Airworthiness Directives; McDonnell Douglas Model DC-9-14, DC-9-15, and DC-9-15F Airplanes; and McDonnell Douglas Model DC-9-20, DC-9-30, DC-9-40, and DC-9-50 Series Airplanes, 37963-37965 [E9-18157]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 145 / Thursday, July 30, 2009 / Proposed Rules AD if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Special Flight Permits (p) Under 14 CFR part 39.23, we will not approve special flight permits for this AD for engines that have failed the visual inspection or the cylinder assembly compression test required by this AD. Related Information (q) Contact Peter W. Hakala, Aerospace Engineer, Special Certification Office, FAA, Rotorcraft Directorate, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, TX 76193; e-mail: peter.w.hakala@faa.gov; telephone (817) 222–5145; fax (817) 222–5785, for more information about this AD. Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on July 21, 2009. Peter A. White, Assistant Manager, Engine and Propeller Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. E9–18118 Filed 7–29–09; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2009–0658; Directorate Identifier 2009–NM–058–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; McDonnell Douglas Model DC–9–14, DC–9–15, and DC–9–15F Airplanes; and McDonnell Douglas Model DC–9–20, DC–9–30, DC–9–40, and DC–9–50 Series Airplanes erowe on DSK5CLS3C1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to supersede an existing airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to all McDonnell Douglas Model DC–9–14, DC–9–15, and DC–9–15F airplanes; and McDonnell Douglas Model DC–9–20, DC–9–30, DC–9–40, and DC–9–50 series airplanes. The existing AD currently requires repetitive inspections for cracks of the main landing gear (MLG) shock strut cylinder, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. This proposed AD would add more work on airplanes that have main landing gear shock struts with certain identified part numbers. This proposed AD results from two reports of a collapsed MLG and a report of cracks in two MLG cylinders. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracks in the shock strut cylinder of the MLG, which VerDate Nov<24>2008 14:58 Jul 29, 2009 Jkt 217001 could result in a collapsed MLG during takeoff or landing, and possible reduced structural integrity of the airplane. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by September 14, 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 W12–140, 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, Attention: Data & Services Management, 3855 Lakewood Boulevard, MC D800–0019, Long Beach, California 90846–0001; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 2; fax 206–766–5683; e-mail dse.boecom@boeing.com; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may review copies of the referenced 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. 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: Wahib Mina, ANM–120L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California 90712–4137; telephone (562) 627–5324; fax (562) 627–5210. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 37963 this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2009–0658; Directorate Identifier 2009–NM–058–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 On September 7, 2005, we issued AD 2005–19–08, amendment 39–14273 (70 FR 54616, September 16, 2005), for all McDonnell Douglas Model DC–9–14, DC–9–15, and DC–9–15F airplanes; and McDonnell Douglas Model DC–9–20, DC–9–30, DC–9–40, and DC–9–50 series airplanes. That AD requires repetitive inspections for cracks of the main landing gear (MLG) shock strut cylinder, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. That AD resulted from two reports of a collapsed MLG and a report of cracks in two MLG cylinders. We issued that AD to detect and correct fatigue cracks in the shock strut cylinder of the MLG, which could result in a collapsed MLG during takeoff or landing, and possible reduced structural integrity of the airplane. Actions Since Existing AD Was Issued Since we issued AD 2005–19–08, the manufacturer revised the service information referenced in that AD, i.e., Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9– 32A350, Revision 1, dated August 3, 2005, to add more work on airplanes that have shock struts with part numbers 5924400–505 and 5924400– 506. Relevant Service Information We have reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9–32A350, Revision 2, dated March 20, 2009, which specifies that shock struts having part numbers 5924400–505 and 5924400– 506 must be included with those struts that require repetitive non-destructive testing inspections. The remaining actions are otherwise unchanged. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of the Proposed AD We have evaluated all pertinent information and identified an unsafe E:\FR\FM\30JYP1.SGM 30JYP1 37964 Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 145 / Thursday, July 30, 2009 / Proposed Rules condition that is likely to develop on other airplanes of the same type design. For this reason, we are proposing this AD, which would supersede AD 2005– 19–08 and would retain its requirements. This proposed AD would also require accomplishing the actions specified for the additional shock struts. Costs of Compliance The following table provides the estimated costs for U.S. operators to comply with this proposed AD. There are about 644 airplanes of the affected design in the worldwide fleet. ESTIMATED COSTS Average labor rate per hour Action Work hours Inspection ..................... 4 to 6 ............................ 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. erowe on DSK5CLS3C1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 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 proposed AD and placed it in the VerDate Nov<24>2008 14:58 Jul 29, 2009 Jkt 217001 $80 Parts None ......... Cost per airplane $320 to $480 per inspection cycle. AD docket. See the ADDRESSES section for a location to examine the regulatory evaluation. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by removing amendment 39–14273 (70 FR 54616, September 16, 2005) and adding the following new AD: McDonnell Douglas: Docket No. FAA–2009– 0658; Directorate Identifier 2009–NM– 058–AD. Comments Due Date (a) The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by September 14, 2009. Affected ADs (b) This AD supersedes AD 2005–19–08. Applicability (c) This AD applies to all McDonnell Douglas Model DC–9–14, DC–9–15, and DC– 9–15F airplanes; Model DC–9–21 airplanes; Model DC–9–31, DC–9–32, DC–9–32 (VC– 9C), DC–9–32F, DC–9–33F, DC–9–34, DC–9– 34F, and DC–9–32F (C–9A, C–9B) airplanes; Model DC–9–41 airplanes; and Model DC–9– 51 airplanes; certificated in any category. Subject (d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 32: Landing gear. Unsafe Condition (e) This AD results from two reports of a collapsed main landing gear (MLG) and a PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4702 Number of U.S.registered airplanes Sfmt 4702 426 Fleet cost $136,320 to $204,480 per inspection cycle. report of cracks in two MLG cylinders. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracks in the shock strut cylinder of the MLG, which could result in a collapsed MLG during takeoff or landing, and possible reduced structural integrity of the airplane. Compliance (f) You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the actions have already been done. Restatement of Requirements of AD 2005– 19–08 with Revised Service Information: Records Review (g) Except as required by paragraph (m) of this AD, before the applicable compliance time specified in paragraph (h) or Table 1 of this AD, as applicable, do the applicable actions in paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD. (1) For all airplane groups: Review the airplane maintenance records of the MLG to determine its service history and the number of landings on the MLG shock strut cylinder. (2) For Group 3 airplanes identified in the service bulletin: Review the maintenance records to determine if the MLG cylinder on each Group 3 airplane has always been on a Group 3 airplane, and do the actions in paragraph (k) of this AD. Inspection (h) Inspect the MLG shock strut cylinders for cracks using the Option 1 or Option 2 non-destructive testing inspection described in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9– 32A350, Revision 1, dated August 3, 2005; or Revision 2, dated March 20, 2009, except as required by paragraph (m) of this AD. Inspect in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9–32A350, Revision 1, dated August 3, 2005; or Revision 2, dated March 20, 2009; except as required by paragraph (m) of this AD. After the effective date of this AD, use only Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9– 32A350, Revision 2, dated March 20, 2009. Do the detailed inspection before the accumulation of 60,000 total landings on the MLG, or at the applicable grace period specified in Table 1 of this AD, whichever occurs later, except as required by paragraph (m) of this AD, and except as provided by paragraph (k) of this AD. If the review of maintenance records is not sufficient to conclusively determine the service history E:\FR\FM\30JYP1.SGM 30JYP1 Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 145 / Thursday, July 30, 2009 / Proposed Rules and number of landings on the MLG shock strut cylinder, perform the initial inspection 37965 at the applicable grace period specified in Table 1 of this AD. TABLE 1—THRESHOLD AND REPETITIVE INTERVAL Airplanes identified in the service bulletin as group Threshold 1 .......................................................................... Within 18 months or 650 landings after October 21, 2005 (the effective date of AD 2005–19–08), whichever occurs first. Within 18 months or 500 landings after October 21, 2005, whichever occurs first. Within 18 months or 2,500 landings after October 21, 2005, whichever occurs first. Within 18 months or 2,100 landings after October 21, 2005, whichever occurs first. 2 .......................................................................... 3, except as provided by paragraph (k) of this AD. 4 .......................................................................... No Indication of Cracking Is Found (i) If no indication of cracking is found during the inspection required by paragraph (h) of this AD, repeat the inspection in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9–32A350, Revision 1, dated August 3, 2005; or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9–32A350, Revision 2, dated March 20, 2009; at the applicable interval specified in Table 1 of this AD, except as required by paragraph (m) of this AD. After the effective date of this AD, use only Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9–32A350, Revision 2, dated March 20, 2009, of the service bulletin. erowe on DSK5CLS3C1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 Related Investigative and Corrective Actions (j) If any indication of cracking is found during any inspection required by paragraph (h) or (i) of this AD: Before further flight, confirm the indication of cracking by doing all applicable related investigative actions and doing the applicable corrective actions in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9–32A350, Revision 1, dated August 3, 2005; or Revision 2, dated March 20, 2009; except as required by paragraph (m) of this AD. After the effective date of this AD, use only Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9– 32A350, Revision 2, dated March 20, 2009, of the service bulletin. Repeat the inspection at the applicable threshold and interval specified in paragraph (h) of this AD. MLG Cylinder Previously Installed on Group 4 Airplanes (k) For MLG cylinders on Group 3 airplanes as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9–32A350, Revision 1, dated August 3, 2005; or Revision 2, dated March 20, 2009: If the MLG cylinder was previously installed on a Group 4 airplane, as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9–32A350, Revision 1, dated August 3, 2005; or Revision 2, dated March 20, 2009; or if the service history and number of landings cannot be determined, the MLG cylinder must be inspected at the grace period and repetitive interval that applies to Group 4 airplanes, as specified in Table 1 of this AD, except as required by paragraph (m) of this AD. Actions Accomplished in Accordance With Original Issue of Service Bulletin (l) For airplanes with shock struts that have part numbers other than 5924400–505 and VerDate Nov<24>2008 14:58 Jul 29, 2009 Jkt 217001 Repetitive interval Intervals not to exceed 650 landings. Intervals not to exceed 500 landings. Intervals not to exceed 2,500 landings. Intervals not to exceed 2,100 landings. 5924400–506: Actions done before the effective date of this AD in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9–32A350, dated December 3, 2004, are acceptable for compliance with the corresponding actions required paragraphs (h), (i), (j), and (k) of this by this AD. Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 22, 2009. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. E9–18157 Filed 7–29–09; 8:45 am] New Requirements of This AD (m) For airplanes with shock struts that have part numbers 5924400–505 and 5924400–506: Do the actions required by paragraphs (g), (h), (i), (j), and (k), as applicable, in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9–32A350, Revision 2, dated March 20, 2009. Do the actions at the time specified in those paragraphs, except where Table 1 of this AD specifies a compliance time after October 21, 2005, the compliance time for these airplanes is within the specified compliance time after the effective date of this AD. BILLING CODE 4910–13–P Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (n)(1) The Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 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: Wahib Mina, ANM–120L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California 90712– 4137; telephone (562) 627–5324; fax (562) 627–5210. (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) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair required by this AD, if it is approved by an Authorized Representative for the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Delegation Option Authorization Organization who has been authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles ACO, to make those findings. For a repair method to be approved, the repair must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. Airworthiness Directives; Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica S.A. (EMBRAER) Model EMB–135BJ, –135ER, –135KE, –135KL, and –135LR Airplanes; and EMB–145, –145ER, –145MR, –145LR, –145XR, –145MP, and –145EP Airplanes PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2009–0659; Directorate Identifier 2009–NM–060–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This proposed AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as: It has been found occurrences of main landing gear (MLG) trailing arm pins broken due to a fatigue mechanism induced by an excessive torque applied during the assemblage of auxiliary door support attachment and consequent deformation of the MLG trailing arm axle. A broken pin can lead to loss of the MLG trailing arm axle, disconnecting the trailing arm from the main E:\FR\FM\30JYP1.SGM 30JYP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 74, Number 145 (Thursday, July 30, 2009)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 37963-37965]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E9-18157]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2009-0658; Directorate Identifier 2009-NM-058-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; McDonnell Douglas Model DC-9-14, DC-9-
15, and DC-9-15F Airplanes; and McDonnell Douglas Model DC-9-20, DC-9-
30, DC-9-40, and DC-9-50 Series Airplanes

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

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to supersede an existing airworthiness 
directive (AD) that applies to all McDonnell Douglas Model DC-9-14, DC-
9-15, and DC-9-15F airplanes; and McDonnell Douglas Model DC-9-20, DC-
9-30, DC-9-40, and DC-9-50 series airplanes. The existing AD currently 
requires repetitive inspections for cracks of the main landing gear 
(MLG) shock strut cylinder, and related investigative and corrective 
actions if necessary. This proposed AD would add more work on airplanes 
that have main landing gear shock struts with certain identified part 
numbers. This proposed AD results from two reports of a collapsed MLG 
and a report of cracks in two MLG cylinders. We are proposing this AD 
to detect and correct fatigue cracks in the shock strut cylinder of the 
MLG, which could result in a collapsed MLG during takeoff or landing, 
and possible reduced structural integrity of the airplane.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by September 14, 
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 W12-140, 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, Attention: Data & Services Management, 
3855 Lakewood Boulevard, MC D800-0019, Long Beach, California 90846-
0001; telephone 206-544-5000, extension 2; fax 206-766-5683; e-mail 
dse.boecom@boeing.com; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may 
review copies of the referenced 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.

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: Wahib Mina, ANM-120L, FAA, Los Angeles 
Aircraft Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, 
California 90712-4137; telephone (562) 627-5324; fax (562) 627-5210.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2009-0658; 
Directorate Identifier 2009-NM-058-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

    On September 7, 2005, we issued AD 2005-19-08, amendment 39-14273 
(70 FR 54616, September 16, 2005), for all McDonnell Douglas Model DC-
9-14, DC-9-15, and DC-9-15F airplanes; and McDonnell Douglas Model DC-
9-20, DC-9-30, DC-9-40, and DC-9-50 series airplanes. That AD requires 
repetitive inspections for cracks of the main landing gear (MLG) shock 
strut cylinder, and related investigative and corrective actions if 
necessary. That AD resulted from two reports of a collapsed MLG and a 
report of cracks in two MLG cylinders. We issued that AD to detect and 
correct fatigue cracks in the shock strut cylinder of the MLG, which 
could result in a collapsed MLG during takeoff or landing, and possible 
reduced structural integrity of the airplane.

Actions Since Existing AD Was Issued

    Since we issued AD 2005-19-08, the manufacturer revised the service 
information referenced in that AD, i.e., Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
DC9-32A350, Revision 1, dated August 3, 2005, to add more work on 
airplanes that have shock struts with part numbers 5924400-505 and 
5924400-506.

Relevant Service Information

    We have reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9-32A350, Revision 
2, dated March 20, 2009, which specifies that shock struts having part 
numbers 5924400-505 and 5924400-506 must be included with those struts 
that require repetitive non-destructive testing inspections. The 
remaining actions are otherwise unchanged.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of the Proposed AD

    We have evaluated all pertinent information and identified an 
unsafe

[[Page 37964]]

condition that is likely to develop on other airplanes of the same type 
design. For this reason, we are proposing this AD, which would 
supersede AD 2005-19-08 and would retain its requirements. This 
proposed AD would also require accomplishing the actions specified for 
the additional shock struts.

Costs of Compliance

    There are about 644 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
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Average                                                  Number of
                                                               labor                                                     U.S.-
               Action                      Work hours         rate per          Parts            Cost per airplane     registered        Fleet cost
                                                                hour                                                   airplanes
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection.........................  4 to 6................        $80  None.................  $320 to $480 per               426  $136,320 to $204,480
                                                                                                inspection cycle.                   per inspection
                                                                                                                                    cycle.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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 proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket. See the 
ADDRESSES section for a location to examine the regulatory evaluation.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

    2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by removing amendment 39-14273 (70 FR 
54616, September 16, 2005) and adding the following new AD:

McDonnell Douglas: Docket No. FAA-2009-0658; Directorate Identifier 
2009-NM-058-AD.

Comments Due Date

    (a) The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by September 
14, 2009.

Affected ADs

    (b) This AD supersedes AD 2005-19-08.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to all McDonnell Douglas Model DC-9-14, DC-
9-15, and DC-9-15F airplanes; Model DC-9-21 airplanes; Model DC-9-
31, DC-9-32, DC-9-32 (VC-9C), DC-9-32F, DC-9-33F, DC-9-34, DC-9-34F, 
and DC-9-32F (C-9A, C-9B) airplanes; Model DC-9-41 airplanes; and 
Model DC-9-51 airplanes; certificated in any category.

Subject

    (d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 32: Landing 
gear.

Unsafe Condition

    (e) This AD results from two reports of a collapsed main landing 
gear (MLG) and a report of cracks in two MLG cylinders. We are 
issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracks in the shock 
strut cylinder of the MLG, which could result in a collapsed MLG 
during takeoff or landing, and possible reduced structural integrity 
of the airplane.

Compliance

    (f) You are responsible for having the actions required by this 
AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the 
actions have already been done.
    Restatement of Requirements of AD 2005-19-08 with Revised 
Service Information:

Records Review

    (g) Except as required by paragraph (m) of this AD, before the 
applicable compliance time specified in paragraph (h) or Table 1 of 
this AD, as applicable, do the applicable actions in paragraphs 
(g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD.
    (1) For all airplane groups: Review the airplane maintenance 
records of the MLG to determine its service history and the number 
of landings on the MLG shock strut cylinder.
    (2) For Group 3 airplanes identified in the service bulletin: 
Review the maintenance records to determine if the MLG cylinder on 
each Group 3 airplane has always been on a Group 3 airplane, and do 
the actions in paragraph (k) of this AD.

Inspection

    (h) Inspect the MLG shock strut cylinders for cracks using the 
Option 1 or Option 2 non-destructive testing inspection described in 
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9-32A350, Revision 1, dated August 
3, 2005; or Revision 2, dated March 20, 2009, except as required by 
paragraph (m) of this AD. Inspect in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9-
32A350, Revision 1, dated August 3, 2005; or Revision 2, dated March 
20, 2009; except as required by paragraph (m) of this AD. After the 
effective date of this AD, use only Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
DC9-32A350, Revision 2, dated March 20, 2009. Do the detailed 
inspection before the accumulation of 60,000 total landings on the 
MLG, or at the applicable grace period specified in Table 1 of this 
AD, whichever occurs later, except as required by paragraph (m) of 
this AD, and except as provided by paragraph (k) of this AD. If the 
review of maintenance records is not sufficient to conclusively 
determine the service history

[[Page 37965]]

and number of landings on the MLG shock strut cylinder, perform the 
initial inspection at the applicable grace period specified in Table 
1 of this AD.

               Table 1--Threshold and Repetitive Interval
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Airplanes identified in the
 service bulletin  as group         Threshold        Repetitive interval
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1...........................  Within 18 months or   Intervals not to
                               650 landings after    exceed 650
                               October 21, 2005      landings.
                               (the effective date
                               of AD 2005-19-08),
                               whichever occurs
                               first.
2...........................  Within 18 months or   Intervals not to
                               500 landings after    exceed 500
                               October 21, 2005,     landings.
                               whichever occurs
                               first.
3, except as provided by      Within 18 months or   Intervals not to
 paragraph (k) of this AD.     2,500 landings        exceed 2,500
                               after October 21,     landings.
                               2005, whichever
                               occurs first.
4...........................  Within 18 months or   Intervals not to
                               2,100 landings        exceed 2,100
                               after October 21,     landings.
                               2005, whichever
                               occurs first.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

No Indication of Cracking Is Found

    (i) If no indication of cracking is found during the inspection 
required by paragraph (h) of this AD, repeat the inspection in 
accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9-32A350, Revision 
1, dated August 3, 2005; or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9-
32A350, Revision 2, dated March 20, 2009; at the applicable interval 
specified in Table 1 of this AD, except as required by paragraph (m) 
of this AD. After the effective date of this AD, use only Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin DC9-32A350, Revision 2, dated March 20, 2009, 
of the service bulletin.

Related Investigative and Corrective Actions

    (j) If any indication of cracking is found during any inspection 
required by paragraph (h) or (i) of this AD: Before further flight, 
confirm the indication of cracking by doing all applicable related 
investigative actions and doing the applicable corrective actions in 
accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9-32A350, Revision 
1, dated August 3, 2005; or Revision 2, dated March 20, 2009; except 
as required by paragraph (m) of this AD. After the effective date of 
this AD, use only Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9-32A350, Revision 
2, dated March 20, 2009, of the service bulletin. Repeat the 
inspection at the applicable threshold and interval specified in 
paragraph (h) of this AD.

MLG Cylinder Previously Installed on Group 4 Airplanes

    (k) For MLG cylinders on Group 3 airplanes as identified in 
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9-32A350, Revision 1, dated August 
3, 2005; or Revision 2, dated March 20, 2009: If the MLG cylinder 
was previously installed on a Group 4 airplane, as identified in 
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9-32A350, Revision 1, dated August 
3, 2005; or Revision 2, dated March 20, 2009; or if the service 
history and number of landings cannot be determined, the MLG 
cylinder must be inspected at the grace period and repetitive 
interval that applies to Group 4 airplanes, as specified in Table 1 
of this AD, except as required by paragraph (m) of this AD.

Actions Accomplished in Accordance With Original Issue of Service 
Bulletin

    (l) For airplanes with shock struts that have part numbers other 
than 5924400-505 and 5924400-506: Actions done before the effective 
date of this AD in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
DC9-32A350, dated December 3, 2004, are acceptable for compliance 
with the corresponding actions required paragraphs (h), (i), (j), 
and (k) of this by this AD.

New Requirements of This AD

    (m) For airplanes with shock struts that have part numbers 
5924400-505 and 5924400-506: Do the actions required by paragraphs 
(g), (h), (i), (j), and (k), as applicable, in accordance with 
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9-32A350, Revision 2, dated March 
20, 2009. Do the actions at the time specified in those paragraphs, 
except where Table 1 of this AD specifies a compliance time after 
October 21, 2005, the compliance time for these airplanes is within 
the specified compliance time after the effective date of this AD.

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (n)(1) The Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 
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: Wahib Mina, ANM-120L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification 
Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California 90712-4137; 
telephone (562) 627-5324; fax (562) 627-5210.
    (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) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be 
used for any repair required by this AD, if it is approved by an 
Authorized Representative for the Boeing Commercial Airplanes 
Delegation Option Authorization Organization who has been authorized 
by the Manager, Los Angeles ACO, to make those findings. For a 
repair method to be approved, the repair must meet the certification 
basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to 
this AD.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 22, 2009.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. E9-18157 Filed 7-29-09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.