Airworthiness Directives; ATR Model ATR42 Airplanes and Model ATR72-101, -102, -201, -202, -211, and -212 Airplanes, 19768-19770 [E8-7658]
Download as PDF
<![CDATA[
19768
Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 71 / Friday, April 11, 2008 / Proposed Rules
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
(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.
loss of the bolt which links the tab control
rod to the bellcrank assembly. If the diameter
of the retainer hole is out of limit, the
retainer function is lost and fail-safe
installation is no longer ensured. This
condition, if not corrected, could lead to loss
of the aileron tab bellcrank functionality,
resulting in diminished control of the
aircraft.
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Federal Aviation Administration
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 May 12, 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.
14 CFR Part 39
Examining the AD Docket
[Docket No. FAA–2008–0409; Directorate
Identifier 2007–NM–265–AD]
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: 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:
Related Information
(h) Refer to MCAI European Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2008–0038,
dated February 27, 2008; Moravan Aviation
s.r.o. Mandatory Service Bulletin Z143L/31a,
dated June 8, 2007; and new pages 01–11,
01–12, 01–24, 01–35, 05–28, 75–7, 75–7A,
75–7B, and 75–8 of ZLIN Z 143 L Airplane
Maintenance Manual, Revision No. 9, dated:
June 8, 2007, for related information.
Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on April
3, 2008.
David R. Showers,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E8–7654 Filed 4–10–08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; ATR Model
ATR42 Airplanes and Model ATR72–
101, –102, –201, –202, –211, and –212
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
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:
ebenthall on PRODPC61 with PROPOSALS
SUMMARY:
It has been found on in-service aircraft that
some aileron tab bellcrank assemblies were
not in accordance with the definition
drawings.
The main item concerned is the retainer
Part Number S2711004620000, which has
been manufactured with a hole larger than it
should be, or redrilled out of limits.
The function of the retainer is to maintain
the spacer in position in case of rupture or
VerDate Aug<31>2005
15:24 Apr 10, 2008
Jkt 214001
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–2008–0409; Directorate Identifier
2007–NM–265–AD’’ at the beginning of
your comments. We specifically invite
comments on the overall regulatory,
PO 00000
Frm 00020
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
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 2006–0376,
dated December 19, 2006 (referred to
after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an
unsafe condition for the specified
products. The MCAI states:
It has been found on in-service aircraft that
some aileron tab bellcrank assemblies were
not in accordance with the definition
drawings.
The main item concerned is the retainer
Part Number S2711004620000, which has
been manufactured with a hole larger than it
should be, or redrilled out of limits.
The function of the retainer is to maintain
the spacer in position in case of rupture or
loss of the bolt which links the tab control
rod to the bellcrank assembly. If the diameter
of the retainer hole is out of limit, the
retainer function is lost and fail-safe
installation is no longer ensured. This
condition, if not corrected, could lead to loss
of the aileron tab bellcrank functionality,
resulting in diminished control of the
aircraft.
For the reasons stated above, this
Airworthiness Directive (AD) requires the
inspection [for proper hole diameter] of the
aileron tab bellcrank retainer and, if
necessary, the restoration of a proper
installation [replacing any retainer which
does not meet specified limits with a new
retainer].
Corrective actions also include doing a
general visual inspection (GVI) for
discrepancies (corrosion, deformation,
scratches, or other defects) of the bolt
and fasteners of the bellcrank assembly.
You may obtain further information by
examining the MCAI in the AD docket.
Relevant Service Information
ATR has issued Avions de Transport
Regional Service Bulletins ATR42–27–
0098 and ATR72–27–1060, both dated
December 19, 2006. The actions
described in this service information are
intended to correct the unsafe condition
identified in the MCAI.
FAA’s Determination and Requirements
of This Proposed AD
This product has been approved by
the aviation authority of another
E:\FR\FM\11APP1.SGM
11APP1
Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 71 / Friday, April 11, 2008 / Proposed Rules
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 51 products of U.S. registry.
We also estimate that it would take
about 2 work-hours per product to
comply with the basic requirements of
this proposed AD. The average labor
rate is $80 per work-hour. Based on
these figures, we estimate the cost of the
proposed AD on U.S. operators to be
$8,160, or $160 per product.
ebenthall on PRODPC61 with PROPOSALS
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
15:24 Apr 10, 2008
Jkt 214001
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.
Authority for This Rulemaking
VerDate Aug<31>2005
products identified in this rulemaking
action.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new AD:
´
ATR–GIE Avions de Transport Regional
(Formerly Aerospatiale): Docket No.
FAA–2008–0409; Directorate Identifier
2007–NM–265–AD.
Comments Due Date
(a) We must receive comments by May 12,
2008.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to ATR Model ATR42
airplanes, certificated in any category, all
models, all serial numbers, except airplanes
which have received ATR modification
04372 (aileron spring tab) in production or
ATR Service Bulletin (SB) ATR42–27–0081
or Service Bulletin ATR42–27–0092 in
PO 00000
Frm 00021
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
19769
service; and ATR Model ATR72–101, –102,
–201, –202, –211, and –212 airplanes,
certificated in any category, all serial
numbers, except airplanes which have
received ATR modification 04373 (aileron
spring tab) in production or ATR Service
Bulletin ATR72–27–1045 in service.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 27: Flight Controls.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) states:
It has been found on in-service aircraft that
some aileron tab bellcrank assemblies were
not in accordance with the definition
drawings.
The main item concerned is the retainer
Part Number S2711004620000, which has
been manufactured with a hole larger than it
should be, or redrilled out of limits.
The function of the retainer is to maintain
the spacer in position in case of rupture or
loss of the bolt which links the tab control
rod to the bellcrank assembly. If the diameter
of the retainer hole is out of limit, the
retainer function is lost and fail-safe
installation is no longer ensured. This
condition, if not corrected, could lead to loss
of the aileron tab bellcrank functionality,
resulting in diminished control of the
aircraft.
For the reasons stated above, this
Airworthiness Directive (AD) requires the
inspection [for proper hole diameter] of the
aileron tab bellcrank retainer and, if
necessary, the restoration of a proper
installation [replacing any retainer which
does not meet specified limits with a new
retainer].
Corrective actions also include doing a
general visual inspection (GVI) for
discrepancies (corrosion, deformation,
scratches, or other defects) of the bolt and
fasteners of the bellcrank assembly.
Actions and Compliance
(f) Within 90 days after the effective date
of this AD, unless already done, do the
following actions.
(1) Measure the hole diameter of the
retainer of the aileron automatic tab bellcrank
assembly, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Avions de
Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR42–
27–0098 or ATR72–27–1060, both dated
December 19, 2006, as applicable. If the hole
diameter is within specified limits, no further
actions are required by paragraph (f) of this
AD for that retainer.
(2) If any retainer exceeds the hole
diameter limits specified in Avions de
Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR42–
27–0098 or ATR72–27–1060, both dated
December 19, 2006, as applicable, before
further flight, replace the retainer with a
retainer that meets hole diameter limits, in
accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of the applicable service
bulletin. For any airplane for which a
replacement retainer is not available, before
further flight, do a GVI for discrepancies of
the bolt and fasteners of the bellcrank
assembly. If any discrepancies of the bolt and
E:\FR\FM\11APP1.SGM
11APP1
19770
Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 71 / Friday, April 11, 2008 / Proposed Rules
fasteners are found, replace the retainer
before further flight, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of the
applicable service bulletin. If no
discrepancies are found, replace the retainer
no later than 2 flight days after the hole
measurement, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of the
applicable service bulletin.
Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a GVI
is: ‘‘A visual examination of an interior or
exterior area, installation, or assembly to
detect obvious damage, failure, or
irregularity. This level of inspection is made
from within touching distance unless
otherwise specified. A mirror may be
necessary to ensure visual access to all
surfaces in the inspection area. This level of
inspection is made under normally available
lighting conditions such as daylight, hangar
lighting, flashlight, or droplight and may
require removal or opening of access panels
or doors. Stands, ladders, or platforms may
be required to gain proximity to the area
being checked.’’
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: Tom Rodriguez,
Aerospace Engineer, International Branch,
ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate,
FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425)
227–1137; 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.
ebenthall on PRODPC61 with PROPOSALS
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2007–27785; Directorate
Identifier 2006–NM–267–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Empresa
Brasileira de Aeronautica S.A.
(EMBRAER) Model ERJ 170 Airplanes
and Model ERJ 190 Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Supplemental notice of
proposed rulemaking (NPRM);
reopening of comment period.
Note 2: This AD differs from the MCAI
and/or service information as follows: No
differences.
Related Information
(h) Refer to MCAI European Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) Airworthiness
Directive 2006–0376, dated December 19,
2006, and Avions de Transport Regional
Service Bulletins ATR42–27–0098 and
ATR72–27–1060, both dated December 19,
2006, for related information.
15:24 Apr 10, 2008
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
AGENCY:
FAA AD Differences
VerDate Aug<31>2005
Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 3,
2008.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E8–7658 Filed 4–10–08; 8:45 am]
Jkt 214001
SUMMARY: We are revising an earlier
supplemental NPRM for the products
listed above. This action revises the
earlier supplemental NPRM by
expanding the scope. This proposed AD
results from mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI)
originated by an aviation authority of
another country to identify and correct
an unsafe condition on an aviation
product. The MCAI describes the unsafe
condition as:
It has been found that some ‘‘caution’’
messages issued by the Flight Guidance
Control System (FGCS) are not displayed on
aircraft equipped with [certain] EPIC
software load[s] * * *. Therefore, following
a possible failure on one FGCS channel
during a given flight, such a failure condition
will remain undetected * * *. If another
failure occurs on the second FGCS channel,
the result may be a hardover command by the
autopilot.
An unexpected hardover command may
cause a sudden roll, pitch, or yaw
movement, which could result in
reduced controllability of the airplane.
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 May 6, 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–
PO 00000
Frm 00022
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
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:
Todd Thompson, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116, FAA,
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601
Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington
98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–1175;
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–2007–27785; Directorate Identifier
2006–NM–267–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
We proposed to amend 14 CFR part
39 with an earlier NPRM for the
specified products, which was
published in the Federal Register on
October 25, 2007 (72 FR 60593). That
earlier NPRM proposed to require
actions intended to address the unsafe
condition for the products listed above.
Since that earlier NPRM was issued,
we determined that the NPRM must be
E:\FR\FM\11APP1.SGM
11APP1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 73, Number 71 (Friday, April 11, 2008)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 19768-19770]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E8-7658]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2008-0409; Directorate Identifier 2007-NM-265-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; ATR Model ATR42 Airplanes and Model
ATR72-101, -102, -201, -202, -211, and -212 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:
It has been found on in-service aircraft that some aileron tab
bellcrank assemblies were not in accordance with the definition
drawings.
The main item concerned is the retainer Part Number
S2711004620000, which has been manufactured with a hole larger than
it should be, or redrilled out of limits.
The function of the retainer is to maintain the spacer in
position in case of rupture or loss of the bolt which links the tab
control rod to the bellcrank assembly. If the diameter of the
retainer hole is out of limit, the retainer function is lost and
fail-safe installation is no longer ensured. This condition, if not
corrected, could lead to loss of the aileron tab bellcrank
functionality, resulting in diminished 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 May 12, 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: 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:
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-2008-0409;
Directorate Identifier 2007-NM-265-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 2006-0376, dated December 19, 2006 (referred to
after this as ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the
specified products. The MCAI states:
It has been found on in-service aircraft that some aileron tab
bellcrank assemblies were not in accordance with the definition
drawings.
The main item concerned is the retainer Part Number
S2711004620000, which has been manufactured with a hole larger than
it should be, or redrilled out of limits.
The function of the retainer is to maintain the spacer in
position in case of rupture or loss of the bolt which links the tab
control rod to the bellcrank assembly. If the diameter of the
retainer hole is out of limit, the retainer function is lost and
fail-safe installation is no longer ensured. This condition, if not
corrected, could lead to loss of the aileron tab bellcrank
functionality, resulting in diminished control of the aircraft.
For the reasons stated above, this Airworthiness Directive (AD)
requires the inspection [for proper hole diameter] of the aileron
tab bellcrank retainer and, if necessary, the restoration of a
proper installation [replacing any retainer which does not meet
specified limits with a new retainer].
Corrective actions also include doing a general visual inspection (GVI)
for discrepancies (corrosion, deformation, scratches, or other defects)
of the bolt and fasteners of the bellcrank assembly. You may obtain
further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket.
Relevant Service Information
ATR has issued Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletins
ATR42-27-0098 and ATR72-27-1060, both dated December 19, 2006. The
actions described in this service information are intended to correct
the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI.
FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD
This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another
[[Page 19769]]
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 51 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that
it would take about 2 work-hours per product to comply with the basic
requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $80 per
work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed
AD on U.S. operators to be $8,160, or $160 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:
ATR-GIE Avions de Transport R[eacute]gional (Formerly Aerospatiale):
Docket No. FAA-2008-0409; Directorate Identifier 2007-NM-265-AD.
Comments Due Date
(a) We must receive comments by May 12, 2008.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to ATR Model ATR42 airplanes, certificated
in any category, all models, all serial numbers, except airplanes
which have received ATR modification 04372 (aileron spring tab) in
production or ATR Service Bulletin (SB) ATR42-27-0081 or Service
Bulletin ATR42-27-0092 in service; and ATR Model ATR72-101, -102, -
201, -202, -211, and -212 airplanes, certificated in any category,
all serial numbers, except airplanes which have received ATR
modification 04373 (aileron spring tab) in production or ATR Service
Bulletin ATR72-27-1045 in service.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 27: Flight
Controls.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI)
states:
It has been found on in-service aircraft that some aileron tab
bellcrank assemblies were not in accordance with the definition
drawings.
The main item concerned is the retainer Part Number
S2711004620000, which has been manufactured with a hole larger than
it should be, or redrilled out of limits.
The function of the retainer is to maintain the spacer in
position in case of rupture or loss of the bolt which links the tab
control rod to the bellcrank assembly. If the diameter of the
retainer hole is out of limit, the retainer function is lost and
fail-safe installation is no longer ensured. This condition, if not
corrected, could lead to loss of the aileron tab bellcrank
functionality, resulting in diminished control of the aircraft.
For the reasons stated above, this Airworthiness Directive (AD)
requires the inspection [for proper hole diameter] of the aileron
tab bellcrank retainer and, if necessary, the restoration of a
proper installation [replacing any retainer which does not meet
specified limits with a new retainer].
Corrective actions also include doing a general visual inspection
(GVI) for discrepancies (corrosion, deformation, scratches, or other
defects) of the bolt and fasteners of the bellcrank assembly.
Actions and Compliance
(f) Within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, unless
already done, do the following actions.
(1) Measure the hole diameter of the retainer of the aileron
automatic tab bellcrank assembly, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Avions de Transport Regional Service
Bulletin ATR42-27-0098 or ATR72-27-1060, both dated December 19,
2006, as applicable. If the hole diameter is within specified
limits, no further actions are required by paragraph (f) of this AD
for that retainer.
(2) If any retainer exceeds the hole diameter limits specified
in Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR42-27-0098 or
ATR72-27-1060, both dated December 19, 2006, as applicable, before
further flight, replace the retainer with a retainer that meets hole
diameter limits, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions
of the applicable service bulletin. For any airplane for which a
replacement retainer is not available, before further flight, do a
GVI for discrepancies of the bolt and fasteners of the bellcrank
assembly. If any discrepancies of the bolt and
[[Page 19770]]
fasteners are found, replace the retainer before further flight, in
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable
service bulletin. If no discrepancies are found, replace the
retainer no later than 2 flight days after the hole measurement, in
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable
service bulletin.
Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a GVI is: ``A visual
examination of an interior or exterior area, installation, or
assembly to detect obvious damage, failure, or irregularity. This
level of inspection is made from within touching distance unless
otherwise specified. A mirror may be necessary to ensure visual
access to all surfaces in the inspection area. This level of
inspection is made under normally available lighting conditions such
as daylight, hangar lighting, flashlight, or droplight and may
require removal or opening of access panels or doors. Stands,
ladders, or platforms may be required to gain proximity to the area
being checked.''
FAA AD Differences
Note 2: 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: Tom Rodriguez, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone
(425) 227-1137; 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 2006-0376, dated December 19, 2006, and
Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletins ATR42-27-0098 and
ATR72-27-1060, both dated December 19, 2006, for related
information.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 3, 2008.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. E8-7658 Filed 4-10-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
