Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model MD-90-30 Airplanes, 430-432 [2010-32993]

Download as PDF 430 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 3 / Wednesday, January 5, 2011 / Rules and Regulations auxiliary spar area on the left side of the aircraft, and modify the left wing rib and left and right debris shields, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Service Bulletin 700–29–021 (for Model BD–700–1A10 airplanes) or 700– 1A11–29–004 (for Model BD–700–1A11 airplanes), both Revision 01, both dated January 25, 2010, as applicable. Credit for Actions Accomplished in Accordance With Previous Service Information (h) Actions accomplished before the effective date of this AD in accordance with Bombardier Service Bulletin 700–29–021 or 700–1A11–29–004, both dated April 3, 2009, as applicable, are considered acceptable for compliance with the corresponding actions specified in this AD. FAA AD Differences WReier-Aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with RULES Note 1: This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service information as follows: No differences. Other FAA AD Provisions (i) The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, New York Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), ANE–170, 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: Program Manager, Continuing Operational Safety, FAA, New York ACO, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, New York, 11590; telephone 516–228–7300; fax 516– 794–5531. 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 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: 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 VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:20 Jan 04, 2011 Jkt 223001 Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES–200. Related Information (j) Refer to MCAI Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF–2010–10, dated March 26, 2010; and Bombardier Service Bulletins 700–29– 021 and 700–1A11–29–004, both Revision 01, both dated January 25, 2010; for related information. Material Incorporated by Reference (k) You must use Bombardier Service Bulletin 700–29–021, Revision 01, dated January 25, 2010; or Bombardier Service Bulletin 700–1A11–29–004, Revision 01, dated January 25, 2010; as applicable; to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of this service information under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) For service information identified in ˆ this AD, contact Bombardier, Inc., 400 Cote´ Vertu Road West, Dorval, Quebec H4S 1Y9, Canada; telephone 514–855–5000; fax 514– 855–7401; e-mail thd.crj@aero.bombardier.com; Internet https:// www.bombardier.com. (3) You may review copies of the service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. (4) You may also review copies of the service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal_register/ code_of_federal_regulations/ ibr_locations.html. Issued in Renton, Washington, on December 17, 2010. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2010–32996 Filed 1–4–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2010–0953; Directorate Identifier 2010–NM–010–AD; Amendment 39–16565; AD 2011–01–11] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model MD–90–30 Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 products listed above. This AD requires repetitive high frequency eddy current inspections for cracking on the hinge bearing lugs of the left and right sides of the center section ribs of the horizontal stabilizer, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. This AD was prompted by reports of cracks found on either the left or right (or in one case, both) sides of the center section ribs of the horizontal stabilizer. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking in the hinge bearing lugs of the center section of the left and right ribs, which could result in failure of the hinge bearing lugs and consequent inability of the horizontal stabilizer to sustain the required loads. DATES: This AD is effective February 9, 2011. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of February 9, 2011. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 3855 Lakewood Boulevard, MC D800–0019, Long Beach, California 90846–0001; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 2; fax 206–766–5683; e-mail dse.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 AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The address for the Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is Document Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Roger Durbin, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California 90712–4137; telephone (562) 627–5233; fax (562) 627–5210. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: E:\FR\FM\05JAR1.SGM 05JAR1 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 3 / Wednesday, January 5, 2011 / Rules and Regulations Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an airworthiness directive (AD) that would apply to the specified products. That NPRM published in the Federal Register on October 1, 2010 (75 FR 60665). That NPRM proposed to require repetitive high frequency eddy current inspections for cracking on the hinge bearing lugs of the left and right sides of the center section ribs of the horizontal stabilizer, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. We received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of the cost to the public. Explanation of Change to Applicability We have revised the existing AD to identify model designations as published in the most recent type certificate data sheet for the affected models. We reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD as proposed—except for minor editorial changes and the change described previously. We have determined that these minor changes: • Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and • Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD as proposed. Interim Action WReier-Aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with RULES We consider this AD interim action. The manufacturer is currently developing a modification that will address the unsafe condition identified in this AD. Once this modification is developed, approved, and available, we might consider additional rulemaking. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 16 airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it takes about 2 work-hours per product to comply with this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per workhour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD to the U.S. VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:20 Jan 04, 2011 Jkt 223001 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 Conclusion Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. operators to be $2,720, or $170 per product. Authority for This Rulemaking This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), (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. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: ■ PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 431 § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ 2011–01–11 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39–16565; Docket No. FAA–2010–0953; Directorate Identifier 2010–NM–010–AD. Effective Date (a) This AD is effective February 9, 2011. Affected ADs (b) None. Applicability (c) This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model MD–90–30 airplanes, certificated in any category. Subject (d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 55: Stabilizers. Unsafe Condition (e) This AD results from reports of cracks found on either the left or right (or in one case, both) sides of the center section ribs of the horizontal stabilizer. The Federal Aviation Administration is issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking in the hinge bearing lugs of the center section of the left and right ribs, which could result in failure of the hinge bearing lugs and consequent inability of the horizontal stabilizer to sustain the required loads. 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. Repetitive Inspections and Corrective Actions for Cracking (g) At the applicable time in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90–55A016, Revision 1, dated February 17, 2010, except as required by paragraph (n) of this AD, do a high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection for cracking on the hinge bearing lugs of the left and right sides of the center section ribs of the horizontal stabilizer, and do all applicable related investigative actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90–55A016, Revision 1, dated February 17, 2010. Do all applicable related investigative actions before further flight. (h) If during any inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no cracking is found, repeat the inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD thereafter at intervals not to exceed 1,680 flight cycles. (i) If during any inspection required by paragraph (g) or (h) of this AD, any crack is found having a length between Points ‘A’ and ‘B’ less than or equal to 0.15 inch and crack length between Points ‘C’ and ‘D’ less than or equal to 0.05 inch, as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90–55A016, Revision 1, dated February 17, 2010: Before further flight, blend out the crack; and within E:\FR\FM\05JAR1.SGM 05JAR1 432 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 3 / Wednesday, January 5, 2011 / Rules and Regulations 1,000 flight cycles after doing the blend out, do an HFEC inspection of the blend out on the center section rib hinge bearing lug; in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90–55A016, Revision 1, dated February 17, 2010. Repeat the HFEC inspection of the blend out thereafter at intervals not to exceed 400 flight cycles until the replacement specified by paragraph (j) is done. (j) If any cracking is detected during any inspection required by paragraph (i) of this AD, before further flight, replace the horizontal stabilizer center section rib with a new horizontal stabilizer center section rib, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90–55A016, Revision 1, dated February 17, 2010. (k) If during any inspection required by paragraph (g) or (h) of this AD, any crack is found having a length between Points ‘A’ and ‘B’ greater than 0.15 inch or crack length between Points ‘C’ and ‘D’ greater than 0.05 inch, as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90–55A016, Revision 1, dated February 17, 2010: Before further flight, replace the horizontal stabilizer center section rib with a new horizontal stabilizer center section rib, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90–55A016, Revision 1, dated February 17, 2010. (l) For any airplane having a horizontal stabilizer center section rib replaced during the actions required by paragraph (j) or (k) of this AD: Before the accumulation of 7,200 total flight cycles on the new horizontal stabilizer center section rib, do the actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD, and do all applicable actions specified in paragraphs (h), (i), (j), and (k) of this AD. Credit for Actions Accomplished According to Previous Issue of Service Bulletin (m) Actions accomplished before the effective date of this AD according to Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90–55A016, dated December 16, 2009, are considered acceptable for compliance with the corresponding actions required by paragraphs (g), (h), (i), (j), and (k) of this AD. WReier-Aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with RULES Exception to the Service Bulletin (n) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90–55A016, Revision 1, dated February 17, 2010, specifies a compliance time ‘‘after the original issue date on the service bulletin,’’ this AD requires compliance within the specified compliance time after the effective date of this AD. Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (o)(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: Roger Durbin, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120L, FAA, Los Angeles ACO, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California 90712–4137; telephone (562) 627– 5233; fax (562) 627–5210. (2) To request a different method of compliance or a different compliance time for this AD, follow the procedures in 14 CFR VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:20 Jan 04, 2011 Jkt 223001 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 the approval must specifically refer to this AD. Related Information (p) For more information about this AD, contact Roger Durbin, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120L, FAA, Los Angeles ACO, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California 90712–4137; telephone (562) 627–5233; fax (562) 627–5210. Material Incorporated by Reference (q) You must use Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90–55A016, Revision 1, dated February 17, 2010, to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90–55A016, Revision 1, dated February 17, 2010, under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 3855 Lakewood Boulevard, MC D800–0019, Long Beach, California 90846– 0001; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 2; fax 206–766–5683; e-mail dse.boecom@boeing.com; Internet https:// www.myboeingfleet.com. (3) You may review copies of the service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. (4) You may also review copies of the service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at an NARA facility, call 202–741– 6030, or go to https://www.archives.gov/ federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ ibr_locations.html. Issued in Renton, Washington, on December 22, 2010. Jeffrey E. Duven, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2010–32993 Filed 1–4–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2010–0952; Directorate Identifier 2010–NM–131–AD; Amendment 39–16555; AD 2011–01–02] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330–201, –202, –203, –223, and –243 Airplanes; Airbus Model A330–300 Series Airplanes; and Airbus Model A340–200 and –300 Series Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This 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: SUMMARY: [T]he FAA published SFAR 88 (Special Federal Aviation Regulation 88). By mail referenced 04/00/02/07/01–L296 of March 4th, 2002 and 04/00/02/07/03–L024 of February 3rd, 2003 the JAA [Joint Aviation Authorities] recommended to the National Aviation Authorities (NAA) the application of a similar regulation. The aim of this regulation is to require * * * a definition review against explosion hazards. * * * * * Failure of the auxiliary power unit (APU) bleed leak detection system could result in overheat of the fuel tank located in the horizontal stabilizer and ignition of the fuel vapors in that tank, which could result in a fuel tank explosion and consequent loss of the airplane. We are issuing this AD to require actions to correct the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD becomes effective February 9, 2011. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of February 9, 2011. ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov or in person at the U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, E:\FR\FM\05JAR1.SGM 05JAR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 3 (Wednesday, January 5, 2011)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 430-432]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2010-32993]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2010-0953; Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-010-AD; 
Amendment 39-16565; AD 2011-01-11]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model MD-90-30 
Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the 
products listed above. This AD requires repetitive high frequency eddy 
current inspections for cracking on the hinge bearing lugs of the left 
and right sides of the center section ribs of the horizontal 
stabilizer, and related investigative and corrective actions if 
necessary. This AD was prompted by reports of cracks found on either 
the left or right (or in one case, both) sides of the center section 
ribs of the horizontal stabilizer. We are issuing this AD to detect and 
correct cracking in the hinge bearing lugs of the center section of the 
left and right ribs, which could result in failure of the hinge bearing 
lugs and consequent inability of the horizontal stabilizer to sustain 
the required loads.

DATES: This AD is effective February 9, 2011.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of February 9, 
2011.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 
3855 Lakewood Boulevard, MC D800-0019, Long Beach, California 90846-
0001; telephone 206-544-5000, extension 2; fax 206-766-5683; e-mail 
dse.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 AD, the regulatory evaluation, 
any comments received, and other information. The address for the 
Docket Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is Document Management Facility, 
U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West 
Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., 
Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Roger Durbin, Aerospace Engineer, 
Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification 
Office (ACO), 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California 90712-
4137; telephone (562) 627-5233; fax (562) 627-5210.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

[[Page 431]]

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 to include an airworthiness directive (AD) that would apply to 
the specified products. That NPRM published in the Federal Register on 
October 1, 2010 (75 FR 60665). That NPRM proposed to require repetitive 
high frequency eddy current inspections for cracking on the hinge 
bearing lugs of the left and right sides of the center section ribs of 
the horizontal stabilizer, and related investigative and corrective 
actions if necessary.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. We received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of 
the cost to the public.

Explanation of Change to Applicability

    We have revised the existing AD to identify model designations as 
published in the most recent type certificate data sheet for the 
affected models.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety and 
the public interest require adopting the AD as proposed--except for 
minor editorial changes and the change described previously. We have 
determined that these minor changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety and 
the public interest require adopting the AD as proposed.

Interim Action

    We consider this AD interim action. The manufacturer is currently 
developing a modification that will address the unsafe condition 
identified in this AD. Once this modification is developed, approved, 
and available, we might consider additional rulemaking.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 16 airplanes of U.S. registry. We 
also estimate that it takes about 2 work-hours per product to comply 
with this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on 
these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD to the U.S. operators to 
be $2,720, or $170 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

    This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, 
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or 
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various 
levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and 
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
    (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.

Adoption of the Amendment

0
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, 
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.

Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

2011-01-11 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-16565; Docket No. FAA-
2010-0953; Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-010-AD.

Effective Date

    (a) This AD is effective February 9, 2011.

Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model MD-90-30 
airplanes, certificated in any category.

Subject

    (d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 55: 
Stabilizers.

Unsafe Condition

    (e) This AD results from reports of cracks found on either the 
left or right (or in one case, both) sides of the center section 
ribs of the horizontal stabilizer. The Federal Aviation 
Administration is issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking in 
the hinge bearing lugs of the center section of the left and right 
ribs, which could result in failure of the hinge bearing lugs and 
consequent inability of the horizontal stabilizer to sustain the 
required loads.

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.

Repetitive Inspections and Corrective Actions for Cracking

    (g) At the applicable time in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of 
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90-55A016, Revision 1, dated 
February 17, 2010, except as required by paragraph (n) of this AD, 
do a high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection for cracking on 
the hinge bearing lugs of the left and right sides of the center 
section ribs of the horizontal stabilizer, and do all applicable 
related investigative actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90-55A016, Revision 
1, dated February 17, 2010. Do all applicable related investigative 
actions before further flight.
    (h) If during any inspection required by paragraph (g) of this 
AD, no cracking is found, repeat the inspection required by 
paragraph (g) of this AD thereafter at intervals not to exceed 1,680 
flight cycles.
    (i) If during any inspection required by paragraph (g) or (h) of 
this AD, any crack is found having a length between Points `A' and 
`B' less than or equal to 0.15 inch and crack length between Points 
`C' and `D' less than or equal to 0.05 inch, as identified in Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin MD90-55A016, Revision 1, dated February 17, 
2010: Before further flight, blend out the crack; and within

[[Page 432]]

1,000 flight cycles after doing the blend out, do an HFEC inspection 
of the blend out on the center section rib hinge bearing lug; in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert 
Service Bulletin MD90-55A016, Revision 1, dated February 17, 2010. 
Repeat the HFEC inspection of the blend out thereafter at intervals 
not to exceed 400 flight cycles until the replacement specified by 
paragraph (j) is done.
    (j) If any cracking is detected during any inspection required 
by paragraph (i) of this AD, before further flight, replace the 
horizontal stabilizer center section rib with a new horizontal 
stabilizer center section rib, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90-55A016, Revision 
1, dated February 17, 2010.
    (k) If during any inspection required by paragraph (g) or (h) of 
this AD, any crack is found having a length between Points `A' and 
`B' greater than 0.15 inch or crack length between Points `C' and 
`D' greater than 0.05 inch, as identified in Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin MD90-55A016, Revision 1, dated February 17, 2010: Before 
further flight, replace the horizontal stabilizer center section rib 
with a new horizontal stabilizer center section rib, in accordance 
with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin MD90-55A016, Revision 1, dated February 17, 2010.
    (l) For any airplane having a horizontal stabilizer center 
section rib replaced during the actions required by paragraph (j) or 
(k) of this AD: Before the accumulation of 7,200 total flight cycles 
on the new horizontal stabilizer center section rib, do the actions 
required by paragraph (g) of this AD, and do all applicable actions 
specified in paragraphs (h), (i), (j), and (k) of this AD.

Credit for Actions Accomplished According to Previous Issue of Service 
Bulletin

    (m) Actions accomplished before the effective date of this AD 
according to Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90-55A016, dated 
December 16, 2009, are considered acceptable for compliance with the 
corresponding actions required by paragraphs (g), (h), (i), (j), and 
(k) of this AD.

Exception to the Service Bulletin

    (n) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90-55A016, Revision 1, 
dated February 17, 2010, specifies a compliance time ``after the 
original issue date on the service bulletin,'' this AD requires 
compliance within the specified compliance time after the effective 
date of this AD.

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (o)(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: Roger Durbin, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe 
Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los Angeles ACO, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, 
Lakewood, California 90712-4137; telephone (562) 627-5233; fax (562) 
627-5210.
    (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 the approval 
must specifically refer to this AD.

Related Information

    (p) For more information about this AD, contact Roger Durbin, 
Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los Angeles ACO, 
3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California 90712-4137; telephone 
(562) 627-5233; fax (562) 627-5210.

Material Incorporated by Reference

    (q) You must use Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90-55A016, 
Revision 1, dated February 17, 2010, to do the actions required by 
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90-
55A016, Revision 1, dated February 17, 2010, under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) 
and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 
3855 Lakewood Boulevard, MC D800-0019, Long Beach, California 90846-
0001; telephone 206-544-5000, extension 2; fax 206-766-5683; e-mail 
dse.boecom@boeing.com; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com.
    (3) You may review copies of the service information at the FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, 
Washington. For information on the availability of this material at 
the FAA, call 425-227-1221.
    (4) You may also review copies of the service information that 
is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records 
Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this 
material at an NARA facility, call 202-741-6030, or go to https://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on December 22, 2010.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2010-32993 Filed 1-4-11; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.