Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes, 19567-19570 [2012-7770]
Download as PDF
<![CDATA[
Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 63 / Monday, April 2, 2012 / Proposed Rules
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Saab AB, Saab
Aerosystems Model 340A (SAAB/SF340A)
and SAAB 340B airplanes, certificated in any
category, all serial numbers.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 27: Flight Controls.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by reports
indicating that wear of the elevator pushrods
have occurred on some airplanes after
extended time in service. We are issuing this
AD to prevent a free elevator from affecting
the pitch control authority, which may result
in reduced controllability of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
You are responsible for having the actions
required by this AD performed within the
compliance times specified, unless the
actions have already been done.
(g) Inspection to Determine the Part Number
Within the applicable time specified in
table 1 of this AD, inspect each elevator
pushrod assembly to determine the part
number (P/N).
(1) If a P/N TDF11755 elevator pushrod
assembly is installed, or if the part number
cannot be determined: Before further flight,
19567
replace the affected elevator pushrod
assembly with a P/N R20990 elevator
pushrod assembly, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Saab Service
Bulletin 340–27–100, dated February 1, 2011.
(2) If P/N 12003–33 or P/N R20990 elevator
pushrod assembly is installed: Do a detailed
inspection for individual play between the
rod end and the pushrod at the locking
device and degradation of elevator pushrod
assembly (including rod end threads not
visible through the inspection hole in the
pushrod, and the nut and locking device not
properly locked with the lock wire), in
accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 340–27–
100, dated February 1, 2011.
TABLE 1—Compliance time
Total flight hours accumulated as of the effective date of this AD
Compliance time
For airplanes with 30,000 total flight hours or more .................................
For airplanes with 28,000 total flight hours or more, but less than
30,000 total flight hours.
For airplanes with less than 28,000 total flight hours ...............................
Within 6 months after the effective date of this AD.
Before the accumulation of 30,000 total flight hours or within 6 months
after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later.
Before the accumulation of 30,000 total flight hours.
(h) Corrective Action
If, during the inspection of elevator
pushrod assembly required by paragraph
(g)(2) of this AD, individual play between the
rod end and the pushrod at the locking
device, or degradation of the elevator
pushrod assembly (including rod end threads
not visible through the inspection hole in the
pushrod, and the nut and locking device not
properly locked with the lock wire) is found:
Before further flight, replace the affected
elevator pushrod assembly with a new
elevator pushrod assembly, P/N R20990, in
accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 340–27–
100, dated February 1, 2011.
sroberts on DSK5SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
(i) Parts Installation
As of the effective date of this AD, no
person may install an elevator pushrod
assembly with P/N TDF11755, on any
airplane.
(j) Reporting Requirement
Submit a report of the findings (both
positive and negative) of the inspection and
replacement required by paragraphs (g) and
(h) of this AD to Saab AB, Support and
¨
Services, SE–581 88 Linkoping, Sweden; fax
+46 13 18 48 74; email
saab340.techsupport@saabgroup.com; at the
applicable time specified in paragraph (j)(1)
or (j)(2) of this AD.
(1) If the inspection was done on or after
the effective date of this AD: Submit the
report within 30 days after the inspection.
(2) If the inspection was done before the
effective date of this AD: Submit the report
within 30 days after the effective date of this
AD.
(k) Other FAA AD Provisions
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
VerDate Mar<15>2010
15:44 Mar 30, 2012
Jkt 226001
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:
Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind
Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057–
3356; telephone (425) 227–1112; fax (425)
227–1149. Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-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.
(3) Reporting Requirements: A federal
agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a
person is not required to respond to, nor
shall a person be subject to a penalty for
failure to comply with a collection of
information subject to the requirements of
the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that
collection of information displays a current
valid OMB Control Number. The OMB
Control Number for this information
collection is 2120–0056. Public reporting for
this collection of information is estimated to
be approximately 5 minutes per response,
including the time for reviewing instructions,
completing and reviewing the collection of
information. All responses to this collection
of information are mandatory. Comments
PO 00000
Frm 00003
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
concerning the accuracy of this burden and
suggestions for reducing the burden should
be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence
Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn:
Information Collection Clearance Officer,
AES–200.
(l) Related Information
Refer to MCAI EASA Airworthiness
Directive 2011–0078, dated May 5, 2011; and
Saab Service Bulletin 340–27–100, dated
February 1, 2011; for related information.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on March
23, 2012.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2012–7769 Filed 3–30–12; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2012–0329; Directorate
Identifier 2011–NM–139–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
We propose to adopt a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Airbus Model A318–112 and –121
airplanes; Model A319–111, –112, –115,
–132, and –133 airplanes; Model A320–
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\02APP1.SGM
02APP1
19568
Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 63 / Monday, April 2, 2012 / Proposed Rules
214, –232, and –233 airplanes; and
Model A321–211, –212, –213, and –231
airplanes. This proposed AD was
prompted by reports of cracked nuts on
the fuselage. This proposed AD would
require an inspection to determine if
certain fuselage nuts are installed, a
detailed inspection for cracking of
fuselage nuts having a certain part
number, and related investigative and
corrective actions if necessary. We are
proposing this AD to detect and correct
cracked nuts on the fuselage which
could result in reduced structural
integrity of the airplane.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by May 17, 2012.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by
any of the following methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.
• Fax: (202) 493–2251.
• Mail: U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
Washington, DC 20590.
• Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
For service information identified in
this proposed AD, contact Airbus,
Airworthiness Office—EAS, 1 Rond
Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac
Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36
96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email
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.
sroberts on DSK5SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the Internet at https://www.regulations.
gov; or in person at the Docket
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:
Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,
VerDate Mar<15>2010
15:44 Mar 30, 2012
Jkt 226001
International Branch, ANM–116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton,
Washington 98057–3356; telephone
(425) 227–1405; 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–2012–0329; Directorate Identifier
2011–NM–139–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
The European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Community, has issued EASA
Airworthiness Directive 2011–0120R1,
dated July 13, 2011 (referred to after this
as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe
condition for the specified products.
The MCAI states:
During structural part assembly in Airbus
production line, some nuts Part Number (P/
N) ASNA2531–4 were found cracked.
Investigations were performed to determine
the batches of the affected nuts and had
revealed that these nuts have been installed
in production on the fuselage of aeroplanes
listed in the applicability section of this
[EASA] AD.
Static, fatigue and corrosion tests were
performed, which demonstrated that no
immediate maintenance action is necessary.
However, a large number of these nuts are
fitted on primary structural elements, which
could have long-term consequences.
This condition, if not corrected, could
impair the structural integrity of the affected
aeroplanes.
For the reasons described above, this
[EASA] AD requires [an inspection to
determine if certain fuselage nuts are
installed,] a detailed inspection [for cracking]
of the affected nuts, associated corrective
actions, [general visual inspection for
scratching of the hole if necessary]
depending on findings, and replacement of
the affected P/N ASNA2531–4 nuts with new
ones, having the same P/N.
*
*
*
*
*
Required actions include related
investigative and corrective actions if
PO 00000
Frm 00004
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
necessary. Related investigative actions
include a general visual inspection for
scratching of the hole. Corrective
actions include replacing the fastener
and installing a new fuselage nut. You
may obtain further information by
examining the MCAI in the AD docket.
Relevant Service Information
Airbus has issued Service Bulletin
A320–53–1218, Revision 01, including
Appendices 01 and 02, dated June 17,
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
develop on other products of the same
type design.
Costs of Compliance
Based on the service information, we
estimate that this proposed AD would
affect about 152 products of U.S.
registry. We also estimate that it would
take about 15 work-hours per product to
comply with the basic 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
$193,800, or $1,275 per product.
In addition, we estimate that any
necessary follow-on actions would take
about 10 work-hours and require parts
costing $362, for a cost of $1,212 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
E:\FR\FM\02APP1.SGM
02APP1
Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 63 / Monday, April 2, 2012 / Proposed Rules
air commerce by prescribing regulations
for practices, methods, and procedures
the Administrator finds necessary for
safety in air commerce. This regulation
is within the scope of that authority
because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on
products identified in this rulemaking
action.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this proposed AD
would not have federalism implications
under Executive Order 13132. This
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);
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.
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.
sroberts on DSK5SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new AD:
Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2012–0329;
Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–139–AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by May 17,
2012.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
VerDate Mar<15>2010
15:44 Mar 30, 2012
Jkt 226001
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Model A318–
112 and –121 airplanes; Model A319–111,
–112, –115, –132, and –133 airplanes; Model
A320–214, –232, and –233 airplanes; and
Model A321–211, –212, –213, and –231
airplanes; certificated in any category;
manufacturer serial numbers 3339, 3340,
3350, 3355, 3360, 3367, 3369, 3372, 3380,
3382, 3385, 3387, 3388, 3390, 3393, 3395,
3397 through 3508 inclusive, 3510 through
3519 inclusive, 3522, 3523, 3525, 3527, 3529,
3530, 3537, 3539, 3542, 3544, 3546, 3548,
3552, and 3555.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 53: Fuselage.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by reports of
cracked nuts on the fuselage. We are issuing
this AD to detect and correct cracked nuts on
the fuselage which could result in reduced
structural integrity of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
You are responsible for having the actions
required by this AD performed within the
compliance times specified, unless the
actions have already been done.
(g) Inspection and Replacement
Within 72 months since first flight of the
airplane or within 90 days after the effective
date of this AD, whichever occurs later, do
an inspection for nuts having part number (P/
N) ASNA2531–4 located in the fuselage. If a
nut having P/N ASNA2531–4 is found, before
further flight, do a detailed inspection for
cracking of the nut, and all applicable related
investigative and corrective actions, in
accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320–
53–1218, Revision 01, including Appendices
01 and 02, dated June 17, 2010. If any
cracking is found, before further flight,
repair, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A320–53–1218, Revision 01,
including Appendices 01 and 02, dated June
17, 2010.
(h) Reporting
Submit a report of the findings in
accordance with Appendix 01 of the
inspection required by paragraph (g) of this
AD to Airbus in accordance with Appendix
01 of Airbus Service Bulletin A320–53–1218,
Revision 01, including Appendices 01 and
02, dated June 17, 2010, at the applicable
time specified in paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of
this AD.
(1) If the inspection was done on or after
the effective date of this AD: Submit the
report within 90 days after the inspection.
(2) If the inspection was done before the
effective date of this AD: Submit the report
within 90 days after the effective date of this
AD.
(i) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for
inspections and replacements required by
paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were
performed before the effective date of this AD
using Airbus Service Bulletin A320–53–1218,
PO 00000
Frm 00005
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
19569
including Appendices 01 and 02, dated
February 8, 2010.
(j) Other FAA AD Provisions
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:
Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind
Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057–
3356; phone: 425–227–1405; fax: 425–227–
1149. Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-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.
(3) Reporting Requirements: A federal
agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a
person is not required to respond to, nor
shall a person be subject to a penalty for
failure to comply with a collection of
information subject to the requirements of
the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that
collection of information displays a current
valid OMB Control Number. The OMB
Control Number for this information
collection is 2120–0056. Public reporting for
this collection of information is estimated to
be approximately 5 minutes per response,
including the time for reviewing instructions,
completing and reviewing the collection of
information. All responses to this collection
of information are mandatory. Comments
concerning the accuracy of this burden and
suggestions for reducing the burden should
be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence
Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn:
Information Collection Clearance Officer,
AES–200.
(k) Related Information
Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA) Airworthiness Directive
2011–0120R1, dated July 13, 2011; and
Airbus Service Bulletin A320–53–1218,
Revision 01, including Appendices 01 and
02, dated June 17, 2010; for related
information.
E:\FR\FM\02APP1.SGM
02APP1
19570
Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 63 / Monday, April 2, 2012 / Proposed Rules
Issued in Renton, Washington, on March
22, 2012.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2012–7770 Filed 3–30–12; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND
SECURITY
Coast Guard
33 CFR Part 100
[Docket No. USCG–2012–0169]
RIN 1625–AA08
Coast Guard, DHS.
Notice of proposed rulemaking.
AGENCY:
The Coast Guard proposes to
establish a special local regulation
during the Chesapeake Bay Workboat
Race, a series of boat races to be held on
the waters of Back River, Poquoson,
Virginia on June 24, 2012. This event
will consist of approximately 75
powerboats conducting high-speed
competitive races on the waters of the
Back River. This regulation is necessary
to provide for the safety of life on
navigable waters during the event. This
action is intended to restrict vessel
traffic in portions of the Back River,
Messick Point, Poquoson, Virginia
during the event.
DATES: Comments and related material
must be received by the Coast Guard on
or before May 2, 2012.
ADDRESSES: You may submit comments
identified by docket number USCG–
2012–0169 using any one of the
following methods:
(1) Federal eRulemaking Portal:
https://www.regulations.gov.
(2) Fax: 202–493–2251.
(3) Mail: Docket Management Facility
(M–30), U.S. Department of
Transportation, West Building Ground
Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey
Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590–
0001.
(4) Hand delivery: Same as mail
address above, between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The telephone number
is 202–366–9329.
To avoid duplication, please use only
one of these four methods. See the
‘‘Public Participation and Request for
Comments’’ portion of the
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section
sroberts on DSK5SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
SUMMARY:
VerDate Mar<15>2010
15:44 Mar 30, 2012
Jkt 226001
If
you have questions on this proposed
rule, call or email If you have questions
on this temporary rule, call or email
LCDR Christopher O’Neal, Waterways
Management Division Chief, Sector
Hampton Roads, Coast Guard; telephone
757–668–5581, email Christopher.A.
ONeal@uscg.mil. If you have questions
on viewing or submitting material to the
docket, call Renee V. Wright, Program
Manager, Docket Operations, telephone
202–366–9826.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Public Participation and Request for
Comments
Special Local Regulation for Marine
Events, Chesapeake Bay Workboat
Race, Back River, Messick Point;
Poquoson, VA
ACTION:
below for instructions on submitting
comments.
We encourage you to participate in
this rulemaking by submitting
comments and related materials. All
comments received will be posted
without change to https://www.
regulations.gov and will include any
personal information you have
provided.
Submitting Comments
If you submit a comment, please
include the docket number for this
rulemaking (USCG–2012–0169),
indicate the specific section of this
document to which each comment
applies, and provide a reason for each
suggestion or recommendation. You
may submit your comments and
material online (via https://www.
regulations.gov) or by fax, mail, or hand
delivery, but please use only one of
these means. If you submit a comment
online via www.regulations.gov, it will
be considered received by the Coast
Guard when you successfully transmit
the comment. If you fax, hand deliver,
or mail your comment, it will be
considered as having been received by
the Coast Guard when it is received at
the Docket Management Facility. We
recommend that you include your name
and a mailing address, an email address,
or a telephone number in the body of
your document so that we can contact
you if we have questions regarding your
submission.
To submit your comment online, go to
https://www.regulations.gov, type the
docket number (USCG–2012–0169) in
the ‘‘SEARCH’’ box and click
‘‘SEARCH.’’ Click on ‘‘Submit a
Comment’’ on the line associated with
this rulemaking. If you submit your
comments by mail or hand delivery,
submit them in an unbound format, no
larger than 81⁄2 by 11 inches, suitable for
copying and electronic filing. If you
submit comments by mail and would
like to know that they reached the
PO 00000
Frm 00006
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
Facility, please enclose a stamped, selfaddressed postcard or envelope. We will
consider all comments and material
received during the comment period
and may change the rule based on your
comments.
Viewing Comments and Documents
To view comments, as well as
documents mentioned in this preamble
as being available in the docket, go to
https://www.regulations.gov, type the
docket number (USCG–2012–0169) in
the ‘‘SEARCH’’ box and click
‘‘SEARCH.’’ Click on Open Docket
Folder on the line associated with this
rulemaking. You may also visit the
Docket Management Facility in Room
W12–140 on the ground floor of the
Department of Transportation West
Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m.
and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays.
Privacy Act
Anyone can search the electronic
form of comments received into any of
our dockets by the name of the
individual submitting the comment (or
signing the comment, if submitted on
behalf of an association, business, labor
union, etc.). You may review a Privacy
Act notice regarding our public dockets
in the January 17, 2008, issue of the
Federal Register (73 FR 3316).
Public Meeting
We do not now plan to hold a public
meeting. But you may submit a request
for one using one of the four methods
specified under ADDRESSES. Please
explain why you believe a public
meeting would be beneficial. If we
determine that one would aid this
rulemaking, we will hold one at a time
and place announced by a later notice
in the Federal Register.
For information on facilities or
services for individuals with disabilities
or to request special assistance at the
public meeting, contact LCDR
Christopher O’Neal at the telephone
number or email address indicated
under the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
CONTACT section of this notice.
Basis and Purpose
Marine events are frequently held on
the navigable waters within the
boundary of Fifth Coast Guard District.
The water activities that typically
comprise marine events include sailing
regattas, power boat races, swim races
and holiday parades. For a description
of the geographical area of each Coast
Guard Sector—Captain of the Port Zone,
please see 33 CFR 3.25.
E:\FR\FM\02APP1.SGM
02APP1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 77, Number 63 (Monday, April 2, 2012)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 19567-19570]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2012-7770]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2012-0329; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-139-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Airbus Model A318-112 and -121 airplanes; Model A319-111, -112,
-115, -132, and -133 airplanes; Model A320-
[[Page 19568]]
214, -232, and -233 airplanes; and Model A321-211, -212, -213, and -231
airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of cracked nuts on
the fuselage. This proposed AD would require an inspection to determine
if certain fuselage nuts are installed, a detailed inspection for
cracking of fuselage nuts having a certain part number, and related
investigative and corrective actions if necessary. We are proposing
this AD to detect and correct cracked nuts on the fuselage which could
result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane.
DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 17, 2012.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
Fax: (202) 493-2251.
Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact
Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707
Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44
51; email 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: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425)
227-1405; 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-2012-0329;
Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-139-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
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA
Airworthiness Directive 2011-0120R1, dated July 13, 2011 (referred to
after this as ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the
specified products. The MCAI states:
During structural part assembly in Airbus production line, some
nuts Part Number (P/N) ASNA2531-4 were found cracked. Investigations
were performed to determine the batches of the affected nuts and had
revealed that these nuts have been installed in production on the
fuselage of aeroplanes listed in the applicability section of this
[EASA] AD.
Static, fatigue and corrosion tests were performed, which
demonstrated that no immediate maintenance action is necessary.
However, a large number of these nuts are fitted on primary
structural elements, which could have long-term consequences.
This condition, if not corrected, could impair the structural
integrity of the affected aeroplanes.
For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires [an
inspection to determine if certain fuselage nuts are installed,] a
detailed inspection [for cracking] of the affected nuts, associated
corrective actions, [general visual inspection for scratching of the
hole if necessary] depending on findings, and replacement of the
affected P/N ASNA2531-4 nuts with new ones, having the same P/N.
* * * * *
Required actions include related investigative and corrective
actions if necessary. Related investigative actions include a general
visual inspection for scratching of the hole. Corrective actions
include replacing the fastener and installing a new fuselage nut. You
may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket.
Relevant Service Information
Airbus has issued Service Bulletin A320-53-1218, Revision 01,
including Appendices 01 and 02, dated June 17, 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 develop on other products of the same
type design.
Costs of Compliance
Based on the service information, we estimate that this proposed AD
would affect about 152 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that
it would take about 15 work-hours per product to comply with the basic
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 $193,800, or $1,275 per product.
In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would
take about 10 work-hours and require parts costing $362, for a cost of
$1,212 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
[[Page 19569]]
air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and
procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air
commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because
it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on
products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism
implications under Executive Order 13132. This 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);
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.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to
comply with this proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new AD:
Airbus: Docket No. FAA-2012-0329; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-
139-AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by May 17, 2012.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Model A318-112 and -121 airplanes;
Model A319-111, -112, -115, -132, and -133 airplanes; Model A320-
214, -232, and -233 airplanes; and Model A321-211, -212, -213, and -
231 airplanes; certificated in any category; manufacturer serial
numbers 3339, 3340, 3350, 3355, 3360, 3367, 3369, 3372, 3380, 3382,
3385, 3387, 3388, 3390, 3393, 3395, 3397 through 3508 inclusive,
3510 through 3519 inclusive, 3522, 3523, 3525, 3527, 3529, 3530,
3537, 3539, 3542, 3544, 3546, 3548, 3552, and 3555.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53: Fuselage.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by reports of cracked nuts on the fuselage.
We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracked nuts on the
fuselage which could result in reduced structural integrity of the
airplane.
(f) Compliance
You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD
performed within the compliance times specified, unless the actions
have already been done.
(g) Inspection and Replacement
Within 72 months since first flight of the airplane or within 90
days after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later, do
an inspection for nuts having part number (P/N) ASNA2531-4 located
in the fuselage. If a nut having P/N ASNA2531-4 is found, before
further flight, do a detailed inspection for cracking of the nut,
and all applicable related investigative and corrective actions, in
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service
Bulletin A320-53-1218, Revision 01, including Appendices 01 and 02,
dated June 17, 2010. If any cracking is found, before further
flight, repair, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions
of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1218, Revision 01, including
Appendices 01 and 02, dated June 17, 2010.
(h) Reporting
Submit a report of the findings in accordance with Appendix 01
of the inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD to Airbus in
accordance with Appendix 01 of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1218,
Revision 01, including Appendices 01 and 02, dated June 17, 2010, at
the applicable time specified in paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of this
AD.
(1) If the inspection was done on or after the effective date of
this AD: Submit the report within 90 days after the inspection.
(2) If the inspection was done before the effective date of this
AD: Submit the report within 90 days after the effective date of
this AD.
(i) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for inspections and replacements
required by paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were
performed before the effective date of this AD using Airbus Service
Bulletin A320-53-1218, including Appendices 01 and 02, dated
February 8, 2010.
(j) Other FAA AD Provisions
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: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; phone: 425-227-
1405; fax: 425-227-1149. Information may be emailed 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.
(3) Reporting Requirements: A federal agency may not conduct or
sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a
person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with a
collection of information subject to the requirements of the
Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information
displays a current valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Control Number
for this information collection is 2120-0056. Public reporting for
this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 5
minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions,
completing and reviewing the collection of information. All
responses to this collection of information are mandatory. Comments
concerning the accuracy of this burden and suggestions for reducing
the burden should be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave.
SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: Information Collection Clearance
Officer, AES-200.
(k) Related Information
Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)
Airworthiness Directive 2011-0120R1, dated July 13, 2011; and Airbus
Service Bulletin A320-53-1218, Revision 01, including Appendices 01
and 02, dated June 17, 2010; for related information.
[[Page 19570]]
Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 22, 2012.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2012-7770 Filed 3-30-12; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
