Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330-200 and A330-300 Series Airplanes, and Model A340-200, A340-300, A340-500, and A340-600 Series Airplanes, 38947-38950 [2010-16553]
Download as PDF
Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 129 / Wednesday, July 7, 2010 / Proposed Rules
identified in Boeing Service Bulletin 777–23–
0175, Revision 2, dated October 12, 2006.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 23: Communications.
Unsafe Condition
(e) This AD results from an in-flight
entertainment (IFE) systems review. We are
proposing this AD to minimize the risk of
smoke or flames in the passenger cabin by
installing a switch in the flight compartment
to enable the flightcrew to turn off electrical
power to the IFE system and other nonessential electrical systems. In the event of
smoke or flames in the airplane flight deck
or passenger cabin, the flightcrew’s inability
to turn off electrical power to the IFE system
and other non-essential electrical systems
could result in the inability to control smoke
or flames in the airplane flight deck or
passenger cabin during a non-normal or
emergency situation.
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.
Modification
(g) Within 60 months after the effective
date of this AD: Replace the mass memory
card (MMC) with a new MMC; install new
cabin system management unit (CSMU)
software, cabin area control panel (CACP)
software, and new zone management unit
(ZMU) software; install new overhead
electronics unit (OEU) operational program
software, if applicable; install a new
configuration database (CDB); and install the
new CDB to the cabin service system; in
accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 777–
23–0175, Revision 2, dated October 12, 2006.
cprice-sewell on DSK8KYBLC1PROD with PROPOSALS-1
Concurrent Requirement
(h) Prior to or concurrently with
accomplishing the requirements of paragraph
(g) of this AD, load the new cabin services
system central storage device software and
cabin system control panel operational
software into the MMC, in accordance with
Boeing Component Service Bulletin
285W0925–23–02, dated July 11, 2002.
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(i)(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: Joe
Salameh, Aerospace Engineer, Systems and
Equipment Branch, ANM–130S, FAA, Seattle
Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind
Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–
3356; telephone (425) 917–6454; fax (425)
917–6590. Information may be e-mailed to: 9ANM-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
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15:17 Jul 06, 2010
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(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.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 29,
2010.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2010–16517 Filed 7–6–10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2010–0675; Directorate
Identifier 2010–NM–061–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model
A330–200 and A330–300 Series
Airplanes, and Model A340–200, A340–
300, A340–500, and A340–600 Series
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: Investigation conducted by
Thales on probes revealed oil residue
between the stator and the rotor parts of
the AoA [angle of attack] vane position
resolvers. This oil residue was due to
incorrect cleaning of the machining oil
during the manufacturing process of the
AoA resolvers. At low temperatures,
this oil residue becomes viscous
(typically in cruise) causing lag of AoA
vane movement. Such condition could
lead to discrepant AoA measurement. If
not corrected, and if two or three AoA
probes were simultaneously affected
and provided wrong indications of the
AoA to a similar extent, it could lead to
a late activation of the angle of attack
protection, which in combination with
light at high angle of attack would
constitute an unsafe condition. 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 August 23, 2010.
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38947
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 Airbus 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.
For Thales Avionics service
information identified in this proposed
AD, contact Thales—Aerospace
Division, 105, avenue du General
Eisenhower—BP 63647, 31036 Toulouse
Cedex 1, France; telephone +33 (0)5 61
19 65 00; fax +33 (0)5 61 19 66 00;
Internet https://www.thalesgroup.com/
aerospace.
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.
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:
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Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 129 / Wednesday, July 7, 2010 / Proposed Rules
will also post a report summarizing each
substantive verbal contact we receive
about this proposed AD.
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–2010–0675; Directorate Identifier
2010–NM–061–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
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 2010–0016R1,
dated February 9, 2010 (referred to after
this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe
condition for the specified products.
The MCAI states:
During Airbus Final Assembly Line
reception flight tests, AoA [angle of attack]
data from two different aeroplanes were
found inaccurate. Inaccuracy was confirmed
by flight data analysis.
Investigation conducted by Thales on the
removed probes revealed oil residue between
the stator and the rotor parts of the AoA vane
position resolvers. This oil residue was due
to incorrect cleaning of the machining oil
during the manufacturing process of the AoA
resolvers. At low temperatures, this oil
residue becomes viscous (typically in cruise)
causing lag of AoA vane movement.
Such condition could lead to discrepant
AoA measurement. If not corrected, and if
two or three AoA probes were
simultaneously affected and provided wrong
indications of the AoA to a similar extent, it
could lead to a late activation of the angle of
attack protection, which in combination with
flight at high angle of attack would constitute
an unsafe condition.
Therefore, this [EASA] AD requires a one
time inspection of the Thales Avionics AoA
probe P/N [part number] C16291AA in order
to identify the suspect parts and to remove
them from service.
This [EASA] AD revision is issued to
specify that the identification of the affected
AoA probes is also possible in accordance
with aeroplane maintenance records data
analysis.
You may obtain further information by
examining the MCAI in the AD docket.
Relevant Service Information
Airbus has issued the service
bulletins specified in the following
table. Thales Avionics has issued
Service Bulletin C16291A–34–007,
Revision 01, dated December 3, 2009.
The actions described in this service
information are intended to correct the
unsafe condition identified in the
MCAI.
TABLE—APPLICABLE SERVICE INFORMATION
Model
Document
Model A330–200 and A330–300 series airplanes
Model A340–200 and A340–300 series airplanes
Model A340–500, and A340–600 series airplanes
cprice-sewell on DSK8KYBLC1PROD with PROPOSALS-1
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
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Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330–34–3232, including Appendix 01.
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340–34–4239, including Appendix 01.
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340–34–5072, including Appendix 01.
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 44 products of U.S. registry.
(There are currently no Model A340
airplanes on the U.S. Register.) We also
estimate that it would take about 3
work-hours per product to comply with
the basic requirements of this proposed
AD. The average labor rate is $85 per
work-hour. Based on these figures, we
estimate the cost of the proposed AD on
U.S. operators to be $11,220, or $255 per
product.
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January 20, 2010.
January 20, 2010.
January 20, 2010.
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.
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Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 129 / Wednesday, July 7, 2010 / Proposed Rules
Regulatory Findings
§ 39.13
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.
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new AD:
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
[Amended]
Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2010–0675;
Directorate Identifier 2010–NM–061–AD.
Comments Due Date
(a) We must receive comments by August
23, 2010.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to the airplanes
identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of
this AD.
(1) Airbus Model A330–201, A330–202,
A330–203, A330–223, A330–243, A330–301,
A330–302, A330–303, A330–321, A330–322,
A330–323, A330–341, A330–342 and A330–
343 airplanes, certificated in any category; all
manufacturer serial numbers, equipped with
Thales Avionics angle of attack (AOA) probe
having part number (P/N) C16291AA.
(2) Airbus Model A340–211, A340–212,
A340–213, A340–311, A340–312, A340–313,
A340–541, and A340–642 airplanes,
certificated in any category, all manufacturer
serial numbers, equipped with Thales
Avionics AOA probe having P/N C16291AA.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 34: Navigation.
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.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) states:
During Airbus Final Assembly Line
reception flight tests, AoA data from two
different aeroplanes were found inaccurate.
Inaccuracy was confirmed by flight data
analysis.
Investigation conducted by Thales on the
removed probes revealed oil residue between
the stator and the rotor parts of the AoA vane
position resolvers. This oil residue was due
to incorrect cleaning of the machining oil
during the manufacturing process of the AoA
resolvers. At low temperatures, this oil
residue becomes viscous (typically in cruise)
causing lag of AoA vane movement.
Such condition could lead to discrepant
AoA measurement. If not corrected, and if
two or three AoA probes were
simultaneously affected and provided wrong
indications of the AoA to a similar extent, it
could lead to a late activation of the angle of
attack protection, which in combination with
flight at high angle of attack would constitute
an unsafe condition.
Therefore, this [European Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA)] AD requires a one time
inspection of the Thales Avionics AoA probe
P/N C16291AA in order to identify the
suspect parts and to remove them from
service.
This [EASA] AD revision is issued to
specify that the identification of the affected
AoA probes is also possible in accordance
with aeroplane maintenance records data
analysis.
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.
Inspection of AOA Probes
(g) Within 3 months after the effective date
of this AD, perform a detailed visual
inspection of the Thales Avionics AOA
probes having P/N C16291AA for a serial
number identification, in accordance with
the instructions of the applicable service
information identified in Table 1 of this AD.
A review of airplane maintenance records is
acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the
serial number of the AOA probe can be
conclusively determined from that review. If
no AOA probe having P/N C16291AA and a
serial number identified in Thales Service
Bulletin C16291A–34–007, Revision 01,
dated December 3, 2009, is identified during
the inspection required by this paragraph of
this AD, no further action is required by this
AD, except for paragraph (i) of this AD.
TABLE 1—APPLICABLE SERVICE INFORMATION
Document
Model A330–200 and A330–300 series airplanes ...............
Model A340–200 and A340–300 series airplanes ...............
Model A340–500, and A340–600 series airplanes ..............
cprice-sewell on DSK8KYBLC1PROD with PROPOSALS-1
Model
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330–34–3232 .............
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340–34–4239 .............
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340–34–5072 .............
Replacement of Identified AOA Probes
(h) If the serial number of the AOA probe
identified during the inspection required by
paragraph (g) of this AD corresponds to a
suspect AOA probe specified in Thales
Service Bulletin C16291A–34–007, Revision
01, dated December 3, 2009: At the
applicable time specified in paragraph (h)(1)
or (h)(2) of this AD, replace the affected AOA
probe with a serviceable AOA probe in
accordance with one of the four options
specified in and in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of the
applicable service bulletin specified in Table
1 of this AD.
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(1) For airplanes on which Airbus
Modification 53368 (back-up speed scale) has
been embodied in production or Airbus
Service Bulletin A330–34–3213, Airbus
Service Bulletin A340–34–4213, or Airbus
Service Bulletin A340–34–5060, as
applicable, has been embodied in service:
Within 3 months after the effective date of
this AD.
(2) For airplanes on which Airbus
Modification 53368 (back-up speed scale) has
not been embodied in production and Airbus
Service Bulletin A330–34–3213, Airbus
Service Bulletin A340–34–4213, or Airbus
Service Bulletin A340–34–5060, as
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Date
January 20, 2010.
January 20, 2010.
January 20, 2010.
applicable, has not been embodied in service:
Within 15 months after the effective date of
this AD.
Parts Installation
(i) As of the effective date of this AD, no
person may install, on any airplane, a Thales
Avionics AOA probe having P/N C16291AA
and a serial number identified in Thales
Service Bulletin C16291A–34–007, Revision
01, dated December 3, 2009, unless the AOA
is fitted with an inspection label stating that
Thales Service Bulletin C16291A–34–007,
Revision 01, dated December 3, 2009, has
been accomplished.
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Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 129 / Wednesday, July 7, 2010 / Proposed Rules
FAA AD Differences
Note 1: This AD differs from the MCAI
and/or service information as follows: No
differences.
Other FAA AD Provisions
(j) 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.
(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
(k) Refer to MCAI EASA Airworthiness
Directive 2010–0016R1, dated February 9,
2010, and the service information identified
in Table 2 of this AD, for related information.
TABLE 2—RELATED SERVICE INFORMATION
Document
Revision
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330–34–3232 .............................................
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340–34–4239 .............................................
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340–34–5072 .............................................
Thales Service Bulletin C16291A–34–007 ..........................................................
Original ..................................................
Original ..................................................
Original ..................................................
Revision 01 ...........................................
Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 25,
2010.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2010–16553 Filed 7–6–10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
proposing this AD to detect and correct
scribe lines, which can develop into
fatigue cracks in the skin and cause
rapid decompression of the airplane.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by August 23, 2010.
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, 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. 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.
ADDRESSES:
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2010–0677; Directorate
Identifier 2010–NM–075–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
Company Model 727 Airplanes
cprice-sewell on DSK8KYBLC1PROD with PROPOSALS-1
AGENCY: Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Model 727 airplanes. This proposed AD
would require inspections for scribe
lines in the fuselage skin at skin lap
joints and butt joints, the skin at certain
external approved repairs, the skin
around external features such as
antennas, and the skin at decals and
fairings; and related investigative and
corrective actions if necessary. This
proposed AD results from reports of
scribe lines found at skin lap joints and
butt joints, around external repairs and
antennas, and at locations where
external decals had been cut. We are
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Date
January 20, 2010.
January 20, 2010.
January 20, 2010.
December 3, 2009.
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:
Berhane Alazar, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA,
Seattle Aircraft Certification Office
(ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98057–3356; telephone
(425) 917–6577; fax (425) 917–6590.
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–2010–0677; Directorate Identifier
2010–NM–075–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://
E:\FR\FM\07JYP1.SGM
07JYP1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 75, Number 129 (Wednesday, July 7, 2010)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 38947-38950]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2010-16553]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2010-0675; Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-061-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330-200 and A330-300
Series Airplanes, and Model A340-200, A340-300, A340-500, and A340-600
Series Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
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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: Investigation conducted by Thales on probes revealed oil
residue between the stator and the rotor parts of the AoA [angle of
attack] vane position resolvers. This oil residue was due to incorrect
cleaning of the machining oil during the manufacturing process of the
AoA resolvers. At low temperatures, this oil residue becomes viscous
(typically in cruise) causing lag of AoA vane movement. Such condition
could lead to discrepant AoA measurement. If not corrected, and if two
or three AoA probes were simultaneously affected and provided wrong
indications of the AoA to a similar extent, it could lead to a late
activation of the angle of attack protection, which in combination with
light at high angle of attack would constitute an unsafe condition. 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 August 23, 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 Airbus 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.
For Thales Avionics service information identified in this proposed
AD, contact Thales--Aerospace Division, 105, avenue du General
Eisenhower--BP 63647, 31036 Toulouse Cedex 1, France; telephone +33
(0)5 61 19 65 00; fax +33 (0)5 61 19 66 00; Internet https://www.thalesgroup.com/aerospace.
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.
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:
[[Page 38948]]
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-2010-0675;
Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-061-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 2010-0016R1, dated February 9, 2010 (referred
to after this as ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the
specified products. The MCAI states:
During Airbus Final Assembly Line reception flight tests, AoA
[angle of attack] data from two different aeroplanes were found
inaccurate. Inaccuracy was confirmed by flight data analysis.
Investigation conducted by Thales on the removed probes revealed
oil residue between the stator and the rotor parts of the AoA vane
position resolvers. This oil residue was due to incorrect cleaning
of the machining oil during the manufacturing process of the AoA
resolvers. At low temperatures, this oil residue becomes viscous
(typically in cruise) causing lag of AoA vane movement.
Such condition could lead to discrepant AoA measurement. If not
corrected, and if two or three AoA probes were simultaneously
affected and provided wrong indications of the AoA to a similar
extent, it could lead to a late activation of the angle of attack
protection, which in combination with flight at high angle of attack
would constitute an unsafe condition.
Therefore, this [EASA] AD requires a one time inspection of the
Thales Avionics AoA probe P/N [part number] C16291AA in order to
identify the suspect parts and to remove them from service.
This [EASA] AD revision is issued to specify that the
identification of the affected AoA probes is also possible in
accordance with aeroplane maintenance records data analysis.
You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD
docket.
Relevant Service Information
Airbus has issued the service bulletins specified in the following
table. Thales Avionics has issued Service Bulletin C16291A-34-007,
Revision 01, dated December 3, 2009. The actions described in this
service information are intended to correct the unsafe condition
identified in the MCAI.
Table--Applicable Service Information
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Model Document Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Model A330-200 and A330-300 series Airbus Mandatory Service January 20, 2010.
airplanes. Bulletin A330-34-3232,
including Appendix 01.
Model A340-200 and A340-300 series Airbus Mandatory Service January 20, 2010.
airplanes. Bulletin A340-34-4239,
including Appendix 01.
Model A340-500, and A340-600 series Airbus Mandatory Service January 20, 2010.
airplanes. Bulletin A340-34-5072,
including Appendix 01.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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 44 products of U.S. registry. (There are currently
no Model A340 airplanes on the U.S. Register.) We also estimate that it
would take about 3 work-hours per product to comply with the basic
requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per
work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed
AD on U.S. operators to be $11,220, or $255 per product.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
[[Page 38949]]
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-2010-0675; Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-
061-AD.
Comments Due Date
(a) We must receive comments by August 23, 2010.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to the airplanes identified in paragraphs
(c)(1) and (c)(2) of this AD.
(1) Airbus Model A330-201, A330-202, A330-203, A330-223, A330-
243, A330-301, A330-302, A330-303, A330-321, A330-322, A330-323,
A330-341, A330-342 and A330-343 airplanes, certificated in any
category; all manufacturer serial numbers, equipped with Thales
Avionics angle of attack (AOA) probe having part number (P/N)
C16291AA.
(2) Airbus Model A340-211, A340-212, A340-213, A340-311, A340-
312, A340-313, A340-541, and A340-642 airplanes, certificated in any
category, all manufacturer serial numbers, equipped with Thales
Avionics AOA probe having P/N C16291AA.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 34:
Navigation.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI)
states:
During Airbus Final Assembly Line reception flight tests, AoA
data from two different aeroplanes were found inaccurate. Inaccuracy
was confirmed by flight data analysis.
Investigation conducted by Thales on the removed probes revealed
oil residue between the stator and the rotor parts of the AoA vane
position resolvers. This oil residue was due to incorrect cleaning
of the machining oil during the manufacturing process of the AoA
resolvers. At low temperatures, this oil residue becomes viscous
(typically in cruise) causing lag of AoA vane movement.
Such condition could lead to discrepant AoA measurement. If not
corrected, and if two or three AoA probes were simultaneously
affected and provided wrong indications of the AoA to a similar
extent, it could lead to a late activation of the angle of attack
protection, which in combination with flight at high angle of attack
would constitute an unsafe condition.
Therefore, this [European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)] AD
requires a one time inspection of the Thales Avionics AoA probe P/N
C16291AA in order to identify the suspect parts and to remove them
from service.
This [EASA] AD revision is issued to specify that the
identification of the affected AoA probes is also possible in
accordance with aeroplane maintenance records data analysis.
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.
Inspection of AOA Probes
(g) Within 3 months after the effective date of this AD, perform
a detailed visual inspection of the Thales Avionics AOA probes
having P/N C16291AA for a serial number identification, in
accordance with the instructions of the applicable service
information identified in Table 1 of this AD. A review of airplane
maintenance records is acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the
serial number of the AOA probe can be conclusively determined from
that review. If no AOA probe having P/N C16291AA and a serial number
identified in Thales Service Bulletin C16291A-34-007, Revision 01,
dated December 3, 2009, is identified during the inspection required
by this paragraph of this AD, no further action is required by this
AD, except for paragraph (i) of this AD.
Table 1--Applicable Service Information
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Model Document Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Model A330-200 and A330-300 series Airbus Mandatory Service January 20, 2010.
airplanes. Bulletin A330-34-3232.
Model A340-200 and A340-300 series Airbus Mandatory Service January 20, 2010.
airplanes. Bulletin A340-34-4239.
Model A340-500, and A340-600 series Airbus Mandatory Service January 20, 2010.
airplanes. Bulletin A340-34-5072.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacement of Identified AOA Probes
(h) If the serial number of the AOA probe identified during the
inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD corresponds to a
suspect AOA probe specified in Thales Service Bulletin C16291A-34-
007, Revision 01, dated December 3, 2009: At the applicable time
specified in paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of this AD, replace the
affected AOA probe with a serviceable AOA probe in accordance with
one of the four options specified in and in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable service bulletin
specified in Table 1 of this AD.
(1) For airplanes on which Airbus Modification 53368 (back-up
speed scale) has been embodied in production or Airbus Service
Bulletin A330-34-3213, Airbus Service Bulletin A340-34-4213, or
Airbus Service Bulletin A340-34-5060, as applicable, has been
embodied in service: Within 3 months after the effective date of
this AD.
(2) For airplanes on which Airbus Modification 53368 (back-up
speed scale) has not been embodied in production and Airbus Service
Bulletin A330-34-3213, Airbus Service Bulletin A340-34-4213, or
Airbus Service Bulletin A340-34-5060, as applicable, has not been
embodied in service: Within 15 months after the effective date of
this AD.
Parts Installation
(i) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install,
on any airplane, a Thales Avionics AOA probe having P/N C16291AA and
a serial number identified in Thales Service Bulletin C16291A-34-
007, Revision 01, dated December 3, 2009, unless the AOA is fitted
with an inspection label stating that Thales Service Bulletin
C16291A-34-007, Revision 01, dated December 3, 2009, has been
accomplished.
[[Page 38950]]
FAA AD Differences
Note 1: This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service
information as follows: No differences.
Other FAA AD Provisions
(j) 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.
(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
(k) Refer to MCAI EASA Airworthiness Directive 2010-0016R1,
dated February 9, 2010, and the service information identified in
Table 2 of this AD, for related information.
Table 2--Related Service Information
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Document Revision Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-34- Original.................... January 20, 2010.
3232.
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34- Original.................... January 20, 2010.
4239.
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34- Original.................... January 20, 2010.
5072.
Thales Service Bulletin C16291A-34-007... Revision 01................. December 3, 2009.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 25, 2010.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2010-16553 Filed 7-6-10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P