Airworthiness Directives; ATR Model ATR72 Airplanes, 14472-14474 [E9-6755]

Download as PDF 14472 Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 60 / Tuesday, March 31, 2009 / Rules and Regulations DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2008–1081; Directorate Identifier 2008–NM–143–AD; Amendment 39–15864; AD 2009–07–05] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; ATR Model ATR72 Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as: SUMMARY: Incomplete accomplishment instructions in SB [service bulletin] ATR72–27–1059 original issue and Revision 1, failed to mention installation of cotter pins to secure the self locking nuts after re-installation of the modified Pitch Uncoupling Mechanism (PUM), when connecting the elevator control linkage rods to the PUM input levers and the PUM output rods to the elevator bellcranks (on both sides). Because of the non-installation of these four cotter pins, the fail-safe criteria of the design requirements on the pitch control are no longer met. Such a failure could cause the loss of one self locking nut and would result in the loss of pitch control on one side— Captain or First Officer—or the loss of control of one elevator surface. The symmetrical loss of two concerned selflocking nuts could lead to a complete loss of the pitch control. tjames on PRODPC61 with RULES * * * * * We are issuing this AD to require actions to correct the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD becomes effective May 5, 2009. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of May 5, 2009. ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov or in person at the U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tom Rodriguez, Aerospace Engineer, VerDate Nov<24>2008 14:33 Mar 30, 2009 Jkt 217001 International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–1137; fax (425) 227–1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to the specified products. That NPRM was published in the Federal Register on October 9, 2008 (73 FR 59573). That NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: Incomplete accomplishment instructions in SB [service bulletin] ATR72–27–1059 original issue and Revision 1, failed to mention installation of cotter pins to secure the self locking nuts after re-installation of the modified Pitch Uncoupling Mechanism (PUM), when connecting the elevator control linkage rods to the PUM input levers and the PUM output rods to the elevator bellcranks (on both sides). Because of the non-installation of these four cotter pins, the fail-safe criteria of the design requirements on the pitch control are no longer met. Such a failure could cause the loss of one self locking nut and would result in the loss of pitch control on one side— Captain or First Officer—or the loss of control of one elevator surface. The symmetrical loss of two concerned selflocking nuts could lead to a complete loss of the pitch control. For the reasons stated above, this AD requires you to check [for] the presence of the four cotter pins and [perform] their installation if they are found to be missing. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket. Revision to Service Information Since the NPRM was issued we have received Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72–27–1059, Revision 03, dated October 3, 2008. We referred to Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72–27– 1059, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2008, in the NPRM as the appropriate source of service information for accomplishing the required actions. Revision 03 of Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72–27–1059 adds an option for doing additional actions and includes minor editorial changes that do not affect the technical content. We have added Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72–27– 1059, Revision 03, dated October 3, 2008, to paragraphs (f)(1), (f)(2), (f)(3), and (h) of this AD as an option for accomplishing the required actions. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. We PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of the cost to the public. Conclusion We reviewed the available data and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD with the change described previously. We determined that this change will not increase the economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of the AD. Differences Between This AD and the MCAI or Service Information We have reviewed the MCAI and related service information and, in general, agree with their substance. But we might have found it necessary to use different words from those in the MCAI to ensure the AD is clear for U.S. operators and is enforceable. In making these changes, we do not intend to differ substantively from the information provided in the MCAI and related service information. We might also have required different actions in this AD from those in the MCAI in order to follow our FAA policies. Any such differences are highlighted in a Note within the AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD will affect 20 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it will take about 2 workhours per product to comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average labor rate is $80 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD to the U.S. operators to be $3,200, 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. E:\FR\FM\31MRR1.SGM 31MRR1 Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 60 / Tuesday, March 31, 2009 / Rules and Regulations Regulatory Findings We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this AD: 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and 3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Operations office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains the NPRM, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: ■ 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: tjames on PRODPC61 with RULES ■ 2009–07–05 ATR–GIE Avions de Transport ´ Regional (Formerly Aerospatiale): Amendment 39–15864. Docket No. FAA–2008–1081; Directorate Identifier 2008–NM–143–AD. VerDate Nov<24>2008 14:33 Mar 30, 2009 Jkt 217001 Effective Date (a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective May 5, 2009. Affected ADs (b) None. Applicability (c) This AD applies to ATR Model ATR72– 101, –102, –201, –202, –211, –212, and –212A airplanes, all serial numbers, certificated in any category; as identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of this AD, as applicable. (1) This AD applies to airplanes on which Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72–27–1059 was done in service at original issue, dated October 3, 2006; or Revision 01, dated March 14, 2007; except as provided by paragraph (c)(2) of this AD. (2) This AD does not apply to airplanes on which Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72–27–1059, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2008; or Revision 03, dated October 3, 2008; was done in service, or ATR Modification 05572 was done in production. Modification 05572 is factory-incorporated on ATR72–212A airplanes from manufacturer’s serial number (MSN) 730. Subject (d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 27: Flight controls. Reason (e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) states: Incomplete accomplishment instructions in SB [service bulletin] ATR72–27–1059 original issue and Revision 1, failed to mention installation of cotter pins to secure the self locking nuts after re-installation of the modified Pitch Uncoupling Mechanism (PUM), when connecting the elevator control linkage rods to the PUM input levers and the PUM output rods to the elevator bellcranks (on both sides). Because of the non-installation of these four cotter pins, the fail-safe criteria of the design requirements on the pitch control are no longer met. Such a failure could cause the loss of one self locking nut and would result in the loss of pitch control on one side— Captain or First Officer—or the loss of control of one elevator surface. The symmetrical loss of two concerned selflocking nuts could lead to a complete loss of the pitch control. For the reasons stated above, this AD requires you to check [for] the presence of the four cotter pins and [perform] their installation if they are found to be missing. Actions and Compliance (f) Unless already done, do the following actions. (1) Within 10 days after the effective date of this AD: Verify installation of the four cotter pins securing the nuts of the fastener assemblies connecting the elevator control rods to the elevator bellcranks as shown in Figure 1 of the Accomplishment Instructions of Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72–27–1059, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2008; or Revision 03, dated October 3, 2008. PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 14473 (2) If any cotter pin is found missing, before further flight, install a new cotter pin with part number MS24665–164 by doing all the applicable actions in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72– 27–1059, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2008; or Revision 03, dated October 3, 2008. Note 1: For accessing the zone to be inspected, panels 325BL, 325BR, 327HL, 327KL, 327KR, 327JR, 327JL, 333BB, and 334BB may need to be removed. Information pertaining to removal procedures can be found in the Accomplishment Instructions of Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72–27–1059, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2008; or Revision 03, dated October 3, 2008. (3) Before further flight after accomplishment of paragraph (f)(2) of this AD, perform an operational test of the elevator control as specified in paragraph 3.D., ‘‘Tests,’’ of the Accomplishment Instructions of Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72–27–1059, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2008; or Revision 03, dated October 3, 2008. If any elevator control rod fails the operational test, before further flight, repair using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) (or its delegated agent). FAA AD Differences Note 2: This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service information as follows: The MCAI does not specify corrective action for failure of the operational test (binding or friction) specified in paragraph (f)(3) of this AD. This AD requires using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM–116; or the EASA (or its delegated agent) and performing corrective action before further flight. Other FAA AD Provisions (g) The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to ATTN: 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 FAAapproved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority (or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product is airworthy before it is returned to service. E:\FR\FM\31MRR1.SGM 31MRR1 14474 Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 60 / Tuesday, March 31, 2009 / Rules and Regulations (3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in this AD, under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has approved the information collection requirements and has assigned OMB Control Number 2120–0056. Related Information (h) Refer to MCAI EASA Emergency Airworthiness Directive 2008–0137–E, dated July 23, 2008; and Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72–27–1059, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2008, or Revision 03, dated October 3, 2008; for related information. Material Incorporated by Reference (i) You must use Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72–27–1059, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2008; or Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72–27–1059, Revision 03, dated October 3, 2008; to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of this service information under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact ATR—GIE Avions de ´ ´ Transport Regional, 1, Allee Pierre Nadot, 31712 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 (0) 5 62 21 62 21; fax +33 (0) 5 62 21 67 18; e-mail continued.airworthiness@atr.fr; Internet https://www.aerochain.com. (3) You may review copies of the service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221 or 425–227–1152. (4) You may also review copies of the service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal_register/ code_of_federal_regulations/ ibr_locations.html. Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 17, 2009. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. E9–6755 Filed 3–30–09; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 14 CFR Part 97 tjames on PRODPC61 with RULES [Docket No. 30659; Amdt. No. 3315] Standard Instrument Approach Procedures, and Takeoff Minimums and Obstacle Departure Procedures; Miscellaneous Amendments AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final Rule. VerDate Nov<24>2008 14:33 Mar 30, 2009 Jkt 217001 SUMMARY: This rule establishes, amends, suspends, or revokes Standard Instrument Approach Procedures (SIAPs) and associated Takeoff Minimums and Obstacle Departure Procedures for operations at certain airports. These regulatory actions are needed because of the adoption of new or revised criteria, or because of changes occurring in the National Airspace System, such as the commissioning of new navigational facilities, adding new obstacles, or changing air traffic requirements. These changes are designed to provide safe and efficient use of the navigable airspace and to promote safe flight operations under instrument flight rules at the affected airports. DATES: This rule is effective March 31, 2009. The compliance date for each SIAP, associated Takeoff Minimums, and ODP is specified in the amendatory provisions. The incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the regulations is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as of March 31, 2009. ADDRESSES: Availability of matter incorporated by reference in the amendment is as follows: For Examination— 1. FAA Rules Docket, FAA Headquarters Building, 800 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20591; 2. The FAA Regional Office of the region in which the affected airport is located; 3. The National Flight Procedures Office, 6500 South MacArthur Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73169 or, 4. The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/ federal_register/ code_of_federal_regulations/ ibr_locations.html. Availability—All SIAPs are available online free of charge. Visit nfdc.faa.gov to register. Additionally, individual SIAP and Takeoff Minimums and ODP copies may be obtained from: 1.FAA Public Inquiry Center (APA– 200), FAA Headquarters Building, 800 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20591; or 2.The FAA Regional Office of the region in which the affected airport is located. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Harry J. Hodges, Flight Procedure Standards Branch (AFS–420) Flight Technologies and Programs Division, Flight Standards Service, Federal PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Aviation Administration, Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, 6500 South MacArthur Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73169 (Mail Address: P.O. Box 25082 Oklahoma City, OK 73125) telephone: (405) 954–4164. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This rule amends Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 97 (14 CFR part 97) by amending the referenced SIAPs. The complete regulatory description of each SIAP is listed on the appropriate FAA Form 8260, as modified by the National Flight Data Center (FDC)/Permanent Notice to Airmen (P–NOTAM), and is incorporated by reference in the amendment under 5 U.S.C. 552(a), 1 CFR part 51, and § 97.20 of Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations. The large number of SIAPs, their complex nature, and the need for a special format make their verbatim publication in the Federal Register expensive and impractical. Further, airmen do not use the regulatory text of the SIAPs, but refer to their graphic depiction on charts printed by publishers of aeronautical materials. Thus, the advantages of incorporation by reference are realized and publication of the complete description of each SIAP contained in FAA form documents is unnecessary. This amendment provides the affected CFR sections and specifies the types of SIAP and the corresponding effective dates. This amendment also identifies the airport and its location, the procedure and the amendment number. The Rule This amendment to 14 CFR part 97 is effective upon publication of each separate SIAP as amended in the transmittal. For safety and timeliness of change considerations, this amendment incorporates only specific changes contained for each SIAP as modified by FDC/P–NOTAMs. The SIAPs, as modified by FDC P–NOTAM, and contained in this amendment are based on the criteria contained in the U.S. Standard for Terminal Instrument Procedures (TERPS). In developing these changes to SIAPs, the TERPS criteria were applied only to specific conditions existing at the affected airports. All SIAP amendments in this rule have been previously issued by the FAA in a FDC NOTAM as an emergency action of immediate flight safety relating directly to published aeronautical charts. The circumstances which created the need for all these SIAP amendments requires making them effective in less than 30 days. Because of the close and immediate relationship between these SIAPs and E:\FR\FM\31MRR1.SGM 31MRR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 74, Number 60 (Tuesday, March 31, 2009)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 14472-14474]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E9-6755]



[[Page 14472]]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2008-1081; Directorate Identifier 2008-NM-143-AD; 
Amendment 39-15864; AD 2009-07-05]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; ATR Model ATR72 Airplanes

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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

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

    Incomplete accomplishment instructions in SB [service bulletin] 
ATR72-27-1059 original issue and Revision 1, failed to mention 
installation of cotter pins to secure the self locking nuts after 
re-installation of the modified Pitch Uncoupling Mechanism (PUM), 
when connecting the elevator control linkage rods to the PUM input 
levers and the PUM output rods to the elevator bellcranks (on both 
sides).
    Because of the non-installation of these four cotter pins, the 
fail-safe criteria of the design requirements on the pitch control 
are no longer met. Such a failure could cause the loss of one self 
locking nut and would result in the loss of pitch control on one 
side--Captain or First Officer--or the loss of control of one 
elevator surface. The symmetrical loss of two concerned self-locking 
nuts could lead to a complete loss of the pitch control.
* * * * *
    We are issuing this AD to require actions to correct the unsafe 
condition on these products.

DATES: This AD becomes effective May 5, 2009.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of May 5, 2009.

ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov or in person at the U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tom Rodriguez, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 
227-1137; fax (425) 227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 to include an AD that would apply to the specified products. 
That NPRM was published in the Federal Register on October 9, 2008 (73 
FR 59573). That NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe condition for the 
specified products. The MCAI states:

    Incomplete accomplishment instructions in SB [service bulletin] 
ATR72-27-1059 original issue and Revision 1, failed to mention 
installation of cotter pins to secure the self locking nuts after 
re-installation of the modified Pitch Uncoupling Mechanism (PUM), 
when connecting the elevator control linkage rods to the PUM input 
levers and the PUM output rods to the elevator bellcranks (on both 
sides).
    Because of the non-installation of these four cotter pins, the 
fail-safe criteria of the design requirements on the pitch control 
are no longer met. Such a failure could cause the loss of one self 
locking nut and would result in the loss of pitch control on one 
side--Captain or First Officer--or the loss of control of one 
elevator surface. The symmetrical loss of two concerned self-locking 
nuts could lead to a complete loss of the pitch control.
    For the reasons stated above, this AD requires you to check 
[for] the presence of the four cotter pins and [perform] their 
installation if they are found to be missing.

You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD 
docket.

Revision to Service Information

    Since the NPRM was issued we have received Avions de Transport 
Regional Service Bulletin ATR72-27-1059, Revision 03, dated October 3, 
2008. We referred to Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin 
ATR72-27-1059, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2008, in the NPRM as the 
appropriate source of service information for accomplishing the 
required actions. Revision 03 of Avions de Transport Regional Service 
Bulletin ATR72-27-1059 adds an option for doing additional actions and 
includes minor editorial changes that do not affect the technical 
content. We have added Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin 
ATR72-27-1059, Revision 03, dated October 3, 2008, to paragraphs 
(f)(1), (f)(2), (f)(3), and (h) of this AD as an option for 
accomplishing the required actions.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. We received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of 
the cost to the public.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the available data and determined that air safety and 
the public interest require adopting the AD with the change described 
previously. We determined that this change will not increase the 
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of the AD.

Differences Between This AD and the MCAI or Service Information

    We have reviewed the MCAI and related service information and, in 
general, agree with their substance. But we might have found it 
necessary to use different words from those in the MCAI to ensure the 
AD is clear for U.S. operators and is enforceable. In making these 
changes, we do not intend to differ substantively from the information 
provided in the MCAI and related service information.
    We might also have required different actions in this AD from those 
in the MCAI in order to follow our FAA policies. Any such differences 
are highlighted in a Note within the AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD will affect 20 products of U.S. registry. 
We also estimate that it will take about 2 work-hours per product to 
comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average labor rate 
is $80 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of 
this AD to the U.S. operators to be $3,200, 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.

[[Page 14473]]

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications 
under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct 
effect on the States, on the relationship between the national 
government and the States, or on the distribution of power and 
responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify this AD:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
    3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to 
comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Operations office 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The AD docket contains the NPRM, the regulatory evaluation, 
any comments received, and other information. The street address for 
the Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is in the 
ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly 
after receipt.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

Adoption of the Amendment

0
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, 
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new AD:

2009-07-05 ATR-GIE Avions de Transport R[eacute]gional (Formerly 
Aerospatiale): Amendment 39-15864. Docket No. FAA-2008-1081; 
Directorate Identifier 2008-NM-143-AD.

Effective Date

    (a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective May 5, 
2009.

Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to ATR Model ATR72-101, -102, -201, -202, -
211, -212, and -212A airplanes, all serial numbers, certificated in 
any category; as identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of this 
AD, as applicable.
    (1) This AD applies to airplanes on which Avions de Transport 
Regional Service Bulletin ATR72-27-1059 was done in service at 
original issue, dated October 3, 2006; or Revision 01, dated March 
14, 2007; except as provided by paragraph (c)(2) of this AD.
    (2) This AD does not apply to airplanes on which Avions de 
Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72-27-1059, Revision 02, 
dated May 19, 2008; or Revision 03, dated October 3, 2008; was done 
in service, or ATR Modification 05572 was done in production. 
Modification 05572 is factory-incorporated on ATR72-212A airplanes 
from manufacturer's serial number (MSN) 730.

Subject

    (d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 27: Flight 
controls.

Reason

    (e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) 
states:

    Incomplete accomplishment instructions in SB [service bulletin] 
ATR72-27-1059 original issue and Revision 1, failed to mention 
installation of cotter pins to secure the self locking nuts after 
re-installation of the modified Pitch Uncoupling Mechanism (PUM), 
when connecting the elevator control linkage rods to the PUM input 
levers and the PUM output rods to the elevator bellcranks (on both 
sides).
    Because of the non-installation of these four cotter pins, the 
fail-safe criteria of the design requirements on the pitch control 
are no longer met. Such a failure could cause the loss of one self 
locking nut and would result in the loss of pitch control on one 
side--Captain or First Officer--or the loss of control of one 
elevator surface. The symmetrical loss of two concerned self-locking 
nuts could lead to a complete loss of the pitch control.
    For the reasons stated above, this AD requires you to check 
[for] the presence of the four cotter pins and [perform] their 
installation if they are found to be missing.

Actions and Compliance

    (f) Unless already done, do the following actions.
    (1) Within 10 days after the effective date of this AD: Verify 
installation of the four cotter pins securing the nuts of the 
fastener assemblies connecting the elevator control rods to the 
elevator bellcranks as shown in Figure 1 of the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72-
27-1059, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2008; or Revision 03, dated 
October 3, 2008.
    (2) If any cotter pin is found missing, before further flight, 
install a new cotter pin with part number MS24665-164 by doing all 
the applicable actions in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72-
27-1059, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2008; or Revision 03, dated 
October 3, 2008.

    Note 1:  For accessing the zone to be inspected, panels 325BL, 
325BR, 327HL, 327KL, 327KR, 327JR, 327JL, 333BB, and 334BB may need 
to be removed. Information pertaining to removal procedures can be 
found in the Accomplishment Instructions of Avions de Transport 
Regional Service Bulletin ATR72-27-1059, Revision 02, dated May 19, 
2008; or Revision 03, dated October 3, 2008.

    (3) Before further flight after accomplishment of paragraph 
(f)(2) of this AD, perform an operational test of the elevator 
control as specified in paragraph 3.D., ``Tests,'' of the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Avions de Transport Regional Service 
Bulletin ATR72-27-1059, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2008; or Revision 
03, dated October 3, 2008. If any elevator control rod fails the 
operational test, before further flight, repair using a method 
approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency 
(EASA) (or its delegated agent).

FAA AD Differences

    Note 2:  This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service 
information as follows: The MCAI does not specify corrective action 
for failure of the operational test (binding or friction) specified 
in paragraph (f)(3) of this AD. This AD requires using a method 
approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116; or the EASA 
(or its delegated agent) and performing corrective action before 
further flight.

Other FAA AD Provisions

    (g) The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using 
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to ATTN: 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.

[[Page 14474]]

    (3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in 
this AD, under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act, the 
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has approved the information 
collection requirements and has assigned OMB Control Number 2120-
0056.

Related Information

    (h) Refer to MCAI EASA Emergency Airworthiness Directive 2008-
0137-E, dated July 23, 2008; and Avions de Transport Regional 
Service Bulletin ATR72-27-1059, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2008, or 
Revision 03, dated October 3, 2008; for related information.

Material Incorporated by Reference

    (i) You must use Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin 
ATR72-27-1059, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2008; or Avions de 
Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72-27-1059, Revision 03, 
dated October 3, 2008; to do the actions required by this AD, unless 
the AD specifies otherwise.
    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference of this service information under 5 
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact ATR--
GIE Avions de Transport R[eacute]gional, 1, All[eacute]e Pierre 
Nadot, 31712 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 (0) 5 62 21 62 21; 
fax +33 (0) 5 62 21 67 18; e-mail continued.airworthiness@atr.fr; 
Internet https://www.aerochain.com.
    (3) You may review copies of the service information at the FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, 
Washington. For information on the availability of this material at 
the FAA, call 425-227-1221 or 425-227-1152.
    (4) You may also review copies of the service information that 
is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records 
Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this 
material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 17, 2009.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. E9-6755 Filed 3-30-09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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