Airworthiness Directives; Saab Model SAAB-Fairchild SF340A (SAAB/SF340A) and SAAB 340B Airplanes, 15877-15879 [E8-6049]
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Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 59 / Wednesday, March 26, 2008 / Rules and Regulations
for practices, methods, and procedures
the Administrator finds necessary for
safety in air commerce. This regulation
is within the scope of that authority
because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on
products identified in this rulemaking
action.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this AD will not
have federalism implications under
Executive Order 13132. This AD will
not have a substantial direct effect on
the States, on the relationship between
the national government and the States,
or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
(2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
(3) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation
of the estimated costs to comply with
this AD and placed it in the AD docket.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
I
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
I
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new AD:
I
2008–07–02 MORAVAN a.s.: Amendment
39–15443; Docket No. FAA–2008–0345;
Directorate Identifier 2008–CE–017–AD.
sroberts on PROD1PC70 with RULES
Effective Date
(a) This airworthiness directive (AD)
becomes effective March 31, 2008.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Model Z–143L
airplanes, all serial numbers, certificated in
any category.
VerDate Aug<31>2005
16:40 Mar 25, 2008
Jkt 214001
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) states:
Installation of G-load monitoring units on
some Z 43 series aeroplanes has revealed that
certain aeroplanes, during aerobatic
manoeuvres, exceeded the limit loads
initially defined for the certification.
As a consequence, to restore the safety
margins on aeroplanes operated in Utility
(‘‘U’’) category, this AD mandates a
modification of the Airplane Flight Manual
(AFM) so as to change and limit the
permissible manoeuvres in ‘‘U’’ category
flights.
This AD requires you to modify the
Limitations section of the airplane flight
manual (AFM) by incorporating AFM,
revision 11, dated November 24, 2006.
Actions and Compliance
(f) Unless already done, within 10 days
after March 31, 2008 (the effective date of
this AD) modify the Limitations section of
the AFM following Moravan Aviation s.r.o.
Mandatory Service Bulletin Z143L/29a, dated
February 15, 2007, by incorporating AFM,
revision 11, dated November 24, 2006. The
owner/operator holding at least a private
pilot certificate as authorized by section 43.7
of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR
43.7) may do this action. Make an entry into
the aircraft logbook showing compliance
with this portion of the AD in accordance
with section 43.9 of the Federal Aviation
Regulations (14 CFR 43.9).
FAA AD Differences
Note: This AD differs from the MCAI and/
or service information as follows: No
differences.
Adoption of the Amendment
§ 39.13
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association of America
(ATA) Code 5: Time Limits.
Other FAA AD Provisions
(g) The following provisions also apply to
this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): The Manager, Standards Staff,
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: Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer,
FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust,
Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106;
telephone: (816) 329–4059; fax: (816) 329–
4090. Before using any approved AMOC on
any airplane to which the AMOC applies,
notify your appropriate principal inspector
(PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District
Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local
FSDO.
(2) Airworthy Product: For any
requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
actions from a manufacturer or other source,
use these actions if they are FAA-approved.
Corrective actions are considered FAAapproved if they are approved by the State
of Design Authority (or their delegated
agent). You are required to assure the product
is airworthy before it is returned to service.
(3) Reporting Requirements: For any
reporting requirement in this AD, under the
PO 00000
Frm 00017
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
15877
provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act
(44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), 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 European Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA) AD No.: 2008–0046, dated
February 28, 2008; and Moravan Aviation
s.r.o. Mandatory Service Bulletin Z143L/29a,
dated February 15, 2007, for related
information.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(i) You must use Moravan Aviation s.r.o.
Mandatory Service Bulletin Z143L/29a, dated
February 15, 2007, 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 Moravan Aviation s.r.o.,
ZLIN Service, 765 81 Otrokovice, Czech
Republic.
(3) You may review copies at the FAA,
Central Region, Office of the Regional
Counsel, 901 Locust, Room 506, Kansas City,
Missouri 64106; 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 Kansas City, Missouri, on March
17, 2008.
David R. Showers,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E8–6037 Filed 3–25–08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2008–0017; Directorate
Identifier 2007–NM–268–AD; Amendment
39–15444; AD 2008–07–03]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Saab Model
SAAB-Fairchild SF340A (SAAB/
SF340A) and 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
E:\FR\FM\26MRR1.SGM
26MRR1
15878
Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 59 / Wednesday, March 26, 2008 / Rules and Regulations
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 [the] ground, the FAA has published
Special Federal Aviation Regulation No. 88
(SFAR–88) in June 2001 [which] required
[conducting] a design review against
explosion risks.
*
*
*
*
*
The potential of ignition sources (in
certain fuel pumps, fuel switches, refuel
shutoff valves, and optical sensors/
mechanical switches), 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 April
30, 2008.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of April 30, 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, FAA, Transport Airplane
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW.,
Renton, Washington 98057–3356;
telephone (425) 227–1112; fax (425)
227–1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
sroberts on PROD1PC70 with RULES
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 January 14, 2008 (73 FR
2192). 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 [the] ground, the FAA has published
Special Federal Aviation Regulation No. 88
(SFAR–88) in June 2001 [which] required
[conducting] a design review against
explosion risks.
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
(Joint Aviation Authorities) recommended
the application of a similar regulation to the
National Aviation Authorities (NAA).
VerDate Aug<31>2005
16:40 Mar 25, 2008
Jkt 214001
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.
As a consequence of the design review
mentioned above, this Airworthiness
Directive (AD) requires a modification to
install extra protection of wiring installed in
fuel tank conduits.
The modification includes an inspection
for any damage of the wiring to the fuel
pumps, fuel level switches, the refuel
shutoff valves, and optical sensors/
mechanical switches, and if any damage
is found, contacting Saab for repair
instructions and repair. These fuel
pumps, fuel switches, refuel shutoff
valves, and optical sensors/mechanical
switches are potential ignition sources.
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 218 products of U.S. registry. We
also estimate that it will take about 80
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 $0 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
PO 00000
Frm 00018
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
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 $1,395,200,
or $6,400 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.
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
E:\FR\FM\26MRR1.SGM
26MRR1
Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 59 / Wednesday, March 26, 2008 / Rules and Regulations
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
2008–07–03 Saab Aircraft AB: Amendment
39–15444; Docket No. FAA–2008–0017;
Directorate Identifier 2007–NM–268–AD.
Effective Date
(a) This airworthiness directive (AD)
becomes effective April 30, 2008.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Saab Model SAAB–
Fairchild SF340A (SAAB/SF340A) and
SAAB 340B airplanes, all serial numbers,
certificated in any category.
sroberts on PROD1PC70 with RULES
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 28: Fuel.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) states:
Subsequent to accidents involving Fuel
Tank System explosions in flight * * * and
on [the] ground, the FAA has published
Special Federal Aviation Regulation No. 88
(SFAR–88) in June 2001 [which] required
[conducting] a design review against
explosion risks.
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
(Joint Aviation Authorities) 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.
As a consequence of the design review
mentioned above, this Airworthiness
Directive (AD) requires a modification to
VerDate Aug<31>2005
16:40 Mar 25, 2008
Jkt 214001
install extra protection of wiring installed in
fuel tank conduits.
The potential of ignition sources (in certain
fuel pumps, fuel switches, refuel shutoff
valves, and optical sensors/mechanical
switches), in combination with flammable
fuel vapors, could result in fuel tank
explosions and consequent loss of the
airplane. The modification includes an
inspection for any damage of the wiring to
the fuel pumps, fuel level switches, the refuel
shutoff valves, and optical sensors/
mechanical switches, and if any damage is
found, contacting Saab for repair instructions
and repair.
Actions and Compliance
(f) Within 72 months after the effective
date of this AD, unless already done, perform
Modification No. 3164 (right-hand wing) and
Modification No. 3165 (left-hand wing) in
accordance with Saab Service Bulletin 340–
28–026, dated July 5, 2007. The
modifications include the following actions.
(1) Removal of the fuel pumps 5QM and
6QM, the fuel switches 31EB, 32EB, 9QA,
10QA, 11QA, and 12QA, the refuel shutoff
valves 15QA and 16QA, and the optical
sensors/mechanical switches 13QA and
14QA.
(2) Inspection of the wiring to the fuel
pumps, fuel level switches, the refuel shutoff
valves, and optical sensors/mechanical
switches, and if any damage is found, contact
Saab for repair instructions and repair before
further flight.
(3) Twisting of the fuel pump wiring, fuel
level switches wiring, refuel shutoff valves
wiring, and optical sensors/mechanical
switches wiring.
(4) Installation of a shrinkable tube to the
fuel pumps wiring, fuel level switches
wiring, refuel shutoff valves wiring and
optical sensors/mechanical switches wiring.
(5) Installation of fuel pumps, the fuel level
switches, the refuel shutoff valves, and the
optical sensors/mechanical switches.
(6) Operational and functional test of the
fuel measuring/indicating system.
FAA AD Differences
Note: This AD differs from the MCAI and/
or service information as follows:
(1) The MCAI does not specify corrective
action for the inspection specified in
paragraph (f)(2) of this AD. This AD requires
contacting Saab for repair instructions and
repairing before further flight.
(2) The MCAI does not include actions for
optical sensors/mechanical switches 13QA
and 14QA; however, paragraph (f) of this AD
includes modification of those optical
sensors/mechanical switches.
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: Shahram
Daneshmandi, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116, FAA,
PO 00000
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Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
15879
Transport Airplane Directorate, 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 FAAapproved if they are approved by the State
of Design Authority (or their delegated
agent). You are required to assure the product
is airworthy before it is returned to service.
(3) Reporting Requirements: For any
reporting requirement in this AD, under the
provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act,
the Office of Management and Budget (OMB)
has approved the information collection
requirements and has assigned OMB Control
Number 2120–0056.
Related Information
(h) Refer to MCAI European Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) Airworthiness
Directive 2007–0248, dated September 7,
2007, and Saab Service Bulletin 340–28–026,
dated July 5, 2007, for related information.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(i) You must use Saab Service Bulletin
340–28–026, dated July 5, 2007, 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 March
17, 2008.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E8–6049 Filed 3–25–08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
E:\FR\FM\26MRR1.SGM
26MRR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 73, Number 59 (Wednesday, March 26, 2008)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 15877-15879]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E8-6049]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2008-0017; Directorate Identifier 2007-NM-268-AD;
Amendment 39-15444; AD 2008-07-03]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Saab Model SAAB-Fairchild SF340A (SAAB/
SF340A) and 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
[[Page 15878]]
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 [the] ground, the FAA has published Special
Federal Aviation Regulation No. 88 (SFAR-88) in June 2001 [which]
required [conducting] a design review against explosion risks.
* * * * *
The potential of ignition sources (in certain fuel pumps, fuel
switches, refuel shutoff valves, and optical sensors/mechanical
switches), 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 April 30, 2008.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of April 30,
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, FAA, Transport Airplane
Directorate, 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 January 14, 2008 (73
FR 2192). 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 [the] ground, the FAA has published Special
Federal Aviation Regulation No. 88 (SFAR-88) in June 2001 [which]
required [conducting] a design review against explosion risks.
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 (Joint
Aviation Authorities) 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.
As a consequence of the design review mentioned above, this
Airworthiness Directive (AD) requires a modification to install
extra protection of wiring installed in fuel tank conduits.
The modification includes an inspection for any damage of the wiring to
the fuel pumps, fuel level switches, the refuel shutoff valves, and
optical sensors/mechanical switches, and if any damage is found,
contacting Saab for repair instructions and repair. These fuel pumps,
fuel switches, refuel shutoff valves, and optical sensors/mechanical
switches are potential ignition sources. 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 218 products of U.S.
registry. We also estimate that it will take about 80 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 $0 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 $1,395,200, or $6,400 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.
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
[[Page 15879]]
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:
2008-07-03 Saab Aircraft AB: Amendment 39-15444; Docket No. FAA-
2008-0017; Directorate Identifier 2007-NM-268-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective April
30, 2008.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Saab Model SAAB-Fairchild SF340A (SAAB/
SF340A) and SAAB 340B airplanes, all serial numbers, certificated in
any category.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 28: Fuel.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI)
states:
Subsequent to accidents involving Fuel Tank System explosions in
flight * * * and on [the] ground, the FAA has published Special
Federal Aviation Regulation No. 88 (SFAR-88) in June 2001 [which]
required [conducting] a design review against explosion risks.
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 (Joint
Aviation Authorities) 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.
As a consequence of the design review mentioned above, this
Airworthiness Directive (AD) requires a modification to install
extra protection of wiring installed in fuel tank conduits.
The potential of ignition sources (in certain fuel pumps, fuel
switches, refuel shutoff valves, and optical sensors/mechanical
switches), in combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result
in fuel tank explosions and consequent loss of the airplane. The
modification includes an inspection for any damage of the wiring to
the fuel pumps, fuel level switches, the refuel shutoff valves, and
optical sensors/mechanical switches, and if any damage is found,
contacting Saab for repair instructions and repair.
Actions and Compliance
(f) Within 72 months after the effective date of this AD, unless
already done, perform Modification No. 3164 (right-hand wing) and
Modification No. 3165 (left-hand wing) in accordance with Saab
Service Bulletin 340-28-026, dated July 5, 2007. The modifications
include the following actions.
(1) Removal of the fuel pumps 5QM and 6QM, the fuel switches
31EB, 32EB, 9QA, 10QA, 11QA, and 12QA, the refuel shutoff valves
15QA and 16QA, and the optical sensors/mechanical switches 13QA and
14QA.
(2) Inspection of the wiring to the fuel pumps, fuel level
switches, the refuel shutoff valves, and optical sensors/mechanical
switches, and if any damage is found, contact Saab for repair
instructions and repair before further flight.
(3) Twisting of the fuel pump wiring, fuel level switches
wiring, refuel shutoff valves wiring, and optical sensors/mechanical
switches wiring.
(4) Installation of a shrinkable tube to the fuel pumps wiring,
fuel level switches wiring, refuel shutoff valves wiring and optical
sensors/mechanical switches wiring.
(5) Installation of fuel pumps, the fuel level switches, the
refuel shutoff valves, and the optical sensors/mechanical switches.
(6) Operational and functional test of the fuel measuring/
indicating system.
FAA AD Differences
Note: This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service information
as follows:
(1) The MCAI does not specify corrective action for the
inspection specified in paragraph (f)(2) of this AD. This AD
requires contacting Saab for repair instructions and repairing
before further flight.
(2) The MCAI does not include actions for optical sensors/
mechanical switches 13QA and 14QA; however, paragraph (f) of this AD
includes modification of those optical sensors/mechanical switches.
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:
Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-
116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 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
(or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product
is airworthy before it is returned to service.
(3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in
this AD, under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act, the
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has approved the information
collection requirements and has assigned OMB Control Number 2120-
0056.
Related Information
(h) Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)
Airworthiness Directive 2007-0248, dated September 7, 2007, and Saab
Service Bulletin 340-28-026, dated July 5, 2007, for related
information.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(i) You must use Saab Service Bulletin 340-28-026, dated July 5,
2007, 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 March 17, 2008.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. E8-6049 Filed 3-25-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
