Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330-300, A340-200, and A340-300 Series Airplanes, 23622-23625 [E9-11283]
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Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 96 / Wednesday, May 20, 2009 / Rules and Regulations
Parts Installation for RG162
(n) For Model 747SP airplane with the
variable number RG162: As of the effective
date of this AD, unless the regulator assembly
of the inflation system has been modified in
accordance with paragraph (k) of this AD, no
person may install on that airplane a
regulator assembly with any of the following
part numbers (P/Ns): P/N 4A3047, –2, –3, –4,
–5, –8, –9, or –10; P/N 4A3194–1, –2, –3, or
–4; or P/N 4A3474–3.
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(o)(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft
Certification Office (ACO), 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:
Andrew Guion, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin
Safety and Environmental Systems Branch,
ANM–150S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft
Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW.,
Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone
(425) 917–6428; fax (425) 917–6590.
(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 principal maintenance inspector
(PMI) or principal avionics inspector (PAI),
as appropriate, or lacking a principal
inspector, your local Flight Standards District
Office. The AMOC approval letter must
specifically reference this AD.
(3) AMOCs approved previously in
accordance with AD 2005–16–06 are
approved as AMOCs for the corresponding
provisions of this AD.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(p) You must use the service information
contained in Table 2 of this AD, as
applicable, to do the actions required by this
AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
TABLE 2—ALL MATERIAL INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Boeing Service Bulletin—
Revision—
Dated—
747–25–3232 ........................................................................
747–25–3279 ........................................................................
747–25–3279 ........................................................................
Original .................................................................................
1 ...........................................................................................
4 ...........................................................................................
July 6, 2000.
July 11, 2002.
December 11, 2008.
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
the service information contained in Table 3
of this AD under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
TABLE 3—NEW MATERIAL INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Boeing Service Bulletin—
Revision—
Dated—
747–25–3279 ........................................................................
4 ...........................................................................................
December 11, 2008.
(2) The Director of the Federal Register
previously approved the incorporation by
reference of the service information
contained in Table 4 of this AD on September
13, 2005 (70 FR 46067, August 9, 2005).
TABLE 4—MATERIAL PREVIOUSLY INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Boeing Service Bulletin—
Revision—
Dated—
747–25–3232 ........................................................................
747–25–3279 ........................................................................
Original .................................................................................
1 ...........................................................................................
July 6, 2000.
July 11, 2002.
(3) For Boeing service information
identified in this AD, contact Boeing
Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data &
Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC
2H–65, Seattle, Washington 98124–2207;
telephone 206–544–5000, extension 1; fax
206–766–5680; e-mail
me.boecom@boeing.com; Internet https://
www.myboeingfleet.com. For Goodrich
service information identified in this AD,
contact Goodrich Corporation, Aircraft
Interior Products, ATTN: Technical
Publications, 3414 South Fifth Street,
Phoenix, Arizona 85040; telephone 602–243–
2270; e-mail george.yribarren@goodrich.com;
Internet https://www.goodrich.com/TechPubs.
(4) 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.
(5) You may also review copies of the
service information that is incorporated by
reference at the National Archives and
VerDate Nov<24>2008
14:51 May 19, 2009
Jkt 217001
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 May 6,
2009.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E9–11284 Filed 5–19–09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
PO 00000
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2009–0449; Directorate
Identifier 2008–NM–034–AD; Amendment
39–15907; AD 2009–10–11]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model
A330–300, A340–200, and A340–300
Series Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule; request for
comments.
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for the
products listed above. This AD results
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Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 96 / Wednesday, May 20, 2009 / Rules and Regulations
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:
Based on some recent in-service findings
for fluid ingress and/or inner skin disbond
damage on rudders which could result in
reduced structural integrity of the rudder,
AIRBUS decided to introduce some further
structural inspections to specific rudder
areas[.]
*
*
*
*
*
This AD requires actions that are
intended to address the unsafe
condition described in the MCAI.
DATES: This AD becomes effective June
4, 2009.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in the AD
as of June 4, 2009.
We must receive comments on this
AD by June 19, 2009.
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 AD, the regulatory
evaluation, any comments received, and
other information. The street address for
the Docket Operations office (telephone
(800) 647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES
section. Comments will be available in
the AD docket shortly after receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan
Rodina, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98057–3356; telephone
(425) 227–2125; fax (425) 227–1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
VerDate Nov<24>2008
14:51 May 19, 2009
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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 2008–0012,
dated January 14, 2008 (referred to after
this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe
condition for the specified products.
The MCAI states:
Based on some recent in-service findings
for fluid ingress and/or inner skin disbond
damage on rudders which could result in
reduced structural integrity of the rudder,
AIRBUS decided to introduce some further
structural inspections to specific rudder
areas:
—A special detailed one time structural
inspection to specific rudder areas to
ensure earlier detection of damage at the
inspected areas,
—A repetitive specific ultrasonic inspection
along the complete rudder panel front and
bottom edges (complete z-profile area along
the spar and the bottom rib) to detect any
damage in this area.
The aim of this Airworthiness Directive
(AD) is to render mandatory this additional
inspection program in order to maintain the
structural integrity of the rudder.
The special detailed one-time structural
inspection consists of doing a
thermography or x-ray inspection and
an ultrasonic inspection to detect
damage of the rudders at the rudder
hoisting points and trailing edge screw
areas. The corrective actions depend on
the findings and the extent of the
damage found, and include doing the
repair or contacting Airbus and
following their repair instructions.
The repetitive ultrasonic inspection
along the complete rudder panel front
and bottom edges (complete z-profile
area along the spar and the bottom rib)
to detect damage also includes doing
related investigative and corrective
actions. The related investigative action
is a thermography inspection for inner
skin disbond damage and fluid ingress
on the rudder. The corrective actions
depend on the findings and the extent
of the damage found, and may include
venting the core (a temporary repair),
and contacting Airbus and following
their repair instructions for a permanent
repair.
The compliance time for the
corrective actions for the special
detailed one-time structural inspection
ranges between ‘‘before further flight’’
and 4,500 flight cycles, depending on
the damage finding. The compliance
time for the corrective actions for the
repetitive ultrasonic inspections ranges
between ‘‘before further flight’’ and
2,500 flight cycles, depending on the
damage finding and whether the
temporary repair is done. The repetitive
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23623
interval for the ultrasonic inspections is
5,000 flight cycles, except after doing
the temporary repair, in which case the
interval is 500 flight cycles until a
permanent repair is done, after which
time the interval is 5,000 flight cycles.
You may obtain further information
by examining the MCAI in the AD
docket.
Relevant Service Information
Airbus has issued the following
service bulletins:
• Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin
A330–55–3037, including Appendix 01,
dated October 11, 2007;
• Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin
A330–55–3038, dated November 7,
2007;
• Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin
A340–55–4033, including Appendix 01,
dated October 11, 2007; and
• Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin
A340–55–4034, dated November 7,
2007.
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 AD
This product has been approved by
the aviation authority of another
country, and is approved for operation
in the United States. Pursuant to our
bilateral agreement with the State of
Design Authority, we have been notified
of the unsafe condition described in the
MCAI and service information
referenced above. We are issuing this
AD because we evaluated all pertinent
information and determined the unsafe
condition exists and is likely to exist or
develop on other products of the same
type design.
There are no products of this type
currently registered in the United States.
However, this rule is necessary to
ensure that the described unsafe
condition is addressed if any of these
products are placed on the U.S. Register
in the future.
Differences Between the 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
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Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 96 / Wednesday, May 20, 2009 / Rules and Regulations
MCAI in order to follow FAA policies.
Any such differences are highlighted in
a NOTE within the AD.
FAA’s Determination of the Effective
Date
Since there are currently no domestic
operators of this product, notice and
opportunity for public comment before
issuing this AD are unnecessary.
Comments Invited
This AD is a final rule that involves
requirements affecting flight safety, and
we did not precede it by notice and
opportunity for public comment. We
invite you to send any written relevant
data, views, or arguments about this AD.
Send your comments to an address
listed under the ADDRESSES section.
Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2009–0449;
Directorate Identifier 2008–NM–034–
AD’’ at the beginning of your comments.
We specifically invite comments on the
overall regulatory, economic,
environmental, and energy aspects of
this AD. We will consider all comments
received by the closing date and may
amend this 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 AD.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under
the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
General Requirements.’’ Under that
section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
air commerce by prescribing regulations
for practices, methods, and procedures
the Administrator finds necessary for
safety in air commerce. This regulation
is within the scope of that authority
because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on
products identified in this rulemaking
action.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this AD will not
have federalism implications under
Executive Order 13132. This AD will
not have a substantial direct effect on
the States, on the relationship between
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14:51 May 19, 2009
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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.
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:
■
2009–10–11 Airbus: Amendment 39–15907.
Docket No. FAA–2009–0449; Directorate
Identifier 2008–NM–034–AD.
Effective Date
(a) This airworthiness directive (AD)
becomes effective June 4, 2009.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A330–
300, A340–200, and A340–300 series
airplanes, certificated in any category, all
serial numbers, on which a carbon fiberreinforced plastic (CFRP) rudder part number
(PN) A55471500 series is fitted.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 55: Stabilizers.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continued airworthiness
information (MCAI) states:
Based on some recent in-service findings
for fluid ingress and/or inner skin disbond
damage on rudders which could result in
reduced structural integrity of the rudder,
AIRBUS decided to introduce some further
PO 00000
Frm 00016
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structural inspections to specific rudder
areas[.]
Actions and Compliance
(f) Unless already done, do the following
actions.
(1) Within 500 flight cycles or 6 months
after the effective date of this AD, whichever
occurs first: Perform a special detailed onetime inspection to detect damage in the areas
of the rudder hoisting points and trailing
edge screw, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Mandatory Service Bulletin A330–55–3037,
dated October 11, 2007; or Airbus Mandatory
Service Bulletin A340–55–4033, dated
October 11, 2007; as applicable. Do all
applicable corrective actions at the times
specified in and in accordance with Airbus
Mandatory Service Bulletin A330–55–3037,
dated October 11, 2007; or Airbus Mandatory
Service Bulletin A340–55–4033, dated
October 11, 2007; as applicable.
(2) Submit a report of the findings of the
inspection required by paragraph (f)(1) of this
AD to Airbus in accordance with the
instructions of Appendix 01 of Airbus
Mandatory Service Bulletin A330–55–3037,
dated October 11, 2007; or Airbus Mandatory
Service Bulletin A340–55–4033, dated
October 11, 2007; as applicable; at the
applicable time specified in paragraph
(f)(2)(i) or (f)(2)(ii) of this AD.
(i) If the inspection was done on or after
the effective date of this AD: Submit the
report within 30 days after the inspection.
(ii) If the inspection was done before the
effective date of this AD: Submit the report
within 30 days after the effective date of this
AD.
(3) Within 500 flight cycles or 6 months
after the effective date of this AD, whichever
occurs first: Perform a special detailed
inspection along the rudder z-profile to
detect inner skin disbond damage, in
accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service
Bulletin A330–55–3038, dated November 7,
2007; or Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin
A340–55–4034, dated November 7, 2007; as
applicable. Do all applicable related
investigative and corrective actions at the
times specified in and in accordance with
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330–55–
3038, dated November 7, 2007; or Airbus
Mandatory Service Bulletin A340–55–4034,
dated November 7, 2007; as applicable.
(4) Submit a report of the findings of the
inspection required by paragraph (f)(3) of this
AD to Airbus in accordance with the
instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service
Bulletin A330–55–3038, dated November 7,
2007; or Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin
A340–55–4034, dated November 7, 2007; as
applicable; at the applicable time specified in
paragraph (f)(4)(i) or (f)(4)(ii) of this AD.
(i) If the inspection was done on or after
the effective date of this AD: Submit the
report within 30 days after the inspection.
(ii) If the inspection was done before the
effective date of this AD: Submit the report
within 30 days after the effective date of this
AD.
(5) As of the effective date of this AD, no
person may install a part number (P/N)
A55471500 series rudder on an aircraft as a
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Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 96 / Wednesday, May 20, 2009 / Rules and Regulations
replacement part, unless it has been
inspected and, as applicable, repaired in
accordance with the instructions of Airbus
Mandatory Service Bulletin A330–55–3037,
dated October 11, 2007, or Airbus Mandatory
Service Bulletin A340–55–4033, dated
October 11, 2007; and Airbus Mandatory
Service Bulletin A330–55–3038, dated
November 7, 2007, or Airbus Mandatory
Service Bulletin A340–55–4034, dated
November 7, 2007.
FAA AD Differences
Note 1: 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, 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:
Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind
Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–
3356; telephone (425) 227–2125; fax (425)
227–1149. Before using any approved AMOC
on any airplane to which the AMOC applies,
notify your principal maintenance inspector
(PMI) or principal avionics inspector (PAI),
as appropriate, or lacking a principal
inspector, your local Flight Standards District
Office. The AMOC approval letter must
specifically reference this AD.
(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 Airworthiness Directive 2008–
0012, dated January 14, 2008; and the service
bulletins listed in Table 1 of this AD; for
related information.
TABLE 1—SERVICE BULLETINS
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin—
Dated—
A330–55–3037
A330–55–3038
A340–55–4033
A340–55–4034
October 11, 2007.
November 7, 2007.
October 11, 2007.
November 7, 2007.
.........................................................................................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................................................................................
.........................................................................................................................................................................
Material Incorporated by Reference
(2) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Airbus SAS—Airworthiness
Office—EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte,
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; fax +33 5 61
93 45 80, e-mail airworthiness.A330A340@airbus.com; Internet https://
www.airbus.com.
(3) You may review copies of the service
information that is incorporated by reference
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
(i) You must use the service information
contained in Table 2 of this AD to do the
actions required by this AD, as applicable,
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.
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 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.
TABLE 2—MATERIAL INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Document
Airbus
Airbus
Airbus
Airbus
Mandatory
Mandatory
Mandatory
Mandatory
Service
Service
Service
Service
Bulletin
Bulletin
Bulletin
Bulletin
A330–55–3037,
A330–55–3038,
A340–55–4033,
A340–55–4034,
Date
excluding Appendix 01 ..........................................................................
including Appendix 01 ...........................................................................
excluding Appendix 01 ..........................................................................
including Appendix 01 ...........................................................................
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Issued in Renton, Washington, on May 6,
2009.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E9–11283 Filed 5–19–09; 8:45 am]
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2009–0114; Directorate
Identifier 2009–NE–03–AD; Amendment 39–
15910; AD 2009–10–14]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Hartzell
Propeller Inc. Steel Hub Turbine
Propellers
AGENCY: Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for
comments.
VerDate Nov<24>2008
14:51 May 19, 2009
Jkt 217001
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October 11, 2007.
November 7, 2007.
October 11, 2007.
November 7, 2007.
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for Hartzell
Propeller Inc. steel hub turbine
propellers, with any counterweight slug
attachment bolts, part number (P/N) B–
3386–14H, LFC manufacturing lot 224,
installed. This AD requires identifying
and removing all counterweight slug
attachment bolts, P/N B–3386–14H, LFC
manufacturing lot 224, from service and
installing serviceable bolts. This AD
results from two reports of failure of the
bolts that attach the propeller blade
counterweight slug, and separation of
the counterweight slug which led to
propeller vibration and damage to the
propeller spinner. We are issuing this
AD to prevent separation of the
E:\FR\FM\20MYR1.SGM
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 74, Number 96 (Wednesday, May 20, 2009)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 23622-23625]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E9-11283]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2009-0449; Directorate Identifier 2008-NM-034-AD;
Amendment 39-15907; AD 2009-10-11]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330-300, A340-200, and
A340-300 Series Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the
products listed above. This AD results
[[Page 23623]]
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:
Based on some recent in-service findings for fluid ingress and/
or inner skin disbond damage on rudders which could result in
reduced structural integrity of the rudder, AIRBUS decided to
introduce some further structural inspections to specific rudder
areas[.]
* * * * *
This AD requires actions that are intended to address the unsafe
condition described in the MCAI.
DATES: This AD becomes effective June 4, 2009.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of June 4, 2009.
We must receive comments on this AD by June 19, 2009.
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 AD, the regulatory evaluation,
any comments received, and other information. The street address for
the Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is in the
ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly
after receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425)
227-2125; fax (425) 227-1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
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 2008-0012, dated January 14, 2008 (referred to
after this as ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the
specified products. The MCAI states:
Based on some recent in-service findings for fluid ingress and/
or inner skin disbond damage on rudders which could result in
reduced structural integrity of the rudder, AIRBUS decided to
introduce some further structural inspections to specific rudder
areas:
--A special detailed one time structural inspection to specific
rudder areas to ensure earlier detection of damage at the inspected
areas,
--A repetitive specific ultrasonic inspection along the complete
rudder panel front and bottom edges (complete z-profile area along
the spar and the bottom rib) to detect any damage in this area.
The aim of this Airworthiness Directive (AD) is to render
mandatory this additional inspection program in order to maintain
the structural integrity of the rudder.
The special detailed one-time structural inspection consists of doing a
thermography or x-ray inspection and an ultrasonic inspection to detect
damage of the rudders at the rudder hoisting points and trailing edge
screw areas. The corrective actions depend on the findings and the
extent of the damage found, and include doing the repair or contacting
Airbus and following their repair instructions.
The repetitive ultrasonic inspection along the complete rudder
panel front and bottom edges (complete z-profile area along the spar
and the bottom rib) to detect damage also includes doing related
investigative and corrective actions. The related investigative action
is a thermography inspection for inner skin disbond damage and fluid
ingress on the rudder. The corrective actions depend on the findings
and the extent of the damage found, and may include venting the core (a
temporary repair), and contacting Airbus and following their repair
instructions for a permanent repair.
The compliance time for the corrective actions for the special
detailed one-time structural inspection ranges between ``before further
flight'' and 4,500 flight cycles, depending on the damage finding. The
compliance time for the corrective actions for the repetitive
ultrasonic inspections ranges between ``before further flight'' and
2,500 flight cycles, depending on the damage finding and whether the
temporary repair is done. The repetitive interval for the ultrasonic
inspections is 5,000 flight cycles, except after doing the temporary
repair, in which case the interval is 500 flight cycles until a
permanent repair is done, after which time the interval is 5,000 flight
cycles.
You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD
docket.
Relevant Service Information
Airbus has issued the following service bulletins:
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-55-3037, including
Appendix 01, dated October 11, 2007;
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-55-3038, dated
November 7, 2007;
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-55-4033, including
Appendix 01, dated October 11, 2007; and
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-55-4034, dated
November 7, 2007.
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 AD
This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant
to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have
been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service
information referenced above. We are issuing this AD because we
evaluated all pertinent information and determined the unsafe condition
exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same
type design.
There are no products of this type currently registered in the
United States. However, this rule is necessary to ensure that the
described unsafe condition is addressed if any of these products are
placed on the U.S. Register in the future.
Differences Between the 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
[[Page 23624]]
MCAI in order to follow FAA policies. Any such differences are
highlighted in a NOTE within the AD.
FAA's Determination of the Effective Date
Since there are currently no domestic operators of this product,
notice and opportunity for public comment before issuing this AD are
unnecessary.
Comments Invited
This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight
safety, and we did not precede it by notice and opportunity for public
comment. We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under
the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2009-0449; Directorate
Identifier 2008-NM-034-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. We
specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic,
environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will consider all
comments received by the closing date and may amend this 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 AD.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General
Requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications
under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct
effect on the States, on the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify this AD:
1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order
12866;
2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to
comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket.
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:
2009-10-11 Airbus: Amendment 39-15907. Docket No. FAA-2009-0449;
Directorate Identifier 2008-NM-034-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective June 4,
2009.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A330-300, A340-200, and
A340-300 series airplanes, certificated in any category, all serial
numbers, on which a carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) rudder
part number (PN) A55471500 series is fitted.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 55:
Stabilizers.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continued airworthiness information (MCAI)
states:
Based on some recent in-service findings for fluid ingress and/
or inner skin disbond damage on rudders which could result in
reduced structural integrity of the rudder, AIRBUS decided to
introduce some further structural inspections to specific rudder
areas[.]
Actions and Compliance
(f) Unless already done, do the following actions.
(1) Within 500 flight cycles or 6 months after the effective
date of this AD, whichever occurs first: Perform a special detailed
one-time inspection to detect damage in the areas of the rudder
hoisting points and trailing edge screw, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin
A330-55-3037, dated October 11, 2007; or Airbus Mandatory Service
Bulletin A340-55-4033, dated October 11, 2007; as applicable. Do all
applicable corrective actions at the times specified in and in
accordance with Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-55-3037,
dated October 11, 2007; or Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-
55-4033, dated October 11, 2007; as applicable.
(2) Submit a report of the findings of the inspection required
by paragraph (f)(1) of this AD to Airbus in accordance with the
instructions of Appendix 01 of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin
A330-55-3037, dated October 11, 2007; or Airbus Mandatory Service
Bulletin A340-55-4033, dated October 11, 2007; as applicable; at the
applicable time specified in paragraph (f)(2)(i) or (f)(2)(ii) of
this AD.
(i) If the inspection was done on or after the effective date of
this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the inspection.
(ii) If the inspection was done before the effective date of
this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the effective date
of this AD.
(3) Within 500 flight cycles or 6 months after the effective
date of this AD, whichever occurs first: Perform a special detailed
inspection along the rudder z-profile to detect inner skin disbond
damage, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-55-3038, dated November 7, 2007; or
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-55-4034, dated November 7,
2007; as applicable. Do all applicable related investigative and
corrective actions at the times specified in and in accordance with
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-55-3038, dated November 7,
2007; or Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-55-4034, dated
November 7, 2007; as applicable.
(4) Submit a report of the findings of the inspection required
by paragraph (f)(3) of this AD to Airbus in accordance with the
instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-55-3038,
dated November 7, 2007; or Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-
55-4034, dated November 7, 2007; as applicable; at the applicable
time specified in paragraph (f)(4)(i) or (f)(4)(ii) of this AD.
(i) If the inspection was done on or after the effective date of
this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the inspection.
(ii) If the inspection was done before the effective date of
this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the effective date
of this AD.
(5) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install a
part number (P/N) A55471500 series rudder on an aircraft as a
[[Page 23625]]
replacement part, unless it has been inspected and, as applicable,
repaired in accordance with the instructions of Airbus Mandatory
Service Bulletin A330-55-3037, dated October 11, 2007, or Airbus
Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-55-4033, dated October 11, 2007; and
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-55-3038, dated November 7,
2007, or Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-55-4034, dated
November 7, 2007.
FAA AD Differences
Note 1: 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, 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: Dan
Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington
98057-3356; telephone (425) 227-2125; fax (425) 227-1149. Before
using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC applies,
notify your principal maintenance inspector (PMI) or principal
avionics inspector (PAI), as appropriate, or lacking a principal
inspector, your local Flight Standards District Office. The AMOC
approval letter must specifically reference this AD.
(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 Airworthiness
Directive 2008-0012, dated January 14, 2008; and the service
bulletins listed in Table 1 of this AD; for related information.
Table 1--Service Bulletins
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin-- Dated--
------------------------------------------------------------------------
A330-55-3037........................ October 11, 2007.
A330-55-3038........................ November 7, 2007.
A340-55-4033........................ October 11, 2007.
A340-55-4034........................ November 7, 2007.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Material Incorporated by Reference
(i) You must use the service information contained in Table 2 of
this AD to do the actions required by this AD, as applicable, 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
Airbus SAS--Airworthiness Office--EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; fax +33 5 61 93 45 80, e-mail
airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com.
(3) You may review copies of the service information that is
incorporated by reference 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 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.
Table 2--Material Incorporated by Reference
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Document Date
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin October 11, 2007.
A330-55-3037, excluding Appendix 01.
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin November 7, 2007.
A330-55-3038, including Appendix 01.
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin October 11, 2007.
A340-55-4033, excluding Appendix 01.
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin November 7, 2007.
A340-55-4034, including Appendix 01.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Issued in Renton, Washington, on May 6, 2009.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. E9-11283 Filed 5-19-09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
