Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330 Airplanes and A340-200 and -300 Series Airplanes, 11540-11542 [E8-3813]
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11540
Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 43 / Tuesday, March 4, 2008 / Rules and Regulations
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2007–29334; Directorate
Identifier 2006–NM–268–AD; Amendment
39–15398; AD 2008–05–04]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model
A330 Airplanes and A340–200 and
–300 Series 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:
rwilkins on PROD1PC63 with RULES
[A]ll permanent fuselage skin * * * and
lap joint doubler * * * repair principles
published in the SRM (Structural Repair
Manual) * * * have been replaced with
Oct/05 Revision by updated, simplified and
harmonized repair principles.
These updates led to the de-validation of
some repairs and to reassess the repair
inspection requirements. This situation if not
corrected, can affect the aircraft structural
integrity with a possible risk of
decompression.
We are issuing this AD to require
actions to correct the unsafe condition
on these products.
DATES: This AD becomes effective April
8, 2008.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in this AD
as of April 8, 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: Tim
Backman, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116, FAA,
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601
Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington
98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–2797;
fax (425) 227–1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
VerDate Aug<31>2005
16:18 Mar 03, 2008
Jkt 214001
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 September 28, 2007 (72 FR
55108). That NPRM proposed to correct
an unsafe condition for the specified
products. The MCAI states:
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.
A review of the repair substantiations of
the SRM (Structural Repair Manual) has been
done to take into account the latest aircraft
operational data (Aircraft Weight Variant and
Fatigue Flight Mission Profiles). As a result,
all permanent fuselage skin (Figure 202–210/
213–214) and lap joint doubler (Figure 215–
216) repair principles published in the SRM
chapter 53–00–11, Page Block 201 have been
replaced with Oct/05 Revision by updated,
simplified and harmonized repair principles.
These updates led to the de-validation of
some repairs and to reassess the repair
inspection requirements. This situation if not
corrected, can affect the aircraft structural
integrity with a possible risk of
decompression.
In order to maintain the structural
integrity, this Airworthiness Directive (AD)
renders mandatory the inspection of the
fuselage to identify possible permanent skin
repairs and permanent longitudinal lap joint
repairs and to apply the associated corrective
actions.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD will affect
about 9 products of U.S. registry. We
also estimate that it will take about 9
work-hours per product to comply with
the basic requirements of this AD. The
average labor rate is $80 per work-hour.
Based on these figures, we estimate the
cost of this AD to the U.S. operators to
be $6,480, or $720 per product.
The corrective actions include
contacting Airbus for repair/inspection
instructions, and repair, as applicable,
for skin repairs or longitudinal lap joint
repairs that were done in accordance
with the repair principles in Airbus
A330 or A340–200/300 SRM chapter
53–00–11, Page Block 201, before
October 2005, or repairs that were done
without using an individual repair
design approval sheet provided by
Airbus. 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.
PO 00000
Frm 00024
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under
the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
General requirements.’’ Under that
section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
air commerce by prescribing regulations
for practices, methods, and procedures
the Administrator finds necessary for
safety in air commerce. This regulation
is within the scope of that authority
because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on
products identified in this rulemaking
action.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this AD will not
have federalism implications under
Executive Order 13132. This AD will
not have a substantial direct effect on
the States, on the relationship between
the national government and the States,
or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify 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.
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Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 43 / Tuesday, March 4, 2008 / Rules and Regulations
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
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
I
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
I
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new AD:
I
2008–05–04 Airbus: Amendment 39–15398.
Docket No. FAA–2007–29334;
Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–268–AD.
Effective Date
(a) This airworthiness directive (AD)
becomes effective April 8, 2008.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A330–
201, –202, –203, –223, –243, –301, –321,
–322, –323, –341, –342, and –343 airplanes;
and Model A340–200 and –300 series
airplanes; all certified models, all serial
numbers; certificated in any category; except
those on which Airbus Modification 49144
(install rudder fly by wire) has been
embodied in production.
rwilkins on PROD1PC63 with RULES
Subject
(d) Fuselage.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) states:
A review of the repair substantiations of
the SRM (Structural Repair Manual) has been
done to take into account the latest aircraft
operational data (Aircraft Weight Variant and
VerDate Aug<31>2005
16:18 Mar 03, 2008
Jkt 214001
Fatigue Flight Mission Profiles). As a result,
all permanent fuselage skin (Figure 202–210/
213–214) and lap joint doubler (Figure 215–
216) repair principles published in the SRM
chapter 53–00–11, Page Block 201 have been
replaced with Oct/05 Revision by updated,
simplified and harmonized repair principles.
These updates led to the de-validation of
some repairs and to reassess the repair
inspection requirements. This situation if not
corrected, can affect the aircraft structural
integrity with a possible risk of
decompression.
In order to maintain the structural
integrity, this Airworthiness Directive (AD)
renders mandatory the inspection of the
fuselage to identify possible permanent skin
repairs and permanent longitudinal lap joint
repairs and to apply the associated corrective
actions.
The corrective actions include contacting
Airbus for repair/inspection instructions, and
repair, as applicable, for skin repairs or
longitudinal lap joint repairs that were done
in accordance with the repair principles in
Airbus A330 or A340–200/300 SRM chapter
53–00–11, Page Block 201, before October
2005, or repairs that were done without using
an individual repair design approval sheet
provided by Airbus.
Actions and Compliance
(f) Within 18 months after the effective
date of this AD, unless already done, do the
following actions.
(1) For airplanes with Weight Variant (WV)
greater than WV 004 and lower than or equal
to WV 027 (for Model A330 airplanes) or WV
029 (for Model A340–200 and –300 series
airplanes): Do the actions specified in
paragraphs (f)(1)(i) and (f)(1)(ii) of this AD.
(i) Perform a detailed visual inspection of
the fuselage outer skin for permanent skin
repairs in the area between frame (FR) 54 and
FR 58; and for permanent longitudinal lap
joint repairs in the area between FR 53.3 and
FR 58 (for Section 15, between FR 53.3 and
FR 54, only in the area between stringer
(STGR) 22LH (left-hand) and STGR 22RH
(right-hand) upper shell); and as applicable,
apply the corrective actions before further
flight. Perform the actions in accordance with
the instructions given in Airbus Service
Bulletin A330–53–3161, dated April 14,
2006; or A340–53–4166, dated April 6, 2006;
as applicable.
(ii) Perform a detailed visual inspection of
the fuselage outer skin for permanent skin
repairs in the area between FR 18 and FR 38,
and between FR 58 and FR 91; and for
permanent longitudinal lap joint repairs in
the area between FR 18 and FR 53.3, and
between FR 58 and FR 91 (for Section 15,
between FR 39 and FR 53.3, only in the area
between STGR 22LH and STGR 22RH upper
shell); and as applicable, apply the corrective
actions before further flight. Perform the
actions in accordance with the instructions
given in Airbus Service Bulletin A330–53–
3162 or A340–53–4167, both dated April 6,
2006, as applicable.
(2) For airplanes with WV lower than or
equal to WV 004: Perform a detailed visual
inspection of the fuselage outer skin for
permanent skin repairs in the area between
FR 18 and FR 38, and between FR 54 and FR
PO 00000
Frm 00025
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
91; and for permanent longitudinal lap joint
repairs in the area between FR 18 and FR 91
(for Section 15, between FR 39 and FR 54,
only in the area between STGR 22LH and
STGR 22RH upper shell); and as applicable,
apply the corrective actions before further
flight. Perform the actions in accordance with
the instructions given in Airbus Service
Bulletin A330–53–3162 or A340–53–4167,
both dated April 6, 2006, as applicable.
FAA AD Differences
Note: This AD differs from the MCAI and/
or service information as follows: No
differences.
Other FAA AD Provisions
(g) The following provisions also apply to
this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): The Manager, International
Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane
Directorate, FAA, has the authority to
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
Send information to ATTN: Tim Backman,
Aerospace Engineer, International Branch,
ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate,
FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425)
227–2797; fax (425) 227–1149. Before using
any approved AMOC on any airplane to
which the AMOC applies, notify your
appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the
FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO),
or lacking a PI, your local FSDO.
(2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement
in this AD to obtain corrective actions from
a manufacturer or other source, use these
actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective
actions are considered FAA-approved if they
are approved by the State of Design Authority
(or their delegated agent). You are required
to assure the product is airworthy before it
is returned to service.
(3) Reporting Requirements: For any
reporting requirement in this AD, under the
provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act,
the Office of Management and Budget (OMB)
has approved the information collection
requirements and has assigned OMB Control
Number 2120–0056.
Related Information
(h) Refer to MCAI EASA Airworthiness
Directives 2006–0332 and 2006–0333, both
dated October 27, 2006; and the Airbus
service bulletins identified in Table 1 of this
AD, for related information.
TABLE 1.—SERVICE INFORMATION
Airbus Service Bulletin
A330–53–3161
A330–53–3162
A340–53–4166
A340–53–4167
.................
.................
.................
.................
Date
April
April
April
April
14, 2006.
6, 2006.
6, 2006.
6, 2006.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(i) You must use the service information
specified in Table 2 of this AD to do the
actions required by this AD, unless the AD
specifies otherwise.
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
E:\FR\FM\04MRR1.SGM
04MRR1
11542
Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 43 / Tuesday, March 4, 2008 / Rules and Regulations
this service information under 5 U.S.C.
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Airbus, 1 Rond Point
Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex,
France.
(3) You may review copies at the FAA,
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind
Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call
(202) 741–6030, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
located in the Right Hand MLG (main
landing gear) wheel well was mistakenly
installed upside down. This discrepancy and
improper installation caused an unexpected
5° positioning offset of the elevator control
surfaces leading to a hazardous condition on
landing, [involving] the pilot being unable to
flare the aircraft as needed * * * [which
resulted in a hard landing].
The unsafe condition is reduced
controllability of the airplane. We are
issuing this AD to require actions to
correct the unsafe condition on these
products.
Corrective actions include verifying the
correct assembly of the elevator
bellcrank and re-installing if necessary.
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.
Federal Aviation Administration
This AD becomes effective April
8, 2008.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in this AD
as of April 8, 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: Tom
Rodriguez, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116, FAA,
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601
Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington
98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–1137;
fax (425) 227–1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
14 CFR Part 39
Discussion
Costs of Compliance
[Docket No. FAA–2007–0182; Directorate
Identifier 2007–NM–138–AD; Amendment
39–15401; AD 2008–05–07]
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 November 13, 2007 (72 FR
63829). That NPRM proposed to correct
an unsafe condition for the specified
products. The MCAI states:
We estimate that this AD will affect
about 255 products of U.S. registry. We
also estimate that it will take about 3
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 $9 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 $63,495, or
$249 per product.
TABLE 2.—MATERIAL INCORPORATED
BY REFERENCE
Airbus Service Bulletin
A330–53–3161
A330–53–3162
A340–53–4166
A340–53–4167
.................
.................
.................
.................
Date
April
April
April
April
14, 2006.
6, 2006.
6, 2006.
6, 2006.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on February
20, 2008.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E8–3813 Filed 3–3–08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Dassault
Model Fan Jet Falcon, Fan Jet Falcon
Series C, D, E, F, and G Airplanes;
Model Mystere-Falcon 200 Airplanes;
and Model Mystere-Falcon 20–C5, 20–
D5, 20–E5, and 20–F5 Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
rwilkins on PROD1PC63 with RULES
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for the
products listed above. This AD results
from mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI)
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:
One occurrence has been reported where a
maintenance operation had been performed
on the elevator controls, and bellcrank * * *
VerDate Aug<31>2005
16:18 Mar 03, 2008
Jkt 214001
DATES:
One occurrence has been reported where a
maintenance operation had been performed
on the elevator controls, and bellcrank P/N
(part number) MY20273017 or P/N
MY20273017015 located in the Right Hand
MLG (main landing gear) wheel well was
mistakenly installed upside down. This
discrepancy and improper installation
caused an unexpected 5° positioning offset of
the elevator control surfaces leading to a
hazardous condition on landing, [involving]
the pilot being unable to flare the aircraft as
needed * * * [which resulted in a hard
landing].
The purpose of this AD is to prevent
reoccurrence of this kind of incident
introducing disabusing markings on the
incriminated parts by applying SB (Service
Bulletin) F20–768 or SB F200–122 as
appropriate.
The unsafe condition is reduced
controllability of the airplane.
PO 00000
Frm 00026
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
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.
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,
E:\FR\FM\04MRR1.SGM
04MRR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 73, Number 43 (Tuesday, March 4, 2008)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 11540-11542]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E8-3813]
[[Page 11540]]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2007-29334; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-268-AD;
Amendment 39-15398; AD 2008-05-04]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330 Airplanes and A340-
200 and -300 Series Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the
products listed above. This AD results from mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) 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:
[A]ll permanent fuselage skin * * * and lap joint doubler * * *
repair principles published in the SRM (Structural Repair Manual) *
* * have been replaced with Oct/05 Revision by updated, simplified
and harmonized repair principles.
These updates led to the de-validation of some repairs and to
reassess the repair inspection requirements. This situation if not
corrected, can affect the aircraft structural integrity with a
possible risk of decompression.
We are issuing this AD to require actions to correct the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD becomes effective April 8, 2008.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of April 8,
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: Tim Backman, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425)
227-2797; 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 September 28, 2007
(72 FR 55108). That NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe condition for
the specified products. The MCAI states:
A review of the repair substantiations of the SRM (Structural
Repair Manual) has been done to take into account the latest
aircraft operational data (Aircraft Weight Variant and Fatigue
Flight Mission Profiles). As a result, all permanent fuselage skin
(Figure 202-210/213-214) and lap joint doubler (Figure 215-216)
repair principles published in the SRM chapter 53-00-11, Page Block
201 have been replaced with Oct/05 Revision by updated, simplified
and harmonized repair principles.
These updates led to the de-validation of some repairs and to
reassess the repair inspection requirements. This situation if not
corrected, can affect the aircraft structural integrity with a
possible risk of decompression.
In order to maintain the structural integrity, this
Airworthiness Directive (AD) renders mandatory the inspection of the
fuselage to identify possible permanent skin repairs and permanent
longitudinal lap joint repairs and to apply the associated
corrective actions.
The corrective actions include contacting Airbus for repair/
inspection instructions, and repair, as applicable, for skin repairs or
longitudinal lap joint repairs that were done in accordance with the
repair principles in Airbus A330 or A340-200/300 SRM chapter 53-00-11,
Page Block 201, before October 2005, or repairs that were done without
using an individual repair design approval sheet provided by Airbus.
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 9 products of U.S.
registry. We also estimate that it will take about 9 work-hours per
product to comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average
labor rate is $80 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate
the cost of this AD to the U.S. operators to be $6,480, or $720 per
product.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications
under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct
effect on the States, on the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify 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.
[[Page 11541]]
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:
2008-05-04 Airbus: Amendment 39-15398. Docket No. FAA-2007-29334;
Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-268-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective April 8,
2008.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223,
-243, -301, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes; and
Model A340-200 and -300 series airplanes; all certified models, all
serial numbers; certificated in any category; except those on which
Airbus Modification 49144 (install rudder fly by wire) has been
embodied in production.
Subject
(d) Fuselage.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI)
states:
A review of the repair substantiations of the SRM (Structural
Repair Manual) has been done to take into account the latest
aircraft operational data (Aircraft Weight Variant and Fatigue
Flight Mission Profiles). As a result, all permanent fuselage skin
(Figure 202-210/213-214) and lap joint doubler (Figure 215-216)
repair principles published in the SRM chapter 53-00-11, Page Block
201 have been replaced with Oct/05 Revision by updated, simplified
and harmonized repair principles.
These updates led to the de-validation of some repairs and to
reassess the repair inspection requirements. This situation if not
corrected, can affect the aircraft structural integrity with a
possible risk of decompression.
In order to maintain the structural integrity, this
Airworthiness Directive (AD) renders mandatory the inspection of the
fuselage to identify possible permanent skin repairs and permanent
longitudinal lap joint repairs and to apply the associated
corrective actions.
The corrective actions include contacting Airbus for repair/
inspection instructions, and repair, as applicable, for skin repairs
or longitudinal lap joint repairs that were done in accordance with
the repair principles in Airbus A330 or A340-200/300 SRM chapter 53-
00-11, Page Block 201, before October 2005, or repairs that were
done without using an individual repair design approval sheet
provided by Airbus.
Actions and Compliance
(f) Within 18 months after the effective date of this AD, unless
already done, do the following actions.
(1) For airplanes with Weight Variant (WV) greater than WV 004
and lower than or equal to WV 027 (for Model A330 airplanes) or WV
029 (for Model A340-200 and -300 series airplanes): Do the actions
specified in paragraphs (f)(1)(i) and (f)(1)(ii) of this AD.
(i) Perform a detailed visual inspection of the fuselage outer
skin for permanent skin repairs in the area between frame (FR) 54
and FR 58; and for permanent longitudinal lap joint repairs in the
area between FR 53.3 and FR 58 (for Section 15, between FR 53.3 and
FR 54, only in the area between stringer (STGR) 22LH (left-hand) and
STGR 22RH (right-hand) upper shell); and as applicable, apply the
corrective actions before further flight. Perform the actions in
accordance with the instructions given in Airbus Service Bulletin
A330-53-3161, dated April 14, 2006; or A340-53-4166, dated April 6,
2006; as applicable.
(ii) Perform a detailed visual inspection of the fuselage outer
skin for permanent skin repairs in the area between FR 18 and FR 38,
and between FR 58 and FR 91; and for permanent longitudinal lap
joint repairs in the area between FR 18 and FR 53.3, and between FR
58 and FR 91 (for Section 15, between FR 39 and FR 53.3, only in the
area between STGR 22LH and STGR 22RH upper shell); and as
applicable, apply the corrective actions before further flight.
Perform the actions in accordance with the instructions given in
Airbus Service Bulletin A330-53-3162 or A340-53-4167, both dated
April 6, 2006, as applicable.
(2) For airplanes with WV lower than or equal to WV 004: Perform
a detailed visual inspection of the fuselage outer skin for
permanent skin repairs in the area between FR 18 and FR 38, and
between FR 54 and FR 91; and for permanent longitudinal lap joint
repairs in the area between FR 18 and FR 91 (for Section 15, between
FR 39 and FR 54, only in the area between STGR 22LH and STGR 22RH
upper shell); and as applicable, apply the corrective actions before
further flight. Perform the actions in accordance with the
instructions given in Airbus Service Bulletin A330-53-3162 or A340-
53-4167, both dated April 6, 2006, as applicable.
FAA AD Differences
Note: This AD differs from the MCAI and/ or service information
as follows: No differences.
Other FAA AD Provisions
(g) The following provisions also apply to this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to ATTN: Tim
Backman, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 227-2797; fax (425) 227-1149.
Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC
applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA
Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local
FSDO.
(2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain
corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these
actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered
FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority
(or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product
is airworthy before it is returned to service.
(3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in
this AD, under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act, the
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has approved the information
collection requirements and has assigned OMB Control Number 2120-
0056.
Related Information
(h) Refer to MCAI EASA Airworthiness Directives 2006-0332 and
2006-0333, both dated October 27, 2006; and the Airbus service
bulletins identified in Table 1 of this AD, for related information.
Table 1.--Service Information
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus Service Bulletin Date
------------------------------------------------------------------------
A330-53-3161........................... April 14, 2006.
A330-53-3162........................... April 6, 2006.
A340-53-4166........................... April 6, 2006.
A340-53-4167........................... April 6, 2006.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Material Incorporated by Reference
(i) You must use the service information specified in Table 2 of
this AD to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD
specifies otherwise.
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of
[[Page 11542]]
this service information under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France.
(3) You may review copies at the FAA, Transport Airplane
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information
on the availability of this material at NARA, call (202) 741-6030,
or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-
locations.html.
Table 2.--Material Incorporated by Reference
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus Service Bulletin Date
------------------------------------------------------------------------
A330-53-3161........................... April 14, 2006.
A330-53-3162........................... April 6, 2006.
A340-53-4166........................... April 6, 2006.
A340-53-4167........................... April 6, 2006.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Issued in Renton, Washington, on February 20, 2008.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. E8-3813 Filed 3-3-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
