Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330-243, -341, -342, and -343 Airplanes; and Model A340-541 and -642 Airplanes; Equipped With Rolls-Royce Trent 500 and Trent 700 Series Engines, 9809-9811 [2010-4503]
Download as PDF
9809
Proposed Rules
Federal Register
Vol. 75, No. 42
Thursday, March 4, 2010
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER
contains notices to the public of the proposed
issuance of rules and regulations. The
purpose of these notices is to give interested
persons an opportunity to participate in the
rule making prior to the adoption of the final
rules.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2010–0177; Directorate
Identifier 2009–NM–222–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model
A330–243, –341, –342, and –343
Airplanes; and Model A340–541 and
–642 Airplanes; Equipped With RollsRoyce Trent 500 and Trent 700 Series
Engines
sroberts on DSKD5P82C1PROD with PROPOSALS
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 evidenced by
test that the tightening torque settings
on the Rolls Royce Trent 500 and Trent
700 forward (FWD) and aft (AFT) engine
mount link pin retention bolts have
always been higher than the design
value. These bolts retain the washers
that maintain the engine mount vertical
load pins in position. If bolts, as a
consequence of the over-torque, fail and
move away, it would lead to loss of the
vertical load pins, which could result in
loss of the primary and/or secondary
load path of the forward and/or aft
engine mount which could potentially
lead to engine separation.
The proposed AD would require
actions that are intended to address the
unsafe condition described in the MCAI.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by April 19, 2010.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by
any of the following methods:
VerDate Nov<24>2008
16:36 Mar 03, 2010
Jkt 220001
• 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.
For service information identified in
this proposed AD, contact Airbus SAS—
Airworthiness Office—EAL, 1 Rond
Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac
Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36
96; fax +33 5 61 93 45 80; e-mail
airworthiness.A330–A340@airbus.com;
Internet https://www.airbus.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 Operations office 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 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:
Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98057–3356; telephone
(425) 227–1138; fax (425) 227–1149.
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.
PO 00000
Frm 00001
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
FAA–2010–0177; Directorate Identifier
2009–NM–222–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 based on those comments.
We have lengthened the 30-day
comment period for proposed ADs that
address MCAI originated by aviation
authorities of other countries to provide
adequate time for interested parties to
submit comments. The comment period
for these proposed ADs is now typically
45 days, which is consistent with the
comment period for domestic transport
ADs.
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
The European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Community, has issued EASA
Airworthiness Directive 2009–0204,
dated September 30, 2009 (referred to
after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an
unsafe condition for the specified
products. The MCAI states:
It has been evidenced by test that the
tightening torque settings on the Rolls Royce
Trent 500 and Trent 700 forward (FWD) and
aft (AFT) engine mount link pin retention
bolts have always been higher than the
design value. These bolts retain the washers
that maintain the engine mount vertical load
pins in position.
If bolts, as a consequence of the overtorque, fail and move away, it would lead to
loss of the vertical load pins, which could
result in loss of the primary and/or secondary
load path of the forward and/or aft engine
mount which could potentially lead to
engine separation.
As a short term action, EASA AD 2008–
0019 was issued to require a one-time visual
inspection of the impacted FWD and AFT
engine mount link pin retention bolts in
order to detect any broken or missing bolts.
This AD, which supersedes EASA AD 2008–
0019, mandates a one-time [detailed] visual
inspection of the FWD and AFT engine
mount link pin retention bolts, in order to
ensure that any over-torqued bolt is replaced.
You may obtain further information by
examining the MCAI in the AD docket.
E:\FR\FM\04MRP1.SGM
04MRP1
9810
Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 42 / Thursday, March 4, 2010 / Proposed Rules
Relevant Service Information
Authority for This Rulemaking
Airbus has issued Mandatory Service
Bulletins A330–71–3022 and A340–71–
5004, both including Appendices 01, 02,
and 03, both dated May 5, 2009. The
actions described in this service
information are intended to correct the
unsafe condition identified in the
MCAI.
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.
FAA’s Determination and Requirements
of This Proposed 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 proposing this
AD because we evaluated all pertinent
information and determined an unsafe
condition exists and is likely to exist or
develop on other products of the same
type design.
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 proposed
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
proposed AD.
sroberts on DSKD5P82C1PROD with PROPOSALS
Costs of Compliance
Based on the service information, we
estimate that this proposed AD would
affect about 1 product of U.S. registry.
We also estimate that it would take
about 10 work-hours per product to
comply with the basic requirements of
this proposed AD. The average labor
rate is $85 per work-hour. Required
parts would cost about $10,842 per
product. Where the service information
lists required parts costs that are
covered under warranty, we have
assumed that there will be no charge for
these costs. As we do not control
warranty coverage for affected parties,
some parties may incur costs higher
than estimated here. Based on these
figures, we estimate the cost of the
proposed AD on the U.S. operator to be
$11,692.
VerDate Nov<24>2008
16:36 Mar 03, 2010
Jkt 220001
Regulatory Findings
We 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 this 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.
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:
PO 00000
Frm 00002
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new AD:
Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2010–0177;
Directorate Identifier 2009–NM–222–AD.
Comments Due Date
(a) We must receive comments by April 19,
2010.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to all Airbus Model
A330–243, –341, –342, and –343 airplanes;
and Model A340–541 and –642 airplanes;
certificated in any category; equipped with
Rolls-Royce Trent 500 and Trent 700 series
engines.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 71: Powerplant.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) states:
It has been evidenced by test that the
tightening torque settings on the Rolls Royce
Trent 500 and Trent 700 forward (FWD) and
aft (AFT) engine mount link pin retention
bolts have always been higher than the
design value. These bolts retain the washers
that maintain the engine mount vertical load
pins in position.
If bolts, as a consequence of the overtorque, fail and move away, it would lead to
loss of the vertical load pins, which could
result in loss of the primary and/or secondary
load path of the forward and/or aft engine
mount which could potentially lead to
engine separation.
As a short term action, EASA AD 2008–
0019 was issued to require a one-time visual
inspection of the impacted FWD and AFT
engine mount link pin retention bolts in
order to detect any broken or missing bolts.
This AD, which supersedes EASA AD 2008–
0019, mandates a one-time [detailed] visual
inspection of the FWD and AFT engine
mount link pin retention bolts, in order to
ensure that any over-torqued bolt is replaced.
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.
Actions
(g) Except as provided by paragraph (h) of
this AD, at the applicable time specified in
paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD, perform
a one-time detailed visual inspection for the
presence of an ‘‘X’’ marked on the heads of
the link pin retention bolts of the forward
and aft engine mount on all Rolls-Royce
Trent 500 and Trent 700 series engines, in
accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service
Bulletin A330–71–3022 (for Models A330–
243, –341, –342, and –343 airplanes) or
A340–71–5004 (for Model A340–541 and
E:\FR\FM\04MRP1.SGM
04MRP1
Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 42 / Thursday, March 4, 2010 / Proposed Rules
–642 airplanes), both dated May 5, 2009. If
the bolt head is not marked with an ‘‘X,’’
before further flight, replace this bolt with a
new bolt marked with an ‘‘X’’ on the bolt
head in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Mandatory Service Bulletin A330–71–3022
(for Models A330–243, –341, –342, and –343
airplanes) or A340–71–5004 (for Model
A340–541 and –642 airplanes), both dated
May 5, 2009.
(1) For Model A330–243, –341, –342, and
–343 airplanes: Within 4,500 flight cycles
after the effective date of this AD.
(2) For Model A340–541 and –642
airplanes: Within 2,500 flight cycles after the
effective date of this AD.
(h) The actions specified in paragraph (g)
of this AD are not required for any engine
installed on the airplanes listed in paragraph
(g)(1) of this AD, having serial number 964
and subsequent; and the airplanes listed in
paragraph (g)(2) of this AD, having serial
number 981 and subsequent; if data records
conclusively prove that this engine has not
been replaced or re-installed since first flight
of the airplane.
(i) After the effective date of this AD, no
person may install a Rolls Royce Trent 500
or Trent 700 series engine on any airplane,
unless it is in compliance with the
requirements of this AD.
(j) Although Airbus Mandatory Service
Bulletins A330–71–3022 and A340–71–5004,
both dated May 5, 2009, specify to submit
certain information to the manufacturer, this
AD does not include that requirement.
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 FAAapproved if they are approved by the State
of Design Authority (or their delegated
agent). You are required to assure the product
is airworthy before it is returned to service.
FAA AD Differences
[Docket No. FAA–2010–0176; Directorate
Identifier 2009–NM–201–AD]
sroberts on DSKD5P82C1PROD with PROPOSALS
Note 1: This AD differs from the MCAI
and/or service information as follows:
(1) The MCAI lists certain Airbus model
A330–200 series and –300 series, and A340
series airplanes. Airbus Mandatory Service
Bulletins A330–71–3022 and A340–71–5004,
both dated May 5, 2009, clarify this
effectivity by adding ‘‘with Rolls-Royce Trent
500 and Trent 700 series engines.’’ Airplanes
with engines other than Rolls-Royce Trent
500 and Trent 700 are not affected by this
AD.
(2) Although the MCAI or service
information specifies submitting information
to the manufacturer, paragraph (j) of this AD
specifies that such submittal is not required.
Other FAA AD Provisions
(k) The following provisions also apply to
this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): The Manager, International
Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane
Directorate, FAA, has the authority to
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
Send information to ATTN: Vladimir
Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International
Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane
Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW.,
Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone
(425) 227–1138; 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,
VerDate Nov<24>2008
16:36 Mar 03, 2010
Jkt 220001
Related Information
(l) Refer to MCAI EASA Airworthiness
Directive 2009–0204, dated September 30,
2009; Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin
A330–71–3022, dated May 5, 2009; and
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340–71–
5004, dated May 5, 2009; for related
information.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on February
25, 2010.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2010–4503 Filed 3–3–10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Empresa
Brasileira de Aeronautica S.A.
(EMBRAER) Model ERJ 170 Airplanes
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: During ERJ 170 airplane
full scale fatigue test, cracks were found
in some structural components of the
airplane. Analysis of these cracks
resulted in modifications on the
airplane Airworthiness Limitation Items
(ALI), to include new inspections tasks
or modification of existing ones and its
respective thresholds and intervals.
Failure to inspect these components
according to the new tasks, thresholds
and intervals could prevent a timely
detection of fatigue cracks. Undetected
PO 00000
Frm 00003
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
9811
fatigue cracks in these areas could
adversely affect the structural integrity
of these airplanes.
The proposed AD would require
actions that are intended to address the
unsafe condition described in the MCAI.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by April 19, 2010.
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.
For service information identified in
this proposed AD, contact Empresa
Brasileira de Aeronautica S.A.
(EMBRAER), Technical Publications
Section (PC 060), Av. Brigadeiro Faria
˜
Lima, 2170—Putim—12227–901 Sao
Jose dos Campos-SP–BRASIL;
telephone: +55 12 3927–5852 or +55 12
3309–0732; fax: +55 12 3927–7546; email: distrib@embraer.com.br; Internet:
https://www.flyembraer.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 Operations office 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 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:
Kenny Kaulia, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98057–3356; telephone
(425) 227–2848; fax (425) 227–1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
E:\FR\FM\04MRP1.SGM
04MRP1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 75, Number 42 (Thursday, March 4, 2010)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 9809-9811]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2010-4503]
========================================================================
Proposed Rules
Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.
========================================================================
Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 42 / Thursday, March 4, 2010 /
Proposed Rules
[[Page 9809]]
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2010-0177; Directorate Identifier 2009-NM-222-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330-243, -341, -342, and
-343 Airplanes; and Model A340-541 and -642 Airplanes; Equipped With
Rolls-Royce Trent 500 and Trent 700 Series Engines
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 evidenced by test that the tightening torque
settings on the Rolls Royce Trent 500 and Trent 700 forward (FWD) and
aft (AFT) engine mount link pin retention bolts have always been higher
than the design value. These bolts retain the washers that maintain the
engine mount vertical load pins in position. If bolts, as a consequence
of the over-torque, fail and move away, it would lead to loss of the
vertical load pins, which could result in loss of the primary and/or
secondary load path of the forward and/or aft engine mount which could
potentially lead to engine separation.
The proposed AD would require actions that are intended to address
the unsafe condition described in the MCAI.
DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by April 19, 2010.
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.
For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact
Airbus SAS--Airworthiness Office--EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte,
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61
93 45 80; e-mail airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.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 Operations office
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 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: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425)
227-1138; fax (425) 227-1149.
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-2010-0177;
Directorate Identifier 2009-NM-222-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 based on those comments.
We have lengthened the 30-day comment period for proposed ADs that
address MCAI originated by aviation authorities of other countries to
provide adequate time for interested parties to submit comments. The
comment period for these proposed ADs is now typically 45 days, which
is consistent with the comment period for domestic transport ADs.
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
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA
Airworthiness Directive 2009-0204, dated September 30, 2009 (referred
to after this as ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the
specified products. The MCAI states:
It has been evidenced by test that the tightening torque
settings on the Rolls Royce Trent 500 and Trent 700 forward (FWD)
and aft (AFT) engine mount link pin retention bolts have always been
higher than the design value. These bolts retain the washers that
maintain the engine mount vertical load pins in position.
If bolts, as a consequence of the over-torque, fail and move
away, it would lead to loss of the vertical load pins, which could
result in loss of the primary and/or secondary load path of the
forward and/or aft engine mount which could potentially lead to
engine separation.
As a short term action, EASA AD 2008-0019 was issued to require
a one-time visual inspection of the impacted FWD and AFT engine
mount link pin retention bolts in order to detect any broken or
missing bolts. This AD, which supersedes EASA AD 2008-0019, mandates
a one-time [detailed] visual inspection of the FWD and AFT engine
mount link pin retention bolts, in order to ensure that any over-
torqued bolt is replaced.
You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD
docket.
[[Page 9810]]
Relevant Service Information
Airbus has issued Mandatory Service Bulletins A330-71-3022 and
A340-71-5004, both including Appendices 01, 02, and 03, both dated May
5, 2009. 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 Proposed 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 proposing this AD because we
evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition
exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same
type design.
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 proposed 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 proposed AD.
Costs of Compliance
Based on the service information, we estimate that this proposed AD
would affect about 1 product of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it
would take about 10 work-hours per product to comply with the basic
requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per
work-hour. Required parts would cost about $10,842 per product. Where
the service information lists required parts costs that are covered
under warranty, we have assumed that there will be no charge for these
costs. As we do not control warranty coverage for affected parties,
some parties may incur costs higher than estimated here. Based on these
figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed AD on the U.S. operator
to be $11,692.
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 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 this 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.
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 adding the following new AD:
Airbus: Docket No. FAA-2010-0177; Directorate Identifier 2009-NM-
222-AD.
Comments Due Date
(a) We must receive comments by April 19, 2010.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to all Airbus Model A330-243, -341, -342,
and -343 airplanes; and Model A340-541 and -642 airplanes;
certificated in any category; equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent 500
and Trent 700 series engines.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 71:
Powerplant.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI)
states:
It has been evidenced by test that the tightening torque
settings on the Rolls Royce Trent 500 and Trent 700 forward (FWD)
and aft (AFT) engine mount link pin retention bolts have always been
higher than the design value. These bolts retain the washers that
maintain the engine mount vertical load pins in position.
If bolts, as a consequence of the over-torque, fail and move
away, it would lead to loss of the vertical load pins, which could
result in loss of the primary and/or secondary load path of the
forward and/or aft engine mount which could potentially lead to
engine separation.
As a short term action, EASA AD 2008-0019 was issued to require
a one-time visual inspection of the impacted FWD and AFT engine
mount link pin retention bolts in order to detect any broken or
missing bolts. This AD, which supersedes EASA AD 2008-0019, mandates
a one-time [detailed] visual inspection of the FWD and AFT engine
mount link pin retention bolts, in order to ensure that any over-
torqued bolt is replaced.
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.
Actions
(g) Except as provided by paragraph (h) of this AD, at the
applicable time specified in paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD,
perform a one-time detailed visual inspection for the presence of an
``X'' marked on the heads of the link pin retention bolts of the
forward and aft engine mount on all Rolls-Royce Trent 500 and Trent
700 series engines, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-71-3022 (for
Models A330-243, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes) or A340-71-5004
(for Model A340-541 and
[[Page 9811]]
-642 airplanes), both dated May 5, 2009. If the bolt head is not
marked with an ``X,'' before further flight, replace this bolt with
a new bolt marked with an ``X'' on the bolt head in accordance with
the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin
A330-71-3022 (for Models A330-243, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes)
or A340-71-5004 (for Model A340-541 and -642 airplanes), both dated
May 5, 2009.
(1) For Model A330-243, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes: Within
4,500 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD.
(2) For Model A340-541 and -642 airplanes: Within 2,500 flight
cycles after the effective date of this AD.
(h) The actions specified in paragraph (g) of this AD are not
required for any engine installed on the airplanes listed in
paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, having serial number 964 and
subsequent; and the airplanes listed in paragraph (g)(2) of this AD,
having serial number 981 and subsequent; if data records
conclusively prove that this engine has not been replaced or re-
installed since first flight of the airplane.
(i) After the effective date of this AD, no person may install a
Rolls Royce Trent 500 or Trent 700 series engine on any airplane,
unless it is in compliance with the requirements of this AD.
(j) Although Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletins A330-71-3022 and
A340-71-5004, both dated May 5, 2009, specify to submit certain
information to the manufacturer, this AD does not include that
requirement.
FAA AD Differences
Note 1: This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service
information as follows:
(1) The MCAI lists certain Airbus model A330-200 series and -300
series, and A340 series airplanes. Airbus Mandatory Service
Bulletins A330-71-3022 and A340-71-5004, both dated May 5, 2009,
clarify this effectivity by adding ``with Rolls-Royce Trent 500 and
Trent 700 series engines.'' Airplanes with engines other than Rolls-
Royce Trent 500 and Trent 700 are not affected by this AD.
(2) Although the MCAI or service information specifies
submitting information to the manufacturer, paragraph (j) of this AD
specifies that such submittal is not required.
Other FAA AD Provisions
(k) The following provisions also apply to this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to ATTN:
Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 227-1138; 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.
Related Information
(l) Refer to MCAI EASA Airworthiness Directive 2009-0204, dated
September 30, 2009; Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-71-3022,
dated May 5, 2009; and Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-71-
5004, dated May 5, 2009; for related information.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on February 25, 2010.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2010-4503 Filed 3-3-10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P