Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-200C, 747-200F, 747-300, 747-400, 747-400D, 747-400F, 747SR, and 747SP Series Airplanes, 70868-70871 [2010-29236]

Download as PDF 70868 Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 223 / Friday, November 19, 2010 / Proposed Rules Office. The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD. ssued in Renton, Washington on November 10, 2010. Jeffrey E. Duven, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2010–29231 Filed 11–18–10; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2010–1115; Directorate Identifier 2010–NM–221–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 747–100, 747–100B, 747–100B SUD, 747–200B, 747–200C, 747–200F, 747–300, 747–400, 747– 400D, 747–400F, 747SR, and 747SP Series Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections for damage of the electrical terminal at the left and right flightdeck window 1, and corrective actions if necessary. This proposed AD would also allow for replacing the flightdeck window 1 with a new improved flightdeck window equipped with different electrical connections, which would terminate the repetitive inspections for that flightdeck window 1. This proposed AD was prompted by several reports of electrical arcs at the terminal blocks of the electrically heated flightdeck window 1. We are proposing this AD to prevent smoke and fire in the cockpit, which could lead to loss of visibility, and injuries to or incapacitation of the flightcrew. SUMMARY: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by January 3, 2011. 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. emcdonald on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with PROPOSALS DATES: VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:04 Nov 18, 2010 Jkt 223001 • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above 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. Discussion 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 (phone: 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Louis Natsiopoulos, Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM–130S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 917–6478; fax (425) 917–6590. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Relevant Service Information Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA– 2010–1115; Directorate Identifier 2010– NM–221–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed AD because of those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 We have received multiple reports of electrical arcs at the terminal blocks of the flightdeck window 1. In several incidents, the arcs resulted in open flames. An investigation showed that the electrical arcs are caused by loose terminal connections, which are caused by incorrect torque of the screw or an incorrectly installed screw. A loose terminal connection will overheat with electrical current passing through it. An overheated connector can degrade the adjacent electrical circuit (including solder, if present). This condition, if not corrected, could result in smoke and fire in the cockpit, and consequent loss of visibility, and injuries to or incapacitation of the flightcrew. We have reviewed Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–30– 2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010. Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–30–2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, describes procedures for repetitive detailed inspections for damage (including but not limited to a cross-threaded screw, arcing, loose terminal, and heat damage) of the terminal block, connector, and wiring at the left and right flightdeck window 1, and corrective actions if necessary. The corrective actions are applying the correct torque to a loose electrical connection, repairing damaged wiring, or installing a replacement window 1. Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–30–2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, specifies a compliance time of within 500 hours after the date on the service bulletin for doing the initial detailed inspection. Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–30–2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, specifies that the replacement window can either be a window that uses screws and lugs for the electrical connection or a window that uses pins and sockets for the electrical connections. For airplanes on which a replacement window that uses pins and sockets is installed, Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747– 30–2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, also specifies changes to the related wire bundle. Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–30– 2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, specifies that installing a window that uses pins and sockets eliminates the need for the repetitive inspections. If the window is replaced with the same type of window (i.e., windows with the screw and lug type electrical terminations), then the inspection must be repeated within 500 flight hours from E:\FR\FM\19NOP1.SGM 19NOP1 Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 223 / Friday, November 19, 2010 / Proposed Rules the date of the accomplishment of these corrective actions and every 6,000 flight hours thereafter. Related Rulemaking We issued AD 2010–15–01, Amendment 39–16367 (75 FR 39804, July 13, 2010), that applies to certain Model 757 airplanes, Model 767 airplanes, and Model 777–200 and –300 series airplanes. That AD requires repetitive inspections for damage (e.g., of the electrical terminal at the left and right flightdeck window 1), and corrective actions if necessary. That AD also allows for replacing the flightdeck window 1 with a new improved flightdeck window equipped with different electrical connections, which terminates the repetitive inspections for that flightdeck window 1. That AD results from several reports of electrical arcs at the terminal blocks of the electrically heated flightdeck window 1. We issued that AD to prevent smoke and fire in the cockpit, which could lead to loss of visibility, and injuries to or incapacitation of the flightcrew. FAA’s Determination We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of these same type designs. Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions specified in the service information described previously, except as discussed under ‘‘Differences Between the Proposed AD and the Service Information.’’ Differences Between the Proposed AD and the Service Information Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–30–2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, does not explicitly specify an inspection for, nor specify a corrective action for, airplanes on which a screw is found cross threaded during the detailed inspections in paragraph (g) of this proposed AD. If these conditions are found, paragraph (i) of this proposed AD would require replacing the windshield either before further flight if the screw is found to be loose, or within 500 flight hours or 150 days after the inspection if the screw is found to be tight, whichever occurs first. Where Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–30–2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, specifies an interval for repetitive inspections not to exceed 6,000 flight hours, paragraphs (g) and (h) of this proposed AD would require repetitive inspections at intervals not to exceed 6,000 flight hours or 24 months, whichever occurs later. We have determined that this revised interval will not adversely affect safety of the affected airplanes. Boeing concurs with this extension of the interval for the repetitive inspections. 70869 Clarifications of Service Information Where Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–30–2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, and paragraph (h) of this proposed AD state to perform a detailed inspection for damage of the terminal block, connector, and wiring of flightdeck window 1 ‘‘within 500 flight hours,’’ it is also acceptable to do the inspection at zero flight hours (i.e., before the airplane ever leaves the hangar and resumes operations). The intent of this second inspection is for quality assurance purposes. This clarification has been coordinated with Boeing. We have added paragraph (k) of this proposed AD to clarify that each window is handled separately. In the compliance table in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–30– 2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, the repeat interval applies to the action, which is doing both Work Packages 1 and 2. If the left window is replaced with a window that uses pins and sockets for the electrical connection, then that replacement terminates the requirements of this proposed AD for that window only. The other window still needs to be inspected. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD will affect 251 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Inspection ......... 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 per inspection cycle. None ................. $85 per inspection cycle ............... We estimate the following costs to do any necessary replacements that would be required based on the results of the proposed inspection. We have no way of Cost on U.S. operators $21,335 per inspection cycle. determining the number of aircraft that might need these replacements: ON-CONDITION COSTS Labor cost Parts cost Replacement of windshield ............................... Up to 18 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,530 Up to $47,592 .............. Authority for This Rulemaking emcdonald on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with PROPOSALS Action 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. 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. VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:04 Nov 18, 2010 Jkt 223001 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Cost per product Up to $49,122. 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 E:\FR\FM\19NOP1.SGM 19NOP1 70870 Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 223 / Friday, November 19, 2010 / Proposed Rules 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), (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (4) 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. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA– 2010–1115; Directorate Identifier 2010– NM–221–AD. Comments Due Date (a) We must receive comments by January 3, 2011. emcdonald on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with PROPOSALS Affected ADs (b) None. Applicability (c) This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 747–100, 747–100B, 747– 100B SUD, 747–200B, 747–200C, 747–200F, 747–300, 747–400, 747–400D, 747–400F, 747SR, and 747SP series airplanes, certificated in any category; as identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–30–2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010. Subject (d) Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 30: Ice and rain protection. Unsafe Condition (e) This AD results from several reports of electrical arcs at the terminal blocks of the VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:04 Nov 18, 2010 Jkt 223001 electrically heated flightdeck window 1. In several of the incidents, the arcs resulted in open flames. We are issuing this AD to prevent smoke and fire in the cockpit, which could lead to loss of visibility, and injuries to or incapacitation of the flightcrew. given in Work Packages 1 and 2,’’ the intent is ‘‘Work Package 1, step 3. or Work Package 2, step 3., as applicable.’’ Operators are to use one or the other (or both) work instruction, as applicable, to replace the window(s) that need replacing. Compliance (f) Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. Optional Terminating Action Detailed Inspection and Corrective Actions (g) Within 500 flight hours after the effective date of this AD, do a detailed inspection for damage (including but not limited to a cross-threaded screw, arcing, loose terminal, and heat damage) of the terminal block, connector, and wiring of flightdeck window 1, and do all applicable corrective actions, by accomplishing the actions specified in Work Packages 1 and 2 of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–30–2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, except as provided by paragraph (j) of this AD. Do all applicable corrective actions before further flight, except as required by paragraph (i) of this AD. Except as required by paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD, repeat the detailed inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 6,000 flight hours or 24 months, whichever occurs later. Doing the replacement specified in paragraph (k) of this AD terminates the repetitive inspection requirements of this paragraph for the replaced flightdeck window 1. (h) For airplanes on which a flightdeck window 1 is replaced with a window that uses screws and lugs for the electrical connections, in accordance with Work Package 1 or 2 of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–30–2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010: Except as provided by paragraph (j) of this AD, do the next detailed inspection within 500 flight hours after the corrective action, and repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 6,000 flight hours or 24 months, whichever occurs later. Doing the replacement specified in paragraph (k) of this AD terminates the repetitive inspection requirements of this paragraph for the replaced flightdeck window 1. Exceptions to the Service Bulletin (i) If, during the inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD, a screw is found cross threaded do the applicable corrective action specified in paragraph (i)(1) or (i)(2) of this AD. (1) If the terminal lug is loose and cannot be tightened: Before further flight, replace the window, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–30– 2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010. (2) If the terminal lug is tight: Within 150 days or 500 flight hours after the inspection, whichever occurs first, replace the window, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–30–2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010. (j) Where paragraph 1.E. of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–30–2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, states in the ‘‘Action’’ column to ‘‘do the inspections PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 (k) Replacing a flightdeck window 1 that uses screws and lugs for the electrical connections with a flightdeck window that uses pins and sockets for the electrical connections, in accordance with Work Packages 3 or 4 of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–30–2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, ends the repetitive inspection requirements of this AD for that window only. Credit for Actions Accomplished Previously According to Previous Issue of Service Information (l) Actions accomplished before the effective date of this AD in accordance with Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–30–2081, dated August 08, 2006; or Revision 1, dated August 20, 2008; are considered acceptable for compliance with the corresponding actions specified in this AD. Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (m)(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the attention of the person identified in the Related Information section of this AD. Information may be e-mailed to: 9-ANMSeattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your Principal Maintenance Inspector or Principal Avionics Inspector, as appropriate, or lacking a principal inspector, your local Flight Standards District Office. Related Information (n) For more information about this AD, contact Louis Natsiopoulos, Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM–130S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone: (425) 917–6478; fax: (425) 917–6590; e-mail: Elias.Natsiopoulos@faa.gov. (o) 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. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, the FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. E:\FR\FM\19NOP1.SGM 19NOP1 Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 223 / Friday, November 19, 2010 / Proposed Rules Issued in Renton, Washington, on November 10, 2010. Jeffrey E. Duven, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2010–29236 Filed 11–18–10; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Parts 61 and 183 [Docket No. FAA–2010–1127; Notice No. 2010–16] RIN 2120–AJ42 Photo Requirements for Pilot Certificates Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: This action would require a person to carry a pilot certificate with photo to exercise the privileges of the pilot certificate. This proposal responds to section 4022 of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act (IRTPA). The FAA previously required all pilots to obtain a plastic certificate (excepting temporary certificates and student pilot certificates). This proposal furthers the fulfillment of IRTPA by requiring a photo of the pilot to be on all pilot certificates. The FAA also proposes to require student pilots to obtain a plastic certificate with photo. Student pilot certificates would also have the same duration as other pilot certificates. Additionally, because of the new photo requirements, this proposal modifies the application process and the fee structure for pilot certificates. DATES: Send your comments on or before February 17, 2011. ADDRESSES: You may send comments identified by Docket Number FAA– 2010–1127 using any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov and follow the online instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Mail: Send comments to Docket Operations, M–30; U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Room W12–140, West Building Ground Floor, Washington, DC 20590–0001. • Hand Delivery or Courier: Take comments to Docket Operations in Room W12–140 of the West Building Ground Floor at 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC, between emcdonald on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with PROPOSALS SUMMARY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:04 Nov 18, 2010 Jkt 223001 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. • Fax: Fax comments to Docket Operations at 202–493–2251. For more information on the rulemaking process, see the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section of this document. Privacy: The FAA will post all comments received, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. Using the search function of our docket Web site, anyone can find and read the electronic form of all comments received into any of our dockets, including the name of the individual sending the comment (or signing the comment for an association, business, labor union, etc.). You may review DOT’s complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477–78) or you may visit https://DocketsInfo.dot.gov. Docket: To read background documents or comments received, go to https://www.regulations.gov at any time and follow the online instructions for accessing the docket, or go to the Docket Operations in Room W12–140 of the West Building Ground Floor at 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For technical questions concerning this proposed rule contact Lance Nuckolls, Certification and General Aviation Operations Branch, AFS–810, Flight Standards Service, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20591; telephone (202) 267–8212; facsimile (202) 267–5094, e-mail lance.nuckolls@faa.gov. For legal questions concerning this proposed rule contact Robert Hawks, Air Traffic and Airman/Airport Certification Law Branch, AGC–240, Office of the Chief Counsel, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20591; telephone (202) 267–7143; facsimile (202) 267–7971, e-mail rob.hawks@faa.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Later in this preamble under the Additional Information section is a discussion of how you can comment on this proposal and how the FAA will handle your comments. Included in this discussion is related information about the docket, privacy, the handling of proprietary or confidential business information, and accessing related rulemaking documents. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 70871 Authority for This Rulemaking The FAA’s authority to issue rules on aviation safety is found in Title 49 of the United States Code. 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. Under Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart iii, Section 44703(b)(1)(C), the FAA may define the terms of an airman certificate the FAA Administrator finds necessary to ensure safety in air commerce. Additionally, Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart iii, Section 44703(g)(1) permits modifications to the airman certification system to make the system more efficient in serving the needs of those enforcing laws related to combating acts of terrorism by ensuring verifiable identification of individuals applying for airman certificates. In Section 4022 of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 (IRTPA),1 Congress required the FAA to promulgate regulations for the issuance of improved pilot licenses. This rulemaking is within the scope of that authority because it prescribes the inclusion of a photo of the pilot on the pilot certificate in accordance with the IRTPA mandate. This rulemaking aids in preventing terrorism and in ensuring safety in air commerce by issuing certificates that conform to the IRTPA requirements. Background On March 12, 1990, the FAA published the Drug Enforcement Assistance notice of proposed rulemaking (55 FR 9270). That NPRM proposed changes to requirements for registration of aircraft, certification of pilots, and certification violations. The FAA intended this proposal to correct deficiencies in the FAA’s aircraft registration and pilot certification systems identified in the Federal Aviation Administration Drug Enforcement Assistance Act of 1988 (‘‘the DEA Act’’).2 After the close of the comment period, the FAA determined that technological improvements could accomplish most requirements of the DEA Act. The FAA withdrew the NPRM on December 5, 2005 (70 FR 72403). As part of the technological improvements, the FAA discontinued issuing paper certificates and began issuing plastic airman certificates in 2003. The plastic certificates are of high quality plastic card stock and have micro printing that contains certain 1 Public Law 108–458, 118 Stat. 3638 (Dec. 17, 2004). 2 Public Law 100–690, 102 Stat. 4181 (Nov. 18, 1988). E:\FR\FM\19NOP1.SGM 19NOP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 75, Number 223 (Friday, November 19, 2010)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 70868-70871]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2010-29236]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2010-1115; Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-221-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 747-100, 747-
100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-200C, 747-200F, 747-300, 747-400, 
747-400D, 747-400F, 747SR, and 747SP 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 would require repetitive 
inspections for damage of the electrical terminal at the left and right 
flightdeck window 1, and corrective actions if necessary. This proposed 
AD would also allow for replacing the flightdeck window 1 with a new 
improved flightdeck window equipped with different electrical 
connections, which would terminate the repetitive inspections for that 
flightdeck window 1. This proposed AD was prompted by several reports 
of electrical arcs at the terminal blocks of the electrically heated 
flightdeck window 1. We are proposing this AD to prevent smoke and fire 
in the cockpit, which could lead to loss of visibility, and injuries to 
or incapacitation of the flightcrew.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by January 3, 2011.

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: Deliver to Mail address above 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.

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 (phone: 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES 
section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after 
receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Louis Natsiopoulos, Aerospace 
Engineer, Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM-130S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft 
Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057-
3356; telephone (425) 917-6478; fax (425) 917-6590.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed 
under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2010-1115; 
Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-221-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed AD because of those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    We have received multiple reports of electrical arcs at the 
terminal blocks of the flightdeck window 1. In several incidents, the 
arcs resulted in open flames. An investigation showed that the 
electrical arcs are caused by loose terminal connections, which are 
caused by incorrect torque of the screw or an incorrectly installed 
screw. A loose terminal connection will overheat with electrical 
current passing through it. An overheated connector can degrade the 
adjacent electrical circuit (including solder, if present). This 
condition, if not corrected, could result in smoke and fire in the 
cockpit, and consequent loss of visibility, and injuries to or 
incapacitation of the flightcrew.

Relevant Service Information

    We have reviewed Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-30-
2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010. Boeing Special Attention 
Service Bulletin 747-30-2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, 
describes procedures for repetitive detailed inspections for damage 
(including but not limited to a cross-threaded screw, arcing, loose 
terminal, and heat damage) of the terminal block, connector, and wiring 
at the left and right flightdeck window 1, and corrective actions if 
necessary. The corrective actions are applying the correct torque to a 
loose electrical connection, repairing damaged wiring, or installing a 
replacement window 1. Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-30-
2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, specifies a compliance time of 
within 500 hours after the date on the service bulletin for doing the 
initial detailed inspection.
    Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-30-2081, Revision 2, 
dated March 10, 2010, specifies that the replacement window can either 
be a window that uses screws and lugs for the electrical connection or 
a window that uses pins and sockets for the electrical connections. For 
airplanes on which a replacement window that uses pins and sockets is 
installed, Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-30-2081, 
Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, also specifies changes to the related 
wire bundle. Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-30-2081, 
Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, specifies that installing a window 
that uses pins and sockets eliminates the need for the repetitive 
inspections. If the window is replaced with the same type of window 
(i.e., windows with the screw and lug type electrical terminations), 
then the inspection must be repeated within 500 flight hours from

[[Page 70869]]

the date of the accomplishment of these corrective actions and every 
6,000 flight hours thereafter.

Related Rulemaking

    We issued AD 2010-15-01, Amendment 39-16367 (75 FR 39804, July 13, 
2010), that applies to certain Model 757 airplanes, Model 767 
airplanes, and Model 777-200 and -300 series airplanes. That AD 
requires repetitive inspections for damage (e.g., of the electrical 
terminal at the left and right flightdeck window 1), and corrective 
actions if necessary. That AD also allows for replacing the flightdeck 
window 1 with a new improved flightdeck window equipped with different 
electrical connections, which terminates the repetitive inspections for 
that flightdeck window 1. That AD results from several reports of 
electrical arcs at the terminal blocks of the electrically heated 
flightdeck window 1. We issued that AD to prevent smoke and fire in the 
cockpit, which could lead to loss of visibility, and injuries to or 
incapacitation of the flightcrew.

FAA's Determination

    We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant 
information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is 
likely to exist or develop in other products of these same type 
designs.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions specified 
in the service information described previously, except as discussed 
under ``Differences Between the Proposed AD and the Service 
Information.''

Differences Between the Proposed AD and the Service Information

    Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-30-2081, Revision 2, 
dated March 10, 2010, does not explicitly specify an inspection for, 
nor specify a corrective action for, airplanes on which a screw is 
found cross threaded during the detailed inspections in paragraph (g) 
of this proposed AD. If these conditions are found, paragraph (i) of 
this proposed AD would require replacing the windshield either before 
further flight if the screw is found to be loose, or within 500 flight 
hours or 150 days after the inspection if the screw is found to be 
tight, whichever occurs first.
    Where Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-30-2081, 
Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, specifies an interval for repetitive 
inspections not to exceed 6,000 flight hours, paragraphs (g) and (h) of 
this proposed AD would require repetitive inspections at intervals not 
to exceed 6,000 flight hours or 24 months, whichever occurs later. We 
have determined that this revised interval will not adversely affect 
safety of the affected airplanes. Boeing concurs with this extension of 
the interval for the repetitive inspections.

Clarifications of Service Information

    Where Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-30-2081, 
Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, and paragraph (h) of this proposed AD 
state to perform a detailed inspection for damage of the terminal 
block, connector, and wiring of flightdeck window 1 ``within 500 flight 
hours,'' it is also acceptable to do the inspection at zero flight 
hours (i.e., before the airplane ever leaves the hangar and resumes 
operations). The intent of this second inspection is for quality 
assurance purposes. This clarification has been coordinated with 
Boeing.
    We have added paragraph (k) of this proposed AD to clarify that 
each window is handled separately. In the compliance table in paragraph 
1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-
30-2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, the repeat interval applies 
to the action, which is doing both Work Packages 1 and 2. If the left 
window is replaced with a window that uses pins and sockets for the 
electrical connection, then that replacement terminates the 
requirements of this proposed AD for that window only. The other window 
still needs to be inspected.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD will affect 251 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD:

                                                                     Estimated Costs
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Action                  Labor cost                 Parts cost             Cost per product                 Cost on U.S. operators
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection.................  1 work-hour x $85 per   None.......................  $85 per inspection      $21,335 per inspection cycle.
                              hour = $85 per                                       cycle.
                              inspection cycle.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We estimate the following costs to do any necessary replacements 
that would be required based on the results of the proposed inspection. 
We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need 
these replacements:

                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Action                      Labor cost             Parts cost              Cost per product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacement of windshield.........  Up to 18 work-hours x  Up to $47,592........  Up to $49,122.
                                     $85 per hour =
                                     $1,530.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

[[Page 70870]]

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),
    (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (4) 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.

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 
airworthiness directive (AD):

The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA-2010-1115; Directorate Identifier 
2010-NM-221-AD.

Comments Due Date

    (a) We must receive comments by January 3, 2011.

Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 747-100, 747-
100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-200C, 747-200F, 747-300, 747-400, 
747-400D, 747-400F, 747SR, and 747SP series airplanes, certificated 
in any category; as identified in Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 747-30-2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010.

Subject

    (d) Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport 
Association (ATA) of America Code 30: Ice and rain protection.

Unsafe Condition

    (e) This AD results from several reports of electrical arcs at 
the terminal blocks of the electrically heated flightdeck window 1. 
In several of the incidents, the arcs resulted in open flames. We 
are issuing this AD to prevent smoke and fire in the cockpit, which 
could lead to loss of visibility, and injuries to or incapacitation 
of the flightcrew.

Compliance

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

Detailed Inspection and Corrective Actions

    (g) Within 500 flight hours after the effective date of this AD, 
do a detailed inspection for damage (including but not limited to a 
cross-threaded screw, arcing, loose terminal, and heat damage) of 
the terminal block, connector, and wiring of flightdeck window 1, 
and do all applicable corrective actions, by accomplishing the 
actions specified in Work Packages 1 and 2 of Boeing Special 
Attention Service Bulletin 747-30-2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 
2010, except as provided by paragraph (j) of this AD. Do all 
applicable corrective actions before further flight, except as 
required by paragraph (i) of this AD. Except as required by 
paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD, repeat the detailed inspection 
thereafter at intervals not to exceed 6,000 flight hours or 24 
months, whichever occurs later. Doing the replacement specified in 
paragraph (k) of this AD terminates the repetitive inspection 
requirements of this paragraph for the replaced flightdeck window 1.
    (h) For airplanes on which a flightdeck window 1 is replaced 
with a window that uses screws and lugs for the electrical 
connections, in accordance with Work Package 1 or 2 of Boeing 
Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-30-2081, Revision 2, dated 
March 10, 2010: Except as provided by paragraph (j) of this AD, do 
the next detailed inspection within 500 flight hours after the 
corrective action, and repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals 
not to exceed 6,000 flight hours or 24 months, whichever occurs 
later. Doing the replacement specified in paragraph (k) of this AD 
terminates the repetitive inspection requirements of this paragraph 
for the replaced flightdeck window 1.

Exceptions to the Service Bulletin

    (i) If, during the inspection required by paragraph (g) of this 
AD, a screw is found cross threaded do the applicable corrective 
action specified in paragraph (i)(1) or (i)(2) of this AD.
    (1) If the terminal lug is loose and cannot be tightened: Before 
further flight, replace the window, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 747-30-2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010.
    (2) If the terminal lug is tight: Within 150 days or 500 flight 
hours after the inspection, whichever occurs first, replace the 
window, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing 
Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-30-2081, Revision 2, dated 
March 10, 2010.
    (j) Where paragraph 1.E. of Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 747-30-2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, states in 
the ``Action'' column to ``do the inspections given in Work Packages 
1 and 2,'' the intent is ``Work Package 1, step 3. or Work Package 
2, step 3., as applicable.'' Operators are to use one or the other 
(or both) work instruction, as applicable, to replace the window(s) 
that need replacing.

Optional Terminating Action

    (k) Replacing a flightdeck window 1 that uses screws and lugs 
for the electrical connections with a flightdeck window that uses 
pins and sockets for the electrical connections, in accordance with 
Work Packages 3 or 4 of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 
747-30-2081, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, ends the repetitive 
inspection requirements of this AD for that window only.

Credit for Actions Accomplished Previously According to Previous Issue 
of Service Information

    (l) Actions accomplished before the effective date of this AD in 
accordance with Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-30-
2081, dated August 08, 2006; or Revision 1, dated August 20, 2008; 
are considered acceptable for compliance with the corresponding 
actions specified in this AD.

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (m)(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, 
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using 
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 
39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the attention of the 
person identified in the Related Information section of this AD. 
Information may be e-mailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your Principal 
Maintenance Inspector or Principal Avionics Inspector, as 
appropriate, or lacking a principal inspector, your local Flight 
Standards District Office.

Related Information

    (n) For more information about this AD, contact Louis 
Natsiopoulos, Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM-
130S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue 
SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone: (425) 917-6478; fax: 
(425) 917-6590; e-mail: Elias.Natsiopoulos@faa.gov.
    (o) 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. You 
may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, the FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., 
Renton, Washington. For information on the availability of this 
material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.


[[Page 70871]]


    Issued in Renton, Washington, on November 10, 2010.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2010-29236 Filed 11-18-10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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