Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 747-400 and -400F Series Airplanes, 47427-47430 [2011-19828]
Download as PDF
<![CDATA[
Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 151 / Friday, August 5, 2011 / Rules and Regulations
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:
Tom Rodriguez, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind
Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–
3356; phone: 425–227–1137; fax: 425–227–
1149. 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 refer to 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 ensure the product is airworthy before it
is returned to service.
47427
(3) Special Flight Permits: Special flight
permits, as described in Section 21.197 and
Section 21.199 of the Federal Aviation
Regulations (14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199), are
allowed, if conducted in accordance with a
method approved by the Manager, ANM–116,
International Branch, Transport Airplane
Directorate, FAA.
Related Information
(o) For related information, refer to MCAI
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2011–0114R2,
dated July 7, 2011, and the service
information identified in table 1 of this AD.
TABLE 1—RELATED INFORMATION
Document
Revision
Dassault Mandatory Service Bulletin 7X–211, including FCS Data Loading Procedure, Issue D, dated May
28, 2010, New Standard Installation Checklist, and Appendix A.
Dassault Mandatory Service Bulletin 7X–212 .....................................................................................................
Dassault Falcon 7X Airplane Flight Manual ........................................................................................................
Dassault Service Bulletin 7X–213 .......................................................................................................................
Dassault Aviation, Falcon 7x Maintenance Manual, Falcon 7X—Chapter 5–40–00 after Rev 01 (Commonly
referred to as Dassault Change Proposal (CP) CP009 to Chapter 5–40–00 of Dassault Falcon 7X Maintenance Manual).
Material Incorporated by Reference
(p) You must use the service information
contained in table 2 of this AD to do the
actions required by this AD, unless the AD
specifies otherwise. Appendix A and New
Standard Installation Checklist of the
Dassault Mandatory Service Bulletin 7X–211
are not dated or identified with a document
number. The document date can only be
found in the List of Revisions section of the
Dassault Falcon 7X Airplane Flight Manual.
(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 Dassault Falcon Jet, P.O. Box
2000, South Hackensack, New Jersey 07606;
telephone 201–440–6700; Internet https://
www.dassaultfalcon.com.
(3) You may review copies of the service
information at the FAA, Transport Airplane
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Date
2
June 22, 2011.
2
12
....................
....................
July 7, 2011.
June 16, 2011.
June 22, 2011.
June 10, 2011.
Washington. For information on the
availability of this material at the FAA, call
425–227–1221.
(4) You may also review copies of the
service information that is incorporated by
reference at the National Archives and
Records Administration (NARA). For
information on the availability of this
material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go
to: https://www.archives.gov/federal_register/
code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
TABLE 2—MATERIAL INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Document
Revision
Dassault Mandatory Service Bulletin 7X–211, including FCS Data Loading Procedure, Issue D, dated May
28, 2010, New Standard Installation Checklist, and Appendix A.
Dassault Mandatory Service Bulletin 7X–212 .....................................................................................................
Dassault Falcon 7X Airplane Flight Manual ........................................................................................................
Dassault Service Bulletin 7X–213 .......................................................................................................................
Dassault Aviation, Falcon 7x Maintenance Manual, Falcon 7X—Chapter 5–40–00 after Rev 01 (Commonly
referred to as Dassault Change Proposal (CP) CP009 to Chapter 5–40–00 of Dassault Falcon 7X Maintenance Manual).
Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 15,
2011.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2011–19866 Filed 8–4–11; 8:45 am]
erowe on DSKG8SOYB1PROD with RULES
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
ACTION:
Federal Aviation Administration
[Docket No. FAA–2011–0041; Directorate
Identifier 2010–NM–227–AD; Amendment
39–16764; AD 2011–16–06]
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
Company Model 747–400 and –400F
Series Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
AGENCY:
14:55 Aug 04, 2011
Jkt 223001
June 22, 2011.
2
12
....................
....................
July 7, 2011.
June 16, 2011.
June 22, 2011.
June 10, 2011.
SUMMARY:
RIN 2120–AA64
VerDate Mar<15>2010
2
Final rule.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
14 CFR Part 39
PO 00000
Frm 00005
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Date
We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for the
products listed above. This AD requires
a general visual inspection for cracks
and holes of the main equipment center
(MEC) drip shields, and repairs if
necessary; installation of a fiberglass
reinforcing overcoat; and, for certain
airplanes, installation of stiffening
panels to the MEC drip shields. This AD
was prompted by a report of a loss of
bus control unit number 1 and generator
control units numbers 1 and 2 while the
airplane was on the ground, and
multiple operator reports of cracked
E:\FR\FM\05AUR1.SGM
05AUR1
47428
Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 151 / Friday, August 5, 2011 / Rules and Regulations
MEC drip shields. We are issuing this
AD to prevent water penetration into the
MEC, which could result in the loss of
flight critical systems.
DATES: This AD is effective September 9,
2011.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in the AD
as of September 9, 2011.
ADDRESSES: 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, 1601
Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington.
For information on the availability of
this material at the FAA, call 425–227–
1221.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov; or in person at the
Docket Management Facility between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through
Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD
docket contains this AD, the regulatory
evaluation, any comments received, and
other information. The address for the
Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is
Document Management Facility, U.S.
Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M–30, West Building
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington,
DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Francis Smith, Aerospace Engineer,
Cabin Safety & Environmental Systems
Branch, ANM–150S, FAA, Seattle
Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601
Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington
98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6596; fax:
425–917–6590; e-mail:
Francis.Smith@faa.gov.
erowe on DSKG8SOYB1PROD with RULES
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to include an airworthiness
directive (AD) that would apply to the
specified products. That NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
VerDate Mar<15>2010
14:55 Aug 04, 2011
Jkt 223001
February 10, 2011 (76 FR 7513). The
NPRM proposed a general visual
inspection for cracks and holes of the
main equipment center (MEC) drip
shields, and repairs if necessary;
installation of a fiberglass reinforcing
overcoat; and, for certain airplanes,
installation of stiffening panels to the
MEC drip shields.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to
participate in developing this AD. The
following presents the comments
received on the proposal and the FAA’s
response to each comment.
Request To Reference Latest Service
Bulletin Revision
Both UPS and Boeing requested that
we revise the NPRM to require that
actions be done in accordance with
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–
25A3588, Revision 1, dated April 7,
2011. The NPRM referred to Boeing
Alert Service Bulletin 747–25A3588,
dated July 19, 2010, as the appropriate
source of service information for the
required actions.
We agree. Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 747–25A3588, Revision 1,
dated April 7, 2011, removes airplane
RT101 from this service information
effectivity and provides operators with
additional material options. The
procedures remain unchanged. We
revised paragraphs (c), (g), (g)(1), and
(g)(2) in this final rule to refer to Boeing
Alert Service Bulletin 747–25A3588,
Revision 1, dated April 7, 2011. We
added new paragraph (h) to the final
rule to give credit for actions done
before the effective date of this AD in
accordance with Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 747–25A3588, dated July 19,
2010, and re-identified subsequent
paragraphs accordingly.
Request To Extend the Compliance
Time
UPS stated concern with Boeing’s
ability to provide adequate modification
kits to all affected operators within the
proposed 24-month compliance time.
UPS justified its concern by stating that
the NPRM acknowledges it would affect
an estimated 41 airplanes of U.S.
registry. UPS stated that worldwide,
there are more than 150 Model 747–
400F airplanes that are affected by the
referenced service information and
many may attempt to accomplish this
modification within the 24-month
PO 00000
Frm 00006
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
compliance time. At the time, Boeing
had indicated it had materials available
to produce only 6 kits, and will require
190 days lead time to replenish the
stock. As the referenced service
information specifies to install the parts
provided in the kit by part number, an
alternative method of compliance
(AMOC) would be required for any
operators needing to fabricate their own
modification parts from raw materials, if
Boeing is unable to provide the required
modification kits in a timely basis for
the proposed installation.
We infer that UPS is requesting that
we extend the proposed compliance
time. Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–
25A3588, dated July 19, 2010; and
Revision 1, dated April 7, 2011; were
both coordinated between Boeing and
the FAA. Proposed methods of
compliance and the compliance time
were weighed versus uncorrected risks
in determining an acceptable and
feasible corrective action. Boeing is
most familiar with its ability to supply
operators with instructions and kits to
meet AD compliance, and determined it
would be capable of reasonably
achieving a 24-month compliance time
with the proposed methods, when both
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–
25A3588, dated July 19, 2010; and
Revision 1, dated April 7, 2011; were
drafted and approved. Although kits
may not be available immediately for
every airplane, Boeing has advised us
that it is capable of creating and
delivering additional kits for operators
to use within the AD compliance time.
Once we issue this AD, any person
may request approval of an AMOC
under the provisions of paragraph (i) of
this AD. We have not changed this AD
in this regard.
Conclusion
We reviewed the relevant data,
considered the comments received, and
determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting the AD
with the change described previously.
We also determined that this change
will not increase the economic burden
on any operator or increase the scope of
the AD.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 41
airplanes of U.S. registry.
We estimate the following costs to
comply with this AD:
E:\FR\FM\05AUR1.SGM
05AUR1
47429
Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 151 / Friday, August 5, 2011 / Rules and Regulations
ESTIMATED COSTS
Cost per
product
Cost on U.S.
operators
Action
Labor cost
Parts cost
Inspection and installation: Groups 1, 3 (24
airplanes).
Inspection and installation: Group 2 (17 airplanes).
20 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,700 ..........
$1,109 ........
$2,809
$67,416
17 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,445 ..........
Negligible ....
1,445
24,565
We estimate the following costs to do
any necessary repairs that would be
required based on the results of the
inspection. We have no way of
determining the number of aircraft that
might need these repairs.
ON-CONDITION COSTS
Action
Labor cost
Parts cost
Hole repair ........................................................
1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 per hole ...
Negligible ....................
According to the manufacturer, some
of the costs of this AD may be covered
under warranty, thereby reducing the
cost impact on affected individuals. We
do not control warranty coverage for
affected individuals. As a result, we
have included all costs in our cost
estimate.
(2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska, and
(4) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
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.
erowe on DSKG8SOYB1PROD with RULES
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,
VerDate Mar<15>2010
14:55 Aug 04, 2011
Jkt 223001
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):
■
2011–16–06 The Boeing Company:
Amendment 39–16764; Docket No.
FAA–2011–0041; Directorate Identifier
2010–NM–227–AD.
Effective Date
(a) This AD is effective September 9, 2011.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to The Boeing
Company Model 747–400 and –400F series
airplanes, certificated in any category, as
identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
747–25A3588, Revision 1, dated April 7,
2011.
PO 00000
Frm 00007
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Cost per airplane
$85 per hole.
Subject
(d) Joint Aircraft System Component
(JASC)/Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 25: Equipment/Furnishings.
Unsafe Condition
(e) This AD was prompted by a report of
a loss of bus control unit number 1 and
generator control units numbers 1 and 2
while the airplane was on the ground, and
multiple operator reports of cracked main
equipment center (MEC) drip shields. We are
issuing this AD to prevent water penetration
into the MEC, which could result in the loss
of flight critical systems.
Compliance
(f) Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
Inspection
(g) Within 24 months after the effective
date of this AD, do the actions specified in
paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD, as
applicable, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 747–25A3588, Revision 1,
dated April 7, 2011.
(1) For Group 1 and Group 3 airplanes, as
identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
747–25A3588, Revision 1, dated April 7,
2011: Do a general visual inspection of the
MEC drip shield to detect cracking and holes,
do all applicable repairs, and install the MEC
drip shield panel stiffeners and the fiberglass
reinforcing overcoat to the MEC drip shield,
in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
747–25A3588, Revision 1, dated April 7,
2011. Do all applicable repairs before further
flight.
(2) For Group 2 airplanes, as identified in
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–25A3588,
Revision 1, dated April 7, 2011: Do a general
visual inspection of the MEC drip shield to
detect cracking and holes, do all applicable
repairs, and install the fiberglass reinforcing
overcoat to the MEC drip shield, in
accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
747–25A3588, Revision 1, dated April 7,
2011. Do all applicable repairs before further
flight.
E:\FR\FM\05AUR1.SGM
05AUR1
47430
Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 151 / Friday, August 5, 2011 / Rules and Regulations
Credit for Actions Accomplished in
Accordance With Previous Service
Information
(h) Accomplishing the actions required in
paragraph (g) of this AD before the effective
date of this AD in accordance with Boeing
Alert Service Bulletin 747–25A3588, dated
July 19, 2010, is considered acceptable for
compliance with the corresponding actions
specified in this AD.
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
Related Information
(j) For more information about this AD,
contact Francis Smith, Aerospace Engineer,
Cabin Safety & Environmental Systems
Branch, ANM–150S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft
Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind
Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–
3356; phone: 425–917–6596 ; fax: 425–917–
6590; e-mail: Francis.Smith@faa.gov.
erowe on DSKG8SOYB1PROD with RULES
Material Incorporated by Reference
(k) You must use Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 747–25A3588, Revision 1, dated
April 7, 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; phone:
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
Records Administration (NARA). For
information on the availability of this
material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go
to: https://www.archives.gov/federal_register/
code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
14:55 Aug 04, 2011
Jkt 223001
[FR Doc. 2011–19828 Filed 8–4–11; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
(i)(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-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.
VerDate Mar<15>2010
Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 26,
2011.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2011–0388; Directorate
Identifier 2010–NM–004–AD; Amendment
39–16761; AD 2011–16–03]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model
A300 B4–600, A300 B4–600R, and A300
F4–600R Series Airplanes, and Model
A300 C4–605R Variant F Airplanes
(Collectively Called Model A300–600
Series Airplanes); Model A310 Series
Airplanes; Model A318 Series
Airplanes; Model A319 Series
Airplanes; Model A320–211, –212,
–214, –231, –232, and –233 Airplanes;
Model A321 Series Airplanes; Model
A330–200 and A330–300 Series
Airplanes; and Model A340–200, A340–
300, A340–500, and A340–600 Series
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for the
products listed above. This AD results
from mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI)
originated by an aviation authority of
another country to identify and correct
an unsafe condition on an aviation
product. For Model A310 and A300–600
series airplanes, the MCAI describes the
unsafe condition as:
SUMMARY:
Hamilton Sundstrand (HS), the
manufacturer of the RAT [ram air turbine],
reported the failure during a wind tunnel test
of a balance weight fastening screw on the
RAT turbine cover. After investigation, it has
been discovered that a batch of screws,
which are used to attach the balance washers
of the HS RAT Turbine Assembly, has not
been subject to the correct heat treatment and
are consequently exposed to potential
fracture.
This condition, if not corrected, might lead
to the ejection of screw heads and
consequently to the detachment of the
associated balance washers. The loss of
balance washers could increase RAT
vibrations, which might lead to a possible
detachment of RAT parts and consequent
loss of RAT functionality. The loss of the
PO 00000
Frm 00008
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
RAT, in combination with a total engine
flame out, could result in loss of control of
the aeroplane.
*
*
*
*
*
For Model A318, A319, A320, and
A321 series airplanes, the MCAI
describes the unsafe condition as:
Hamilton Sundstrand (HS) reported the
failure of a balance weight fastening screw on
the RAT turbine cover during a wind tunnel
test. After investigation, it has been
discovered that a batch of screws, used to
attach the balance washers of the RAT
Turbine assembly, has not received the
correct heat treatment, making them more
subject to a potential failure.
This condition, if left uncorrected, could
lead to the ejection of screw heads and
detachment of the associated balance
washers. The loss of balance washers would
increase RAT vibrations, which could lead to
a possible detachment of RAT parts and loss
of RAT functionality. The loss of the RAT, in
combination with a double engine failure, or
a total loss of normal electrical power
generation, could result in loss of control of
the aeroplane.
*
*
*
*
*
For Model A330 and A340 series
airplanes, the MCAI describes the
unsafe condition as:
Hamilton Sundstrand (HS), the
manufacturer of the RAT, reported the failure
of a balance weight fastening screw on the
RAT cover during a wind tunnel test. After
investigation, it has been discovered that a
batch of screws, which are used to attach the
balance washers of the HS RAT turbine lower
gear box assembly, has not been subject to
the correct heat treatment and the screws are
consequently exposed to potential fracture.
This condition, if not corrected, might lead
to the ejection of screw heads and
consequently to the detachment of the
associated balance washers. The loss of
balance washers could increase RAT
vibrations, which might lead to a possible
detachment of RAT parts, and thus to damage
to the aeroplane and risk of injury to persons
on the ground.
*
*
*
*
*
We are issuing this AD to require
actions to correct the unsafe condition
on these products.
DATES: This AD becomes effective
September 9, 2011.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in this AD
as of September 9, 2011.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD
docket on the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov or in person at the
U.S. Department of Transportation,
Docket Operations, M–30, West
Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140,
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE.,
Washington, DC.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan
Rodina, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116,
E:\FR\FM\05AUR1.SGM
05AUR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 151 (Friday, August 5, 2011)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 47427-47430]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-19828]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2011-0041; Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-227-AD;
Amendment 39-16764; AD 2011-16-06]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 747-400 and -
400F Series Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the
products listed above. This AD requires a general visual inspection for
cracks and holes of the main equipment center (MEC) drip shields, and
repairs if necessary; installation of a fiberglass reinforcing
overcoat; and, for certain airplanes, installation of stiffening panels
to the MEC drip shields. This AD was prompted by a report of a loss of
bus control unit number 1 and generator control units numbers 1 and 2
while the airplane was on the ground, and multiple operator reports of
cracked
[[Page 47428]]
MEC drip shields. We are issuing this AD to prevent water penetration
into the MEC, which could result in the loss of flight critical
systems.
DATES: This AD is effective September 9, 2011.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of September 9,
2011.
ADDRESSES: 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, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington. For information
on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Management Facility
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal
holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation,
any comments received, and other information. The address for the
Docket Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is Document Management Facility,
U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West
Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE.,
Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Francis Smith, Aerospace Engineer,
Cabin Safety & Environmental Systems Branch, ANM-150S, FAA, Seattle
Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6596; fax: 425-917-6590; e-mail:
Francis.Smith@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to include an airworthiness directive (AD) that would apply to
the specified products. That NPRM published in the Federal Register on
February 10, 2011 (76 FR 7513). The NPRM proposed a general visual
inspection for cracks and holes of the main equipment center (MEC) drip
shields, and repairs if necessary; installation of a fiberglass
reinforcing overcoat; and, for certain airplanes, installation of
stiffening panels to the MEC drip shields.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the proposal
and the FAA's response to each comment.
Request To Reference Latest Service Bulletin Revision
Both UPS and Boeing requested that we revise the NPRM to require
that actions be done in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
747-25A3588, Revision 1, dated April 7, 2011. The NPRM referred to
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-25A3588, dated July 19, 2010, as the
appropriate source of service information for the required actions.
We agree. Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-25A3588, Revision 1,
dated April 7, 2011, removes airplane RT101 from this service
information effectivity and provides operators with additional material
options. The procedures remain unchanged. We revised paragraphs (c),
(g), (g)(1), and (g)(2) in this final rule to refer to Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 747-25A3588, Revision 1, dated April 7, 2011. We added
new paragraph (h) to the final rule to give credit for actions done
before the effective date of this AD in accordance with Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 747-25A3588, dated July 19, 2010, and re-identified
subsequent paragraphs accordingly.
Request To Extend the Compliance Time
UPS stated concern with Boeing's ability to provide adequate
modification kits to all affected operators within the proposed 24-
month compliance time. UPS justified its concern by stating that the
NPRM acknowledges it would affect an estimated 41 airplanes of U.S.
registry. UPS stated that worldwide, there are more than 150 Model 747-
400F airplanes that are affected by the referenced service information
and many may attempt to accomplish this modification within the 24-
month compliance time. At the time, Boeing had indicated it had
materials available to produce only 6 kits, and will require 190 days
lead time to replenish the stock. As the referenced service information
specifies to install the parts provided in the kit by part number, an
alternative method of compliance (AMOC) would be required for any
operators needing to fabricate their own modification parts from raw
materials, if Boeing is unable to provide the required modification
kits in a timely basis for the proposed installation.
We infer that UPS is requesting that we extend the proposed
compliance time. Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-25A3588, dated July
19, 2010; and Revision 1, dated April 7, 2011; were both coordinated
between Boeing and the FAA. Proposed methods of compliance and the
compliance time were weighed versus uncorrected risks in determining an
acceptable and feasible corrective action. Boeing is most familiar with
its ability to supply operators with instructions and kits to meet AD
compliance, and determined it would be capable of reasonably achieving
a 24-month compliance time with the proposed methods, when both Boeing
Alert Service Bulletin 747-25A3588, dated July 19, 2010; and Revision
1, dated April 7, 2011; were drafted and approved. Although kits may
not be available immediately for every airplane, Boeing has advised us
that it is capable of creating and delivering additional kits for
operators to use within the AD compliance time.
Once we issue this AD, any person may request approval of an AMOC
under the provisions of paragraph (i) of this AD. We have not changed
this AD in this regard.
Conclusion
We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received,
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting
the AD with the change described previously. We also determined that
this change will not increase the economic burden on any operator or
increase the scope of the AD.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 41 airplanes of U.S. registry.
We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:
[[Page 47429]]
Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection and installation: 20 work-hours x $85 $1,109............... $2,809 $67,416
Groups 1, 3 (24 airplanes). per hour = $1,700.
Inspection and installation: Group 17 work-hours x $85 Negligible........... 1,445 24,565
2 (17 airplanes). per hour = $1,445.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We estimate the following costs to do any necessary repairs that
would be required based on the results of the inspection. We have no
way of determining the number of aircraft that might need these
repairs.
On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per airplane
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hole repair.......................... 1 work-hour x $85 per Negligible............. $85 per hole.
hour = $85 per hole.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
According to the manufacturer, some of the costs of this AD may be
covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected
individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected
individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost
estimate.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, part A, subpart III, section 44701: ``General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States,
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
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):
2011-16-06 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-16764; Docket No. FAA-
2011-0041; Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-227-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This AD is effective September 9, 2011.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 747-400 and -
400F series airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified
in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-25A3588, Revision 1, dated
April 7, 2011.
Subject
(d) Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport
Association (ATA) of America Code 25: Equipment/Furnishings.
Unsafe Condition
(e) This AD was prompted by a report of a loss of bus control
unit number 1 and generator control units numbers 1 and 2 while the
airplane was on the ground, and multiple operator reports of cracked
main equipment center (MEC) drip shields. We are issuing this AD to
prevent water penetration into the MEC, which could result in the
loss of flight critical systems.
Compliance
(f) Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
Inspection
(g) Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD, do the
actions specified in paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD, as
applicable, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-25A3588, Revision 1, dated April
7, 2011.
(1) For Group 1 and Group 3 airplanes, as identified in Boeing
Alert Service Bulletin 747-25A3588, Revision 1, dated April 7, 2011:
Do a general visual inspection of the MEC drip shield to detect
cracking and holes, do all applicable repairs, and install the MEC
drip shield panel stiffeners and the fiberglass reinforcing overcoat
to the MEC drip shield, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-25A3588, Revision
1, dated April 7, 2011. Do all applicable repairs before further
flight.
(2) For Group 2 airplanes, as identified in Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 747-25A3588, Revision 1, dated April 7, 2011: Do a general
visual inspection of the MEC drip shield to detect cracking and
holes, do all applicable repairs, and install the fiberglass
reinforcing overcoat to the MEC drip shield, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-
25A3588, Revision 1, dated April 7, 2011. Do all applicable repairs
before further flight.
[[Page 47430]]
Credit for Actions Accomplished in Accordance With Previous Service
Information
(h) Accomplishing the actions required in paragraph (g) of this
AD before the effective date of this AD in accordance with Boeing
Alert Service Bulletin 747-25A3588, dated July 19, 2010, is
considered acceptable for compliance with the corresponding actions
specified in this AD.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(i)(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.
Related Information
(j) For more information about this AD, contact Francis Smith,
Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety & Environmental Systems Branch,
ANM-150S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601
Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6596
; fax: 425-917-6590; e-mail: Francis.Smith@faa.gov.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(k) You must use Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-25A3588,
Revision 1, dated April 7, 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; phone: 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 Records
Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this
material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 26, 2011.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2011-19828 Filed 8-4-11; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
