Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 737-300, -400, and -500 Series Airplanes, 28632-28635 [2011-11928]

Download as PDF 28632 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 96 / Wednesday, May 18, 2011 / Rules and Regulations Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (n)(1) The Manager, Atlanta ACO, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the attention of the person identified in the Related Information section of this AD. (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. Federal Aviation Administration Related Information (o) For more information about this AD, contact Carl Gray, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ACE–117A, FAA, Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office, 1701 Columbia Avenue, College Park, GA 30337; phone: (404) 474–5554; fax: (404) 474–5606; e-mail: Carl.W.Gray@faa.gov. wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with RULES_PART 1 Material Incorporated by Reference (p) You must use Lockheed Service Bulletin 382–57–85 (82–790), Revision 2, dated August 23, 2007, including Appendixes A, B, C, D, E, F, and G, all Revision 1, all dated March 8, 2007, 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 Lockheed Service Bulletin 382–57–85 (82– 790), Revision 2, dated August 23, 2007, including Appendixes A, B, C, D, E, F, and G, all Revision 1, all dated March 8, 2007, under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Lockheed Martin Corporation/Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company, Airworthiness Office, Dept. 6A0M, Zone 0252, Column P–58, 86 S. Cobb Drive, Marietta, Georgia 30063; telephone 770–494– 5444; fax 770–494–5445; e-mail ams.portal@lmco.com; Internet https:// www.lockheedmartin.com/ams/tools/ TechPubs.html. (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 April 12, 2011. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2011–11900 Filed 5–17–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:51 May 17, 2011 Jkt 223001 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2011–0348; Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–069–AD; Amendment 39–16701; AD 2011–08–51] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 737–300, –400, and –500 Series Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This emergency AD was sent previously to all known U.S. owners and operators of these airplanes. This AD requires repetitive external eddy current inspections of the lap joints at stringers S–4R and S–4L, along the entire length from body station (BS) 360 to BS 908. If a crack indication is found, the AD requires either confirming the crack by doing internal eddy current inspections, or repairing the crack. As an alternative to the external eddy current inspections, the AD provides for internal eddy current and detailed inspections for cracks in the lower skin at the lower row of fasteners at stringers S–4L and S– 4R. This AD was prompted by a report indicating that a Model 737–300 series airplane experienced a rapid decompression when the lap joint at stringer S–4L between BS 664 and BS 727 cracked and opened up due to cracking in the lower skin at the lower row of fasteners. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct such cracking, which could result in an uncontrolled decompression of the airplane. DATES: This AD is effective June 2, 2011 to all persons except those persons to whom it was made immediately effective by Emergency AD 2011–08–51, issued on April 5, 2011, which contained the requirements of this amendment. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications identified in the AD as of June 2, 2011. We must receive comments on this AD by July 5, 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. SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, Washington 98124–2207; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–5680; e-mail me.boecom@boeing.com; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. 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 AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Wayne Lockett, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; phone: 425– 917–6447; fax: 425–917–6590; e-mail: wayne.lockett@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion On April 5, 2011, we issued Emergency AD 2011–08–51, which requires repetitive external eddy current inspections of the lap joints at stringers S–4R and S–4L, along the entire length from body station (BS) 360 to BS 908. If a crack indication is found, the AD requires either confirming the crack by doing internal eddy current inspections, or repairing the crack. As an alternative to the external eddy current inspections, the AD provides for internal eddy current and detailed inspections for cracks in the lower skin at the lower row of fasteners at stringers S–4L and S–4R. This action was prompted by a report indicating that a Model 737–300 series airplane experienced a rapid decompression when the lap joint at stringer S–4L between BS 664 and BS 727 cracked and opened up due to cracking in the lower skin at the lower row of fasteners. The airplane had accumulated 39,781 total flight cycles E:\FR\FM\18MYR1.SGM 18MYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 96 / Wednesday, May 18, 2011 / Rules and Regulations and 48,740 total flight hours. Such cracking, if not corrected, could result in an uncontrolled decompression of the airplane. Relevant Service Information We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1319, dated April 4, 2011. That service bulletin describes procedures for external eddy current inspections of the lap joints at stringers S–4R and S–4L, along the entire length from BS 360 to BS 908. If a crack indication is found, that service bulletin specifies either confirming the crack by doing internal eddy current inspections, or repairing the crack. As an alternative to the external eddy current inspections, that service bulletin provides procedures for internal eddy current and detailed inspections for cracks in the lower skin at the lower row of fasteners at stringers S–4L and S–4R. That service bulletin specifies contacting Boeing for crack repair instructions. Since we issued the emergency AD, we have approved Revision 1 of this service bulletin as an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) with certain requirements of emergency AD 2011– 08–51. We have added paragraph (l)(4) to this AD to provide information on this approved AMOC. FAA’s Determination We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of these same type designs. AD Requirements This AD requires accomplishing the actions specified in the service information described previously, except as discussed under ‘‘Differences Between the AD and the Service Information.’’ Differences Between the AD and the Service Information That service bulletin specifies to contact the manufacturer for instructions on how to repair certain conditions, but this AD requires repairing those conditions in one of the following ways: • In accordance with a method that we approve; or • Using data that meet the certification basis of the airplane, and that have been approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) whom we have authorized to make those findings. FAA’s Determination of the Effective Date An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of this AD. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public justifies waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule because cracking in the lower skin at the lower row of fasteners of the lap joints at stringers S–4R and S–4L, along the entire length from BS 360 to BS 908, could open up and result in an 28633 uncontrolled decompression of the airplane. Therefore, we find that notice and opportunity for prior public comment are impracticable and that good cause exists for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days. Comments Invited This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for public comment. However, we invite you to send any written data, views, or arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number FAA–2011–0348 and Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–069–AD at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this 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 AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 195 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators Inspections .... 6 or 15 work-hours (depending on inspection method) × $85 per work-hour. None ............ $510 or $1,275 per inspection cycle $99,450 or $248,625 per inspection cycle. We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide a cost estimate for the on-condition actions (confirming crack indications and repairing cracks) specified in this AD. wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with RULES_PART 1 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: VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:51 May 17, 2011 Jkt 223001 ‘‘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 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 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 E:\FR\FM\18MYR1.SGM 18MYR1 28634 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 96 / Wednesday, May 18, 2011 / Rules and Regulations 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: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ 2011–08–51 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39–16701; Docket No. FAA–2011–0348; Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–069–AD. Effective Date (a) This AD is effective June 2, 2011 to all persons except those persons to whom it was made immediately effective by Emergency AD 2011–08–51, issued on April 5, 2011, which contained the requirements of this amendment. Affected ADs (b) None. Applicability (c) This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 737–300, –400, and –500 series airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1319, dated April 4, 2011. wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with RULES_PART 1 Subject (d) Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53: Fuselage. Unsafe Condition (e) This AD was prompted by a report indicating that a Model 737–300 series airplane experienced a rapid decompression when the lap joint at stringer S–4L between body station (BS) 664 and BS 727 cracked and opened up due to cracking in the lower skin at the lower row of fasteners. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct such cracking, which could result in an uncontrolled decompression of the airplane. Compliance (f) Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. Inspections (g) At the applicable time specified in paragraph (g)(1), (g)(2), or (g)(3) of this AD: Except as provided by paragraphs (h) and (i) VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:51 May 17, 2011 Jkt 223001 of this AD, do external eddy current inspections of the lap joint at stringers S–4R and S–4L, along the entire length from body station (BS) 360 to BS 908, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1319, dated April 4, 2011. If any crack indication is detected, before further flight, either confirm the crack indication by doing eddy current inspections from the interior of the fuselage in the lower skin at the lower row of fasteners at stringer S–4L and S–4R, in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1319, dated April 4, 2011, or repair in accordance with paragraph (j) of this AD. (1) For airplanes that have accumulated fewer than 30,000 total flight cycles as of the effective date of this AD: Inspect before the accumulation of 30,000 total flight cycles, or within 20 days after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later. (2) For airplanes that have accumulated 30,000 or more total flight cycles and fewer than 35,000 total flight cycles as of the effective date of this AD: Inspect within 20 days after the effective date of this AD. (3) For airplanes that have accumulated 35,000 total flight cycles or more as of the effective date of this AD: Inspect within 5 days after the effective date of this AD. (h) For areas repaired with external doublers, paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD apply. (1) If the repair meets the criteria specified in paragraphs 3.B.1.c.(1) and 3.B.1.c.(2) of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1319, dated April 4, 2011, no inspection of the lower skin at the lap joint lower fastener row is required under the doubler. (2) If the repair does not meet the criteria specified in paragraphs 3.B.1.c.(1) and 3.B.1.c.(2) of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1319, dated April 4, 2011, inspect the lower skin lap joint lower row internally in the area covered by the doubler, in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1319, dated April 4, 2011. (i) The inspections required by paragraph (g) of this AD may alternatively be done by internal eddy current and detailed inspections for cracks in the lower skin at the lower row of fasteners at stringer S–4L and S–4R, along the entire length from BS 360 to BS 908, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1319, dated April 4, 2011. (j) If any crack is found during any inspection required by this AD: Before further flight, repair the crack using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (l) of this AD. (k) Repeat the inspections specified in either paragraph (g) or (i) of this AD thereafter at intervals not to exceed 500 flight cycles. Either inspection method may be used at any repetitive inspection cycle. Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (l)(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the attention of the person identified in the Related Information section of this AD. Information may be e-mailed to 9–ANM– Seattle–ACO–AMOC–Requests@faa.gov. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. (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, Seattle 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. (4) AMOCs approved for emergency AD 2011–08–51 are approved as AMOCs for the corresponding requirements of this AD. Related Information (m)(1) For further information about this AD, contact Wayne Lockett, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; phone: 425–917– 6447; fax: 425–917–6590; e-mail: wayne.lockett@faa.gov. (2) For copies of the service information referenced in this AD, contact: Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, Washington 98124–2207; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–5680; e-mail me.boecom@boeing.com; Internet https:// www.myboeingfleet.com. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington. Material Incorporated by Reference (n) You must use Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1319, dated April 4, 2011, 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 this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, Washington 98124–2207; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766– 5680; e-mail me.boecom@boeing.com; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. (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 E:\FR\FM\18MYR1.SGM 18MYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 96 / Wednesday, May 18, 2011 / Rules and Regulations 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 May 6, 2011. Kalene C. Yanamura, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2011–11928 Filed 5–17–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2011–0230; Directorate Identifier 2011–CE–004–AD; Amendment 39–16699; AD 2011–11–01] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; British Aerospace Regional Aircraft Model HP.137 Jetstream Mk.1, Jetstream Series 200, Jetstream Series 3101, and Jetstream Model 3201 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) issued 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: Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590. For service information identified in this AD, contact BAE Systems (Operations) Ltd, Customer Information Department, Prestwick International Airport, Ayrshire, KA9 2RW, Scotland, United Kingdom; phone: +44 1292 675207, fax: +44 1292 675704; Internet: https://www.baesystems.com/ WorldWideLocations/UK/. E-mail: RApublications@baesystems.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. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Taylor Martin, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329– 4138; fax: (816) 329–4090; e-mail: taylor.martin@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to the specified products. That NPRM was published in the Federal Register on March 16, 2011 (76 FR 14349). That NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with RULES_PART 1 As a result of fatigue-testing programme on Jetstream aeroplanes, cracks have been found on the main landing gear (MLG) fittings that embody modifications JM5218 or JM8003. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to a MLG collapse on the ground or during landing, possibly resulting in a fuel tank rupture, consequent damage to the aeroplane or injury to the occupants. We are issuing this AD to require actions to correct the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD becomes effective June 22, 2011. On June 22, 2011, the Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD. ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov or in person at Document Management Facility, U.S. As a result of fatigue-testing programme on Jetstream aeroplanes, cracks have been found on the main landing gear (MLG) fittings that embody modifications JM5218 or JM8003. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to a MLG collapse on the ground or during landing, possibly resulting in a fuel tank rupture, consequent damage to the aeroplane or injury to the occupants. Analysis of this failure indicates that an inspection regime has to be implemented in order to ensure the safe operation of the MLG beyond the accumulation of 41,000 Flight Cycles (FC). For the reasons described above, this AD requires initial and repetitive eddy current inspections, and depending on findings, accomplishment of corrective actions. The MCAI requires replacing or repairing any cracked MLG fitting found during the initial and repetitive inspections. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:51 May 17, 2011 Jkt 223001 Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. We PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 28635 received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of the cost to the public. Conclusion We reviewed the available data and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD as proposed. 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 required 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 AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD will affect 190 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it will take about 20 workhours per product to comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD on U.S. operators to be $323,000 or $1,700 per product. In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions will take about 4 work-hours and require parts costing $8,000, for a cost of $8,340 per product. We have no way of determining the number of products that may need these actions. 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 E:\FR\FM\18MYR1.SGM 18MYR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 96 (Wednesday, May 18, 2011)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 28632-28635]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-11928]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2011-0348; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-069-AD; 
Amendment 39-16701; AD 2011-08-51]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 737-300, -400, 
and -500 Series Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the 
products listed above. This emergency AD was sent previously to all 
known U.S. owners and operators of these airplanes. This AD requires 
repetitive external eddy current inspections of the lap joints at 
stringers S-4R and S-4L, along the entire length from body station (BS) 
360 to BS 908. If a crack indication is found, the AD requires either 
confirming the crack by doing internal eddy current inspections, or 
repairing the crack. As an alternative to the external eddy current 
inspections, the AD provides for internal eddy current and detailed 
inspections for cracks in the lower skin at the lower row of fasteners 
at stringers S-4L and S-4R. This AD was prompted by a report indicating 
that a Model 737-300 series airplane experienced a rapid decompression 
when the lap joint at stringer S-4L between BS 664 and BS 727 cracked 
and opened up due to cracking in the lower skin at the lower row of 
fasteners. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct such cracking, 
which could result in an uncontrolled decompression of the airplane.

DATES: This AD is effective June 2, 2011 to all persons except those 
persons to whom it was made immediately effective by Emergency AD 2011-
08-51, issued on April 5, 2011, which contained the requirements of 
this amendment.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications identified in the AD as of June 2, 
2011.
    We must receive comments on this AD by July 5, 2011.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing 
Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 
3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, Washington 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-5000, 
extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; e-mail me.boecom@boeing.com; Internet 
https://www.myboeingfleet.com.

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 AD, the regulatory evaluation, 
any comments received, and other information. The street address for 
the Docket Operations Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES 
section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after 
receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Wayne Lockett, Aerospace Engineer, 
Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office 
(ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; phone: 
425-917-6447; fax: 425-917-6590; e-mail: wayne.lockett@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    On April 5, 2011, we issued Emergency AD 2011-08-51, which requires 
repetitive external eddy current inspections of the lap joints at 
stringers S-4R and S-4L, along the entire length from body station (BS) 
360 to BS 908. If a crack indication is found, the AD requires either 
confirming the crack by doing internal eddy current inspections, or 
repairing the crack. As an alternative to the external eddy current 
inspections, the AD provides for internal eddy current and detailed 
inspections for cracks in the lower skin at the lower row of fasteners 
at stringers S-4L and S-4R. This action was prompted by a report 
indicating that a Model 737-300 series airplane experienced a rapid 
decompression when the lap joint at stringer S-4L between BS 664 and BS 
727 cracked and opened up due to cracking in the lower skin at the 
lower row of fasteners. The airplane had accumulated 39,781 total 
flight cycles

[[Page 28633]]

and 48,740 total flight hours. Such cracking, if not corrected, could 
result in an uncontrolled decompression of the airplane.

Relevant Service Information

    We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1319, dated April 
4, 2011. That service bulletin describes procedures for external eddy 
current inspections of the lap joints at stringers S-4R and S-4L, along 
the entire length from BS 360 to BS 908. If a crack indication is 
found, that service bulletin specifies either confirming the crack by 
doing internal eddy current inspections, or repairing the crack. As an 
alternative to the external eddy current inspections, that service 
bulletin provides procedures for internal eddy current and detailed 
inspections for cracks in the lower skin at the lower row of fasteners 
at stringers S-4L and S-4R. That service bulletin specifies contacting 
Boeing for crack repair instructions.
    Since we issued the emergency AD, we have approved Revision 1 of 
this service bulletin as an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) 
with certain requirements of emergency AD 2011-08-51. We have added 
paragraph (l)(4) to this AD to provide information on this approved 
AMOC.

FAA's Determination

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

AD Requirements

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

Differences Between the AD and the Service Information

    That service bulletin specifies to contact the manufacturer for 
instructions on how to repair certain conditions, but this AD requires 
repairing those conditions in one of the following ways:
     In accordance with a method that we approve; or
     Using data that meet the certification basis of the 
airplane, and that have been approved by the Boeing Commercial 
Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) whom we have 
authorized to make those findings.

FAA's Determination of the Effective Date

    An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of 
this AD. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public justifies 
waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule because 
cracking in the lower skin at the lower row of fasteners of the lap 
joints at stringers S-4R and S-4L, along the entire length from BS 360 
to BS 908, could open up and result in an uncontrolled decompression of 
the airplane. Therefore, we find that notice and opportunity for prior 
public comment are impracticable and that good cause exists for making 
this amendment effective in less than 30 days.

Comments Invited

    This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight 
safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for public 
comment. However, we invite you to send any written data, views, or 
arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under 
the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number FAA-2011-0348 and 
Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-069-AD at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will 
consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this 
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 AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 195 airplanes of U.S. registry. We 
estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                Cost on U.S.
        Action                Labor cost             Parts cost         Cost per product          operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspections...........  6 or 15 work-hours     None.................  $510 or $1,275 per    $99,450 or $248,625
                         (depending on                                 inspection cycle.     per inspection
                         inspection method) x                                                cycle.
                         $85 per work-hour.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide 
a cost estimate for the on-condition actions (confirming crack 
indications and repairing cracks) specified in this AD.

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

[[Page 28634]]

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

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):

2011-08-51 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-16701; Docket No. FAA-
2011-0348; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-069-AD.

Effective Date

    (a) This AD is effective June 2, 2011 to all persons except 
those persons to whom it was made immediately effective by Emergency 
AD 2011-08-51, issued on April 5, 2011, which contained the 
requirements of this amendment.

Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 737-300, -400, 
and -500 series airplanes, certificated in any category, as 
identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1319, dated April 
4, 2011.

Subject

    (d) Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport 
Association (ATA) of America Code 53: Fuselage.

Unsafe Condition

    (e) This AD was prompted by a report indicating that a Model 
737-300 series airplane experienced a rapid decompression when the 
lap joint at stringer S-4L between body station (BS) 664 and BS 727 
cracked and opened up due to cracking in the lower skin at the lower 
row of fasteners. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct such 
cracking, which could result in an uncontrolled decompression of the 
airplane.

Compliance

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

Inspections

    (g) At the applicable time specified in paragraph (g)(1), 
(g)(2), or (g)(3) of this AD: Except as provided by paragraphs (h) 
and (i) of this AD, do external eddy current inspections of the lap 
joint at stringers S-4R and S-4L, along the entire length from body 
station (BS) 360 to BS 908, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1319, dated 
April 4, 2011. If any crack indication is detected, before further 
flight, either confirm the crack indication by doing eddy current 
inspections from the interior of the fuselage in the lower skin at 
the lower row of fasteners at stringer S-4L and S-4R, in accordance 
with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1319, dated April 4, 2011, 
or repair in accordance with paragraph (j) of this AD.
    (1) For airplanes that have accumulated fewer than 30,000 total 
flight cycles as of the effective date of this AD: Inspect before 
the accumulation of 30,000 total flight cycles, or within 20 days 
after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later.
    (2) For airplanes that have accumulated 30,000 or more total 
flight cycles and fewer than 35,000 total flight cycles as of the 
effective date of this AD: Inspect within 20 days after the 
effective date of this AD.
    (3) For airplanes that have accumulated 35,000 total flight 
cycles or more as of the effective date of this AD: Inspect within 5 
days after the effective date of this AD.
    (h) For areas repaired with external doublers, paragraphs (h)(1) 
and (h)(2) of this AD apply.
    (1) If the repair meets the criteria specified in paragraphs 
3.B.1.c.(1) and 3.B.1.c.(2) of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-
53A1319, dated April 4, 2011, no inspection of the lower skin at the 
lap joint lower fastener row is required under the doubler.
    (2) If the repair does not meet the criteria specified in 
paragraphs 3.B.1.c.(1) and 3.B.1.c.(2) of Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 737-53A1319, dated April 4, 2011, inspect the lower skin 
lap joint lower row internally in the area covered by the doubler, 
in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1319, dated 
April 4, 2011.
    (i) The inspections required by paragraph (g) of this AD may 
alternatively be done by internal eddy current and detailed 
inspections for cracks in the lower skin at the lower row of 
fasteners at stringer S-4L and S-4R, along the entire length from BS 
360 to BS 908, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1319, dated April 4, 2011.
    (j) If any crack is found during any inspection required by this 
AD: Before further flight, repair the crack using a method approved 
in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (l) of this 
AD.
    (k) Repeat the inspections specified in either paragraph (g) or 
(i) of this AD thereafter at intervals not to exceed 500 flight 
cycles. Either inspection method may be used at any repetitive 
inspection cycle.

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (l)(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested 
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 
CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local 
Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending 
information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the 
attention of the person identified in the Related Information 
section of this AD. Information may be e-mailed to 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding 
district office.
    (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, Seattle 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.
    (4) AMOCs approved for emergency AD 2011-08-51 are approved as 
AMOCs for the corresponding requirements of this AD.

Related Information

    (m)(1) For further information about this AD, contact Wayne 
Lockett, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle 
Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, 
Washington 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6447; fax: 425-917-6590; e-
mail: wayne.lockett@faa.gov.
    (2) For copies of the service information referenced in this AD, 
contact: Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services 
Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, Washington 98124-2207; 
telephone 206-544-5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; e-mail 
me.boecom@boeing.com; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You 
may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, 
Washington.

Material Incorporated by Reference

    (n) You must use Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1319, 
dated April 4, 2011, 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 this AD, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 
P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, Washington 98124-2207; telephone 
206-544-5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; e-mail 
me.boecom@boeing.com; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com.
    (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

[[Page 28635]]

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 May 6, 2011.
Kalene C. Yanamura,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2011-11928 Filed 5-17-11; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.