Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330-200 and -300 Series Airplanes, 15867-15870 [2011-6643]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 55 / Tuesday, March 22, 2011 / Proposed Rules Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–78– 1083, dated June 30, 2010. srobinson on DSKHWCL6B1PROD with PROPOSALS Repetitive Inspections and Corrective Actions (l) For Group 1 airplanes, as identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–78–1083, dated June 30, 2010: Within 7,500 flight hours after accomplishing the requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD, do the actions specified in paragraphs (l)(1), (l)(2), (l)(3), and (l)(4) of this AD. Repeat the actions thereafter at intervals not to exceed 7,500 flight hours. (1) Do a detailed inspection for tears, holes, and disbonds of the wear spacer, in accordance with Appendix A of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–78– 1083, dated June 30, 2010. If any tear, hole, or disbond is found, before further flight, replace the spacer with a new spacer, in accordance with Appendix A of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–78– 1083, dated June 30, 2010. (2) Measure the thickness of the wear spacer in accordance with Appendix A of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–78–1083, dated June 30, 2010. If the thickness is less than 0.020 inch, before further flight, replace the spacer with a new spacer, in accordance with Appendix A of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–78–1083, dated June 30, 2010. (3) Do a detailed inspection for surface damage of the attach fitting, in accordance with Appendix A of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–78–1083, dated June 30, 2010. (i) If the surface damage is less than 0.005 inch depth, before further flight, repair the attach fitting, in accordance with Appendix A of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–78–1083, dated June 30, 2010. (ii) If the surface damage is 0.005 inch or greater in depth, before further flight, replace the attach fitting with a new attach fitting, in accordance with Appendix B of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–78– 1083, dated June 30, 2010. (4) Do a general visual inspection for damage (i.e. wear, missing, cracked, or bent parts) of the rod end, attach bolt, and nut, in accordance with Appendix A of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–78– 1083, dated June 30, 2010. If any damage is found, before further flight, replace the affected part with a new part in accordance with a method approved by the Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA. Group 2 Inspection and Repair (m) For Group 2 airplanes, as identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–78–1083, dated June 30, 2010: Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, perform the actions required in paragraph (l) of this AD. Repeat the actions thereafter at intervals not to exceed 7,500 flight hours. Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (n)(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 VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:12 Mar 21, 2011 Jkt 223001 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 appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. Related Information (o) For more information about this AD, contact Chris R. Parker, Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Branch, ANM–140S, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6496; fax: 425– 917–6590; e-mail: Chris.R.Parker@faa.gov. (p) 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; phone: 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. Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 14, 2011. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2011–6613 Filed 3–21–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2011–0224; Directorate Identifier 2010–NM–210–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330–200 and –300 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 that would supersede an existing AD. This proposed AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 15867 aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as: * * * * * The airworthiness limitations applicable to Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT ALI) are currently given in Airbus A330 ALI Document reference AI/SE–M4/ 95A.0089/97, which is approved by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and referenced in Airbus Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 2. The issue 17 of Airbus A330 ALI Document introduces more restrictive maintenance requirements/airworthiness limitations. Failure to comply with this issue constitutes an unsafe condition. This [EASA] AD supersedes EASA AD 2009–0102 [and retains the requirements therein], and requires the implementation of the new or more restrictive maintenance requirements/airworthiness limitations as specified in Airbus A330 ALI Document issue 17. The unsafe condition is fatigue cracking, damage, and corrosion in certain structure, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane. 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 May 6, 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 W12–40, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Airbus SAS— Airworthiness Office—EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 45 80, e-mail airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227– 1221. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// E:\FR\FM\22MRP1.SGM 22MRP1 15868 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 55 / Tuesday, March 22, 2011 / Proposed Rules www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Operations office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–1138; fax (425) 227–1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2011–0224; Directorate Identifier 2010–NM–210–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed AD based on those comments. We 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. srobinson on DSKHWCL6B1PROD with PROPOSALS Discussion On April 20, 2006, we issued AD 2006–09–07, Amendment 39–14577 (71 FR 25919, May 3, 2006). That AD requires actions intended to address an unsafe condition on A330–200 and –300 series airplanes, A340–200 and –300 series airplanes, and A340–541 and –642 airplanes. Since we issued AD 2006–09–07, Airbus has revised certain A330 Damage tolerant airworthiness limitations items to include more restrictive maintenance requirements/airworthiness limitations. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2010–0174, dated August 17, 2010 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:12 Mar 21, 2011 Jkt 223001 The airworthiness limitations are distributed in the Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS). The airworthiness limitations applicable to Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT ALI) are currently given in Airbus A330 ALI Document reference AI/SE–M4/ 95A.0089/97, which is approved by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and referenced in Airbus Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 2. The issue 17 of Airbus A330 ALI Document introduces more restrictive maintenance requirements/airworthiness limitations. Failure to comply with this issue constitutes an unsafe condition. This [EASA] AD supersedes EASA AD 2009–0102 [and retains the requirements therein], and requires the implementation of the new or more restrictive maintenance requirements/airworthiness limitations as specified in Airbus A330 ALI Document issue 17. The unsafe condition is fatigue cracking, damage, and corrosion in certain structure, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket. Relevant Service Information Airbus has issued Document AI/SE– M4/95A.0089/97, ‘‘A330 Airworthiness Limitation Items,’’ Issue 17, dated May 28, 2010. This document provides each mandatory time for maintenance tasks, structural inspection interval, and related structural inspection procedures. Related Rulemaking On February 3, 2011, we issued AD 2011–04–05, Amendment 39–16605 (76 FR 8612, February 15, 2011), for Airbus Model A340–200, –300, –500, and –600 series airplanes, to require revising the maintenance program. Doing this revision terminates the requirements of AD 2006–09–07 for the Model A340 airplanes. We are also considering issuance of another NPRM related to this NPRM. The NPRM we are considering, Directorate Identifier 2010–NM–211– AD, would restate the requirements of paragraph (f)(2) of AD 2006–09–07 for Model A330 airplanes. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 develop on other products of the same type design. Differences Between This AD and the MCAI or Service Information We have reviewed the MCAI and related service information and, in general, agree with their substance. But we might have found it necessary to use different words from those in the MCAI to ensure the AD is clear for U.S. operators and is enforceable. In making these changes, we do not intend to differ substantively from the information provided in the MCAI and related service information. We might also have proposed different actions in this AD from those in the MCAI in order to follow FAA policies. Any such differences are highlighted in a NOTE within the proposed AD. Costs of Compliance Based on the service information, we estimate that this proposed AD would affect about 54 products of U.S. registry. The actions that are required by AD 2006–09–07, and retained in this proposed AD, take about 1 work-hour per product, at an average labor rate of $85 per work hour. Based on these figures, the estimated cost of the currently required actions is $85 per product. We estimate that it would take about 1 work-hour per product to comply with the requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per workhour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $4,590, or $85 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. E:\FR\FM\22MRP1.SGM 22MRP1 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 55 / Tuesday, March 22, 2011 / Proposed Rules Regulatory Findings We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed regulation: 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and 3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by removing Amendment 39–14577 (71 FR 25919, May 3, 2006) and adding the following new AD: Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2011–0224; Directorate Identifier 2010–NM–210–AD. Comments Due Date (a) We must receive comments by May 6, 2011. srobinson on DSKHWCL6B1PROD with PROPOSALS Affected ADs (b) This AD supersedes AD 2006–09–07, Amendment 39–14577. Applicability (c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A330– 201, –202, –203, –223, –223F, –243, and –243F airplanes, and Model A330–301, –302, –303, –321, –322, –323, –341, –342, and –343 airplanes; certificated in any category; all manufacturer serial numbers. Note 1: This AD requires revisions to certain operator maintenance documents to VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:12 Mar 21, 2011 Jkt 223001 15869 include new inspections. Compliance with these inspections is required by 14 CFR 91.403(c). For airplanes that have been previously modified, altered, or repaired in the areas addressed by these inspections, the operator may not be able to accomplish the inspections described in the revisions. In this situation, to comply with 14 CFR 91.403(c), the operator must request approval for an alternative method of compliance according to paragraph (j)(1) of this AD. The request should include a description of changes to the required inspections that will ensure the continued operational safety of the airplane. M4/95A.0089/97, ‘‘A330 Airworthiness Limitation Items,’’ Issue 17, dated May 28, 2010. At the times specified in Airbus Document AI/SE–M4/95A.0089/97, ‘‘A330 Airworthiness Limitation Items,’’ Issue 17, dated May 28, 2010, comply with all applicable maintenance requirements and associated airworthiness limitations included in Airbus Document AI/SE–M4/95A.0089/97, ‘‘A330 Airworthiness Limitation Items,’’ Issue 17, dated May 28, 2010. Accomplishing the revision in this paragraph ends the requirements in paragraph (g) of this AD. Subject (d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 05. (i) Except as provided by paragraph (j)(1) of this AD, after accomplishing the actions specified in paragraph (h) of this AD, no alternatives to the maintenance tasks, intervals, or limitations specified in paragraph (h) of this AD may be used. Reason (e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) states: * * * * * The airworthiness limitations applicable to Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT ALI) are currently given in Airbus A330 ALI Document reference AI/SE–M4/ 95A.0089/97, which is approved by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and referenced in Airbus Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 2. The issue 17 of Airbus A330 ALI Document introduces more restrictive maintenance requirements/airworthiness limitations. Failure to comply with this issue constitutes an unsafe condition. This [EASA] AD supersedes EASA AD 2009–0102 [and retains the requirements therein], and requires the implementation of the new or more restrictive maintenance requirements/airworthiness limitations as specified in Airbus A330 ALI Document issue 17. The unsafe condition is fatigue cracking, damage, and corrosion in certain structure, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane. 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. Restatement of Requirements of Paragraph (F)(2) of AD 2006–09–07 Airworthiness Limitations Revision (g) For Model A330–201, –202, –203, –223, –243, –301, –302, –303, –321, –322, –323, –341, –342, and –343 airplanes: Within 3 months after June 7, 2006 (the effective date of AD 2006–09–07), revise the ALS of the Instructions for Continued Airworthiness by incorporating Airbus Document AI/SE–M4/ 95A.0089/97, ‘‘A330 Airworthiness Limitation Items,’’ Issue 12, dated November 1, 2003, as specified in Section 9–2 of the Airbus A330 Maintenance Planning Document (MPD), into the ALS. New Requirements of This AD Revise the Maintenance Program (h) Within 3 months after the effective date of this AD: Revise the maintenance program by incorporating Airbus Document AI/SE– PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Alternative Intervals or Limits FAA AD Differences Note 2: This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service information as follows: No differences. Other FAA AD Provisions (j) The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, International Branch, ANM–116, 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 International Branch, send it to ATTN: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057– 3356; telephone (425) 227–1138; fax (425) 227–1149. Information may be e-mailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding 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. Related Information (k) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2010–0174, dated August 17, 2010; Airbus Document AI/SE– M4/95A.0089/97, ‘‘A330 Airworthiness Limitation Items,’’ Issue 12, dated November 1, 2003; and Airbus Document AI/SE–M4/ 95A.0089/97, ‘‘A330 Airworthiness Limitation Items,’’ Issue 17, dated May 28, 2010; for related information. E:\FR\FM\22MRP1.SGM 22MRP1 15870 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 55 / Tuesday, March 22, 2011 / Proposed Rules Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 14, 2011. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2011–6643 Filed 3–21–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2011–0255; Directorate Identifier 2010–NM–253–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A310 Series Airplanes, and Airbus Model A300 B4–600, B4–600R, and F4– 600R Series Airplanes, and Model C4– 605R Variant F Airplanes (Collectively Called A300–600 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 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: An operator reported several cases of wire damages at the pylon/wing interface. Analysis revealed that wires damages are due to installation quality issue resulting from lack of information in installation drawings and job cards. Moreover detailed analysis has highlighted that the Low Pressure Valve (LPV) wires were not segregated by design. * * * * * If left uncorrected, the wire chafing could impact fire protection and detection system. It may also induce dormant failure on LPV preventing its closure leading to a permanent and uncontrolled fire (in case of fire ignited upstream the High Pressure Valve (HPV)). srobinson on DSKHWCL6B1PROD with PROPOSALS * * * * * 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 May 6, 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. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:12 Mar 21, 2011 Jkt 223001 • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–40, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Airbus SAS— EAW (Airworthiness Office), 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; e-mail account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227– 1221. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Operations office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–2125; fax (425) 227–1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2011–0255; Directorate Identifier 2010–NM–253–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed AD based on those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. Discussion The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2010–0178, dated August 23, 2010 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: An operator reported several cases of wire damages at the pylon/wing interface. Analysis revealed that wires damages are due to installation quality issue resulting from lack of information in installation drawings and job cards. Moreover detailed analysis has highlighted that the Low Pressure Valve (LPV) wires were not segregated by design. Due to design similarities, A310, A300–600 and A300–600ST aeroplanes can be affected, depending on the wires installation in the concerned area. If left uncorrected, the wire chafing could impact fire protection and detection system. It may also induce dormant failure on LPV preventing its closure leading to a permanent and uncontrolled fire (in case of fire ignited upstream the High Pressure Valve (HPV)). For the reasons explained above, this AD requires the modification of the electrical installation in the pylon/wing interface to avoid wire damages. The modification includes a general visual inspection of wires for damage. and repair if necessary. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket. Relevant Service Information Airbus has issued Mandatory Service Bulletin A300–24–6106, including Appendix 01, dated March 31, 2010; and Mandatory Service Bulletin A310– 24–2106, including Appendix 01, dated May 27, 2010. The actions described in this service information are intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or E:\FR\FM\22MRP1.SGM 22MRP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 55 (Tuesday, March 22, 2011)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 15867-15870]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-6643]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2011-0224; Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-210-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330-200 and -300 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 that would supersede an existing AD. This 
proposed AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information 
(MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to 
identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The 
MCAI describes the unsafe condition as:
* * * * *

    The airworthiness limitations applicable to Damage Tolerant 
Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT ALI) are currently given in 
Airbus A330 ALI Document reference AI/SE-M4/95A.0089/97, which is 
approved by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and 
referenced in Airbus Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 2.
    The issue 17 of Airbus A330 ALI Document introduces more 
restrictive maintenance requirements/airworthiness limitations. 
Failure to comply with this issue constitutes an unsafe condition.
    This [EASA] AD supersedes EASA AD 2009-0102 [and retains the 
requirements therein], and requires the implementation of the new or 
more restrictive maintenance requirements/airworthiness limitations 
as specified in Airbus A330 ALI Document issue 17.

The unsafe condition is fatigue cracking, damage, and corrosion in 
certain structure, which could result in reduced structural integrity 
of the airplane. 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 May 6, 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 W12-40, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday 
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact 
Airbus SAS--Airworthiness Office--EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 
93 45 80, e-mail airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com. You may review copies of the referenced service 
information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind 
Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://

[[Page 15868]]

www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Operations office 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory 
evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street 
address for the Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is 
in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket 
shortly after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 
227-1138; fax (425) 227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2011-0224; 
Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-210-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed AD based on those comments.
    We 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

    On April 20, 2006, we issued AD 2006-09-07, Amendment 39-14577 (71 
FR 25919, May 3, 2006). That AD requires actions intended to address an 
unsafe condition on A330-200 and -300 series airplanes, A340-200 and -
300 series airplanes, and A340-541 and -642 airplanes.
    Since we issued AD 2006-09-07, Airbus has revised certain A330 
Damage tolerant airworthiness limitations items to include more 
restrictive maintenance requirements/airworthiness limitations. The 
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent 
for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA 
Airworthiness Directive 2010-0174, dated August 17, 2010 (referred to 
after this as ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the 
specified products. The MCAI states:

    The airworthiness limitations are distributed in the Airbus A330 
Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS).
    The airworthiness limitations applicable to Damage Tolerant 
Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT ALI) are currently given in 
Airbus A330 ALI Document reference AI/SE-M4/95A.0089/97, which is 
approved by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and 
referenced in Airbus Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 2.
    The issue 17 of Airbus A330 ALI Document introduces more 
restrictive maintenance requirements/airworthiness limitations. 
Failure to comply with this issue constitutes an unsafe condition.
    This [EASA] AD supersedes EASA AD 2009-0102 [and retains the 
requirements therein], and requires the implementation of the new or 
more restrictive maintenance requirements/airworthiness limitations 
as specified in Airbus A330 ALI Document issue 17.

The unsafe condition is fatigue cracking, damage, and corrosion in 
certain structure, which could result in reduced structural integrity 
of the airplane. You may obtain further information by examining the 
MCAI in the AD docket.

Relevant Service Information

    Airbus has issued Document AI/SE-M4/95A.0089/97, ``A330 
Airworthiness Limitation Items,'' Issue 17, dated May 28, 2010. This 
document provides each mandatory time for maintenance tasks, structural 
inspection interval, and related structural inspection procedures.

Related Rulemaking

    On February 3, 2011, we issued AD 2011-04-05, Amendment 39-16605 
(76 FR 8612, February 15, 2011), for Airbus Model A340-200, -300, -500, 
and -600 series airplanes, to require revising the maintenance program. 
Doing this revision terminates the requirements of AD 2006-09-07 for 
the Model A340 airplanes.
    We are also considering issuance of another NPRM related to this 
NPRM. The NPRM we are considering, Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-211-
AD, would restate the requirements of paragraph (f)(2) of AD 2006-09-07 
for Model A330 airplanes.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have 
been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service 
information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we 
evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition 
exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same 
type design.

Differences Between This AD and the MCAI or Service Information

    We have reviewed the MCAI and related service information and, in 
general, agree with their substance. But we might have found it 
necessary to use different words from those in the MCAI to ensure the 
AD is clear for U.S. operators and is enforceable. In making these 
changes, we do not intend to differ substantively from the information 
provided in the MCAI and related service information.
    We might also have proposed different actions in this AD from those 
in the MCAI in order to follow FAA policies. Any such differences are 
highlighted in a NOTE within the proposed AD.

Costs of Compliance

    Based on the service information, we estimate that this proposed AD 
would affect about 54 products of U.S. registry.
    The actions that are required by AD 2006-09-07, and retained in 
this proposed AD, take about 1 work-hour per product, at an average 
labor rate of $85 per work hour. Based on these figures, the estimated 
cost of the currently required actions is $85 per product.
    We estimate that it would take about 1 work-hour per product to 
comply with the requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor 
rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost 
of the proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $4,590, or $85 per product.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation 
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's 
authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.

[[Page 15869]]

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed 
regulation:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
    3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to 
comply with this proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

    2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by removing Amendment 39-14577 (71 FR 
25919, May 3, 2006) and adding the following new AD:

Airbus: Docket No. FAA-2011-0224; Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-
210-AD.

Comments Due Date

    (a) We must receive comments by May 6, 2011.

Affected ADs

    (b) This AD supersedes AD 2006-09-07, Amendment 39-14577.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, 
-223F, -243, and -243F airplanes, and Model A330-301, -302, -303, -
321, -322, -323, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes; certificated in any 
category; all manufacturer serial numbers.

    Note 1: This AD requires revisions to certain operator 
maintenance documents to include new inspections. Compliance with 
these inspections is required by 14 CFR 91.403(c). For airplanes 
that have been previously modified, altered, or repaired in the 
areas addressed by these inspections, the operator may not be able 
to accomplish the inspections described in the revisions. In this 
situation, to comply with 14 CFR 91.403(c), the operator must 
request approval for an alternative method of compliance according 
to paragraph (j)(1) of this AD. The request should include a 
description of changes to the required inspections that will ensure 
the continued operational safety of the airplane.

Subject

    (d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 05.

Reason

    (e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) 
states:
* * * * *
    The airworthiness limitations applicable to Damage Tolerant 
Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT ALI) are currently given in 
Airbus A330 ALI Document reference AI/SE-M4/95A.0089/97, which is 
approved by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and 
referenced in Airbus Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 2.
    The issue 17 of Airbus A330 ALI Document introduces more 
restrictive maintenance requirements/airworthiness limitations. 
Failure to comply with this issue constitutes an unsafe condition.
    This [EASA] AD supersedes EASA AD 2009-0102 [and retains the 
requirements therein], and requires the implementation of the new or 
more restrictive maintenance requirements/airworthiness limitations 
as specified in Airbus A330 ALI Document issue 17.

The unsafe condition is fatigue cracking, damage, and corrosion in 
certain structure, which could result in reduced structural 
integrity of the airplane.

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.

Restatement of Requirements of Paragraph (F)(2) of AD 2006-09-07

Airworthiness Limitations Revision

    (g) For Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, -243, -301, -302, -
303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes: Within 3 
months after June 7, 2006 (the effective date of AD 2006-09-07), 
revise the ALS of the Instructions for Continued Airworthiness by 
incorporating Airbus Document AI/SE-M4/95A.0089/97, ``A330 
Airworthiness Limitation Items,'' Issue 12, dated November 1, 2003, 
as specified in Section 9-2 of the Airbus A330 Maintenance Planning 
Document (MPD), into the ALS.

New Requirements of This AD

Revise the Maintenance Program

    (h) Within 3 months after the effective date of this AD: Revise 
the maintenance program by incorporating Airbus Document AI/SE-M4/
95A.0089/97, ``A330 Airworthiness Limitation Items,'' Issue 17, 
dated May 28, 2010. At the times specified in Airbus Document AI/SE-
M4/95A.0089/97, ``A330 Airworthiness Limitation Items,'' Issue 17, 
dated May 28, 2010, comply with all applicable maintenance 
requirements and associated airworthiness limitations included in 
Airbus Document AI/SE-M4/95A.0089/97, ``A330 Airworthiness 
Limitation Items,'' Issue 17, dated May 28, 2010. Accomplishing the 
revision in this paragraph ends the requirements in paragraph (g) of 
this AD.

Alternative Intervals or Limits

    (i) Except as provided by paragraph (j)(1) of this AD, after 
accomplishing the actions specified in paragraph (h) of this AD, no 
alternatives to the maintenance tasks, intervals, or limitations 
specified in paragraph (h) of this AD may be used.

FAA AD Differences

    Note 2:  This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service 
information as follows: No differences.

Other FAA AD Provisions

    (j) The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Branch, ANM-116, 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 International 
Branch, send it to ATTN: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone 
(425) 227-1138; fax (425) 227-1149. Information may be e-mailed to: 
9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, 
notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal 
inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district 
office/certificate holding district office. The AMOC approval letter 
must specifically reference this AD.
    (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain 
corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these 
actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered 
FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority 
(or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product 
is airworthy before it is returned to service.

Related Information

    (k) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2010-0174, dated August 17, 
2010; Airbus Document AI/SE-M4/95A.0089/97, ``A330 Airworthiness 
Limitation Items,'' Issue 12, dated November 1, 2003; and Airbus 
Document AI/SE-M4/95A.0089/97, ``A330 Airworthiness Limitation 
Items,'' Issue 17, dated May 28, 2010; for related information.



[[Page 15870]]


    Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 14, 2011.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2011-6643 Filed 3-21-11; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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