general, agree with their substance. But we might have found it necessary to use different words from those in the MCAI to ensure the AD is clear for U.S. operators and is enforceable in a U.S. court of law. In making these changes, we do not intend to differ substantively from the information provided in the MCAI and related service information. We might also have required different actions in this AD from those in the MCAI in order to follow our FAA policies. Any such differences are described in a separate paragraph of the AD. These requirements, if any, take precedence over the actions copied from the MCAI. Regulatory Findings We 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. Costs of Compliance Based on the service information, we estimate that this AD affects about 28 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it takes about 66 workhours per product to comply with this AD. The average labor rate is $80 per work-hour. Required parts cost about $3,860 per product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the AD on U.S. operators to be $255,920, or $9,140 per product. 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 Examining the AD 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 AD docket contains the NPRM, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: I PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: I Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new AD: I 2007–16–06 Airbus: Amendment 39–15145. Docket No. FAA–2007–28036; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–278–AD. Effective Date (a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective September 13, 2007. Affected ADs (b) The requirements of this AD relate to those specified in AD 2006–04–03, amendment 39–14484. Applicability (c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A330– 200 and A330–300 series airplanes; and Model A340–200, A340–300, A340–500, and A340–600 series airplanes, certificated in any category; all certified models, all serial numbers; except those with the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) specified modifications installed in production, or the equivalent service bulletins installed in service (as specified in Tables 1 and 2 of this AD), provided no slide has been replaced since either airplane delivery or service bulletin installation, as applicable. TABLE 1.—EXCEPTIONS TO APPLICABILITY Airplane model Configuration Airbus modifications installed in production A330, A340–200, –300 ...................................... A330, A340–200, –300 ...................................... A340–500 ........................................................... With Modification 40161 (optional Type A door 3). Without Modification 40161 (Type 1 door 3) ... All ..................................................................... A340–600 ........................................................... All ..................................................................... 50806, 50807, 55071, and 55072. 50806 and 55071. Either 50806, 50807, and 55071, or 50806 and 55071. 50806, 50808, 55071, and 55073. jlentini on PROD1PC65 with RULES TABLE 2.—EXCEPTIONS TO APPLICABILITY Airplane model A330 .......................... A340–200, –300 ........ A340–500, –600 ........ VerDate Aug<31>2005 Airbus Service Bulletins installed in service A330–25–3173, Revision 01, dated August 2, 2006; and A330–25–3301, dated March 24, 2006. A340–25–4191, Revision 01, dated August 2, 2006; and A340–25–4273, dated March 24, 2006. A340–25–5004, Revision 01, dated August 2, 2006; and A340–25–5110, dated March 24, 2006. 17:01 Aug 08, 2007 Jkt 211001 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\09AUR1.SGM 09AUR1 44739 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 153 / Thursday, August 9, 2007 / Rules and Regulations Reason (d) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) states that several operators have reported nonautomatic deployment of slide rafts during ground operational testing. In all cases, the slide raft released correctly from the door but did not inflate automatically. Pulling the manual backup handle correctly inflated the slide raft. Investigation conducted by the slide raft manufacturer showed that nonautomatic deployments have two potential root causes: Non-opening of the lacing; and stiffness and stiction (static friction) on the painted inflatable material. This situation, if not corrected, could delay the evacuation of passengers in case of an emergency. A new design solution has been developed to ensure the automatic slide raft deployment, which consists of: Continuous ‘‘speed lacing’’ cord and new soft covers with rounded grommets (this modification ensures that the lacing opens); and a new shorter firing cable, a new anchor block for the slide raft packboard and a new folding procedure (this modification ensures automatic deployment regardless of the inflatable paint condition). Both modifications together ensure the automatic deployment function. The MCAI requires accomplishment of the set of modifications. Actions and Compliance (e) Unless already done, do the following actions. (1) For slide raft part numbers (P/Ns) 7A1508–003/–005/–007/–023/–025/–027/ –029/–115; P/Ns 7A1539–003/–004/–005/ –006/–007/–008/–023/–024/–025/–026/–027/ –028/–029/–030/–115/ –116; P/Ns 7A1510 –003/–004/–005/–006/–007/–008/–023/–024/ –025/–026/–027/–028/–029/–030/–115/–116; and P/Ns 4A3934–1/–2/–001/–002: No later than 36 months after the effective date of this AD, modify the slide raft in accordance with the instructions given in Airbus Service Bulletin A330–25–3173, A340–25–4191, or A340–25–5004, all Revision 01, all dated August 2, 2006; as applicable; and modify the slide raft assembly of each door in accordance with the instructions given in Airbus Service Bulletin A330–25–3301, A340–25–4273, or A340–25–5110, all dated March 24, 2006; as applicable. (2) For slide raft P/Ns 7A1508–033/–035/ –037/–119/–121; P/Ns 7A1539–033/–034/ –035/–036/–037/–038/–119/–120/–121/–122; P/Ns 7A1510–033/–034/–035/–036/–037/ –038/ –119/–120/–121/–122; and P/Ns 4A3934–5/–6/–7/–8: No later than 36 months after the effective date of this AD, modify the slide raft assembly of each door in accordance with the instructions given in Airbus Service Bulletin A330–25–3301, A340–25–4273, or A340–25–5110, all dated March 24, 2006; as applicable. FAA AD Differences Note: This AD differs from the MCAI and/ or service information as follows: No differences. Other FAA AD Provisions (f) 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: Tim Backman, Aerospace Engineer, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–2797; fax (425) 227–1149. 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. (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 (g) Refer to MCAI EASA Airworthiness Directive 2006–0354, dated November 28, 2006; and the Airbus Service Bulletins specified in Table 3 of this AD for related information. TABLE 3.—AIRBUS SERVICE BULLETINS Service Bulletin A330–25–3173 A330–25–3301 A340–25–4191 A340–25–4273 A340–25–5004 A340–25–5110 Revision level ................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................. Material Incorporated by Reference (h) You must use the service information specified in Table 4 of this AD 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 01 .............................. Original ...................... 01 .............................. Original ...................... 01 .............................. Original ...................... Date August 2, 2006. March 24, 2006. August 2, 2006. March 24, 2006. August 2, 2006. March 24, 2006. 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 4.—MATERIAL INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE jlentini on PROD1PC65 with RULES Service Bulletin A330–25–3173 A330–25–3225 A330–25–3301 A340–25–4191 A340–25–4228 A340–25–4273 A340–25–5004 A340–25–5054 A340–25–5110 VerDate Aug<31>2005 Revision ................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................. ................................................................................................................................. 17:01 Aug 08, 2007 Jkt 211001 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Date 01 .............................. 01 .............................. Original ...................... 01 .............................. 01 .............................. Original ...................... 01 .............................. Original ...................... Original ...................... August 2, 2006. September 30, 2004. March 24, 2006. August 2, 2006. September 30, 2004. March 24, 2006. August 2, 2006. August 2, 2004. March 24, 2006. E:\FR\FM\09AUR1.SGM 09AUR1 44740 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 153 / Thursday, August 9, 2007 / Rules and Regulations Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 30, 2007. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. E7–15413 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–2006–25326; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–081–AD; Amendment 39–15151; AD 2007–16–12] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 757–200 and –300 Series Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. jlentini on PROD1PC65 with RULES AGENCY: SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Boeing Model 757–200 and –300 series airplanes. This AD requires changes to existing wiring; installation of new circuit breakers, relays, relay connectors, and wiring; and replacement of certain circuit breakers with higher-rated circuit breakers. For certain airplanes, this AD also requires modification of wiring of the control module assembly for the electrical systems. This AD results from an inflight entertainment (IFE) systems review. We are issuing this AD to ensure that the flightcrew is able to turn off electrical power to the IFE system and other non-essential electrical systems through utility bus switches in the flight compartment. The flightcrew’s inability to turn off power to the IFE system and other non-essential electrical systems during a non-normal or emergency situation could result in the inability to control smoke or fumes in the airplane flight deck or cabin. 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. VerDate Aug<31>2005 17:01 Aug 08, 2007 Jkt 211001 Contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle, Washington 98124–2207, for service information identified in this AD. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Shohreh Safarian, Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM– 130S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 917–6418; fax (425) 917–6590. 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 notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to certain Boeing Model 757–200 and –300 series airplanes. That NPRM was published in the Federal Register on July 13, 2006 (71 FR 39597). That NPRM proposed to require changes to existing wiring; installation of new circuit breakers, relays, relay connectors, and wiring; and replacement of certain circuit breakers with higher-rated circuit breakers. For certain airplanes, that NPRM also proposed to require modification of wiring of the control module assembly for the electrical systems. Comments We provided the public the opportunity to participate in the development of this AD. We have considered the comments received. Support of the NPRM Boeing, Northwest Airlines (NWA), and the Air Transport Association (ATA) agree with the intent of the NPRM. Request To Clarify Affected Control Module Assemblies The ATA, on behalf of its member US Airways, requests that we clarify which control module assemblies are required to be modified. US Airways states that it believes the intent of the NPRM would be to require concurrent modification of the control module assemblies identified in Boeing Service Bulletin 757–24–0093, dated August 14, 2003. However, US Airways points out that the effectivity of Boeing Component PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Service Bulletin 233N3209–24–04, Revision 1, dated August 14, 2003, identifies additional parts not found in Boeing Service Bulletin 757–24–0093. We agree that the intent of paragraph (g) of the NPRM was to propose modification of certain control module assemblies identified in paragraph 2.C.3. of Boeing Service Bulletin 757– 24–0093. The affected part numbers (P/Ns) are 233N3209–1025, –1026, –1028, –1300, and –1302. We have revised paragraph (g) of this AD to identify those affected part numbers. Further, we have revised paragraph (h) of this AD, ‘‘Credit for Accomplishment of Previous Service Bulletin,’’ to specify that doing the modification in accordance with the original issue of Boeing Component Service Bulletin 233N3209–24–04, dated April 10, 2003, is acceptable only for control module assembly, P/Ns 233N3209–1025, –1300, and –1302, since only these part numbers are referenced in the effectivity of the original issue of Boeing Component Service Bulletin 233N3209– 24–04. Request To Address an Additional Circuit Breaker NWA states that Boeing Service Bulletin 757–24–0093, dated August 14, 2003, does not address the shedding of direct current (DC) power on Model 757–200 airplanes, variable numbers NE311 through NE325 inclusive. NWA further states that circuit breaker C9009, which controls 28-volt DC power on these airplanes, is also not addressed by the service bulletin. We infer that NWA would like Boeing to revise the service bulletin to provide instructions for addressing the unsafe condition on these specific airplanes. We do not agree. The airplanes mentioned in NWA’s comment above are identified as Group 40 airplanes in Boeing Service Bulletin 757–24–0093. Circuit breaker C9009 was not installed as part of the IFE system on Boeing airplanes. That circuit breaker was installed in accordance with a supplemental type certificate (STC), and we are currently evaluating that issue separately from this AD. This AD affects only IFE systems that were installed in production by Boeing. Therefore, we have not changed this AD in this regard. Request To Exclude Other NonEssential Electrical Systems NWA requests that we revise the NPRM to address the IFE system only. NWA states that, in addition to addressing the IFE systems, the NPRM and referenced Boeing service bulletins address other non-essential systems. As justification for its request, NWA states E:\FR\FM\09AUR1.SGM 09AUR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 72, Number 153 (Thursday, August 9, 2007)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 44737-44740]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E7-15413]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2007-28036; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-278-AD; 
Amendment 39-15145; AD 2007-16-06]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330-200 and A330-300 
Series Airplanes; and Model A340-200, A340-300, A340-500, and A340-600 
Series Airplanes

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the 
products listed above. This AD results from mandatory continuing 
airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an airworthiness authority 
of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an 
aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as failure of 
an evacuation slide raft to inflate, which could delay the evacuation 
of passengers in case of an emergency. We are issuing this AD to 
require actions to correct the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD becomes effective September 13, 2007.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in this 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.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tim Backman, Aerospace Engineer, ANM-
116, International Branch, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 
Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 227-
2797; fax (425) 227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    The FAA is implementing a new process for streamlining the issuance 
of ADs related to MCAI. This streamlined process will allow us to adopt 
MCAI safety requirements in a more efficient manner and will reduce 
safety risks to the public. This process continues to allow all FAA AD 
issuance processes to meet legal, economic, Administrative Procedure 
Act, and Federal Register requirements. We also continue to meet our 
technical decision-making responsibilities to identify and correct 
unsafe conditions on U.S.-certificated products.
    This AD references the MCAI and related service information that we 
considered in forming the engineering basis to correct the unsafe 
condition. The AD contains text copied from the MCAI and for this 
reason might not follow our plain language principles.
    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 to include an AD that would apply to the specified products. 
That NPRM was published in the Federal Register on April 30, 2007 (72 
FR 21164). That NPRM proposed to require a set of modifications of the 
slide raft assembly of each door and the slide raft, as applicable, 
which consists of: continuous ``speed lacing'' cord and new soft covers 
with rounded grommets; and a new shorter firing cable, a new anchor 
block for the slide raft packboard and a new folding procedure. The 
MCAI states that several operators have reported non-automatic 
deployment of slide rafts during ground operational testing. In all 
cases, the slide raft released correctly from the door but did not 
inflate automatically. Pulling the manual backup handle correctly 
inflated the slide raft. Investigation conducted by the slide raft 
manufacturer showed that non-automatic deployments have two potential 
root causes: non-opening of the lacing; and stiffness and stiction 
(static friction) on the painted inflatable material. This situation, 
if not corrected, could delay the evacuation of passengers in case of 
an emergency. A new design solution has been developed to ensure the 
automatic slide raft deployment, which consists of: continuous ``speed 
lacing'' cord and new soft covers with rounded grommets (this 
modification ensures that the lacing opens); and a new shorter firing 
cable, a new anchor block for the slide raft packboard and a new 
folding procedure (this modification ensures automatic deployment 
regardless of the inflatable paint condition). Both modifications 
together ensure the automatic deployment function. The MCAI requires 
accomplishment of the set of modifications.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. We received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of 
the cost to the public.

Clarification of Applicability

    We have revised the applicability of this AD to match the MCAI and 
the current FAA type certification data sheet for the affected 
airplanes. The revision clarifies the applicability and does not add to 
or change the affected airplanes.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the available data and determined that air safety and 
the public interest require adopting the AD with the change described 
previously. We determined that this change will not increase the 
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of the AD.

[[Page 44738]]

Differences Between This AD and the MCAI or Service Information

    We have reviewed the MCAI and related service information and, in 
general, agree with their substance. But we might have found it 
necessary to use different words from those in the MCAI to ensure the 
AD is clear for U.S. operators and is enforceable in a U.S. court of 
law. In making these changes, we do not intend to differ substantively 
from the information provided in the MCAI and related service 
information.
    We might also have required different actions in this AD from those 
in the MCAI in order to follow our FAA policies. Any such differences 
are described in a separate paragraph of the AD. These requirements, if 
any, take precedence over the actions copied from the MCAI.

Costs of Compliance

    Based on the service information, we estimate that this AD affects 
about 28 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it takes 
about 66 work-hours per product to comply with this AD. The average 
labor rate is $80 per work-hour. Required parts cost about $3,860 per 
product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the AD on U.S. 
operators to be $255,920, or $9,140 per product.

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 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.

Examining the AD 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 AD 
docket contains the NPRM, the regulatory evaluation, any comments 
received, and other information. The street address for the Docket 
Operations office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES 
section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after 
receipt.

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 FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new AD:

2007-16-06 Airbus: Amendment 39-15145. Docket No. FAA-2007-28036; 
Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-278-AD.

Effective Date

    (a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective 
September 13, 2007.

Affected ADs

    (b) The requirements of this AD relate to those specified in AD 
2006-04-03, amendment 39-14484.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A330-200 and A330-300 series 
airplanes; and Model A340-200, A340-300, A340-500, and A340-600 
series airplanes, certificated in any category; all certified 
models, all serial numbers; except those with the European Aviation 
Safety Agency (EASA) specified modifications installed in 
production, or the equivalent service bulletins installed in service 
(as specified in Tables 1 and 2 of this AD), provided no slide has 
been replaced since either airplane delivery or service bulletin 
installation, as applicable.

                  Table 1.--Exceptions to Applicability
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    Airbus modifications
       Airplane model             Configuration         installed in
                                                         production
------------------------------------------------------------------------
A330, A340-200, -300........  With Modification     50806, 50807, 55071,
                               40161 (optional       and 55072.
                               Type A door 3).
A330, A340-200, -300........  Without Modification  50806 and 55071.
                               40161 (Type 1 door
                               3).
A340-500....................  All.................  Either 50806, 50807,
                                                     and 55071, or 50806
                                                     and 55071.
A340-600....................  All.................  50806, 50808, 55071,
                                                     and 55073.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


                  Table 2.--Exceptions to Applicability
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            Airbus Service Bulletins
            Airplane model                    installed in service
------------------------------------------------------------------------
A330..................................  A330-25-3173, Revision 01, dated
                                         August 2, 2006; and A330-25-
                                         3301, dated March 24, 2006.
A340-200, -300........................  A340-25-4191, Revision 01, dated
                                         August 2, 2006; and A340-25-
                                         4273, dated March 24, 2006.
A340-500, -600........................  A340-25-5004, Revision 01, dated
                                         August 2, 2006; and A340-25-
                                         5110, dated March 24, 2006.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 44739]]

Reason

    (d) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) 
states that several operators have reported non-automatic deployment 
of slide rafts during ground operational testing. In all cases, the 
slide raft released correctly from the door but did not inflate 
automatically. Pulling the manual backup handle correctly inflated 
the slide raft. Investigation conducted by the slide raft 
manufacturer showed that non-automatic deployments have two 
potential root causes: Non-opening of the lacing; and stiffness and 
stiction (static friction) on the painted inflatable material. This 
situation, if not corrected, could delay the evacuation of 
passengers in case of an emergency. A new design solution has been 
developed to ensure the automatic slide raft deployment, which 
consists of: Continuous ``speed lacing'' cord and new soft covers 
with rounded grommets (this modification ensures that the lacing 
opens); and a new shorter firing cable, a new anchor block for the 
slide raft packboard and a new folding procedure (this modification 
ensures automatic deployment regardless of the inflatable paint 
condition). Both modifications together ensure the automatic 
deployment function. The MCAI requires accomplishment of the set of 
modifications.

Actions and Compliance

    (e) Unless already done, do the following actions.
    (1) For slide raft part numbers (P/Ns) 7A1508-003/-005/-007/-
023/-025/-027/ -029/-115; P/Ns 7A1539-003/-004/-005/ -006/-007/-008/
-023/-024/-025/-026/-027/ -028/-029/-030/-115/ -116; P/Ns 7A1510 -
003/-004/-005/-006/-007/-008/-023/-024/ -025/-026/-027/-028/-029/-
030/-115/-116; and P/Ns 4A3934-1/-2/-001/-002: No later than 36 
months after the effective date of this AD, modify the slide raft in 
accordance with the instructions given in Airbus Service Bulletin 
A330-25-3173, A340-25-4191, or A340-25-5004, all Revision 01, all 
dated August 2, 2006; as applicable; and modify the slide raft 
assembly of each door in accordance with the instructions given in 
Airbus Service Bulletin A330-25-3301, A340-25-4273, or A340-25-5110, 
all dated March 24, 2006; as applicable.
    (2) For slide raft P/Ns 7A1508-033/-035/-037/-119/-121; P/Ns 
7A1539-033/-034/ -035/-036/-037/-038/-119/-120/-121/-122; P/Ns 
7A1510-033/-034/-035/-036/-037/ -038/ -119/-120/-121/-122; and P/Ns 
4A3934-5/-6/-7/-8: No later than 36 months after the effective date 
of this AD, modify the slide raft assembly of each door in 
accordance with the instructions given in Airbus Service Bulletin 
A330-25-3301, A340-25-4273, or A340-25-5110, all dated March 24, 
2006; as applicable.

FAA AD Differences

    Note: This AD differs from the MCAI and/ or service information 
as follows: No differences.

Other FAA AD Provisions

    (f) 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: Tim 
Backman, Aerospace Engineer, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 227-2797; fax (425) 227-1149. 
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.
    (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 
FAA-approved 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

    (g) Refer to MCAI EASA Airworthiness Directive 2006-0354, dated 
November 28, 2006; and the Airbus Service Bulletins specified in 
Table 3 of this AD for related information.

                                       Table 3.--Airbus Service Bulletins
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Service Bulletin                        Revision level                            Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A330-25-3173..........................  01.................................  August 2, 2006.
A330-25-3301..........................  Original...........................  March 24, 2006.
A340-25-4191..........................  01.................................  August 2, 2006.
A340-25-4273..........................  Original...........................  March 24, 2006.
A340-25-5004..........................  01.................................  August 2, 2006.
A340-25-5110..........................  Original...........................  March 24, 2006.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Material Incorporated by Reference

    (h) You must use the service information specified in Table 4 of 
this AD 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/ibr-
locations.html.

                                  Table 4.--Material Incorporated by Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Service Bulletin                           Revision                               Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A330-25-3173..........................  01.................................  August 2, 2006.
A330-25-3225..........................  01.................................  September 30, 2004.
A330-25-3301..........................  Original...........................  March 24, 2006.
A340-25-4191..........................  01.................................  August 2, 2006.
A340-25-4228..........................  01.................................  September 30, 2004.
A340-25-4273..........................  Original...........................  March 24, 2006.
A340-25-5004..........................  01.................................  August 2, 2006.
A340-25-5054..........................  Original...........................  August 2, 2004.
A340-25-5110..........................  Original...........................  March 24, 2006.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



[[Page 44740]]

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 30, 2007.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
 [FR Doc. E7-15413 Filed 8-8-07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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