Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 747-200C and -200F Series Airplanes, 5692-5695 [2010-1690]

Download as PDF 5692 § 39.13 Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 23 / Thursday, February 4, 2010 / Rules and Regulations FAA AD Differences [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new AD: ■ 2010–03–04 PIAGGIO AERO INDUSTRIES S.p.A.: Amendment 39–16187; Docket No. FAA–2009–1081; Directorate Identifier 2009–CE–058–AD. Effective Date (a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective March 11, 2010. Affected ADs (b) None. Applicability (c) This AD applies to Model PIAGGIO P–180 airplanes, all serial numbers through 1180, certificated in any category. Subject (d) Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 24: Electric Power. Reason (e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) states: An operator reported a short circuit between a generator power cable and an antiice shutoff valve, which was caused by chafing between the cable and the valve; the insulation of the cable and surrounding sleeve were worn off. An investigation revealed that a scarce clearance between the cables and adjacent parts, together with vibrations of generator power cables favoured by insufficient clamping, was the root cause of the damage. If left uncorrected, this situation could lead to short circuits with possible fire and/or loss of important aircraft systems. This Airworthiness Directive (AD) requires an inspection to detect damaged cables/ sleeves, and replacement/repair as necessary; in addition, this AD requires to ensure that acceptable minimum clearances between cables and parts exist, and to improve clamping to minimize vibrations of the cables. cprice-sewell on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with RULES Actions and Compliance (f) Unless already done, do the following actions: (1) Within 3 months after March 11, 2010 (the effective date of this AD), inspect for minimum clearance and insulation damage to the generator power cables in accordance with Part A of the ACCOMPLISHMENT INSTRUCTIONS of PIAGGIO AERO INDUSTRIES S.p.A. Service Bulletin (Mandatory) N.: 80–0271, dated May 18, 2009. (2) If, as a result of the inspection required by paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, any discrepancy (inadequate clearance or insulation damage) is found, before further flight, do all necessary corrective actions in accordance with Part B of the ACCOMPLISHMENT INSTRUCTIONS of PIAGGIO AERO INDUSTRIES S.p.A. Service Bulletin (Mandatory) N.: 80–0271, dated May 18, 2009. VerDate Nov<24>2008 15:08 Feb 03, 2010 Jkt 220001 Note: 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, Standards 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: Sarjapur Nagarajan, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–4145; fax: (816) 329–4090. Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO. (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority (or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product is airworthy before it is returned to service. (3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in this AD, under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has approved the information collection requirements and has assigned OMB Control Number 2120–0056. Related Information (h) Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency AD No.: 2009–0212, dated October 6, 2009; and PIAGGIO AERO INDUSTRIES S.p.A. Service Bulletin (Mandatory) N.: 80–0271, dated May 18, 2009, for related information. Material Incorporated by Reference (i) You must use PIAGGIO AERO INDUSTRIES S.p.A. Service Bulletin (Mandatory) N.: 80–0271, dated May 18, 2009, 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 Piaggio Aero Industries S.p.a., Via Cibrario, 4—16154 Genoa, Italy; telephone +39 010 06481 741; fax: +39 010 6481 309; Internet: https:// www.piaggioaero.com, or e-mail: MMicheli@piaggioaero.it. (3) You may review copies of the service information incorporated by reference for this AD at the FAA, Central Region, Office of the Regional Counsel, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the Central Region, call (816) 329–3768. (4) You may also review copies of the service information incorporated by reference for this AD at the National Archives and PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 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 Kansas City, Missouri, on January 21, 2010. James E. Jackson, Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2010–1691 Filed 2–3–10; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2009–0608; Directorate Identifier 2008–NM–215–AD; Amendment 39–16188; AD 2010–03–05] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 747–200C and –200F Series Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Model 747–200C and –200F series airplanes. This AD requires a high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection for cracks of certain fastener holes, and corrective action if necessary. This AD also requires repetitive replacements of the upper chords, straps (or angles), and radius fillers of certain upper deck floor beams, and, for any replacement that is done, detailed and open-hole HFEC inspections for cracks of the modified upper deck floor beams, and corrective actions if necessary. This AD results from a report from the manufacturer that the accomplishment of certain existing inspections, repairs, and modifications is not adequate to ensure the structural integrity of the affected 7075 series aluminum alloy upper deck floor beam upper chords on airplanes that have exceeded certain thresholds. We are issuing this AD to prevent cracking of the upper chords and straps (or angles) of the floor beams, which could lead to failure of the floor beams and consequent loss of controllability, rapid decompression, and loss of structural integrity of the airplane. DATES: This AD is effective March 11, 2010. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference E:\FR\FM\04FER1.SGM 04FER1 Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 23 / Thursday, February 4, 2010 / Rules and Regulations of a certain publication listed in the AD as of March 11, 2010. ADDRESSES: For 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. 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 AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The address for the Docket Office (telephone 800–647–5527) is the Document Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ivan Li, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 917–6437; fax (425) 917–6590. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: cprice-sewell on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with RULES Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an airworthiness directive (AD) that would apply to all Model 747–200C and –200F series airplanes. That NPRM was published in the Federal Register on July 6, 2009 (74 FR 31894). That NPRM proposed to require a high frequency eddy current inspection for cracks of certain fastener holes, and corrective action if necessary. That NPRM also proposed to require repetitive replacements of the upper chords, straps (or angles), and radius fillers of certain upper deck floor beams, and, for any replacement that is done, detailed and open-hole HFEC inspections for cracks of the modified upper deck floor beams, and corrective actions if necessary. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. We VerDate Nov<24>2008 15:08 Feb 03, 2010 Jkt 220001 considered the comments received from the commenters. Support for the NPRM One commenter, Boeing, agrees with the contents of the NPRM. Request To Clarify Compliance Time of Modification One commenter, Northwest Airlines (NWA), requests that we clarify whether the modification that is mandated by paragraph (g) of AD 2005–07–21, Amendment 39–14046 (70 FR 18277, April 11, 2005), is required during the accomplishment of the initial 15,000flight-cycle post-upper chord replacement inspection proposed by the NPRM. NWA notes that the NPRM would require replacing the upper deck floor beam upper chords before the accumulation of 21,000 total flight cycles, or within 1,500 flight cycles after the effective date of the AD, whichever is later. NWA also states that the proposed rule would mandate inspecting the upper deck floor beams within 15,000 flight cycles after replacement of the upper chords. NWA notes that the inspections are to be completed in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2429, Revision 2, dated October 16, 2008; and Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747– 53A2439, Revision 2, dated July 17, 2008. NWA notes that inspections per Boeing Alert Service Bulletins 747– 53A2429 and 747–53A2439 were previously mandated. NWA points out that the Manager of the Seattle Aircraft Certification Office has previously approved the accomplishment of the applicable inspection, repair, and modification procedures contained in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747– 53A2696, dated October 16, 2008, as an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) for paragraphs (f) and (g) of AD 2006–08–02, Amendment 39–14556 (71 FR 18618, April 12, 2006), and the inspection, repair, and modification requirements of paragraphs (a), (b), (c), (e), (g)(1), (h)(2), (i), (j), (k), and (l) of AD 2005–07–21. We agree to provide clarification of the post-upper chord replacement actions. Paragraph (h) of this final rule requires detailed and HFEC inspections for cracks of the modified upper deck floor beams, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2696, PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 5693 dated October 16, 2008, within 15,000 flight cycles after the upper chord replacement, or within 1,500 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later. In addition, paragraph (h) of this final rule requires a repeat accomplishment of the upper chord replacement within 6,000 flight cycles after doing the initial post-upper chord replacement inspections. Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2696 in turn refers to Boeing Alert Service Bulletins 747–53A2429, Revision 2; and 747–53A2439, Revision 2; for inspection procedures only. Therefore, the modification in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2429, dated March 22, 2001, as mandated by paragraph (g) of AD 2005–07–21, is not required by this final rule. Operators should note that accomplishment of the actions per this AD has been approved as an AMOC to the corresponding requirements of AD 2005–07–21 and AD 2006–08–02 as described above. We have not changed the final rule in regard to this issue. Explanation of Changes Made to This AD We have revised this AD to identify the legal name of the manufacturer as published in the most recent type certificate data sheet for the affected airplane models. Boeing Commercial Airplanes has received an Organization Designation Authorization (ODA), which replaces their previous designation as a Delegation Option Authorization (DOA) holder. We have revised paragraph (j)(3) of this AD to delegate the authority to approve an alternative method of compliance for any repair required by this AD to the Boeing Commercial Airplanes ODA. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD with the changes described previously. We determined that these changes will not increase the economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of the AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 25 airplanes of U.S. registry. The following table provides the estimated costs for U.S. operators to comply with this AD. E:\FR\FM\04FER1.SGM 04FER1 5694 Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 23 / Thursday, February 4, 2010 / Rules and Regulations TABLE—ESTIMATED COSTS Work hours Average labor rate per hour 663 ............... $80 Parts None ............ $53,040 cycle. per inspection/replacement Authority for This Rulemaking Adoption of the Amendment 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 cprice-sewell on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with RULES Number of U.S.registered airplanes Cost per product 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 that this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under 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. You can find our regulatory evaluation and the estimated costs of compliance in the AD Docket. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. VerDate Nov<24>2008 15:08 Feb 03, 2010 Jkt 220001 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: ■ 2010–03–05 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39–16188. Docket No. FAA–2009–0608; Directorate Identifier 2008–NM–215–AD. Effective Date (a) This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective March 11, 2010. Affected ADs (b) None. Applicability (c) This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 747–200C and –200F series airplanes, certificated in any category. Subject (d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53: Fuselage. Unsafe Condition (e) This AD results from a report from the manufacturer that the accomplishment of certain existing inspections, repairs, and modifications is not adequate to ensure the structural integrity of the affected 7075 series aluminum alloy upper deck floor beam upper chords on airplanes that have exceeded certain thresholds. We are issuing this AD to prevent cracking of the upper chords and straps (or angles) of the floor beams, which could lead to failure of the floor beams and consequent loss of controllability, rapid decompression, and loss of structural integrity of the airplane. Compliance (f) Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. Initial Inspection and Replacement (g) Before the accumulation of 21,000 total flight cycles, or within 1,500 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later: Do an open-hole high frequency PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 25 Fleet cost $1,326,000 per inspection/replacement cycle. eddy current (HFEC) inspection of all the fastener holes accessed for upper chord removal for cracks, and replace the upper chords, straps (or angles), and radius fillers of the upper deck floor beams, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2696, dated October 16, 2008. Repetitive Replacements and PostReplacement Inspections (h) Within 15,000 flight cycles after doing the replacement required by paragraph (g) of this AD, or within 1,500 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later: Do detailed and HFEC inspections for cracks of the modified upper deck floor beams, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2696, dated October 16, 2008. Within 6,000 flight cycles after doing the detailed and HFEC inspections, repeat the replacement specified in paragraph (g) of this AD. Repeat the postreplacement inspections and replacement at the applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E. of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747– 53A2696, dated October 16, 2008. Repair of Cracks (i) If any crack is found during any inspection required by this AD: Before further flight, repair the crack using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (j) of this AD. Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (j)(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: Ivan Li, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle ACO, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 917–6437; fax (425) 917–6590. Or, e-mail information to 9-ANM-Seattle-ACOAMOC-Requests@faa.gov. (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 the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has E:\FR\FM\04FER1.SGM 04FER1 Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 23 / Thursday, February 4, 2010 / Rules and Regulations been authorized by the Manager, Seattle 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 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: Material Incorporated by Reference (k) You must use Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2696, dated October 16, 2008, as applicable, 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 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. (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. Cracks have been detected on the upper flange (cap) of several ‘‘0’’ pressure bulkheads on the production line; none of the cracks had spread across the thickness of material. Investigation revealed that all ‘‘0’’ pressure bulkheads installed on aircraft from MSN 1106 up to 1189 could have the same cracks. Issued in Renton, Washington, on January 21, 2010. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2010–1690 Filed 2–3–10; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2009–1116; Directorate Identifier 2009–CE–061–AD; Amendment 39–16193; AD 2010–03–09] RIN 2120–AA64 cprice-sewell on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with RULES Airworthiness Directives; PIAGGIO AERO INDUSTRIES S.p.A Model PIAGGIO P–180 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) VerDate Nov<24>2008 15:08 Feb 03, 2010 Jkt 220001 We are issuing this AD to require actions to correct the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD becomes effective March 11, 2010. On March 11, 2010, the Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this AD. ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov or in person at Document Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sarjapur Nagarajan, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329– 4145; fax: (816) 329–4090. 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 November 30, 2009 (74 FR 62516). That NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: Cracks have been detected on the upper flange (cap) of several ‘‘0’’ pressure bulkheads on the production line; none of the cracks had spread across the thickness of material. Investigation revealed that all ‘‘0’’ pressure bulkheads installed on aircraft from MSN 1106 up to 1189 could have the same cracks. Although calculations confirm the low stress level in that area, a reinforcement of the ‘‘0’’ pressure bulkhead is suggested to avoid crack growth and the eventual failure of the bulkhead. For the reasons stated above, this new Airworthiness Directive (AD) mandates a non-destructive inspection and a reinforcement—by installation of doublers— of the ‘‘0’’ pressure bulkhead. This AD also includes a reporting requirement of the inspection results. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket. PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 5695 Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. We considered the comment received. Mr. Carlo Cardu of Piaggio Aero Industries states that he understands owners/operators may comply with an AD before the specified compliance time; however, he also states it would be best for the owners/operators of the airplanes affected by this AD to do the inspection and modification of the pressure bulkhead during a D inspection, which is at 3,000 hours time-in-service (TIS). Mr. Cardu requests changing the compliance time for the inspection and modification from ‘‘when the airplane reaches a total of 3,600 hours TIS * * *’’ to ‘‘before the airplane reaches a total of 3,600 hours TIS * * *.’’ We agree with the intent of the commenter. To make it clear that the owners/operators of the airplanes affected by this AD may comply with the AD before their airplane reaches 3,600 hours TIS, we will change the compliance time in the final rule AD action to allow the inspection and modification to be done before or when the airplane reaches a total of 3,600 hours TIS or within the next 30 days after the effective date of the AD, whichever occurs later. Conclusion We reviewed the available data, including the comment received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD with the changes described previously. We determined that these changes 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 FAA policies. Any such differences are highlighted in a NOTE within the AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD will affect 63 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would take about 120 E:\FR\FM\04FER1.SGM 04FER1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 75, Number 23 (Thursday, February 4, 2010)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 5692-5695]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2010-1690]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2009-0608; Directorate Identifier 2008-NM-215-AD; 
Amendment 39-16188; AD 2010-03-05]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 747-200C and -
200F Series Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
Model 747-200C and -200F series airplanes. This AD requires a high 
frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection for cracks of certain fastener 
holes, and corrective action if necessary. This AD also requires 
repetitive replacements of the upper chords, straps (or angles), and 
radius fillers of certain upper deck floor beams, and, for any 
replacement that is done, detailed and open-hole HFEC inspections for 
cracks of the modified upper deck floor beams, and corrective actions 
if necessary. This AD results from a report from the manufacturer that 
the accomplishment of certain existing inspections, repairs, and 
modifications is not adequate to ensure the structural integrity of the 
affected 7075 series aluminum alloy upper deck floor beam upper chords 
on airplanes that have exceeded certain thresholds. We are issuing this 
AD to prevent cracking of the upper chords and straps (or angles) of 
the floor beams, which could lead to failure of the floor beams and 
consequent loss of controllability, rapid decompression, and loss of 
structural integrity of the airplane.

DATES: This AD is effective March 11, 2010.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference

[[Page 5693]]

of a certain publication listed in the AD as of March 11, 2010.

ADDRESSES: For 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.

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 AD, the regulatory evaluation, 
any comments received, and other information. The address for the 
Docket Office (telephone 800-647-5527) is the Document Management 
Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, 
West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., 
Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ivan Li, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe 
Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind 
Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 917-6437; 
fax (425) 917-6590.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 to include an airworthiness directive (AD) that would apply to 
all Model 747-200C and -200F series airplanes. That NPRM was published 
in the Federal Register on July 6, 2009 (74 FR 31894). That NPRM 
proposed to require a high frequency eddy current inspection for cracks 
of certain fastener holes, and corrective action if necessary. That 
NPRM also proposed to require repetitive replacements of the upper 
chords, straps (or angles), and radius fillers of certain upper deck 
floor beams, and, for any replacement that is done, detailed and open-
hole HFEC inspections for cracks of the modified upper deck floor 
beams, and corrective actions if necessary.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. We considered the comments received from the commenters.

Support for the NPRM

    One commenter, Boeing, agrees with the contents of the NPRM.

Request To Clarify Compliance Time of Modification

    One commenter, Northwest Airlines (NWA), requests that we clarify 
whether the modification that is mandated by paragraph (g) of AD 2005-
07-21, Amendment 39-14046 (70 FR 18277, April 11, 2005), is required 
during the accomplishment of the initial 15,000-flight-cycle post-upper 
chord replacement inspection proposed by the NPRM. NWA notes that the 
NPRM would require replacing the upper deck floor beam upper chords 
before the accumulation of 21,000 total flight cycles, or within 1,500 
flight cycles after the effective date of the AD, whichever is later. 
NWA also states that the proposed rule would mandate inspecting the 
upper deck floor beams within 15,000 flight cycles after replacement of 
the upper chords. NWA notes that the inspections are to be completed in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 747-53A2429, Revision 2, dated October 16, 2008; and Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2439, Revision 2, dated July 17, 2008. 
NWA notes that inspections per Boeing Alert Service Bulletins 747-
53A2429 and 747-53A2439 were previously mandated. NWA points out that 
the Manager of the Seattle Aircraft Certification Office has previously 
approved the accomplishment of the applicable inspection, repair, and 
modification procedures contained in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-
53A2696, dated October 16, 2008, as an alternative method of compliance 
(AMOC) for paragraphs (f) and (g) of AD 2006-08-02, Amendment 39-14556 
(71 FR 18618, April 12, 2006), and the inspection, repair, and 
modification requirements of paragraphs (a), (b), (c), (e), (g)(1), 
(h)(2), (i), (j), (k), and (l) of AD 2005-07-21.
    We agree to provide clarification of the post-upper chord 
replacement actions. Paragraph (h) of this final rule requires detailed 
and HFEC inspections for cracks of the modified upper deck floor beams, 
in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert 
Service Bulletin 747-53A2696, dated October 16, 2008, within 15,000 
flight cycles after the upper chord replacement, or within 1,500 flight 
cycles after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later. In 
addition, paragraph (h) of this final rule requires a repeat 
accomplishment of the upper chord replacement within 6,000 flight 
cycles after doing the initial post-upper chord replacement 
inspections. Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2696 in turn refers 
to Boeing Alert Service Bulletins 747-53A2429, Revision 2; and 747-
53A2439, Revision 2; for inspection procedures only. Therefore, the 
modification in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-
53A2429, dated March 22, 2001, as mandated by paragraph (g) of AD 2005-
07-21, is not required by this final rule. Operators should note that 
accomplishment of the actions per this AD has been approved as an AMOC 
to the corresponding requirements of AD 2005-07-21 and AD 2006-08-02 as 
described above. We have not changed the final rule in regard to this 
issue.

Explanation of Changes Made to This AD

    We have revised this AD to identify the legal name of the 
manufacturer as published in the most recent type certificate data 
sheet for the affected airplane models.
    Boeing Commercial Airplanes has received an Organization 
Designation Authorization (ODA), which replaces their previous 
designation as a Delegation Option Authorization (DOA) holder. We have 
revised paragraph (j)(3) of this AD to delegate the authority to 
approve an alternative method of compliance for any repair required by 
this AD to the Boeing Commercial Airplanes ODA.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, 
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting 
the AD with the changes described previously. We determined that these 
changes will not increase the economic burden on any operator or 
increase the scope of the AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 25 airplanes of U.S. registry. The 
following table provides the estimated costs for U.S. operators to 
comply with this AD.

[[Page 5694]]



                                             Table--Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                              Number of
                      Average                                                   U.S.-
    Work hours       labor rate         Parts           Cost per product      registered        Fleet cost
                      per hour                                                airplanes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
663...............          $80  None..............  $53,040 per inspection/          25  $1,326,000 per
                                                      replacement cycle.                   inspection/
                                                                                           replacement 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

    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 that this AD:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under 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.
    You can find our regulatory evaluation and the estimated costs of 
compliance 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:

2010-03-05 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-16188. Docket No. FAA-
2009-0608; Directorate Identifier 2008-NM-215-AD.

Effective Date

    (a) This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective March 11, 
2010.

Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 747-200C and 
-200F series airplanes, certificated in any category.

Subject

    (d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53: 
Fuselage.

Unsafe Condition

    (e) This AD results from a report from the manufacturer that the 
accomplishment of certain existing inspections, repairs, and 
modifications is not adequate to ensure the structural integrity of 
the affected 7075 series aluminum alloy upper deck floor beam upper 
chords on airplanes that have exceeded certain thresholds. We are 
issuing this AD to prevent cracking of the upper chords and straps 
(or angles) of the floor beams, which could lead to failure of the 
floor beams and consequent loss of controllability, rapid 
decompression, and loss of structural integrity of the airplane.

Compliance

    (f) Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

Initial Inspection and Replacement

    (g) Before the accumulation of 21,000 total flight cycles, or 
within 1,500 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD, 
whichever occurs later: Do an open-hole high frequency eddy current 
(HFEC) inspection of all the fastener holes accessed for upper chord 
removal for cracks, and replace the upper chords, straps (or 
angles), and radius fillers of the upper deck floor beams, in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert 
Service Bulletin 747-53A2696, dated October 16, 2008.

Repetitive Replacements and Post-Replacement Inspections

    (h) Within 15,000 flight cycles after doing the replacement 
required by paragraph (g) of this AD, or within 1,500 flight cycles 
after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later: Do 
detailed and HFEC inspections for cracks of the modified upper deck 
floor beams, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2696, dated October 16, 2008. 
Within 6,000 flight cycles after doing the detailed and HFEC 
inspections, repeat the replacement specified in paragraph (g) of 
this AD. Repeat the post-replacement inspections and replacement at 
the applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E. of Boeing Alert 
Service Bulletin 747-53A2696, dated October 16, 2008.

Repair of Cracks

    (i) If any crack is found during any inspection required by this 
AD: Before further flight, repair the crack using a method approved 
in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (j) of this 
AD.

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (j)(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: Ivan Li, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle ACO, 1601 
Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 
917-6437; fax (425) 917-6590. Or, e-mail information to 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
    (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 the 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization 
(ODA) that has

[[Page 5695]]

been authorized by the Manager, Seattle 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.

Material Incorporated by Reference

    (k) You must use Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2696, 
dated October 16, 2008, as applicable, 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 
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.
    (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 January 21, 2010.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2010-1690 Filed 2-3-10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.