Airworthiness Directives; APEX Aircraft Model CAP 10 Airplanes, 82335-82337 [2010-32966]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 250 / Thursday, December 30, 2010 / Proposed Rules Affected ADs (b) None. Applicability (c) This AD applies to McDonnell Douglas Corporation Model DC–10–10, DC–10–10F, and MD–10–10F airplanes; certificated in any category; as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC10–57A156, Revision 1, dated March 10, 2010. Subject (d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 57: Wings. Unsafe Condition (e) This AD results from reports of three instances of fuel leaks in the lower cap splice of the wing rear spar at station Xors=409. The Federal Aviation Administration is issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking on the lower cap of the rear spar of the left and right wings between stations Xors=417 and the outboard edge of the lower cap splice of the wing rear spar at station Xors=400, which could result in fuel leaks or cracking of the lower wing skin and structure, causing possible inability to sustain the limit load and adversely affecting the structural integrity of the airplane. srobinson on DSKHWCL6B1PROD with PROPOSALS 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 (g) Within 1,750 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD, do an eddy current test high frequency (ETHF) inspection for cracking on the lower cap of the rear spar of the left and right wings between stations Xors=417 and the outboard edge of the lower cap splice of the wing rear spar at station Xors=400, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC10–57A156, Revision 1, dated March 10, 2010. (1) If no cracking is found, repeat the inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD thereafter at intervals not to exceed 1,750 flight cycles. (2) If any cracking is found in the spar cap aft leg at the fastener holes, and that cracking can be removed by hole enlargement, before further flight, do a permanent repair, in accordance with Boeing DC–10–10 Service Rework Drawing SR10570048, Revision J, dated July 16, 2009. Within 1,750 flight cycles after doing the applicable permanent repair, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 1,750 flight cycles, do an ETHF inspection for cracking in accordance with Boeing DC–10–10 Service Rework Drawing SR10570048, Revision J, dated July 16, 2009. If any cracking is found during any inspection required by this paragraph, before further flight, repair the cracking, in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (i) of this AD. (3) If any cracking is found in the spar cap aft leg at the fastener holes, and that cracking cannot be removed by hole enlargement but it does not extend into the vertical leg, before further flight, do a permanent repair, in VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:52 Dec 29, 2010 Jkt 223001 82335 accordance with Boeing DC–10–10 Service Rework Drawing SR10570048, Revision J, dated July 16, 2009. Within 4,550 flight cycles after doing a permanent repair, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 4,550 flight cycles, do ETHF and ultrasonic inspections for cracking, in accordance with Boeing DC–10–10 Service Rework Drawing SR10570048, Revision J, dated July 16, 2009. If any cracking is found during any inspection required by this paragraph, before further flight, repair the cracking, in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (i) of this AD. (4) If any cracking is found in the spar cap aft leg at fastener holes and that cracking extends into the vertical leg of the spar cap, do the actions specified in paragraph (g)(4)(i) or (g)(4)(ii) of this AD. (i) Do the actions in paragraphs (g)(4)(i)(A) and (g)(4)(i)(B) of this AD. (A) Before further flight, do a temporary repair in accordance with Boeing DC–10–10 Service Rework Drawing SR10570048, Revision J, dated July 16, 2009. Within 1,650 flight cycles after doing the temporary repair; and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 1,650 flight cycles, do ETHF and ultrasonic inspections for cracking of the repaired area, in accordance with Boeing DC–10–10 Service Rework Drawing SR10570048, Revision J, dated July 16, 2009, until the permanent repair required by paragraph (g)(4)(i)(B) of this AD is done. If any cracking is found during any inspection required by this paragraph, before further flight, repair the cracking, in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (i) of this AD. (B) Within 7,000 flight cycles after the temporary repair has been done, do the applicable permanent repair, in accordance with Boeing DC–10–10 Service Rework Drawing SR10570019, Revision K, dated April 17, 2009. Within 4,550 flight cycles after doing the permanent repair; and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 4,550 flight cycles; do ETHF and ultrasonic inspections for cracking of the repaired area, in accordance with Boeing DC–10–10 Service Rework Drawing SR10570019, Revision K, dated April 17, 2009. If any cracking is found during any inspection required by this paragraph, before further flight, repair the cracking, in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (i) of this AD. (ii) Before further flight do the applicable permanent repair, in accordance with Boeing DC–10–10 Service Rework Drawing SR10570019, Revision K, dated April 17, 2009. Within 4,550 flight cycles after doing the permanent repair; and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 4,550 flight cycles, do ETHF and ultrasonic inspections for cracking of the repaired area, in accordance with Boeing DC–10–10 Service Rework Drawing SR10570019, Revision K, dated April 17, 2009. If any cracking is found during any inspection required by this paragraph, before further flight, repair the cracking, in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (i) of this AD. Alert Service Bulletin DC10–57A156, dated September 16, 2009, are considered acceptable for compliance with the corresponding actions specified in this AD. Credit for Actions Accomplished in Accordance With Previous Service Information (h) Actions accomplished before the effective date of this AD according to Boeing SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (i)(1) The Manager, Los Angeles 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: Nenita Odesa, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120L, FAA, Los Angeles ACO, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California 90712–4137; phone: (562) 627– 5234; fax: (562) 627–5210; e-mail: nenita. odessa@faa.gov. (2) To request a different method of compliance or a different compliance time for this AD, follow the procedures in 14 CFR 39.19. Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your principal maintenance inspector (PMI) or principal avionics inspector (PAI), as appropriate, or lacking a principal inspector, your local Flight Standards District Office. The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair required by this AD if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles ACO to make those findings. For a repair method to be approved, the repair must meet the certification basis of the airplane and 14 CFR 25.571, Amendment 45, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. Issued in Renton, Washington, on December 17, 2010. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2010–33001 Filed 12–29–10; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2010–1296; Directorate Identifier 2010–CE–063–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; APEX Aircraft Model CAP 10 Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (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 results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) E:\FR\FM\30DEP1.SGM 30DEP1 82336 Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 250 / Thursday, December 30, 2010 / Proposed Rules 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: A fatal accident occurred to a CAP 10C, in which the pilot lost control of the aeroplane. The following investigation has revealed that the probable cause of the accident was the improper locking of a turnbuckle (locking clip missing) of the flight control cables, and the subsequent inadvertent release of the pitchup control cable from the turnbuckle. 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 February 14, 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: 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 Apex ´ Aircraft, Bureau de Navigabilite, 1 route de Troyes, 21121 DAROIS–France, telephone: (33) 380 35 65 10; fax: (33) 380 35 65 15; e-mail: apex-aircraft.com. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 816–329– 4148. srobinson on DSKHWCL6B1PROD with PROPOSALS 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: Sarjapur Nagarajan, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:52 Dec 29, 2010 Jkt 223001 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329– 4145; fax: (816) 329–4090. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: information and determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Comments Invited Differences Between This Proposed 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. 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–2010–1296; Directorate Identifier 2010–CE–063–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 The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued AD No.: 2010– 0233, dated November 26, 2010 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: A fatal accident occurred to a CAP 10C, in which the pilot lost control of the aeroplane. The following investigation has revealed that the probable cause of the accident was the improper locking of a turnbuckle (locking clip missing) of the flight control cables, and the subsequent inadvertent release of the pitchup control cable from the turnbuckle. For the above described reasons, this AD requires repetitive inspections to verify the correct installation of the turnbuckles of the flight control cables and, if foreseen by the applicable design configuration of the turnbuckles and found to be missing, to restore the locking clip and the safety wire. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of the 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 this State of Design Authority, they have notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD will affect 28 products of U.S. registry. 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. Required parts would cost about $100 per product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $9,940, or $355 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. Regulatory Findings We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This E:\FR\FM\30DEP1.SGM 30DEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 250 / Thursday, December 30, 2010 / Proposed Rules 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: [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new AD: APEX Aircraft: Docket No. FAA–2010–1296; Directorate Identifier 2010–CE–063–AD. Comments Due Date (a) We must receive comments by February 14, 2011. Affected ADs (b) None. srobinson on DSKHWCL6B1PROD with PROPOSALS Applicability (c) This AD applies to APEX Aircraft Model CAP 10 airplanes, all serial numbers, certificated in any category. Subject (d) Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 27: Flight Controls. Reason (e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) states: A fatal accident occurred to a CAP 10C, in which the pilot lost control of the aeroplane. The following investigation has revealed that the probable cause of the accident was the improper locking of a turnbuckle (locking VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:52 Dec 29, 2010 Jkt 223001 Actions and Compliance (f) Unless already done, do the following actions: (1) Within the next 2 months after the effective date of this AD: (i) If the turnbuckles are designed to be locked with locking clips and safety wire, verify that the locking clips are properly installed in the corresponding groove, that the safety wire of a minimum diameter of 0.8 millimeter (mm) is correctly installed, and that there is no damage to the whole turnbuckle installation. (ii) For all other designs of turnbuckles, verify the correct installation of the safety locking devices. (iii) If any discrepancy is found during the inspection required by paragraph (f)(1)(i) or (f)(1)(ii) of this AD, before further flight, restore the correct turnbuckle installation in accordance with standard maintenance practice. (2) Repeat the inspection required by paragraph (f)(1)(i) or (f)(1)(ii) of this AD, as applicable to the turnbuckles design, and the associated corrective actions required by paragraph (f)(1)(iii) of this AD at intervals not to exceed 110 hours time-in-service or 13 months since the last inspection, whichever occurs first. FAA AD Differences Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 clip missing) of the flight control cables, and the subsequent inadvertent release of the pitchup control cable from the turnbuckle. For the above described reasons, this AD requires repetitive inspections to verify the correct installation of the turnbuckles of the flight control cables and, if foreseen by the applicable design configuration of the turnbuckles and found to be missing, to restore the locking clip and the safety wire. Note: This AD differs from the MCAI and/ or service information as follows: No differences. Other FAA AD Provisions (g) The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Standards Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to ATTN: Sarjapur Nagarajan, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–4145; fax: (816) 329–4090. Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO. (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered FAAapproved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority (or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product is airworthy before it is returned to service. (3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in this AD, a federal PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 82337 agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 2120–0056. Public reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 5 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the collection of information. All responses to this collection of information are mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave., SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES–200. Related Information (h) Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No.: 2010–0233, dated November 26, 2010, for related information. For service information related to this AD, contact Apex Aircraft, Bureau de ´ Navigabilite, 1 route de Troyes, 21121 DAROIS–France, telephone: (33) 380 35 65 10; fax: (33) 380 35 65 15; email: apexaircraft.com. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 816–329–4148. Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on December 22, 2010. Earl Lawrence, Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2010–32966 Filed 12–29–10; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2010–1271; Directorate Identifier 2010–NM–187–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 777–200, –300, and –300ER 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 installing an auto shutoff feature for the center override/ jettison fuel pumps, and installing power control circuitry for the center SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\30DEP1.SGM 30DEP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 75, Number 250 (Thursday, December 30, 2010)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 82335-82337]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2010-32966]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2010-1296; Directorate Identifier 2010-CE-063-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; APEX Aircraft Model CAP 10 Airplanes

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

[[Page 82336]]

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:

    A fatal accident occurred to a CAP 10C, in which the pilot lost 
control of the aeroplane.
    The following investigation has revealed that the probable cause 
of the accident was the improper locking of a turnbuckle (locking 
clip missing) of the flight control cables, and the subsequent 
inadvertent release of the pitchup control cable from the 
turnbuckle.

    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 February 14, 
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: 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 
Apex Aircraft, Bureau de Navigabilit[eacute], 1 route de Troyes, 21121 
DAROIS-France, telephone: (33) 380 35 65 10; fax: (33) 380 35 65 15; e-
mail: apex-aircraft.com. You may review copies of the referenced 
service information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, 
Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call 816-329-4148.

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: Sarjapur Nagarajan, Aerospace 
Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas 
City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4145; fax: (816) 329-4090.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

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-2010-1296; 
Directorate Identifier 2010-CE-063-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

    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued AD 
No.: 2010-0233, dated November 26, 2010 (referred to after this as 
``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified 
products. The MCAI states:

    A fatal accident occurred to a CAP 10C, in which the pilot lost 
control of the aeroplane.
    The following investigation has revealed that the probable cause 
of the accident was the improper locking of a turnbuckle (locking 
clip missing) of the flight control cables, and the subsequent 
inadvertent release of the pitchup control cable from the 
turnbuckle.
    For the above described reasons, this AD requires repetitive 
inspections to verify the correct installation of the turnbuckles of 
the flight control cables and, if foreseen by the applicable design 
configuration of the turnbuckles and found to be missing, to restore 
the locking clip and the safety wire.

    You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD 
docket.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of the 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 this State of Design Authority, they 
have notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and 
service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because 
we evaluated all information and determined the unsafe condition exists 
and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type 
design.

Differences Between This Proposed 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

    We estimate that this proposed AD will affect 28 products of U.S. 
registry. 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. Required parts would cost 
about $100 per product.
    Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed AD on 
U.S. operators to be $9,940, or $355 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.

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This

[[Page 82337]]

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:

APEX Aircraft: Docket No. FAA-2010-1296; Directorate Identifier 
2010-CE-063-AD.

Comments Due Date

    (a) We must receive comments by February 14, 2011.

Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to APEX Aircraft Model CAP 10 airplanes, all 
serial numbers, certificated in any category.

Subject

    (d) Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 27: Flight 
Controls.

Reason

    (e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) 
states:
    A fatal accident occurred to a CAP 10C, in which the pilot lost 
control of the aeroplane.
    The following investigation has revealed that the probable cause 
of the accident was the improper locking of a turnbuckle (locking 
clip missing) of the flight control cables, and the subsequent 
inadvertent release of the pitchup control cable from the 
turnbuckle.
    For the above described reasons, this AD requires repetitive 
inspections to verify the correct installation of the turnbuckles of 
the flight control cables and, if foreseen by the applicable design 
configuration of the turnbuckles and found to be missing, to restore 
the locking clip and the safety wire.

Actions and Compliance

    (f) Unless already done, do the following actions:
    (1) Within the next 2 months after the effective date of this 
AD:
    (i) If the turnbuckles are designed to be locked with locking 
clips and safety wire, verify that the locking clips are properly 
installed in the corresponding groove, that the safety wire of a 
minimum diameter of 0.8 millimeter (mm) is correctly installed, and 
that there is no damage to the whole turnbuckle installation.
    (ii) For all other designs of turnbuckles, verify the correct 
installation of the safety locking devices.
    (iii) If any discrepancy is found during the inspection required 
by paragraph (f)(1)(i) or (f)(1)(ii) of this AD, before further 
flight, restore the correct turnbuckle installation in accordance 
with standard maintenance practice.
    (2) Repeat the inspection required by paragraph (f)(1)(i) or 
(f)(1)(ii) of this AD, as applicable to the turnbuckles design, and 
the associated corrective actions required by paragraph (f)(1)(iii) 
of this AD at intervals not to exceed 110 hours time-in-service or 
13 months since the last inspection, whichever occurs first.

FAA AD Differences

    Note:  This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service information 
as follows: No differences.

Other FAA AD Provisions

    (g) The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
Standards Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this 
AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send 
information to ATTN: Sarjapur Nagarajan, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, 
Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, 
Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4145; fax: (816) 329-4090. 
Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC 
applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA 
Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local 
FSDO.
    (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain 
corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these 
actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered 
FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority 
(or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product 
is airworthy before it is returned to service.
    (3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in 
this AD, a federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person 
is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a 
penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information 
subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless 
that collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control 
Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 
2120-0056. Public reporting for this collection of information is 
estimated to be approximately 5 minutes per response, including the 
time for reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the 
collection of information. All responses to this collection of 
information are mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this 
burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to 
the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave., SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: 
Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES-200.

Related Information

    (h) Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No.: 
2010-0233, dated November 26, 2010, for related information. For 
service information related to this AD, contact Apex Aircraft, 
Bureau de Navigabilit[eacute], 1 route de Troyes, 21121 DAROIS-
France, telephone: (33) 380 35 65 10; fax: (33) 380 35 65 15; email: 
apex-aircraft.com. You may review copies of the referenced service 
information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, 
Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call 816-329-4148.

    Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on December 22, 2010.
Earl Lawrence,
Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2010-32966 Filed 12-29-10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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