Airworthiness Directives; Dornier Model 328-100 and -300 Airplanes, 16219-16221 [E8-6296]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 60 / Thursday, March 27, 2008 / Proposed Rules effective on September 5, 1986, when the Order was issued. Assessments began on November 1, 1986. On February 18, 1999, AMS published in the Federal Register (64 FR 8014) its plan to review certain regulations. On January 4, 2002, AMS published in the Federal Register (67 FR 525) an update to its plan to review regulations, including the Pork Promotion and Research Program, which is conducted under the Order, under criteria contained in section 610 of the RFA (5 U.S.C. 601–612). Because many AMS regulations impact small entities, AMS decided, as a matter of policy, to review certain regulations that, although may not meet the threshold requirement under section 610 of the RFA, warrant review. Accordingly, this notice and request for comments concerns the Order. The purpose of the review is to determine whether the Order should continue without change or whether it should be amended or rescinded (consistent with the objectives of the Act) to minimize the impact on small entities. AMS will consider the following factors: (1) The continued need for the Order; (2) The nature of complaints or comments received from the public concerning the Order; (3) the complexity of the Order; (4) the extent to which the Order overlaps, duplicates, or conflicts with other Federal rules, and, to the extent feasible, with State and local governmental rules; and (5) the length of time since the Order has been evaluated or the degree to which technology, economic conditions, or other factors have changed in the area affected by the Order. Written comments, views, opinions, and other information regarding the Order’s impact on small businesses are invited. Dated: March 21, 2008. Lloyd C. Day, Administrator, Agricultural Marketing Service. [FR Doc. E8–6246 Filed 3–26–08; 8:45 am] pwalker on PROD1PC71 with RULES BILLING CODE 3410–02–P VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:51 Mar 26, 2008 Jkt 214001 16219 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Examining the AD Docket Federal Aviation Administration 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 this proposed AD, 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. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–2125; fax (425) 227–1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2008–0362; Directorate Identifier 2007–NM–308–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Dornier Model 328–100 and –300 Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This proposed AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as: At least one incident has occurred where, immediately after take-off, the passenger door of a Dornier 328 completely opened. * * * Substantial damage to the door, handrails, door hinge arms and fuselage skin were found. * * * Although final proof could not be obtained, the most likely way in which the door opened was that the door handle was inadvertently operated during the take-off run. * * * * * [T]his Airworthiness Directive (AD) aims to prevent further incidents of inadvertent opening and possible detachment of a passenger door in-flight, likely resulting in damage to airframe and systems and, under less favorable circumstances, loss of control of the aircraft. * * * * * The proposed AD would require actions that are intended to address the unsafe condition described in the MCAI. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by April 28, 2008. ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–40, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2008–0362; Directorate Identifier 2007–NM–308–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed AD based on those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. Discussion The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2007–0199, dated July 25, 2007 (corrected July 26, 2007; referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: At least one incident has occurred where, immediately after take-off, the passenger door of a Dornier 328 completely opened. The flight crew reportedly had no cockpit indication or audible chime prior to this event. The aircraft returned to the departure airfield and made an uneventful emergency landing. Substantial damage to the door, handrails, door hinge arms and fuselage skin were found. E:\FR\FM\27MRP1.SGM 27MRP1 16220 Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 60 / Thursday, March 27, 2008 / Proposed Rules The subsequent investigation could not find any deficiency in the design of the main cabin door locking mechanism. In addition, no technical failure could be determined that precipitated the event. The flight data recorder showed that the door was closed and locked before take-off and opened shortly afterward. Although final proof could not be obtained, the most likely way in which the door opened was that the door handle was inadvertently operated during the take-off run. In response to the incident, AvCraft (the TC (type certificate) holder at the time) developed a placard set to warn the occupants against touching the door handle, as well as a structural modification of the passenger door hinge supports to make certain that the door does not separate from the aircraft when inadvertently opened during flight, allowing a safe descent and landing. Although the event described above did not prevent the flight crew from landing the aircraft safely, the condition of the aircraft immediately after the opening of the door has been determined to have been unsafe. [T]his Airworthiness Directive (AD) aims to prevent further incidents of inadvertent opening and possible detachment of a passenger door inflight, likely resulting in damage to airframe and systems and, under less favorable circumstances, loss of control of the aircraft. * * * * * Corrective actions include installing warning placards on the doors, and doing a modification that includes replacing the hinge supports and support struts of the passenger doors with new, improved hinge supports and support struts. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket. Relevant Service Information AvCraft Aerospace GmbH has issued the service information described in the following table. SERVICE INFORMATION AvCraft Dornier Service Bulletin SB–328–11–454 ........... SB–328–52–460 ........... SB–328J–11–209 .......... SB–328J–52–213 .......... Dated May 3, 2004. February 4, 2005. May 3, 2004. February 4, 2005. pwalker on PROD1PC71 with RULES The actions described in this service information are intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have been notified of the unsafe condition described in the VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:51 Mar 26, 2008 Jkt 214001 MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. 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 proposed different actions in this AD from those in the MCAI in order to follow FAA policies. Any such differences are highlighted in a NOTE within the proposed AD. Costs of Compliance Based on the service information, we estimate that this proposed AD would affect about 106 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would take about 38 work-hours per product to comply with the basic requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $80 per work-hour. Required parts would cost about $11,961 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 costs. 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 the proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $1,590,106, or $15,001 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 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 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 proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed regulation: 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and 3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new AD: 328 Support Services GmbH (Formerly AvCraft Aerospace GmbH): Docket No. FAA–2008–0362; Directorate Identifier 2007–NM–308–AD. Comments Due Date (a) We must receive comments by April 28, 2008. Affected ADs (b) None. Applicability (c) This AD applies to Dornier Model 328– 100 airplanes, having serial numbers (S/Ns) 3005 through 3098, 3100, 3101, 3106, 3107, 3109, 3110, 3112, 3113, 3115, 3117 and 3119; E:\FR\FM\27MRP1.SGM 27MRP1 16221 Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 60 / Thursday, March 27, 2008 / Proposed Rules and Model 328–300 airplanes, having S/Ns 3102, 3105, 3108, 3111, 3114, 3116, 3118, and 3120 through 3224; certificated in any category. Subject (d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 11: Placards and Markings; and Code 52: Doors. FAA AD Differences Reason (e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) states: At least one incident has occurred where, immediately after take-off, the passenger door of a Dornier 328 completely opened. The flight crew reportedly had no cockpit indication or audible chime prior to this event. The aircraft returned to the departure airfield and made an uneventful emergency landing. Substantial damage to the door, handrails, door hinge arms and fuselage skin were found. The subsequent investigation could not find any deficiency in the design of the main cabin door locking mechanism. In addition, no technical failure could be determined that precipitated the event. The flight data recorder showed that the door was closed and locked before take-off and opened shortly afterward. Although final proof could not be obtained, the most likely way in which the door opened was that the door handle was inadvertently operated during the take-off run. In response to the incident, AvCraft (the TC (type certificate) holder at the time) developed a placard set to warn the occupants against touching the door handle, as well as a structural modification of the passenger door hinge supports to make certain that the door does not separate from the aircraft when inadvertently opened during flight, allowing a safe descent and landing. Although the event described above did not prevent the flight crew from landing the aircraft safely, the condition of the aircraft immediately after the opening of the door has been determined to have been unsafe. [T]his Airworthiness Directive (AD) aims to prevent further incidents of inadvertent opening and possible detachment of a passenger door inflight, likely resulting in damage to airframe and systems and, under less favorable circumstances, loss of control of the aircraft. * * * * and support struts of the passenger doors, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of AvCraft Dornier Service Bulletin SB–328–52–460 (for Model 328–100 airplanes) or SB–328J–52–213, (for Model 328–300 airplanes), both dated February 4, 2005, as applicable. * 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, 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: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–2125; 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 2007–0199, dated July 25, 2007 (corrected July 26, 2007), and the service bulletins described in Table 1 of this AD, for related information. pwalker on PROD1PC71 with RULES Corrective actions include installing warning placards on the doors, and doing a modification that includes replacing the hinge supports and support struts of the passenger doors with new, improved hinge supports and support struts. Actions and Compliance (f) Unless already done, do the following actions. (1) Within 30 days after the effective date of this AD, install warning placards on the inside of the passenger door and service doors, in accordance with AvCraft Dornier Service Bulletin SB–328–11–454 (for Model 328–100 airplanes) or SB–328J–11–209 (for Model 328–300 airplanes), both dated May 3, 2004, as applicable. (2) Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, modify the hinge supports VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:51 Mar 26, 2008 Jkt 214001 TABLE 1.—SERVICE INFORMATION AvCraft Dornier Service Bulletin SB–328–11–454 ........... SB–328–52–460 ........... SB–328J–11–209 .......... SB–328J–52–213 .......... Dated May 3, 2004. February 4, 2005. May 3, 2004. February 4, 2005. Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 20, 2008. Dionne Palermo, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. E8–6296 Filed 3–26–08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2008–0363; Directorate Identifier 2008–NM–020–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier Model CL–600–2B19 (Regional Jet Series 100 & 440) Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This proposed AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as: * * * * * This assessment showed that the electrical harness of the Fuel Quantity Gauging System (FQGS) is installed in the same routing as the 28 Volts AC, 28 Volts DC, and 115 Volts AC electrical harnesses. A chafing condition between these electrical harnesses and the FQGS harness could increase the surface temperatures of fuel quantity probes and high level sensors inside the fuel tank, resulting in potential ignition source[s] and consequent fuel tank explosion. * * * * * The proposed AD would require actions that are intended to address the unsafe condition described in the MCAI. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by April 28, 2008. ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–40, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// E:\FR\FM\27MRP1.SGM 27MRP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 73, Number 60 (Thursday, March 27, 2008)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 16219-16221]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E8-6296]


=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2008-0362; Directorate Identifier 2007-NM-308-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Dornier Model 328-100 and -300 
Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the 
products listed above. This proposed AD results from mandatory 
continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation 
authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe 
condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe 
condition as:

    At least one incident has occurred where, immediately after 
take-off, the passenger door of a Dornier 328 completely opened. * * 
* Substantial damage to the door, handrails, door hinge arms and 
fuselage skin were found.
    * * * Although final proof could not be obtained, the most 
likely way in which the door opened was that the door handle was 
inadvertently operated during the take-off run.
* * * * *
    [T]his Airworthiness Directive (AD) aims to prevent further 
incidents of inadvertent opening and possible detachment of a 
passenger door in-flight, likely resulting in damage to airframe and 
systems and, under less favorable circumstances, loss of control of 
the aircraft.
* * * * *
The proposed AD would require actions that are intended to address the 
unsafe condition described in the MCAI.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by April 28, 2008.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://
www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: (202) 493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-40, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday 
through Friday, except Federal holidays.

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 this proposed AD, 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.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 
227-2125; fax (425) 227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2008-0362; 
Directorate Identifier 2007-NM-308-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed AD based on those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://
www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA 
Airworthiness Directive 2007-0199, dated July 25, 2007 (corrected July 
26, 2007; referred to after this as ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe 
condition for the specified products. The MCAI states:

    At least one incident has occurred where, immediately after 
take-off, the passenger door of a Dornier 328 completely opened. The 
flight crew reportedly had no cockpit indication or audible chime 
prior to this event. The aircraft returned to the departure airfield 
and made an uneventful emergency landing. Substantial damage to the 
door, handrails, door hinge arms and fuselage skin were found.

[[Page 16220]]

    The subsequent investigation could not find any deficiency in 
the design of the main cabin door locking mechanism. In addition, no 
technical failure could be determined that precipitated the event. 
The flight data recorder showed that the door was closed and locked 
before take-off and opened shortly afterward. Although final proof 
could not be obtained, the most likely way in which the door opened 
was that the door handle was inadvertently operated during the take-
off run.
    In response to the incident, AvCraft (the TC (type certificate) 
holder at the time) developed a placard set to warn the occupants 
against touching the door handle, as well as a structural 
modification of the passenger door hinge supports to make certain 
that the door does not separate from the aircraft when inadvertently 
opened during flight, allowing a safe descent and landing.
    Although the event described above did not prevent the flight 
crew from landing the aircraft safely, the condition of the aircraft 
immediately after the opening of the door has been determined to 
have been unsafe. [T]his Airworthiness Directive (AD) aims to 
prevent further incidents of inadvertent opening and possible 
detachment of a passenger door in-flight, likely resulting in damage 
to airframe and systems and, under less favorable circumstances, 
loss of control of the aircraft.
* * * * *
Corrective actions include installing warning placards on the doors, 
and doing a modification that includes replacing the hinge supports and 
support struts of the passenger doors with new, improved hinge supports 
and support struts. You may obtain further information by examining the 
MCAI in the AD docket.

Relevant Service Information

    AvCraft Aerospace GmbH has issued the service information described 
in the following table.

                           Service Information
------------------------------------------------------------------------
   AvCraft Dornier  Service Bulletin                  Dated
------------------------------------------------------------------------
SB-328-11-454.........................  May 3, 2004.
SB-328-52-460.........................  February 4, 2005.
SB-328J-11-209........................  May 3, 2004.
SB-328J-52-213........................  February 4, 2005.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

The actions described in this service information are intended to 
correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have 
been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service 
information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we 
evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition 
exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same 
type design.

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 proposed different actions in this AD from those 
in the MCAI in order to follow FAA policies. Any such differences are 
highlighted in a NOTE within the proposed AD.

Costs of Compliance

    Based on the service information, we estimate that this proposed AD 
would affect about 106 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that 
it would take about 38 work-hours per product to comply with the basic 
requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $80 per 
work-hour. Required parts would cost about $11,961 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 
costs. 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 the proposed AD on U.S. operators to 
be $1,590,106, or $15,001 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 proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed 
regulation:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
    3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to 
comply with this proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Safety.

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

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

328 Support Services GmbH (Formerly AvCraft Aerospace GmbH): Docket 
No. FAA-2008-0362; Directorate Identifier 2007-NM-308-AD.

Comments Due Date

    (a) We must receive comments by April 28, 2008.

Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to Dornier Model 328-100 airplanes, having 
serial numbers (S/Ns) 3005 through 3098, 3100, 3101, 3106, 3107, 
3109, 3110, 3112, 3113, 3115, 3117 and 3119;

[[Page 16221]]

and Model 328-300 airplanes, having S/Ns 3102, 3105, 3108, 3111, 
3114, 3116, 3118, and 3120 through 3224; certificated in any 
category.

Subject

    (d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 11: Placards 
and Markings; and Code 52: Doors.

Reason

    (e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) 
states:
    At least one incident has occurred where, immediately after 
take-off, the passenger door of a Dornier 328 completely opened. The 
flight crew reportedly had no cockpit indication or audible chime 
prior to this event. The aircraft returned to the departure airfield 
and made an uneventful emergency landing. Substantial damage to the 
door, handrails, door hinge arms and fuselage skin were found.
    The subsequent investigation could not find any deficiency in 
the design of the main cabin door locking mechanism. In addition, no 
technical failure could be determined that precipitated the event. 
The flight data recorder showed that the door was closed and locked 
before take-off and opened shortly afterward. Although final proof 
could not be obtained, the most likely way in which the door opened 
was that the door handle was inadvertently operated during the take-
off run.
    In response to the incident, AvCraft (the TC (type certificate) 
holder at the time) developed a placard set to warn the occupants 
against touching the door handle, as well as a structural 
modification of the passenger door hinge supports to make certain 
that the door does not separate from the aircraft when inadvertently 
opened during flight, allowing a safe descent and landing.
    Although the event described above did not prevent the flight 
crew from landing the aircraft safely, the condition of the aircraft 
immediately after the opening of the door has been determined to 
have been unsafe. [T]his Airworthiness Directive (AD) aims to 
prevent further incidents of inadvertent opening and possible 
detachment of a passenger door in-flight, likely resulting in damage 
to airframe and systems and, under less favorable circumstances, 
loss of control of the aircraft.
* * * * *
Corrective actions include installing warning placards on the doors, 
and doing a modification that includes replacing the hinge supports 
and support struts of the passenger doors with new, improved hinge 
supports and support struts.

Actions and Compliance

    (f) Unless already done, do the following actions.
    (1) Within 30 days after the effective date of this AD, install 
warning placards on the inside of the passenger door and service 
doors, in accordance with AvCraft Dornier Service Bulletin SB-328-
11-454 (for Model 328-100 airplanes) or SB-328J-11-209 (for Model 
328-300 airplanes), both dated May 3, 2004, as applicable.
    (2) Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, modify 
the hinge supports and support struts of the passenger doors, in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of AvCraft Dornier 
Service Bulletin SB-328-52-460 (for Model 328-100 airplanes) or SB-
328J-52-213, (for Model 328-300 airplanes), both dated February 4, 
2005, 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, 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: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone 
(425) 227-2125; 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 2007-0199, dated July 25, 2007 (corrected 
July 26, 2007), and the service bulletins described in Table 1 of 
this AD, for related information.

                      Table 1.--Service Information
------------------------------------------------------------------------
   AvCraft Dornier  Service Bulletin                  Dated
------------------------------------------------------------------------
SB-328-11-454.........................  May 3, 2004.
SB-328-52-460.........................  February 4, 2005.
SB-328J-11-209........................  May 3, 2004.
SB-328J-52-213........................  February 4, 2005.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 20, 2008.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. E8-6296 Filed 3-26-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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