Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900 and -900ER Series Airplanes, 51382-51384 [E8-20341]

Download as PDF 51382 Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 171 / Wednesday, September 3, 2008 / Proposed Rules Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2006–25001; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–079–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 737–600, –700, –700C, –800, –900 and –900ER Series Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); reopening of comment period. yshivers on PROD1PC62 with PROPOSALS AGENCY: 15:14 Sep 02, 2008 Jkt 214001 Actions Since Original NPRM Was Issued Since we issued the original NPRM, we have received information on the rotability of the affected aero/fire seals. Also, Model 737–900ER series airplanes have been added to the U.S. type certificate data sheet and could be affected by the rotability of the seals. You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Management Facility 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 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: SUMMARY: The FAA is revising an earlier proposed airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Boeing Model 737–600, –700, –700C, –800 and –900 series airplanes. The original NPRM would have required replacing the aero/fire seals of the blocker doors on the thrust reverser torque boxes on the engines with new, improved aero/fire seals. The original NPRM resulted from a report that the top three inches of the aero/fire seals of the blocker doors on the thrust reverser torque boxes are not fireproof. This action revises the original NPRM by adding airplanes to the applicability statement and requiring a one-time inspection to determine the part numbers of the aero/fire seals. We are proposing this supplemental NPRM to prevent a fire in the fan compartment (a fire zone) from migrating through the seal to a flammable fluid in the thrust reverser actuator compartment (a flammable fluid leakage zone), which could result in an uncontrolled fire. DATES: We must receive comments on this supplemental NPRM by September 29, 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 W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Boeing VerDate Aug<31>2005 Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle, Washington 98124–2207. Examining the AD Docket DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Samuel Spitzer, Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Branch, ANM–140S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 917–6510; fax (425) 917–6590. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to submit any relevant written data, views, or arguments regarding this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2006–25001; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–079–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 because of 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 issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) (the ‘‘original NPRM’’) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an airworthiness directive (AD) that would apply to certain Boeing Model 737–600, –700, –700C, –800 and –900 series airplanes. The original NPRM was published in the Federal Register on June 13, 2006 (71 FR 34025). The original NPRM proposed to require replacing the aero/fire seals of the blocker doors on the thrust reverser torque boxes on the engines with new, improved aero/fire seals. PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Comments We have considered the following comments on the original NPRM. Support for the Original NPRM Boeing concurs with the contents of the original NPRM. Request To Revise the Applicability Statement To Address Rotable Parts AirTran Airways requests that we revise the applicability statement of the original NPRM to apply to the part number/serial number of the affected thrust reverser assembly instead of the serial number of airplanes. AirTran is concerned that the proposed applicability does not address the possibility that an affected thrust reverser assembly might be installed on an airplane not addressed in that applicability statement. AirTran states that the thrust reverser assembly is a rotable component, which can be removed from an airplane affected by this proposed AD and installed on an airplane not affected by this proposed AD. AirTran also notes that the thrust reverser assemblies have serialized numbers and are tracked by most airlines. We agree that it is possible to rotate the affected component onto another Model 737–600, –700, –700C, –800, –900, or –900ER series airplane that is not affected by the applicability proposed in the original NPRM. We have revised the applicability statement in this supplemental NPRM to apply to all Model 737–600, –700, –700C, –800, –900 and –900ER series airplanes. We have also added a new paragraph (f) to this supplemental NPRM to require a record check or inspection to determine the part number of the installed assembly. If an affected part number is installed, or the part number cannot be confirmed, then operators would be required to replace the assemblies. We have coordinated this issue with Boeing. Request To Address Spare Parts AirTran notes that the original NPRM does not address thrust reverser assemblies that were purchased as spare parts. AirTran states that the original NPRM does not require any modifications to any thrust reverser E:\FR\FM\03SEP1.SGM 03SEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 171 / Wednesday, September 3, 2008 / Proposed Rules assembly not currently installed on an airplane. We infer that AirTran is concerned about the possibility that an affected and unmodified spare thrust reverser assembly may be installed on an airplane.We do not agree that revising the supplemental NPRM to address spare parts is necessary. We have confirmation from Boeing that all affected spare assemblies have been purged from the parts supply system. In addition, no affected/unsafe part is allowed to be installed on an airplane after the compliance time of an AD has passed. We have revised this supplemental NPRM to address the rotability concern expressed in the previous comment. For these reasons, we consider revising the AD to address spare parts unnecessary. We have not changed the supplemental NPRM in this regard. Request To Incorporate by Reference During NPRM Process The Modification and Replacement Parts Association (MARPA) requests that the applicable service information be incorporated by reference in the NPRM phase of rulemaking and posted on the Federal Docket Management System (FDMS) for public access. MARPA states that since the service information has additional information that is not public, the proposed rule is not enforceable. We do not agree that documents should be incorporated by reference during the NPRM phase of rulemaking. The Office of the Federal Register requires that documents that are necessary to accomplish the requirements of the AD be incorporated by reference during the final rule phase of rulemaking. This supplementary NPRM is not a final rule and does not incorporate the relevant service information by reference. Further, we point out that while documents that are incorporated by reference do become public information, they do not lose their copyright protection. For that reason, we advise the public to contact the manufacturer to obtain copies of the referenced service information. In regard to the commenter’s request to post service bulletins on the Department of Transportation’s FDMS, we are currently in the process of reviewing issues surrounding the posting of service information on-line as part of an AD docket. Once we have thoroughly examined all aspects of this issue and have made a final determination, we will consider whether our current practice needs to be revised. No change to the supplemental NPRM is necessary in this regard. Request To Address Defective Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) Parts The same commenter also requests that the Transport Airplane Directorate (TAD) develop a policy to address possible defective or replacement PMA alternative parts, regardless of the manufacturing source (original equipment manufacturer (OEM), PMA, or repair station), so that all defective 51383 PMA parts are also subject to the proposed AD and are removed from the parts stream. The FAA recognizes the need for standardization of this issue and is currently in the process of reviewing issues that address the use of PMAs in ADs at the national level. However, the Transport Airplane Directorate considers that to delay this particular AD action would be inappropriate, since we have determined that an unsafe condition exists and that replacement of certain parts must be accomplished to ensure continued safety. Therefore, no change has been made to the supplemental NPRM in this regard. FAA’s Determination and Proposed Requirements of the Supplemental NPRM We are proposing this supplemental NPRM 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. Certain changes described above expand the scope of the original NPRM. As a result, we have determined that it is necessary to reopen the comment period to provide additional opportunity for the public to comment on this supplemental NPRM. Costs of Compliance There are about 2,442 airplanes of the affected design in the worldwide fleet. The following table provides the estimated costs for U.S. operators to comply with this proposed AD. ESTIMATED COSTS Work hours Average labor rate per hour Parts Cost per airplane Number of U.S.-registered airplanes Fleet cost Inspection to determine part number (new proposed action) .......................... yshivers on PROD1PC62 with PROPOSALS Action 1 $80 $0 $80 803 $64,240 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 VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:14 Sep 02, 2008 Jkt 214001 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 have 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. PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the 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 supplemental NPRM and placed it in the AD docket. See the ADDRESSES section for a location to examine the regulatory evaluation. E:\FR\FM\03SEP1.SGM 03SEP1 51384 Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 171 / Wednesday, September 3, 2008 / Proposed Rules 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. aero/fire seals (P/Ns 315A2245–7 or –8) can be conclusively determined to be installed from that review. Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed inspection is: ‘‘An intensive examination of a specific item, installation, or assembly to detect damage, failure, or irregularity. Available lighting is normally supplemented with a direct source of good lighting at an intensity deemed appropriate. Inspection aids such as mirror, magnifying lenses, etc., may be necessary. Surface cleaning and elaborate procedures may be required.’’ Replace the Aero/Fire Seals Comments Due Date (a) The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by September 29, 2008. (g) For any aero/fire seal identified during the inspection/records check in paragraph (f) of this AD as having an affected P/N: Within 60 months or 8,200 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first, replace the aero/fire seals of the blocker doors on the thrust reverser torque boxes on the engines with new, improved aero/fire seals in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–78– 1074, Revision 1, dated September 15, 2005. Affected ADs (b) None. Credit for Actions Done Using Previous Service Information Applicability (c) This AD applies to all Boeing Model 737–600, –700, –700C, –800, –900 and –900ER series airplanes, certificated in any category. (h) Replacements done before the effective date of this AD in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–78– 1074, dated April 7, 2005, are acceptable for compliance with the requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): Boeing: Docket No. FAA–2006–25001; Directorate Identifier 2006–NM–079–AD. Unsafe Condition (d) This AD results from a report that the top three inches of the aero/fire seals of the blocker doors on the thrust reverser torque boxes are not fireproof. We are issuing this AD to prevent a fire in the fan compartment (a fire zone) from migrating through the seal to a flammable fluid in the thrust reverser actuator compartment (a flammable fluid leakage zone), which could result in an uncontrolled fire. yshivers on PROD1PC62 with PROPOSALS Compliance (e) You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the actions have already been done. Inspection To Determine Part Number (P/N) (f) Within 60 months or 8,200 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first: Perform a one-time detailed inspection to determine the color of the aero/ fire seals of the blocker doors on the thrust reverser torque boxes on the engines. For any aero/fire seal having a completely gray color (which is the color of seals with P/N 315A2245–1 or 315A2245–2), with no red at the upper end of the seal, do the actions specified in paragraph (g) of this AD. For any aero/fire seal having a red color at the upper end of the seal (which indicates a different part number), no further action is required by this AD. A review of airplane maintenance records is acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the part number of the correct VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:14 Sep 02, 2008 Jkt 214001 Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (i)(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, ATTN: Samuel Spitzer, Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Branch, ANM–140S, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 917–6510; fax (425) 917–6590; has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. (2) To request a different method of compliance or a different compliance time for this AD, follow the procedures in 14 CFR 39.19. 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. Issued in Renton, Washington, on August 25, 2008. Dionne Palermo, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. E8–20341 Filed 9–2–08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION 16 CFR Part 1500 Exemption From Classification as Banned Hazardous Substance; Proposed Exemption for Boston Billow Nursing Pillow and Substantially Similar Nursing Pillows Consumer Product Safety Commission. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking. AGENCY: SUMMARY: The Commission is proposing to exempt the Boston Billow Nursing Pillow and substantially similar nursing pillows from the Commission’s regulations banning infant cushions/ pillows set forth in the Commission’s regulations at 16 CFR 1500.18(a)(16)(i). DATES: Written comments in response to this notice must be received by October 3, 2008. ADDRESSES: Comments should be submitted to the Office of the Secretary by e-mail at cpsc-os@cpsc.gov, or mailed or delivered, preferably in five copies, to the Office of the Secretary, Consumer Product Safety Commission, 4330 East West Highway, Bethesda, Maryland 20814. Comments may also be filed by facsimile to (301) 504–0127. Comments should be captioned ‘‘Infant Cushions/ Pillows NPR.’’ FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Suad Wanna-Nakamura, Directorate for Health Sciences, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 4330 East West Highway, Bethesda, Maryland 20814; telephone (301) 504–7252; e-mail snakamura@cpsc.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: A. Background Between 1985 and 1992, there were 35 infant deaths associated with the use of infant cushions/pillows (also known, among other names, as ‘‘baby beanbag pillows’’ and ‘‘beanbag cushions’’). In almost all of the cases where the infant’s position could be determined, the infant was in a prone, face down, position. 55 FR 42202. The Commission initiated a rulemaking proceeding to determine whether a ban was necessary to address an unreasonable risk of injury and death associated with these types of infant cushions/pillows. Due to the number of infant deaths associated with these products, the Commission proposed a rule to ban infant cushions/pillows with certain characteristics. 56 FR 32352. On June 23, 1992, the Commission issued a rule codified at 16 CFR 1500.18(a)(16)(i), banning infant cushions/pillows that: (1) Have a flexible fabric covering; (2) are loosely E:\FR\FM\03SEP1.SGM 03SEP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 73, Number 171 (Wednesday, September 3, 2008)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 51382-51384]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E8-20341]



[[Page 51382]]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2006-25001; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-079-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -
800, -900 and -900ER Series Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); reopening of 
comment period.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is revising an earlier proposed airworthiness 
directive (AD) for certain Boeing Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800 and 
-900 series airplanes. The original NPRM would have required replacing 
the aero/fire seals of the blocker doors on the thrust reverser torque 
boxes on the engines with new, improved aero/fire seals. The original 
NPRM resulted from a report that the top three inches of the aero/fire 
seals of the blocker doors on the thrust reverser torque boxes are not 
fireproof. This action revises the original NPRM by adding airplanes to 
the applicability statement and requiring a one-time inspection to 
determine the part numbers of the aero/fire seals. We are proposing 
this supplemental NPRM to prevent a fire in the fan compartment (a fire 
zone) from migrating through the seal to a flammable fluid in the 
thrust reverser actuator compartment (a flammable fluid leakage zone), 
which could result in an uncontrolled fire.

DATES: We must receive comments on this supplemental NPRM by September 
29, 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 W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle, Washington 98124-
2207.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Management Facility 
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 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: Samuel Spitzer, Aerospace Engineer, 
Propulsion Branch, ANM-140S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification 
Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone 
(425) 917-6510; fax (425) 917-6590.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    We invite you to submit any relevant written data, views, or 
arguments regarding this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2006-
25001; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-079-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 because of 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 issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) (the ``original 
NPRM'') to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an airworthiness directive 
(AD) that would apply to certain Boeing Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -
800 and -900 series airplanes. The original NPRM was published in the 
Federal Register on June 13, 2006 (71 FR 34025). The original NPRM 
proposed to require replacing the aero/fire seals of the blocker doors 
on the thrust reverser torque boxes on the engines with new, improved 
aero/fire seals.

Actions Since Original NPRM Was Issued

    Since we issued the original NPRM, we have received information on 
the rotability of the affected aero/fire seals. Also, Model 737-900ER 
series airplanes have been added to the U.S. type certificate data 
sheet and could be affected by the rotability of the seals.

Comments

    We have considered the following comments on the original NPRM.

Support for the Original NPRM

    Boeing concurs with the contents of the original NPRM.

Request To Revise the Applicability Statement To Address Rotable Parts

    AirTran Airways requests that we revise the applicability statement 
of the original NPRM to apply to the part number/serial number of the 
affected thrust reverser assembly instead of the serial number of 
airplanes. AirTran is concerned that the proposed applicability does 
not address the possibility that an affected thrust reverser assembly 
might be installed on an airplane not addressed in that applicability 
statement. AirTran states that the thrust reverser assembly is a 
rotable component, which can be removed from an airplane affected by 
this proposed AD and installed on an airplane not affected by this 
proposed AD. AirTran also notes that the thrust reverser assemblies 
have serialized numbers and are tracked by most airlines.
    We agree that it is possible to rotate the affected component onto 
another Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, or -900ER series 
airplane that is not affected by the applicability proposed in the 
original NPRM. We have revised the applicability statement in this 
supplemental NPRM to apply to all Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -
900 and -900ER series airplanes. We have also added a new paragraph (f) 
to this supplemental NPRM to require a record check or inspection to 
determine the part number of the installed assembly. If an affected 
part number is installed, or the part number cannot be confirmed, then 
operators would be required to replace the assemblies. We have 
coordinated this issue with Boeing.

Request To Address Spare Parts

    AirTran notes that the original NPRM does not address thrust 
reverser assemblies that were purchased as spare parts. AirTran states 
that the original NPRM does not require any modifications to any thrust 
reverser

[[Page 51383]]

assembly not currently installed on an airplane.
    We infer that AirTran is concerned about the possibility that an 
affected and unmodified spare thrust reverser assembly may be installed 
on an airplane.We do not agree that revising the supplemental NPRM to 
address spare parts is necessary. We have confirmation from Boeing that 
all affected spare assemblies have been purged from the parts supply 
system. In addition, no affected/unsafe part is allowed to be installed 
on an airplane after the compliance time of an AD has passed. We have 
revised this supplemental NPRM to address the rotability concern 
expressed in the previous comment. For these reasons, we consider 
revising the AD to address spare parts unnecessary. We have not changed 
the supplemental NPRM in this regard.

Request To Incorporate by Reference During NPRM Process

    The Modification and Replacement Parts Association (MARPA) requests 
that the applicable service information be incorporated by reference in 
the NPRM phase of rulemaking and posted on the Federal Docket 
Management System (FDMS) for public access. MARPA states that since the 
service information has additional information that is not public, the 
proposed rule is not enforceable.
    We do not agree that documents should be incorporated by reference 
during the NPRM phase of rulemaking. The Office of the Federal Register 
requires that documents that are necessary to accomplish the 
requirements of the AD be incorporated by reference during the final 
rule phase of rulemaking. This supplementary NPRM is not a final rule 
and does not incorporate the relevant service information by reference. 
Further, we point out that while documents that are incorporated by 
reference do become public information, they do not lose their 
copyright protection. For that reason, we advise the public to contact 
the manufacturer to obtain copies of the referenced service 
information.
    In regard to the commenter's request to post service bulletins on 
the Department of Transportation's FDMS, we are currently in the 
process of reviewing issues surrounding the posting of service 
information on-line as part of an AD docket. Once we have thoroughly 
examined all aspects of this issue and have made a final determination, 
we will consider whether our current practice needs to be revised. No 
change to the supplemental NPRM is necessary in this regard.

Request To Address Defective Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) Parts

    The same commenter also requests that the Transport Airplane 
Directorate (TAD) develop a policy to address possible defective or 
replacement PMA alternative parts, regardless of the manufacturing 
source (original equipment manufacturer (OEM), PMA, or repair station), 
so that all defective PMA parts are also subject to the proposed AD and 
are removed from the parts stream.
    The FAA recognizes the need for standardization of this issue and 
is currently in the process of reviewing issues that address the use of 
PMAs in ADs at the national level. However, the Transport Airplane 
Directorate considers that to delay this particular AD action would be 
inappropriate, since we have determined that an unsafe condition exists 
and that replacement of certain parts must be accomplished to ensure 
continued safety. Therefore, no change has been made to the 
supplemental NPRM in this regard.

FAA's Determination and Proposed Requirements of the Supplemental NPRM

    We are proposing this supplemental NPRM 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. 
Certain changes described above expand the scope of the original NPRM. 
As a result, we have determined that it is necessary to reopen the 
comment period to provide additional opportunity for the public to 
comment on this supplemental NPRM.

Costs of Compliance

    There are about 2,442 airplanes of the affected design in the 
worldwide fleet. The following table provides the estimated costs for 
U.S. operators to comply with this proposed AD.

                                                                     Estimated Costs
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                                        Number of U.S.-
                      Action                           Work hours     Average labor        Parts           Cost per        registered       Fleet cost
                                                                      rate per hour                        airplane        airplanes
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection to determine part number (new proposed                1              $80               $0              $80              803          $64,240
 action)..........................................
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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 have 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 that the 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 supplemental NPRM and placed it in the AD docket. See 
the ADDRESSES section for a location to examine the regulatory 
evaluation.

[[Page 51384]]

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 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends Sec.  39.13 by 
adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD):

Boeing: Docket No. FAA-2006-25001; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-
079-AD.

Comments Due Date

    (a) The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by September 
29, 2008.

Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to all Boeing Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -
800, -900 and -900ER series airplanes, certificated in any category.

Unsafe Condition

    (d) This AD results from a report that the top three inches of 
the aero/fire seals of the blocker doors on the thrust reverser 
torque boxes are not fireproof. We are issuing this AD to prevent a 
fire in the fan compartment (a fire zone) from migrating through the 
seal to a flammable fluid in the thrust reverser actuator 
compartment (a flammable fluid leakage zone), which could result in 
an uncontrolled fire.

Compliance

    (e) You are responsible for having the actions required by this 
AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the 
actions have already been done.

Inspection To Determine Part Number (P/N)

    (f) Within 60 months or 8,200 flight cycles after the effective 
date of this AD, whichever occurs first: Perform a one-time detailed 
inspection to determine the color of the aero/fire seals of the 
blocker doors on the thrust reverser torque boxes on the engines. 
For any aero/fire seal having a completely gray color (which is the 
color of seals with P/N 315A2245-1 or 315A2245-2), with no red at 
the upper end of the seal, do the actions specified in paragraph (g) 
of this AD. For any aero/fire seal having a red color at the upper 
end of the seal (which indicates a different part number), no 
further action is required by this AD. A review of airplane 
maintenance records is acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the 
part number of the correct aero/fire seals (P/Ns 315A2245-7 or -8) 
can be conclusively determined to be installed from that review.

    Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed inspection is: 
``An intensive examination of a specific item, installation, or 
assembly to detect damage, failure, or irregularity. Available 
lighting is normally supplemented with a direct source of good 
lighting at an intensity deemed appropriate. Inspection aids such as 
mirror, magnifying lenses, etc., may be necessary. Surface cleaning 
and elaborate procedures may be required.''

Replace the Aero/Fire Seals

    (g) For any aero/fire seal identified during the inspection/
records check in paragraph (f) of this AD as having an affected P/N: 
Within 60 months or 8,200 flight cycles after the effective date of 
this AD, whichever occurs first, replace the aero/fire seals of the 
blocker doors on the thrust reverser torque boxes on the engines 
with new, improved aero/fire seals in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 737-78-1074, Revision 1, dated September 15, 2005.

Credit for Actions Done Using Previous Service Information

    (h) Replacements done before the effective date of this AD in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special 
Attention Service Bulletin 737-78-1074, dated April 7, 2005, are 
acceptable for compliance with the requirements of paragraph (g) of 
this AD.

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (i)(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, 
ATTN: Samuel Spitzer, Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Branch, ANM-
140S, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; 
telephone (425) 917-6510; fax (425) 917-6590; has the authority to 
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found 
in 14 CFR 39.19.
    (2) To request a different method of compliance or a different 
compliance time for this AD, follow the procedures in 14 CFR 39.19. 
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.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on August 25, 2008.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. E8-20341 Filed 9-2-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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