Airworthiness Directives; Saab Model SAAB SF340A and Model SAAB 340B Airplanes, 7659-7661 [E8-2344]
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Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 28 / Monday, February 11, 2008 / Rules and Regulations
(3) You may review copies at the FAA,
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind
Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call
(202) 741–6030, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on January
30, 2008.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E8–2357 Filed 2–8–08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2007–0298; Directorate
Identifier 2007–NM–238–AD; Amendment
39–15369; AD 2008–03–18]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Saab Model
SAAB SF340A and Model SAAB 340B
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for the
products listed above. This 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:
mstockstill on PROD1PC66 with RULES
Subsequent to accidents involving Fuel
Tank System explosions in flight * * * and
on ground, the FAA has published Special
Federal Aviation Regulation 88 (SFAR88)
* * * [which] required * * * [conducting] a
design review against explosion risks.
The unsafe condition is the potential of
ignition sources inside fuel tanks,
which, in combination with flammable
fuel vapors, could result in fuel tank
explosions and consequent loss of the
airplane. We are issuing this AD to
require actions to correct the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD becomes effective
March 17, 2008.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in this AD
as of March 17, 2008.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD
docket on the Internet at https://
VerDate Aug<31>2005
16:57 Feb 08, 2008
Jkt 214001
7659
www.regulations.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:
Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace
Engineer, International Branch, ANM–
116, Transport Airplane Directorate,
FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98057–3356; telephone
(425) 227–1112; fax (425) 227–1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
the doubler flange thickness does not
meet minimum specifications.
Additional corrective actions include
replacing conductive foil on the access
door with an aluminum panel. You may
obtain further information by examining
the MCAI in the AD docket.
Discussion
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 December 10, 2007 (72 FR
69635). That NPRM proposed to correct
an unsafe condition for the specified
products. The MCAI states:
Conclusion
We reviewed the available data and
determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting the AD
as proposed.
Subsequent to accidents involving Fuel
Tank System explosions in flight * * * and
on ground, the FAA has published Special
Federal Aviation Regulation 88 (SFAR88) in
June 2001.
In their Letters referenced 04/00/02/07/01–
L296 dated March 4, 2002 and 04/00/02/07/
03–L024, dated February 3, 2003, the JAA
recommended the application of a similar
regulation to the National Aviation
Authorities (NAA).
Under this regulation, all holders of type
certificates for passenger transport aircraft
with either a passenger capacity of 30 or
more, or a payload capacity of 7,500 pounds
(3402 kg) or more, which have received their
certification since January 1, 1958, are
required to conduct a design review against
explosion risks.
This Airworthiness Directive (AD), which
renders mandatory the modification [2762] of
improving the sealing of Fuel Access Doors,
is a consequence of the design review.
The unsafe condition is the potential of
ignition sources inside fuel tanks,
which, in combination with flammable
fuel vapors, could result in fuel tank
explosions and consequent loss of the
airplane. Modification 2762 includes
removing the fuel tank access doors and
the old type of clamp rings and gaskets,
installing new, improved clamp rings
and re-installing the fuel tank access
doors, and doing related investigative
and applicable corrective actions.
Related investigative and applicable
corrective actions include inspecting for
corrosion of the wing skin panel, access
door areas, and access doors; removing
any corrosion found during the
inspection; and replacing the access
door protection plate with a new
protection plate. Corrosion removal also
includes inspecting the doubler flange
and contacting Saab and doing repairs if
PO 00000
Frm 00003
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
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.
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 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
highlighted in a Note within the AD.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD will affect
about 168 products of U.S. registry. We
also estimate that it will take about 20
work-hours per product to comply with
the basic requirements of this AD. The
average labor rate is $80 per work-hour.
Required parts will cost about $417 per
product. Where the service information
lists required parts costs that are
covered under warranty, we have
assumed that there will be no charge for
these parts. As we do not control
warranty coverage for affected parties,
some parties may incur costs higher
than estimated here. Based on these
figures, we estimate the cost of this AD
to the U.S. operators to be about
$338,856, or about $2,017 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.
E:\FR\FM\11FER1.SGM
11FER1
7660
Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 28 / Monday, February 11, 2008 / Rules and Regulations
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 this AD:
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 AD and placed it in the AD docket.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the Internet at https://
www.regulations.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
mstockstill on PROD1PC66 with RULES
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
VerDate Aug<31>2005
16:57 Feb 08, 2008
Jkt 214001
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
2008–03–18 SaaB Aircraft AB: Amendment
39–15369. Docket No. FAA–2007–0298;
Directorate Identifier 2007–NM–238–AD.
Effective Date
(a) This airworthiness directive (AD)
becomes effective March 17, 2008.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Saab Model SAAB
SF340A and Model SAAB 340B airplanes,
certificated in any category, serial numbers
004 through 401.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 57: Wings.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) states:
Subsequent to accidents involving Fuel
Tank System explosions in flight * * * and
on ground, the FAA has published Special
Federal Aviation Regulation 88 (SFAR88) in
June 2001.
In their Letters referenced 04/00/02/07/01–
L296 dated March 4, 2002 and 04/00/02/07/
03–L024, dated February 3, 2003, the JAA
recommended the application of a similar
regulation to the National Aviation
Authorities (NAA).
Under this regulation, all holders of type
certificates for passenger transport aircraft
with either a passenger capacity of 30 or
more, or a payload capacity of 7,500 pounds
(3402 kg) or more, which have received their
certification since January 1, 1958, are
required to conduct a design review against
explosion risks.
This Airworthiness Directive (AD), which
renders mandatory the modification [2762] of
improving the sealing of Fuel Access Doors,
is a consequence of the design review.
The unsafe condition is the potential of
ignition sources inside fuel tanks, which, in
combination with flammable fuel vapors,
could result in fuel tank explosions and
consequent loss of the airplane. Modification
2762 includes removing the fuel tank access
doors and the old type of clamp rings and
gaskets, installing new, improved clamp
rings and re-installing the fuel tank access
doors, and doing related investigative and
applicable corrective actions. Related
investigative and applicable corrective
actions include inspecting for corrosion of
the wing skin panel, access door areas, and
access doors; removing any corrosion found
during the inspection; and replacing the
access door protection plate with a new
protection plate. Corrosion removal also
PO 00000
Frm 00004
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
includes inspecting the doubler flange and
contacting Saab and doing repairs if the
doubler flange thickness does not meet
minimum specifications. Additional
corrective actions include replacing
conductive foil on the access door with an
aluminum panel.
Actions and Compliance
(f) Within 72 months after the effective
date of this AD, unless already done, do the
actions described in paragraphs (f)(1) and
(f)(2) of this AD.
(1) Do Modification 2762 and all related
investigative actions and applicable
corrective actions, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Saab Service
Bulletin 340–57–031, Revision 02, dated
September 28, 2005. Do all applicable related
investigative and corrective actions before
further flight. Actions done before the
effective date of this AD in accordance with
the Accomplishment Instructions of Saab
Service Bulletin 340–57–031, dated
September 4, 1996; or Revision 01, dated
June 28, 1999; are considered acceptable for
compliance with the requirements of this
paragraph.
(2) For airplanes identified in Saab Service
Bulletin 340–57–010, dated March 28, 1989,
do the additional corrective actions described
in and in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of that service
bulletin.
FAA AD Differences
Note 1: This AD differs from the MCAI
and/or service information as follows: The
MCAI does not require doing the actions of
Saab Service Bulletin 340–57–010, which is
specified in Saab Service Bulletin 340–57–
031, Revision 02, as the appropriate source
of service information for doing additional
corrective actions for certain airplanes to
completely address the unsafe condition.
This AD requires accomplishing the
additional corrective actions described in
Service Bulletin 340–57–010 for certain
airplanes.
Other FAA AD Provisions
(g) The following provisions also apply to
this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): The Manager, International
Branch, ANM–116, 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: Shahram
Daneshmandi, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind
Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–
3356; telephone (425) 227–1112; 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
E:\FR\FM\11FER1.SGM
11FER1
Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 28 / Monday, February 11, 2008 / Rules and Regulations
(or their delegated agent). You are required
to assure the product is airworthy before it
is returned to service.
(3) Reporting Requirements: For any
reporting requirement in this AD, under the
provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act,
the Office of Management and Budget (OMB)
has approved the information collection
requirements and has assigned OMB Control
Number 2120–0056.
Related Information
(h) Refer to MCAI EASA Airworthiness
Directive 2007–0168, dated June 15, 2007;
Saab Service Bulletin 340–57–031, Revision
02, dated September 28, 2005; and Saab
Service Bulletin 340–57–010, dated March
28, 1989; for related information.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(i) You must use Saab Service Bulletin
340–57–031, Revision 02, dated September
28, 2005; and Saab Service Bulletin 340–57–
010, dated March 28, 1989; as applicable; 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 Saab Aircraft AB, SAAB
Aircraft Product Support, S–581.88,
¨
Linkoping, Sweden.
(3) You may review copies at the FAA,
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind
Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call
(202) 741–6030, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on January
31, 2008.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E8–2344 Filed 2–8–08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
products listed above. This 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:
Bombardier Aerospace has completed a
system safety review of the CL–600–2B19
aircraft fuel system * * *.
The assessment showed that sealant has
not been applied to bolts on the collector fuel
tanks or the transfer ejector fuel pumps. Lack
of sealant on the above-noted locations, if not
corrected, could result in arcing and
potential ignition source inside the fuel tank
during lightning strikes and consequent fuel
tank explosion. * * *
We are issuing this AD to require
actions to correct the unsafe condition
on these products.
DATES: This AD becomes effective
March 17, 2008.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in this AD
as of March 17, 2008.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD
docket on the Internet at https://
www.regulations.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:
Rocco Viselli, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe and Propulsion Branch, ANE–
171, FAA, New York Aircraft
Certification Office, 1600 Stewart
Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, New York
11590; telephone (516) 228–7331; fax
(516) 794–5531.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2007–0262; Directorate
Identifier 2007–NM–247–AD; Amendment
39–15370; AD 2008–03–19]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier
Model CL–600–2B19 (Regional Jet
Series 100 & 440) Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
mstockstill on PROD1PC66 with RULES
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for the
VerDate Aug<31>2005
16:57 Feb 08, 2008
Jkt 214001
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 December 3, 2007 (72 FR
67870). That NPRM proposed to correct
an unsafe condition for the specified
products. The MCAI states:
Bombardier Aerospace has completed a
system safety review of the CL–600–2B19
aircraft fuel system against new fuel tank
safety standards, introduced in Chapter 525
of the Airworthiness Manual through Notice
of Proposed Amendment (NPA) 2002–043.
The identified non-compliances were
assessed using Transport Canada Policy
Letter No. 525–001 to determine if mandatory
corrective action is required.
The assessment showed that sealant has
not been applied to bolts on the collector fuel
tanks or the transfer ejector fuel pumps. Lack
PO 00000
Frm 00005
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
7661
of sealant on the above-noted locations, if not
corrected, could result in arcing and
potential ignition source inside the fuel tank
during lightning strikes and consequent fuel
tank explosion. To correct the unsafe
condition, this directive mandates the
application of sealant to the bolts that attach
various fittings on the collector fuel tanks,
[an inspection for a fillet seal and if
necessary application of fillet seal] to the
edges of the transfer ejector pumps and [an
inspection for sealant and if necessary
application of sealant] to the bolts that attach
the transfer ejector pump to the transfer
ejector pump casing.
You may obtain further information by
examining the MCAI in the AD docket.
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.
Conclusion
We reviewed the available data and
determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting the AD
as proposed.
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 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
highlighted in a Note within the AD.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD will affect
about 626 products of U.S. registry. We
also estimate that it will take about 31
work-hours per product to comply with
the basic requirements of this AD. The
average labor rate is $80 per work-hour.
Required parts will cost a negligible
amount per product. Where the service
information lists required parts costs
that are covered under warranty, we
have assumed that there will be no
charge for these parts. As we do not
control warranty coverage for affected
parties, some parties may incur costs
higher than estimated here. Based on
these figures, we estimate the cost of
this AD to the U.S. operators to be
$1,552,480, or $2,480 per product.
E:\FR\FM\11FER1.SGM
11FER1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 73, Number 28 (Monday, February 11, 2008)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 7659-7661]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E8-2344]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2007-0298; Directorate Identifier 2007-NM-238-AD;
Amendment 39-15369; AD 2008-03-18]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Saab Model SAAB SF340A and Model SAAB
340B 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) 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:
Subsequent to accidents involving Fuel Tank System explosions in
flight * * * and on ground, the FAA has published Special Federal
Aviation Regulation 88 (SFAR88) * * * [which] required * * *
[conducting] a design review against explosion risks.
The unsafe condition is the potential of ignition sources inside fuel
tanks, which, in combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result
in fuel tank explosions and consequent loss of the airplane. We are
issuing this AD to require actions to correct the unsafe condition on
these products.
DATES: This AD becomes effective March 17, 2008.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of March 17,
2008.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://
www.regulations.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: Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace
Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane
Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356;
telephone (425) 227-1112; fax (425) 227-1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
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 December 10, 2007
(72 FR 69635). That NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe condition for
the specified products. The MCAI states:
Subsequent to accidents involving Fuel Tank System explosions in
flight * * * and on ground, the FAA has published Special Federal
Aviation Regulation 88 (SFAR88) in June 2001.
In their Letters referenced 04/00/02/07/01-L296 dated March 4,
2002 and 04/00/02/07/03-L024, dated February 3, 2003, the JAA
recommended the application of a similar regulation to the National
Aviation Authorities (NAA).
Under this regulation, all holders of type certificates for
passenger transport aircraft with either a passenger capacity of 30
or more, or a payload capacity of 7,500 pounds (3402 kg) or more,
which have received their certification since January 1, 1958, are
required to conduct a design review against explosion risks.
This Airworthiness Directive (AD), which renders mandatory the
modification [2762] of improving the sealing of Fuel Access Doors,
is a consequence of the design review.
The unsafe condition is the potential of ignition sources inside fuel
tanks, which, in combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result
in fuel tank explosions and consequent loss of the airplane.
Modification 2762 includes removing the fuel tank access doors and the
old type of clamp rings and gaskets, installing new, improved clamp
rings and re-installing the fuel tank access doors, and doing related
investigative and applicable corrective actions. Related investigative
and applicable corrective actions include inspecting for corrosion of
the wing skin panel, access door areas, and access doors; removing any
corrosion found during the inspection; and replacing the access door
protection plate with a new protection plate. Corrosion removal also
includes inspecting the doubler flange and contacting Saab and doing
repairs if the doubler flange thickness does not meet minimum
specifications. Additional corrective actions include replacing
conductive foil on the access door with an aluminum panel. You may
obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket.
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.
Conclusion
We reviewed the available data and determined that air safety and
the public interest require adopting the AD as proposed.
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 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 highlighted in a Note within the AD.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD will affect about 168 products of U.S.
registry. We also estimate that it will take about 20 work-hours per
product to comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average
labor rate is $80 per work-hour. Required parts will cost about $417
per product. Where the service information lists required parts costs
that are covered under warranty, we have assumed that there will be no
charge for these parts. As we do not control warranty coverage for
affected parties, some parties may incur costs higher than estimated
here. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD to the
U.S. operators to be about $338,856, or about $2,017 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.
[[Page 7660]]
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 this AD:
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 AD and placed it in the AD docket.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://
www.regulations.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:
2008-03-18 SaaB Aircraft AB: Amendment 39-15369. Docket No. FAA-
2007-0298; Directorate Identifier 2007-NM-238-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective March
17, 2008.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Saab Model SAAB SF340A and Model SAAB
340B airplanes, certificated in any category, serial numbers 004
through 401.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 57: Wings.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI)
states:
Subsequent to accidents involving Fuel Tank System explosions in
flight * * * and on ground, the FAA has published Special Federal
Aviation Regulation 88 (SFAR88) in June 2001.
In their Letters referenced 04/00/02/07/01-L296 dated March 4,
2002 and 04/00/02/07/03-L024, dated February 3, 2003, the JAA
recommended the application of a similar regulation to the National
Aviation Authorities (NAA).
Under this regulation, all holders of type certificates for
passenger transport aircraft with either a passenger capacity of 30
or more, or a payload capacity of 7,500 pounds (3402 kg) or more,
which have received their certification since January 1, 1958, are
required to conduct a design review against explosion risks.
This Airworthiness Directive (AD), which renders mandatory the
modification [2762] of improving the sealing of Fuel Access Doors,
is a consequence of the design review.
The unsafe condition is the potential of ignition sources inside
fuel tanks, which, in combination with flammable fuel vapors, could
result in fuel tank explosions and consequent loss of the airplane.
Modification 2762 includes removing the fuel tank access doors and
the old type of clamp rings and gaskets, installing new, improved
clamp rings and re-installing the fuel tank access doors, and doing
related investigative and applicable corrective actions. Related
investigative and applicable corrective actions include inspecting
for corrosion of the wing skin panel, access door areas, and access
doors; removing any corrosion found during the inspection; and
replacing the access door protection plate with a new protection
plate. Corrosion removal also includes inspecting the doubler flange
and contacting Saab and doing repairs if the doubler flange
thickness does not meet minimum specifications. Additional
corrective actions include replacing conductive foil on the access
door with an aluminum panel.
Actions and Compliance
(f) Within 72 months after the effective date of this AD, unless
already done, do the actions described in paragraphs (f)(1) and
(f)(2) of this AD.
(1) Do Modification 2762 and all related investigative actions
and applicable corrective actions, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 340-57-031,
Revision 02, dated September 28, 2005. Do all applicable related
investigative and corrective actions before further flight. Actions
done before the effective date of this AD in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 340-57-031,
dated September 4, 1996; or Revision 01, dated June 28, 1999; are
considered acceptable for compliance with the requirements of this
paragraph.
(2) For airplanes identified in Saab Service Bulletin 340-57-
010, dated March 28, 1989, do the additional corrective actions
described in and in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions
of that service bulletin.
FAA AD Differences
Note 1: This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service information
as follows: The MCAI does not require doing the actions of Saab
Service Bulletin 340-57-010, which is specified in Saab Service
Bulletin 340-57-031, Revision 02, as the appropriate source of
service information for doing additional corrective actions for
certain airplanes to completely address the unsafe condition. This
AD requires accomplishing the additional corrective actions
described in Service Bulletin 340-57-010 for certain airplanes.
Other FAA AD Provisions
(g) The following provisions also apply to this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116, 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: Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace
Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane
Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-
3356; telephone (425) 227-1112; 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
[[Page 7661]]
(or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product
is airworthy before it is returned to service.
(3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in
this AD, under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act, the
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has approved the information
collection requirements and has assigned OMB Control Number 2120-
0056.
Related Information
(h) Refer to MCAI EASA Airworthiness Directive 2007-0168, dated
June 15, 2007; Saab Service Bulletin 340-57-031, Revision 02, dated
September 28, 2005; and Saab Service Bulletin 340-57-010, dated
March 28, 1989; for related information.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(i) You must use Saab Service Bulletin 340-57-031, Revision 02,
dated September 28, 2005; and Saab Service Bulletin 340-57-010,
dated March 28, 1989; as applicable; 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 Saab
Aircraft AB, SAAB Aircraft Product Support, S-581.88,
Link[ouml]ping, Sweden.
(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.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on January 31, 2008.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. E8-2344 Filed 2-8-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
