Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 767 Airplanes, 46576-46580 [E7-16424]

Download as PDF 46576 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 161 / Tuesday, August 21, 2007 / Proposed Rules dated July 12, 2006; Fokker 70/100 Fuel Airworthiness Limitation Items (ALI) and Critical Design Configuration Control Limitations (CDCCL) Report SE–672, Issue 1, dated January 31, 2006; and Fokker Service Bulletin F28/28–050, dated June 30, 2006; for related information. Issued in Renton, Washington, on August 14, 2007. Stephen P. Boyd, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. E7–16426 Filed 8–20–07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2005–22623; Directorate Identifier 2004–NM–80–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 767 Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); reopening of comment period. rmajette on PROD1PC64 with PROPOSALS AGENCY: SUMMARY: The FAA is revising an earlier proposed airworthiness directive (AD) for all Boeing Model 767 airplanes. The original NPRM would have required the following actions for the drive mechanism of the horizontal stabilizer: Repetitive detailed inspections for discrepancies and loose ball bearings; repetitive lubrication of the ballnut and ballscrew; repetitive measurements of the freeplay between the ballnut and the ballscrew; and corrective action if necessary. The original NPRM resulted from a report of extensive corrosion of a ballscrew in the drive mechanism of the horizontal stabilizer on a similar airplane model. This action revises the original NPRM by including additional initial and repetitive inspections of the ballscrew-to-ballnut freeplay for certain airplanes, and adding a new compliance time for those inspections. We are proposing this supplemental NPRM to prevent an undetected failure of the primary load path for the ballscrew in the drive mechanism of the horizontal stabilizer and subsequent wear and failure of the secondary load path, which could lead to loss of control of the horizontal stabilizer and consequent loss of control of the airplane. DATES: We must receive comments on this supplemental NPRM by September 17, 2007. VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:07 Aug 20, 2007 Jkt 211001 Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on this supplemental NPRM. • DOT Docket Web site: Go to https:// dms.dot.gov and follow the instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Government-wide rulemaking Web site: Go to https://www.regulations.gov and follow the instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building, Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. • Hand Delivery: Room W12–140 on the ground floor of the West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. Contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle, Washington 98124–2207, for service information identified in this proposed AD. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kelly McGuckin, Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM– 130S, FAA, Seattle Airplane Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 917–6490; fax (425) 917–6590. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: You may review the DOT’s complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477–78), or you may visit https://dms.dot.gov. Comments Invited Actions Since Original NPRM Was Issued Since we issued the original NPRM, Boeing has revised certain service information to add initial and repetitive inspections of the ballscrew-to-ballnut freeplay for certain airplanes, and to add a new compliance time for those inspections. ADDRESSES: We invite you to submit any relevant written data, views, or arguments regarding this supplemental NPRM. Send your comments to an address listed in the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number ‘‘Docket No. FAA– 2005–22623; Directorate Identifier 2004–NM–80–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this supplemental NPRM. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this supplemental NPRM in light of those comments. We will post all comments submitted, without change, to https://dms.dot.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact with FAA personnel concerning this supplemental NPRM. Using the search function of that web site, anyone can find and read the comments in any of our dockets, including the name of the individual who sent the comment (or signed the comment on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Examining the Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://dms.dot.gov, or in person at the Docket Operations office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647–5527) is located on the ground floor of the West Building at the street address stated in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after the Docket Management System receives them. Discussion We proposed to amend 14 CFR part 39 with a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) for an AD (the ‘‘original NPRM’’) for all Boeing Model 767 airplanes. The original NPRM was published in the Federal Register on October 7, 2005 (70 FR 58620). The original NPRM proposed to require the following actions for the drive mechanism of the horizontal stabilizer: Repetitive detailed inspections for discrepancies and loose ball bearings; repetitive lubrication of the ballnut and ballscrew; repetitive measurements of the freeplay between the ballnut and the ballscrew; and corrective action if necessary. Relevant Service Information We have reviewed the following service bulletins: • Boeing Service Bulletin 767– 27A0194, Revision 2, dated July 13, 2006 (for Model 767–200, –300, and –300F series airplanes); and • Boeing Service Bulletin 767– 27A0195, Revision 2, dated July 13, 2006 (for Model 767–400ER series airplanes). The procedures in Revision 2 of the service bulletins are essentially the same as those in Revision 1 of the service bulletins, both dated July 21, 2005 (which were referenced in the NPRM as the appropriate sources of service information for accomplishing the specified actions); except Revision 2 includes additional requirements for E:\FR\FM\21AUP1.SGM 21AUP1 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 161 / Tuesday, August 21, 2007 / Proposed Rules airplanes on which the A55001–22 lock equipment was used to accomplish the ballscrew-to-ballnut freeplay inspection specified in Revision 1 of the service bulletins. For airplanes on which the ballscrew-to-ballnut freeplay inspection was done incorrectly, as specified in section 1.D. ‘‘Description’’ of the service bulletins, Revision 2 also adds a new compliance time for that additional ballscrew-to-ballnut freeplay inspection of within 60 months after the last inspection, or 60 months after the delivery date of the airplane, or 18 months after the date on the service bulletin, whichever occurs latest. Revision 2 also recommends repeating those inspections thereafter at intervals not to exceed 72 months. Accomplishing the actions specified in the service information is intended to adequately address the unsafe condition. We added a new paragraph (g) to this AD to include these requirements. Comments We have considered the following comments on the original NPRM. Request To Change Relevant Service Information Section Boeing asks that we change the second paragraph of the Relevant Service Information section in the original NPRM to read ‘‘For airplanes on which an FAA-approved low utilization maintenance program is in effect * * *’’ We agree with Boeing that the second paragraph could be changed for clarification; however, that paragraph is not included in this supplemental NPRM. We have made no change to the supplemental NPRM in this regard. rmajette on PROD1PC64 with PROPOSALS Request To Change Additional Sources of Service Information Table Boeing asks that we change the table in Note 1 of the original NPRM titled ‘‘Additional Sources of Service Information’’ to reflect that the airplane maintenance manual is applicable to all Model 767 airplanes, not just Model 767–200 airplanes. Boeing states that the original NPRM is applicable to all Model 767 airplanes. We agree with Boeing for the reason provided, and we have changed Note 1 of this supplemental NPRM accordingly. Request To Change Compliance Time for Previously Accomplished Actions Boeing asks that the compliance time specified in paragraph (g) of the original NPRM (paragraph (h) of the supplemental NPRM) be reduced from 4,000 to 3,500 flight hours. Boeing states that this compliance time is specified in section 1.D. ‘‘Description’’ of Service VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:07 Aug 20, 2007 Jkt 211001 Bulletin 767–27A0194, Revision 1. We agree with Boeing for the reason provided. The compliance time specified in Service Bulletin 767– 27A0195, Revision 1, is also 3,500 flight hours. The compliance time specified in the original NPRM was incorrect; therefore, we have changed the compliance time in paragraph (h) of this supplemental NPRM accordingly. Request To Withdraw Original NPRM Air Transport Association (ATA) on behalf of its member Delta Airlines, states that operators are already accomplishing the intent of the original NPRM and there are no instances of the underlying airworthiness concerns occurring on Model 767 airplanes. Delta Airlines disagrees with the requirements in the original NPRM that would mandate what it considers routine maintenance program tasks. Delta states that it already performs all of these tasks and does not agree that the tasks should be mandated. Delta adds that the tasks and compliance intervals specified in the referenced service bulletins are similar to the tasks and intervals already defined in the Maintenance Planning Document (MPD). Delta notes that bundling these tasks allows efficiency, but mandating arbitrary limits through an AD significantly reduces operator scheduling flexibility and is not merited in this case. We infer that the commenters are asking that the original NPRM be withdrawn; we do not agree. We have determined that a degraded stabilizer trim actuator can be a safety concern because each airplane has only one stabilizer trim actuator, which is both a critical system component and a critical structural component of the airplane. As we stated in the original NPRM, the unsafe condition is undetected failure of the primary load path for the ballscrew in the horizontal stabilizer and subsequent wear and failure of the secondary load path, which could lead to loss of control of the horizontal stabilizer and consequent loss of control of the airplane. The proposed maintenance tasks and intervals must be mandated because of the criticality of the horizontal stabilizer system, the consequences of not performing the maintenance tasks, and the adverse service history attributed to problems with the horizontal stabilizer system on other airplanes. These tasks and intervals were not chosen arbitrarily, but instead were based on the minimum maintenance requirements needed to maintain the integrity of the stabilizer trim system. Although the lubrication and inspection procedures are normally PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 46577 handled by the procedures in the maintenance program, these maintenance actions can affect the safety of the airplane if they are not performed in a timely manner. We do not mandate the implementation of MPD revisions, and we cannot control escalation of MPD intervals related to maintenance. We consider it unacceptable that maintenance intervals can be escalated for economic reasons when these maintenance actions directly affect the safety of the airplane. Failure to perform these maintenance tasks at the proper intervals can lead to an unsafe condition. Therefore, we consider that mandating the actions in this supplemental NPRM appropriate and necessary. Requests To Extend Compliance Times Delta states that there are no data provided in the original NPRM to support the proposed compliance time limits. Delta notes that both of these limits fall short of its C–check visit, and would impose significant down time and costs to accomplish tasks with such arbitrary limits. Delta recommends that, if the FAA decides to mandate these tasks, the limits be written in a manner that allows flexibility in scheduling, such as ‘‘the later of either (a) or (b), where (a) is 2,000 flight hours or 12 months, whichever occurs first; or (b) every C–check.’’ United Parcel Service (UPS) asks that we consider revising the NPRM to specify accomplishment of the referenced time-controlled tasks within paragraph (g) of the original NPRM as follows: ‘‘For airplanes on which Boeing Maintenance Program Changes are in place to perform repetitive Inspections/ Lubrications/Freeplay checks of the horizontal stabilizer, within 15,000 flight hours after the last Ballscrew-toBallnut Freeplay Inspection, or 24 months after the effective date, accomplish applicable actions required by paragraph (f) of this AD.’’ UPS states that the continuation of the referenced time-controlled tasks would provide an equivalent level of safety and relieve scheduling burdens that might be encountered during the accomplishment of proposed requirements. We do not agree with allowing operators to perform the actions at later compliance times. We cannot specify a letter check for mandatory inspection intervals because letter checks vary among different operators and can be escalated. The inspection intervals were determined from the results of a safety review by means of testing, failure mode analysis, and fault tree analysis. In developing an appropriate compliance time for this action, we also considered E:\FR\FM\21AUP1.SGM 21AUP1 46578 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 161 / Tuesday, August 21, 2007 / Proposed Rules the urgency associated with the subject unsafe condition, the practical aspect of accomplishing the required actions within an interval of time that corresponds to the normal scheduled maintenance for most affected operators, and the recommendation of the manufacturer. However, according to the provisions of paragraph (k) of this AD, we may approve requests to adjust the compliance time if the request includes data that substantiate that the new compliance time would provide an acceptable level of safety. We have made no change to the supplemental NPRM in this regard. Request To Change Paragraph (i) of the Proposed AD UPS states that no overhaul instructions are provided in the referenced service bulletins that are specified in paragraph (i) of the original NPRM, and adds that sufficient inspection requirements are given in the Component Maintenance Manual (CMM). Therefore, UPS recommends that paragraph (i) of the original NPRM (Parts Installation) specify that ‘‘* * * no person may install on any airplane a horizontal stabilizer trim actuator unless it is new or has been overhauled in accordance with the CMM; or has been inspected, lubricated, and measured in accordance with paragraph (f) of this AD.’’ UPS states that the referenced service bulletins do not provide any direction over and above the requirements of the associated CMM. We disagree that the referenced service bulletins do not contain the overhaul instructions for the horizontal stabilizer trim actuator. Although the service bulletins do not list the detailed steps required to overhaul the stabilizer trim actuator, the bulletins do reference the appropriate CMM for accomplishing this task. We have made no change to the supplemental NPRM in this regard. Request for Addition of Indication The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) recommends that there be a clear indication to the operator when the primary load path has been compromised to the point of loading the secondary load path, so that corrective action can be taken immediately. The ALPA did not provide a specific reason for, or data to support, its recommendation. We acknowledge ALPA’s request; however, we do not agree with the need for this specific indication. The maintenance tasks and intervals identified in the service bulletins, and proposed by this supplemental NPRM, are intended to ensure proper operation and detect any degradation of the stabilizer trim actuator ballscrew and ballnut, without the need to provide a separate indication. Detection of any degradation of the primary load path, as detailed in the service bulletins, requires corrective action before further flight. The proposed maintenance interval limits are intended to detect any degradation of the primary load path in advance of loading the secondary load path. We have made no change to the supplemental NPRM in this regard. Request To Notify Boeing of the Status of Original NPRM Royal Brunei Airlines asks that Boeing be notified of the status of the original NPRM if the FAA’s intent is to mandate Service Bulletin 767–27A0194, Revision 2 (the original NPRM is identified in Revision 2 as related information); then operators can eliminate unnecessary duplication of tasks. Royal Brunei Airlines states that the inspection and lubrication of the horizontal trim actuator are already called out in the relevant Boeing maintenance schedule. Royal Brunei Airlines adds that the Boeing maintenance schedule is approved and mandated by its local regulatory authority. We acknowledge the commenter’s request. However, it is not necessary that Boeing be notified of the status of the original NPRM. Boeing is aware that this supplemental NPRM to the original NPRM will be issued to include the procedures specified in Revision 2 of the referenced service bulletins. Boeing is also aware of the duplication of tasks between the MPD and Service Bulletin 767–27A0194, Revision 2. Although we agree that the inspection and lubrication tasks are duplicated, the requirements in this AD take precedence over the maintenance actions in the MPD. Boeing may, in a future revision to the MPD, align the MPD with the requirements of the service bulletin. We have made no change to the supplemental NPRM in this regard. FAA’s Determination and Proposed Requirements of the Supplemental NPRM Certain changes discussed above expand the scope of the original NPRM; therefore, we have determined that it is necessary to reopen the comment period to provide additional opportunity for public comment on this supplemental NPRM. Explanation of Change to Costs of Compliance After the original NPRM was issued, we reviewed the figures we have used over the past several years to calculate AD costs to operators. To account for various inflationary costs in the airline industry, we find it necessary to increase the labor rate used in these calculations from $65 per work hour to $80 per work hour. The cost impact information, below, reflects this increase in the specified hourly labor rate. Clarification of Alternative Method of Compliance (AMOC) Paragraph We have revised this action to clarify the appropriate procedure for notifying the principal inspector before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC applies. Costs of Compliance There are about 941 airplanes of the affected design in the worldwide fleet. This supplemental NPRM would affect about 411 airplanes of U.S. registry. The following table provides the estimated costs for U.S. operators to comply with this proposed AD, per cycle. ESTIMATED COSTS Work hours rmajette on PROD1PC64 with PROPOSALS Repetitive actions Detailed inspection ................................................................... Lubrication ................................................................................ Freeplay measurement ............................................................ VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:07 Aug 20, 2007 Jkt 211001 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Average labor rate per hour 1 1 3 Fmt 4702 $80 80 80 Sfmt 4702 Cost per airplane Number of U.S.-registered airplanes $80 80 240 E:\FR\FM\21AUP1.SGM 411 411 411 21AUP1 Fleet cost $32,880 32,880 98,640 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 161 / Tuesday, August 21, 2007 / Proposed Rules The additional ballscrew-to-ballnut freeplay inspection would take about 1 work hour per airplane, at an average labor rate of $80 per work hour. Based on these figures, the estimated cost of the new inspection on U.S. operators is $32,880, or $80 per airplane, per inspection cycle. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: Authority for This Rulemaking 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: 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. rmajette on PROD1PC64 with PROPOSALS Regulatory Findings We have determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the proposed regulation: 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and 3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this supplemental NPRM and placed it in the AD docket. See the ADDRESSES section for a location to examine the regulatory evaluation. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Safety. VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:07 Aug 20, 2007 Jkt 211001 PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): Boeing: Docket No. FAA–2005–22623; Directorate Identifier 2004–NM–80–AD. Comments Due Date (a) The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by September 17, 2007. Affected ADs (b) None. Applicability (c) This AD applies to all Boeing Model 767–200, –300, –300F, and –400ER series airplanes, certificated in any category. Unsafe Condition (d) This AD was prompted by a report of extensive corrosion of a ballscrew in the horizontal stabilizer of a similar airplane model. We are issuing this AD to prevent an undetected failure of the primary load path for the ballscrew in the drive mechanism of the horizontal stabilizer and subsequent wear and failure of the secondary load path, which could lead to loss of control of the horizontal stabilizer and consequent loss of control of the airplane. Compliance (e) You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the actions have already been done. Repetitive Detailed Inspections/Lubrications/ Freeplay Measurement/Corrective Action (f) Do all the applicable actions, including any applicable corrective action, specified in Work Packages 1, 2, and 3 of the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 767–27A0194 (for Model 767–200, –300, and –300F series airplanes) or Boeing Service Bulletin 767–27A0195 (for Model 767–400ER series airplanes), both Revision 1, both dated July 21, 2005, or Revision 2, both dated July 13, 2006, as applicable. Do the actions at the applicable compliance time specified in Table 1 of paragraph 1.E. ‘‘Compliance’’ of the service bulletins; except, where the service bulletins specify a compliance time relative to the original issue date of the service bulletin, this AD requires compliance relative to the effective date of this AD. Where the service bulletins specify a compliance time relative to the delivery date of the airplane, this AD requires compliance relative to the date of PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 46579 issuance of the original standard airworthiness certificate or the date of issuance of the original export certificate of airworthiness. Do all applicable corrective actions before further flight. Repeat the actions at the applicable repeat interval specified in Table 1 of paragraph 1.E ‘‘Compliance’’ of the service bulletins. As of the effective date of this AD only Revision 2 of the service bulletin may be used. Repetitive Ballscrew-to-Ballnut Freeplay Inspections (g) For airplanes on which the A55001–22 lock equipment was used to do the ballscrewto-ballnut freeplay inspection, and the maintenance records do not show that the tool was correctly adjusted in accordance with Appendix A, step 1.E.3, of Boeing Service Bulletin 767–27A0194 or 767– 27A0195, both Revision 1, both dated July 21, 2005: Do the ballscrew-to-ballnut freeplay inspection specified in Work Package 3, including any applicable corrective action, at the time specified in Table 1 of paragraph 1.E. ‘‘Compliance’’ of Boeing Service Bulletin 767–27A0194 or 767–27A0195, both Revision 2, both dated July 13, 2006, as applicable. Do all applicable corrective actions before further flight. Repeat the inspection thereafter at the intervals specified in Table 1 of paragraph 1.E ‘‘Compliance’’ of the service bulletins. Previously Accomplished Actions (h) For airplanes on which the drive mechanism of the horizontal stabilizer was replaced before the effective date of this AD with a drive mechanism that was not new or overhauled, and the detailed and freeplay inspections were not accomplished in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767–27A0194 or 767–27A0195, both dated August 21, 2003: Within 3,500 flight hours or 24 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever is first, accomplish the inspections and perform all applicable corrective actions before further flight in accordance with Work Package 3 of the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 767–27A0194 or Boeing Service Bulletin 767–27A0195, both Revision 1, both dated July 21, 2005; or Revision 2, both dated July 13, 2006; as applicable. As of the effective date of this AD only Revision 2 of the service bulletin may be used. (i) For Model 767 airplanes that have line numbers 002 through 175 inclusive: Accomplishing the initial inspection, applicable corrective action, and lubrication before the effective date of this AD in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767–27A0185, dated July 10, 2003; is considered acceptable for compliance with the applicable actions required by paragraph (f) of this AD. Note 1: Boeing Service Bulletins 767– 27A0194 and 767–27A0195, both Revision 2, both dated July 13, 2006, refer to the applicable Boeing 767 Airplane Maintenance Manuals as additional sources of service information for accomplishing the detailed inspections, lubrications, freeplay measurements, and corrective action. E:\FR\FM\21AUP1.SGM 21AUP1 46580 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 161 / Tuesday, August 21, 2007 / Proposed Rules Parts Installation (j) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install on any airplane a horizontal stabilizer trim actuator unless it is new or has been overhauled as specified in Boeing Service Bulletins 767–27A0194 and 767–27A0195, both Revision 2, both dated July 13, 2006; or has been inspected, lubricated, and measured in accordance with paragraph (f) of this AD. Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (k)(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested in accordance with the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. (2) To request a different method of compliance or a different compliance time for this AD, follow the procedures in 14 CFR 39.19. Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO. Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 31, 2007. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. E7–16424 Filed 8–20–07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2007–28844; Directorate Identifier 2007–CE–066–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; AeromotIndustria Mecanico Metalurgica Ltda. Model AMT–100/200/200S/300 Gliders Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). rmajette on PROD1PC64 with PROPOSALS AGENCY: SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This proposed AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as: It has been found the occurrence of incorrect use of the self-locking nuts in bolts subject to rotational loads in bolted fittings of some assemblies of metallic components. Such event may result in disconnection of those fittings, which jeopardizes the 15:07 Aug 20, 2007 The proposed AD would require actions that are intended to address the unsafe condition described in the MCAI. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by September 20, 2007. You may send comments by any of the following methods: • DOT Docket Web Site: Go to https://dms.dot.gov and follow the instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. • 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. • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. ADDRESSES: Examining the AD Docket DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION VerDate Aug<31>2005 structural integrity of the aircraft or its flight controls. Jkt 211001 You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://dms.dot.gov; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Office (telephone (800) 647– 5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Greg Davison, Glider Program Manager, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–4130; fax: (816) 329–4090. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2007–28844; Directorate Identifier 2007–CE–066–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 proposed AD because of those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// dms.dot.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. Discussion The Departamento de Aviacao Civil (DAC), which is the aviation authority for Brazil, has issued AD No. 2005–12– 01, dated January 17, 2006 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: It has been found the occurrence of incorrect use of the self-locking nuts in bolts subject to rotational loads in bolted fittings of some assemblies of metallic components. Such even may result in disconnection of those fittings, which jeopardizes the structural integrity of the aircraft or its flight controls. Since this condition may occur in other airplanes of the same type and affects flight safety, a corrective action is required. Thus, sufficient reason exists to request compliance with this AD in the indicated time limit. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket. Relevant Service Information Aeromot has issued Service Bulletin (SB) No. 200–20–102, revision B, dated January 23, 2006. The actions described in this service information are intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of the Proposed AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, they have notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all information and determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Differences Between This Proposed 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 making these changes, we do not intend to differ E:\FR\FM\21AUP1.SGM 21AUP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 72, Number 161 (Tuesday, August 21, 2007)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 46576-46580]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E7-16424]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2005-22623; Directorate Identifier 2004-NM-80-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 767 Airplanes

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

ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); reopening of 
comment period.

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SUMMARY: The FAA is revising an earlier proposed airworthiness 
directive (AD) for all Boeing Model 767 airplanes. The original NPRM 
would have required the following actions for the drive mechanism of 
the horizontal stabilizer: Repetitive detailed inspections for 
discrepancies and loose ball bearings; repetitive lubrication of the 
ballnut and ballscrew; repetitive measurements of the freeplay between 
the ballnut and the ballscrew; and corrective action if necessary. The 
original NPRM resulted from a report of extensive corrosion of a 
ballscrew in the drive mechanism of the horizontal stabilizer on a 
similar airplane model. This action revises the original NPRM by 
including additional initial and repetitive inspections of the 
ballscrew-to-ballnut freeplay for certain airplanes, and adding a new 
compliance time for those inspections. We are proposing this 
supplemental NPRM to prevent an undetected failure of the primary load 
path for the ballscrew in the drive mechanism of the horizontal 
stabilizer and subsequent wear and failure of the secondary load path, 
which could lead to loss of control of the horizontal stabilizer and 
consequent loss of control of the airplane.

DATES: We must receive comments on this supplemental NPRM by September 
17, 2007.

ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on 
this supplemental NPRM.
     DOT Docket Web site: Go to https://dms.dot.gov and follow 
the instructions for sending your comments electronically.
     Government-wide rulemaking Web site: Go to https://
www.regulations.gov and follow the instructions for sending your 
comments electronically.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building, Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Fax: (202) 493-2251.
     Hand Delivery: Room W12-140 on the ground floor of the 
West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC, between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    Contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle, 
Washington 98124-2207, for service information identified in this 
proposed AD.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kelly McGuckin, Aerospace Engineer, 
Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM-130S, FAA, Seattle Airplane 
Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-
3356; telephone (425) 917-6490; fax (425) 917-6590.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    We invite you to submit any relevant written data, views, or 
arguments regarding this supplemental NPRM. Send your comments to an 
address listed in the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number 
``Docket No. FAA-2005-22623; Directorate Identifier 2004-NM-80-AD'' at 
the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the 
overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this 
supplemental NPRM. We will consider all comments received by the 
closing date and may amend this supplemental NPRM in light of those 
comments.
    We will post all comments submitted, without change, to https://
dms.dot.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will 
also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact with FAA 
personnel concerning this supplemental NPRM. Using the search function 
of that web site, anyone can find and read the comments in any of our 
dockets, including the name of the individual who sent the comment (or 
signed the comment on behalf of an association, business, labor union, 
etc.). You may review the DOT's complete Privacy Act Statement in the 
Federal Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477-78), or you 
may visit https://dms.dot.gov.

Examining the Docket

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

Discussion

    We proposed to amend 14 CFR part 39 with a notice of proposed 
rulemaking (NPRM) for an AD (the ``original NPRM'') for all Boeing 
Model 767 airplanes. The original NPRM was published in the Federal 
Register on October 7, 2005 (70 FR 58620). The original NPRM proposed 
to require the following actions for the drive mechanism of the 
horizontal stabilizer: Repetitive detailed inspections for 
discrepancies and loose ball bearings; repetitive lubrication of the 
ballnut and ballscrew; repetitive measurements of the freeplay between 
the ballnut and the ballscrew; and corrective action if necessary.

Actions Since Original NPRM Was Issued

    Since we issued the original NPRM, Boeing has revised certain 
service information to add initial and repetitive inspections of the 
ballscrew-to-ballnut freeplay for certain airplanes, and to add a new 
compliance time for those inspections.

Relevant Service Information

    We have reviewed the following service bulletins:
     Boeing Service Bulletin 767-27A0194, Revision 2, dated 
July 13, 2006 (for Model 767-200, -300, and -300F series airplanes); 
and
     Boeing Service Bulletin 767-27A0195, Revision 2, dated 
July 13, 2006 (for Model 767-400ER series airplanes).
    The procedures in Revision 2 of the service bulletins are 
essentially the same as those in Revision 1 of the service bulletins, 
both dated July 21, 2005 (which were referenced in the NPRM as the 
appropriate sources of service information for accomplishing the 
specified actions); except Revision 2 includes additional requirements 
for

[[Page 46577]]

airplanes on which the A55001-22 lock equipment was used to accomplish 
the ballscrew-to-ballnut freeplay inspection specified in Revision 1 of 
the service bulletins. For airplanes on which the ballscrew-to-ballnut 
freeplay inspection was done incorrectly, as specified in section 1.D. 
``Description'' of the service bulletins, Revision 2 also adds a new 
compliance time for that additional ballscrew-to-ballnut freeplay 
inspection of within 60 months after the last inspection, or 60 months 
after the delivery date of the airplane, or 18 months after the date on 
the service bulletin, whichever occurs latest. Revision 2 also 
recommends repeating those inspections thereafter at intervals not to 
exceed 72 months. Accomplishing the actions specified in the service 
information is intended to adequately address the unsafe condition. We 
added a new paragraph (g) to this AD to include these requirements.

Comments

    We have considered the following comments on the original NPRM.

Request To Change Relevant Service Information Section

    Boeing asks that we change the second paragraph of the Relevant 
Service Information section in the original NPRM to read ``For 
airplanes on which an FAA-approved low utilization maintenance program 
is in effect * * *'' We agree with Boeing that the second paragraph 
could be changed for clarification; however, that paragraph is not 
included in this supplemental NPRM. We have made no change to the 
supplemental NPRM in this regard.

Request To Change Additional Sources of Service Information Table

    Boeing asks that we change the table in Note 1 of the original NPRM 
titled ``Additional Sources of Service Information'' to reflect that 
the airplane maintenance manual is applicable to all Model 767 
airplanes, not just Model 767-200 airplanes. Boeing states that the 
original NPRM is applicable to all Model 767 airplanes. We agree with 
Boeing for the reason provided, and we have changed Note 1 of this 
supplemental NPRM accordingly.

Request To Change Compliance Time for Previously Accomplished Actions

    Boeing asks that the compliance time specified in paragraph (g) of 
the original NPRM (paragraph (h) of the supplemental NPRM) be reduced 
from 4,000 to 3,500 flight hours. Boeing states that this compliance 
time is specified in section 1.D. ``Description'' of Service Bulletin 
767-27A0194, Revision 1. We agree with Boeing for the reason provided. 
The compliance time specified in Service Bulletin 767-27A0195, Revision 
1, is also 3,500 flight hours. The compliance time specified in the 
original NPRM was incorrect; therefore, we have changed the compliance 
time in paragraph (h) of this supplemental NPRM accordingly.

Request To Withdraw Original NPRM

    Air Transport Association (ATA) on behalf of its member Delta 
Airlines, states that operators are already accomplishing the intent of 
the original NPRM and there are no instances of the underlying 
airworthiness concerns occurring on Model 767 airplanes.
    Delta Airlines disagrees with the requirements in the original NPRM 
that would mandate what it considers routine maintenance program tasks. 
Delta states that it already performs all of these tasks and does not 
agree that the tasks should be mandated. Delta adds that the tasks and 
compliance intervals specified in the referenced service bulletins are 
similar to the tasks and intervals already defined in the Maintenance 
Planning Document (MPD). Delta notes that bundling these tasks allows 
efficiency, but mandating arbitrary limits through an AD significantly 
reduces operator scheduling flexibility and is not merited in this 
case.
    We infer that the commenters are asking that the original NPRM be 
withdrawn; we do not agree. We have determined that a degraded 
stabilizer trim actuator can be a safety concern because each airplane 
has only one stabilizer trim actuator, which is both a critical system 
component and a critical structural component of the airplane. As we 
stated in the original NPRM, the unsafe condition is undetected failure 
of the primary load path for the ballscrew in the horizontal stabilizer 
and subsequent wear and failure of the secondary load path, which could 
lead to loss of control of the horizontal stabilizer and consequent 
loss of control of the airplane. The proposed maintenance tasks and 
intervals must be mandated because of the criticality of the horizontal 
stabilizer system, the consequences of not performing the maintenance 
tasks, and the adverse service history attributed to problems with the 
horizontal stabilizer system on other airplanes. These tasks and 
intervals were not chosen arbitrarily, but instead were based on the 
minimum maintenance requirements needed to maintain the integrity of 
the stabilizer trim system. Although the lubrication and inspection 
procedures are normally handled by the procedures in the maintenance 
program, these maintenance actions can affect the safety of the 
airplane if they are not performed in a timely manner. We do not 
mandate the implementation of MPD revisions, and we cannot control 
escalation of MPD intervals related to maintenance. We consider it 
unacceptable that maintenance intervals can be escalated for economic 
reasons when these maintenance actions directly affect the safety of 
the airplane. Failure to perform these maintenance tasks at the proper 
intervals can lead to an unsafe condition. Therefore, we consider that 
mandating the actions in this supplemental NPRM appropriate and 
necessary.

Requests To Extend Compliance Times

    Delta states that there are no data provided in the original NPRM 
to support the proposed compliance time limits. Delta notes that both 
of these limits fall short of its C-check visit, and would impose 
significant down time and costs to accomplish tasks with such arbitrary 
limits. Delta recommends that, if the FAA decides to mandate these 
tasks, the limits be written in a manner that allows flexibility in 
scheduling, such as ``the later of either (a) or (b), where (a) is 
2,000 flight hours or 12 months, whichever occurs first; or (b) every 
C-check.''
    United Parcel Service (UPS) asks that we consider revising the NPRM 
to specify accomplishment of the referenced time-controlled tasks 
within paragraph (g) of the original NPRM as follows: ``For airplanes 
on which Boeing Maintenance Program Changes are in place to perform 
repetitive Inspections/Lubrications/Freeplay checks of the horizontal 
stabilizer, within 15,000 flight hours after the last Ballscrew-to-
Ballnut Freeplay Inspection, or 24 months after the effective date, 
accomplish applicable actions required by paragraph (f) of this AD.'' 
UPS states that the continuation of the referenced time-controlled 
tasks would provide an equivalent level of safety and relieve 
scheduling burdens that might be encountered during the accomplishment 
of proposed requirements.
    We do not agree with allowing operators to perform the actions at 
later compliance times. We cannot specify a letter check for mandatory 
inspection intervals because letter checks vary among different 
operators and can be escalated. The inspection intervals were 
determined from the results of a safety review by means of testing, 
failure mode analysis, and fault tree analysis. In developing an 
appropriate compliance time for this action, we also considered

[[Page 46578]]

the urgency associated with the subject unsafe condition, the practical 
aspect of accomplishing the required actions within an interval of time 
that corresponds to the normal scheduled maintenance for most affected 
operators, and the recommendation of the manufacturer. However, 
according to the provisions of paragraph (k) of this AD, we may approve 
requests to adjust the compliance time if the request includes data 
that substantiate that the new compliance time would provide an 
acceptable level of safety. We have made no change to the supplemental 
NPRM in this regard.

Request To Change Paragraph (i) of the Proposed AD

    UPS states that no overhaul instructions are provided in the 
referenced service bulletins that are specified in paragraph (i) of the 
original NPRM, and adds that sufficient inspection requirements are 
given in the Component Maintenance Manual (CMM). Therefore, UPS 
recommends that paragraph (i) of the original NPRM (Parts Installation) 
specify that ``* * * no person may install on any airplane a horizontal 
stabilizer trim actuator unless it is new or has been overhauled in 
accordance with the CMM; or has been inspected, lubricated, and 
measured in accordance with paragraph (f) of this AD.'' UPS states that 
the referenced service bulletins do not provide any direction over and 
above the requirements of the associated CMM.
    We disagree that the referenced service bulletins do not contain 
the overhaul instructions for the horizontal stabilizer trim actuator. 
Although the service bulletins do not list the detailed steps required 
to overhaul the stabilizer trim actuator, the bulletins do reference 
the appropriate CMM for accomplishing this task. We have made no change 
to the supplemental NPRM in this regard.

Request for Addition of Indication

    The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) recommends that there be a 
clear indication to the operator when the primary load path has been 
compromised to the point of loading the secondary load path, so that 
corrective action can be taken immediately. The ALPA did not provide a 
specific reason for, or data to support, its recommendation.
    We acknowledge ALPA's request; however, we do not agree with the 
need for this specific indication. The maintenance tasks and intervals 
identified in the service bulletins, and proposed by this supplemental 
NPRM, are intended to ensure proper operation and detect any 
degradation of the stabilizer trim actuator ballscrew and ballnut, 
without the need to provide a separate indication. Detection of any 
degradation of the primary load path, as detailed in the service 
bulletins, requires corrective action before further flight. The 
proposed maintenance interval limits are intended to detect any 
degradation of the primary load path in advance of loading the 
secondary load path. We have made no change to the supplemental NPRM in 
this regard.

Request To Notify Boeing of the Status of Original NPRM

    Royal Brunei Airlines asks that Boeing be notified of the status of 
the original NPRM if the FAA's intent is to mandate Service Bulletin 
767-27A0194, Revision 2 (the original NPRM is identified in Revision 2 
as related information); then operators can eliminate unnecessary 
duplication of tasks. Royal Brunei Airlines states that the inspection 
and lubrication of the horizontal trim actuator are already called out 
in the relevant Boeing maintenance schedule. Royal Brunei Airlines adds 
that the Boeing maintenance schedule is approved and mandated by its 
local regulatory authority.
    We acknowledge the commenter's request. However, it is not 
necessary that Boeing be notified of the status of the original NPRM. 
Boeing is aware that this supplemental NPRM to the original NPRM will 
be issued to include the procedures specified in Revision 2 of the 
referenced service bulletins. Boeing is also aware of the duplication 
of tasks between the MPD and Service Bulletin 767-27A0194, Revision 2. 
Although we agree that the inspection and lubrication tasks are 
duplicated, the requirements in this AD take precedence over the 
maintenance actions in the MPD. Boeing may, in a future revision to the 
MPD, align the MPD with the requirements of the service bulletin. We 
have made no change to the supplemental NPRM in this regard.

FAA's Determination and Proposed Requirements of the Supplemental NPRM

    Certain changes discussed above expand the scope of the original 
NPRM; therefore, we have determined that it is necessary to reopen the 
comment period to provide additional opportunity for public comment on 
this supplemental NPRM.

Explanation of Change to Costs of Compliance

    After the original NPRM was issued, we reviewed the figures we have 
used over the past several years to calculate AD costs to operators. To 
account for various inflationary costs in the airline industry, we find 
it necessary to increase the labor rate used in these calculations from 
$65 per work hour to $80 per work hour. The cost impact information, 
below, reflects this increase in the specified hourly labor rate.

Clarification of Alternative Method of Compliance (AMOC) Paragraph

    We have revised this action to clarify the appropriate procedure 
for notifying the principal inspector before using any approved AMOC on 
any airplane to which the AMOC applies.

Costs of Compliance

    There are about 941 airplanes of the affected design in the 
worldwide fleet. This supplemental NPRM would affect about 411 
airplanes of U.S. registry. The following table provides the estimated 
costs for U.S. operators to comply with this proposed AD, per cycle.

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                Number of U.S.-
         Repetitive actions            Work    Average labor     Cost per         registered        Fleet cost
                                      hours    rate per hour     airplane          airplanes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Detailed inspection................        1             $80             $80                 411         $32,880
Lubrication........................        1              80              80                 411          32,880
Freeplay measurement...............        3              80             240                 411          98,640
====================================
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 46579]]

    The additional ballscrew-to-ballnut freeplay inspection would take 
about 1 work hour per airplane, at an average labor rate of $80 per 
work hour. Based on these figures, the estimated cost of the new 
inspection on U.S. operators is $32,880, or $80 per airplane, per 
inspection cycle.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, Section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs, 
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701, ``General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    We have determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the proposed 
regulation:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
    3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to 
comply with this supplemental NPRM and placed it in the AD docket. See 
the ADDRESSES section for a location to examine the regulatory 
evaluation.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Safety.

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

    1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

    2. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends Sec.  39.13 by 
adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD):

Boeing: Docket No. FAA-2005-22623; Directorate Identifier 2004-NM-
80-AD.

Comments Due Date

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

Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to all Boeing Model 767-200, -300, -300F, 
and -400ER series airplanes, certificated in any category.

Unsafe Condition

    (d) This AD was prompted by a report of extensive corrosion of a 
ballscrew in the horizontal stabilizer of a similar airplane model. 
We are issuing this AD to prevent an undetected failure of the 
primary load path for the ballscrew in the drive mechanism of the 
horizontal stabilizer and subsequent wear and failure of the 
secondary load path, which could lead to loss of control of the 
horizontal stabilizer and consequent loss of control of the 
airplane.

Compliance

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

Repetitive Detailed Inspections/Lubrications/Freeplay Measurement/
Corrective Action

    (f) Do all the applicable actions, including any applicable 
corrective action, specified in Work Packages 1, 2, and 3 of the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 767-27A0194 
(for Model 767-200, -300, and -300F series airplanes) or Boeing 
Service Bulletin 767-27A0195 (for Model 767-400ER series airplanes), 
both Revision 1, both dated July 21, 2005, or Revision 2, both dated 
July 13, 2006, as applicable. Do the actions at the applicable 
compliance time specified in Table 1 of paragraph 1.E. 
``Compliance'' of the service bulletins; except, where the service 
bulletins specify a compliance time relative to the original issue 
date of the service bulletin, this AD requires compliance relative 
to the effective date of this AD. Where the service bulletins 
specify a compliance time relative to the delivery date of the 
airplane, this AD requires compliance relative to the date of 
issuance of the original standard airworthiness certificate or the 
date of issuance of the original export certificate of 
airworthiness. Do all applicable corrective actions before further 
flight. Repeat the actions at the applicable repeat interval 
specified in Table 1 of paragraph 1.E ``Compliance'' of the service 
bulletins. As of the effective date of this AD only Revision 2 of 
the service bulletin may be used.

Repetitive Ballscrew-to-Ballnut Freeplay Inspections

    (g) For airplanes on which the A55001-22 lock equipment was used 
to do the ballscrew-to-ballnut freeplay inspection, and the 
maintenance records do not show that the tool was correctly adjusted 
in accordance with Appendix A, step 1.E.3, of Boeing Service 
Bulletin 767-27A0194 or 767-27A0195, both Revision 1, both dated 
July 21, 2005: Do the ballscrew-to-ballnut freeplay inspection 
specified in Work Package 3, including any applicable corrective 
action, at the time specified in Table 1 of paragraph 1.E. 
``Compliance'' of Boeing Service Bulletin 767-27A0194 or 767-
27A0195, both Revision 2, both dated July 13, 2006, as applicable. 
Do all applicable corrective actions before further flight. Repeat 
the inspection thereafter at the intervals specified in Table 1 of 
paragraph 1.E ``Compliance'' of the service bulletins.

Previously Accomplished Actions

    (h) For airplanes on which the drive mechanism of the horizontal 
stabilizer was replaced before the effective date of this AD with a 
drive mechanism that was not new or overhauled, and the detailed and 
freeplay inspections were not accomplished in accordance with Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin 767-27A0194 or 767-27A0195, both dated August 
21, 2003: Within 3,500 flight hours or 24 months after the effective 
date of this AD, whichever is first, accomplish the inspections and 
perform all applicable corrective actions before further flight in 
accordance with Work Package 3 of the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Boeing Service Bulletin 767-27A0194 or Boeing Service Bulletin 767-
27A0195, both Revision 1, both dated July 21, 2005; or Revision 2, 
both dated July 13, 2006; as applicable. As of the effective date of 
this AD only Revision 2 of the service bulletin may be used.
    (i) For Model 767 airplanes that have line numbers 002 through 
175 inclusive: Accomplishing the initial inspection, applicable 
corrective action, and lubrication before the effective date of this 
AD in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767-27A0185, 
dated July 10, 2003; is considered acceptable for compliance with 
the applicable actions required by paragraph (f) of this AD.

    Note 1: Boeing Service Bulletins 767-27A0194 and 767-27A0195, 
both Revision 2, both dated July 13, 2006, refer to the applicable 
Boeing 767 Airplane Maintenance Manuals as additional sources of 
service information for accomplishing the detailed inspections, 
lubrications, freeplay measurements, and corrective action.


[[Page 46580]]



Parts Installation

    (j) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install 
on any airplane a horizontal stabilizer trim actuator unless it is 
new or has been overhauled as specified in Boeing Service Bulletins 
767-27A0194 and 767-27A0195, both Revision 2, both dated July 13, 
2006; or has been inspected, lubricated, and measured in accordance 
with paragraph (f) of this AD.

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

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

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 31, 2007.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
 [FR Doc. E7-16424 Filed 8-20-07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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