Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes, 40823-40826 [2012-16970]
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Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 133 / Wednesday, July 11, 2012 / Proposed Rules
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
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.
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
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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):
Pratt & Whitney Division: Docket No. FAA–
2012–0546; Directorate Identifier 2012–
NE–15–AD.
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14:44 Jul 10, 2012
Jkt 226001
(a) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by September
10, 2012.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
40823
565–8770; fax: 860–565–4503. You may
review copies of the service information at
the FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12
New England Executive Park, Burlington,
MA. For information on the availability of
this material at the FAA, call 781–238–7125.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Pratt & Whitney
PW4050, PW4052, PW4056, PW4060,
PW4060A, PW4060C, PW4062, PW4062A,
PW4152, PW4156, PW4156A, PW4158,
PW4160, PW4460, PW4462, and PW4650
turbofan engines, including models with any
dash number suffix, with 3rd stage LPT duct
segments P/N 50N095; 50N095–001; 50N235;
50N235–001; 50N494–01; 50N494–001;
50N495–01; or 50N495–001, installed.
Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on
July 2, 2012.
Peter A. White,
Manager, Engine & Propeller Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
(d) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by 16 reports of
damaged or failed 3rd stage low-pressure
turbine (LPT) duct segments. We are issuing
this AD to prevent failure of the 3rd stage
LPT duct segments, which could lead to LPT
rotor damage, uncontained engine failure,
and damage to the airplane.
Federal Aviation Administration
(e) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Airplanes
(f) 3rd Stage LPT Duct Segments Removal
From Service
At the next piece-part exposure after the
effective date of this AD, remove from service
3rd stage LPT duct segments, P/Ns 50N095;
50N095–001; 50N235; 50N235–001; 50N494–
01; 50N494–001; 50N495–01; and 50N495–
001.
(g) Installation Prohibition
After the effective date of this AD, do not
install into any engine any 3rd stage LPT
duct segment, P/N 50N095; 50N095–001;
50N235; 50N235–001; 50N494–01; 50N494–
001; 50N495–01; or 50N495–001, that is at
piece-part exposure.
(h) Definition
For the purpose of this AD, piece-part
exposure is when the 3rd stage LPT duct
segment is removed from the engine and
completely disassembled.
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
The Manager, Engine Certification Office,
may approve AMOCs for this AD. Use the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19 to make
your request.
(j) Related Information
(1) Pratt & Whitney Engine-Duct Segment,
Third Stage LPT Assembly Service Bulletin
(SB) No. PW4ENG 72–488, Revision 3, dated
August 13, 2009.
(2) For more information about this AD,
contact James Gray, Aerospace Engineer,
Engine & Propeller Directorate, FAA, 12 New
England Executive Park, Burlington, MA
01803; phone: 781–238–7742; fax: 781–238–
7199; email: james.e.gray@faa.gov.
(3) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Pratt & Whitney, 400 Main
St., East Hartford, CT 06108; phone: 860–
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[FR Doc. 2012–16857 Filed 7–10–12; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2012–0150; Directorate
Identifier 2011–NM–234–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Supplemental notice of
proposed rulemaking (NPRM);
reopening of comment period.
AGENCY:
We are revising an earlier
proposed airworthiness directive (AD)
for all Airbus Model A318 series
airplanes, Airbus Model A319 series
airplanes, Airbus Model A320 series
airplanes, and Airbus Model A321
series airplanes. That NPRM proposed
an inspection to determine if certain
angle of attack (AOA) probes are
installed, and replacing the affected
AOA probe if necessary. That NPRM
was prompted by reports of oil residue
between the stator and the rotor parts of
the position resolvers of the AOA vane,
which was a result of incorrect removal
of the machining oil during the
manufacturing process of the AOA
resolvers. This action revises that NPRM
by including an inspection to determine
if certain other AOA probes are
installed, and replacing the affected
probes. We are proposing this AD to
prevent erroneous AOA information and
consequent delayed or non-activation of
the AOA protection systems which,
during flight at a high angle of attack,
could result in reduced control of the
airplane. Since these actions impose an
additional burden over that proposed in
the NPRM, we are reopening the
comment period to allow the public the
chance to comment on these proposed
changes.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by August 27, 2012.
SUMMARY:
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Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 133 / Wednesday, July 11, 2012 / Proposed Rules
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. For
Thales Avionics service information
identified in this proposed AD, contact
Thales Avionics, Retrofit Manager, 105,
´ ´
Avenue du General Eisenhower, BP
63647, 31036 Toulouse Cedex 1, France;
telephone +33 5 61 19 76 95; fax +33 5
61 19 68 20; email
retrofit.ata@fr.thalesgroup.com; Internet
https://www.thalesgroup.com/aerospace.
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.
ADDRESSES:
Examining the AD Docket
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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:
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14:44 Jul 10, 2012
Jkt 226001
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–2012–0150; Directorate Identifier
2011–NM–234–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
We proposed to amend 14 CFR part
39 with an earlier NPRM for the
specified products, which was
published in the Federal Register on
February 23, 2012 (77 FR 10693). That
earlier NPRM proposed to require
actions intended to address the unsafe
condition for the products listed above.
Since that NPRM (77 FR 10693,
February 23, 2012) was issued, we have
determined that certain other AOA
probes need to be inspected in order to
address the identified unsafe condition.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to
comment on the previous NPRM (77 FR
10693, February 23, 2012). The
following presents the comments
received on the previous NPRM and the
FAA’s response to each comment.
Request To Include Other AOA Probes
Airbus stated that certain Thales AOA
probes, part number (P/N) C16291AB,
have been modified in accordance with
Thales Avionics Service Bulletin
C16291A–34–007, August 27, 2009,
without incorporating Thales Avionics
Service Bulletin C16291A–34–007,
Revision 01, dated December 3, 2009.
We infer that Airbus is requesting that
we change the previous NPRM (77 FR
10693, February 23, 2012) to include an
inspection of those AOA probes.
We agree with Airbus’ request. The
AOA probes may have the same unsafe
condition found in AOA probe P/N
C16291AA. We have determined that
those discrepant AOA probes, P/N
C16291AB, must also be replaced. We
have added new paragraph (g)(2) of this
supplemental NPRM to address the
identified unsafe condition on those
AOA probes.
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Sfmt 4702
Request To Refer to the Latest Service
Information
Airbus and United Airlines requested
that the previous NPRM (77 FR 10693,
February 23, 2012) reference Thales
Avionics Service Bulletin C16291A–34–
007, Revision 02, dated December 16,
2011, as a means of compliance.
We agree to refer to the latest revision
of this service information. Thales
Avionics has issued Service Bulletin
C16291A–34–007, Revision 03, dated
April 10, 2012. We have revised this
supplemental NPRM accordingly.
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.
Certain changes described above
expand the scope of the earlier NPRM
(77 FR 10693, February 23, 2012). As a
result, we have determined that it is
necessary to reopen the comment period
to provide additional opportunity for
the public to comment on this proposed
AD.
Costs of Compliance
Based on the service information, we
estimate that this proposed AD would
affect about 755 products of U.S.
registry. We also estimate that it would
take about 2 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
$128,350, or $170 per product.
In addition, we estimate that any
necessary follow-on actions would take
about 3 work-hours and require parts
costing $0, for a cost of $255 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.
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Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 133 / Wednesday, July 11, 2012 / Proposed Rules
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.
(a) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by August 27,
2012.
Regulatory Findings
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 34: Navigation.
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:
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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 AD:
Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2012–0150;
Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–234–AD.
VerDate Mar<15>2010
14:44 Jul 10, 2012
Jkt 226001
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Airbus Model A318–
111, –112, –121, and –122 airplanes; Model
A319–111, –112, –113, –114, –115, –131,
–132, and –133 airplanes; Model A320–111,
–211, –212, –214, –231, –232, and –233
airplanes; and Model A321–111, –112, –131,
–211, –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes;
certificated in any category; all manufacturer
serial numbers.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by reports of oil
residue between the stator and the rotor parts
of the position resolvers of the angle of attack
(AOA) vane, which was a result of incorrect
removal of the machining oil during the
manufacturing process of the AOA resolvers.
We are issuing this AD to prevent erroneous
AOA information and consequent delayed or
non-activation of the AOA protection
systems which, during flight at a high angle
of attack, could result in reduced control 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
Within 12 months after the effective date
of this AD, except as provided by paragraph
(h) of this AD: Do the inspections in
paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD.
(1) Inspect to determine the part number
(P/N) and serial number of each Thales
Avionics AOA probe, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A320–34–1452, excluding
Appendix 01, dated January 29, 2010. If any
probe is found having P/N C16291AA and
having a serial number listed in Thales
Avionics Service Bulletin C16291A–34–007,
Revision 03, dated April 10, 2012: Within 12
months after the effective date of this AD,
replace the AOA probe, in accordance with
the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A320–34–1452, excluding
Appendix 01, dated January 29, 2010. A
review of airplane maintenance records is
acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the
part number and serial number of the
installed AOA probes can be conclusively
determined from that review.
(2) Inspect to determine the part number
and serial number of each Thales Avionics
AOA probe, in accordance with paragraph
3.C.1.a. of the Accomplishment Instructions
of Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–1452,
excluding Appendix 01, dated January 29,
2010. If any probe is found having P/N
C16291AB, on which Thales Avionics
Service Bulletin C16291A–34–009, Revision
1, dated January 7, 2010, has been
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40825
incorporated, and on which Thales Avionics
Service Bulletin C16291A–34–007, Revision
01, dated December 3, 2009, has not been
incorporated: Within 12 months after the
effective date of this AD, replace the AOA
probe, in accordance with a method
approved by the Manager, International
Branch, ANM–116, FAA, or EASA (or its
delegated agent). A review of airplane
maintenance records is acceptable in lieu of
this inspection if the part number of the
installed AOA probes can be conclusively
determined from that review.
(h) Exception
For any airplane on which Airbus
modification 150006 (installation of Thales
Avionics AOA probes P/N C16291AB) or
modification 26934 (installation of Goodrich
AOA probes P/N 0861ED) has been embodied
in production, and on which no AOA probe
replacement has been made since first flight:
The actions specified in paragraph (g) of this
AD are not required.
(i) Parts Installation Limitations
(1) As of the effective date of this AD, no
person may install a Thales Avionics AOA
probe, P/N C16291AA, having a serial
number listed in Thales Avionics Service
Bulletin C16291A–34–007, Revision 03,
dated April 10, 2012, on any airplane, unless
that Thales Avionics probe has been
inspected, re-identified and tested, in
accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Thales Avionics Service
Bulletin C16291A–34–007, Revision 03,
dated April 10, 2012.
(2) As of the effective date of this AD, no
person may install a Thales Avionics AOA
probe, P/N C16291AB, on which Thales
Avionics Service Bulletin C16291A–34–009,
dated September 10, 2009, has been
incorporated, and on which Thales Avionics
Service Bulletin C16291A–34–007, Revision
01, dated December 3, 2009, has not been
incorporated.
(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, Transport Airplane
Directorate, 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; telephone (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.
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Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 133 / Wednesday, July 11, 2012 / Proposed Rules
(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.
(k) Related Information
(1) Refer to MCAI European Aviation
Safety Agency Airworthiness Directive 2011–
0203, dated October 13, 2011, and the service
information specified in paragraphs (k)(1)(i)
and (k)(1)(ii) of this AD, for related
information.
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–1452,
excluding Appendix 01, dated January 29,
2010.
(ii) Thales Avionics Service Bulletin
C16291A–34–007, Revision 03, dated April
10, 2012.
(2) For Airbus service information
identified in this 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.airwortheas@airbus.com; Internet https://
www.airbus.com. For Thales Avionics service
information identified in this AD, contact
Thales Avionics, Retrofit Manager, 105,
´ ´
Avenue du General Eisenhower, BP 63647,
31036 Toulouse Cedex 1, France; telephone
+33 5 61 19 76 95; fax +33 5 61 19 68 20;
email retrofit.ata@fr.thalesgroup.com;
Internet https://www.thalesgroup.com/
aerospace. 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.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 5,
2012.
Kalene C. Yanamura,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2012–16970 Filed 7–10–12; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2012–0679; Directorate
Identifier 2012–NM–063–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
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Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier,
Inc. Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
We propose to adopt a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Bombardier, Inc. Model CL–600–2C10
SUMMARY:
VerDate Mar<15>2010
14:44 Jul 10, 2012
Jkt 226001
(Regional Jet Series 700, 701, & 702)
airplanes, Model CL–600–2D15
(Regional Jet Series 705) airplanes,
Model CL–600–2D24 (Regional Jet
Series 900) airplanes, and Model CL–
600–2E25 (Regional Jet Series 1000)
airplanes. This proposed AD was
prompted by a report that certain wingto-fuselage attachment nuts do not
conform to the certification design
requirements for dual locking features.
This proposed AD would require
repetitive inspections to determine that
cotter pins are installed at affected
wing-to-fuselage attachment joints and
replacement if necessary. We are
proposing this AD to prevent loss of
wing-to-fuselage attachment joints,
which could result in the loss of the
wing.
We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by August 27, 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 Bombardier,
ˆ
Inc., 400 Cote-Vertu Road West, Dorval,
´
Quebec H4S 1Y9, Canada; telephone
514–855–5000; fax 514–855–7401; email
thd.crj@aero.bombardier.com; Internet
https://www.bombardier.com. You may
review copies of the referenced service
information at the FAA, Transport
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue
SW., Renton, WA. For information on
the availability of this material at the
FAA, call 425–227–1221.
DATES:
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
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Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
be available in the AD docket shortly
after receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Jeffrey Zimmer, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe & Mechanical Systems Branch,
ANE–171, New York Aircraft
Certification Office (ACO), FAA, 1600
Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury,
New York 11590; telephone (516) 228–
7306; fax (516) 794–5531.
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–2012–0679; Directorate Identifier
2012–NM–063–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
Transport Canada Civil Aviation
(TCCA), which is the aviation authority
for Canada, has issued Canadian
Airworthiness Directive CF–2012–10,
dated March 12, 2012 (referred to after
this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe
condition for the specified products.
The MCAI states:
The manufacturer has determined that
wing-to-fuselage attachment nuts, part
number (P/N) SH670–35635–1, SH670–
35440–951, SH670–35440–3, SH670–35635–
1 and 95136D–2412, installed at six
attachment joint locations, do not conform to
the certification design requirements for dual
locking features. The nuts are not of the selflocking type as required and do not provide
the frictional thread interference required to
prevent the nut from backing off the bolt. As
a result, only a single locking device, the
cotter pin, is provided at these critical joints.
In the case where a nut becomes loose, in
combination with a missing or broken cotter
pin, the attachment bolt at the wing-tofuselage joint could migrate and fall out. Loss
of two attachment joints could potentially
result in the loss of the wing.
This [TCCA] Airworthiness Directive (AD)
mandates a [repetitive] detailed visual
inspection (DVI) of each affected wing-tofuselage attachment joint to ensure that a
cotter pin is installed.
The required actions also include
replacing any missing cotter pin. You
E:\FR\FM\11JYP1.SGM
11JYP1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 77, Number 133 (Wednesday, July 11, 2012)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 40823-40826]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2012-16970]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2012-0150; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-234-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); reopening of
comment period.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are revising an earlier proposed airworthiness directive
(AD) for all Airbus Model A318 series airplanes, Airbus Model A319
series airplanes, Airbus Model A320 series airplanes, and Airbus Model
A321 series airplanes. That NPRM proposed an inspection to determine if
certain angle of attack (AOA) probes are installed, and replacing the
affected AOA probe if necessary. That NPRM was prompted by reports of
oil residue between the stator and the rotor parts of the position
resolvers of the AOA vane, which was a result of incorrect removal of
the machining oil during the manufacturing process of the AOA
resolvers. This action revises that NPRM by including an inspection to
determine if certain other AOA probes are installed, and replacing the
affected probes. We are proposing this AD to prevent erroneous AOA
information and consequent delayed or non-activation of the AOA
protection systems which, during flight at a high angle of attack,
could result in reduced control of the airplane. Since these actions
impose an additional burden over that proposed in the NPRM, we are
reopening the comment period to allow the public the chance to comment
on these proposed changes.
DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 27, 2012.
[[Page 40824]]
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. For Thales Avionics service information identified in
this proposed AD, contact Thales Avionics, Retrofit Manager, 105,
Avenue du G[eacute]n[eacute]ral Eisenhower, BP 63647, 31036 Toulouse
Cedex 1, France; telephone +33 5 61 19 76 95; fax +33 5 61 19 68 20;
email retrofit.ata@fr.thalesgroup.com; Internet https://www.thalesgroup.com/aerospace. 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-2012-0150;
Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-234-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
We proposed to amend 14 CFR part 39 with an earlier NPRM for the
specified products, which was published in the Federal Register on
February 23, 2012 (77 FR 10693). That earlier NPRM proposed to require
actions intended to address the unsafe condition for the products
listed above.
Since that NPRM (77 FR 10693, February 23, 2012) was issued, we
have determined that certain other AOA probes need to be inspected in
order to address the identified unsafe condition.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to comment on the previous NPRM
(77 FR 10693, February 23, 2012). The following presents the comments
received on the previous NPRM and the FAA's response to each comment.
Request To Include Other AOA Probes
Airbus stated that certain Thales AOA probes, part number (P/N)
C16291AB, have been modified in accordance with Thales Avionics Service
Bulletin C16291A-34-007, August 27, 2009, without incorporating Thales
Avionics Service Bulletin C16291A-34-007, Revision 01, dated December
3, 2009. We infer that Airbus is requesting that we change the previous
NPRM (77 FR 10693, February 23, 2012) to include an inspection of those
AOA probes.
We agree with Airbus' request. The AOA probes may have the same
unsafe condition found in AOA probe P/N C16291AA. We have determined
that those discrepant AOA probes, P/N C16291AB, must also be replaced.
We have added new paragraph (g)(2) of this supplemental NPRM to address
the identified unsafe condition on those AOA probes.
Request To Refer to the Latest Service Information
Airbus and United Airlines requested that the previous NPRM (77 FR
10693, February 23, 2012) reference Thales Avionics Service Bulletin
C16291A-34-007, Revision 02, dated December 16, 2011, as a means of
compliance.
We agree to refer to the latest revision of this service
information. Thales Avionics has issued Service Bulletin C16291A-34-
007, Revision 03, dated April 10, 2012. We have revised this
supplemental NPRM accordingly.
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.
Certain changes described above expand the scope of the earlier
NPRM (77 FR 10693, February 23, 2012). As a result, we have determined
that it is necessary to reopen the comment period to provide additional
opportunity for the public to comment on this proposed AD.
Costs of Compliance
Based on the service information, we estimate that this proposed AD
would affect about 755 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that
it would take about 2 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 $128,350, or $170 per product.
In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would
take about 3 work-hours and require parts costing $0, for a cost of
$255 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.
[[Page 40825]]
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
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-2012-0150; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-
234-AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by August 27, 2012.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Airbus Model A318-111, -112, -121, and -
122 airplanes; Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132,
and -133 airplanes; Model A320-111, -211, -212, -214, -231, -232,
and -233 airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -
213, -231, and -232 airplanes; certificated in any category; all
manufacturer serial numbers.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 34: Navigation.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by reports of oil residue between the
stator and the rotor parts of the position resolvers of the angle of
attack (AOA) vane, which was a result of incorrect removal of the
machining oil during the manufacturing process of the AOA resolvers.
We are issuing this AD to prevent erroneous AOA information and
consequent delayed or non-activation of the AOA protection systems
which, during flight at a high angle of attack, could result in
reduced control 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
Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, except as
provided by paragraph (h) of this AD: Do the inspections in
paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD.
(1) Inspect to determine the part number (P/N) and serial number
of each Thales Avionics AOA probe, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1452,
excluding Appendix 01, dated January 29, 2010. If any probe is found
having P/N C16291AA and having a serial number listed in Thales
Avionics Service Bulletin C16291A-34-007, Revision 03, dated April
10, 2012: Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD,
replace the AOA probe, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1452, excluding
Appendix 01, dated January 29, 2010. A review of airplane
maintenance records is acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the
part number and serial number of the installed AOA probes can be
conclusively determined from that review.
(2) Inspect to determine the part number and serial number of
each Thales Avionics AOA probe, in accordance with paragraph
3.C.1.a. of the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service
Bulletin A320-34-1452, excluding Appendix 01, dated January 29,
2010. If any probe is found having P/N C16291AB, on which Thales
Avionics Service Bulletin C16291A-34-009, Revision 1, dated January
7, 2010, has been incorporated, and on which Thales Avionics Service
Bulletin C16291A-34-007, Revision 01, dated December 3, 2009, has
not been incorporated: Within 12 months after the effective date of
this AD, replace the AOA probe, in accordance with a method approved
by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, or EASA (or its
delegated agent). A review of airplane maintenance records is
acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the part number of the
installed AOA probes can be conclusively determined from that
review.
(h) Exception
For any airplane on which Airbus modification 150006
(installation of Thales Avionics AOA probes P/N C16291AB) or
modification 26934 (installation of Goodrich AOA probes P/N 0861ED)
has been embodied in production, and on which no AOA probe
replacement has been made since first flight: The actions specified
in paragraph (g) of this AD are not required.
(i) Parts Installation Limitations
(1) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install a
Thales Avionics AOA probe, P/N C16291AA, having a serial number
listed in Thales Avionics Service Bulletin C16291A-34-007, Revision
03, dated April 10, 2012, on any airplane, unless that Thales
Avionics probe has been inspected, re-identified and tested, in
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Thales Avionics
Service Bulletin C16291A-34-007, Revision 03, dated April 10, 2012.
(2) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install a
Thales Avionics AOA probe, P/N C16291AB, on which Thales Avionics
Service Bulletin C16291A-34-009, dated September 10, 2009, has been
incorporated, and on which Thales Avionics Service Bulletin C16291A-
34-007, Revision 01, dated December 3, 2009, has not been
incorporated.
(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, Transport Airplane Directorate, 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; telephone (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.
[[Page 40826]]
(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.
(k) Related Information
(1) Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency Airworthiness
Directive 2011-0203, dated October 13, 2011, and the service
information specified in paragraphs (k)(1)(i) and (k)(1)(ii) of this
AD, for related information.
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1452, excluding Appendix 01,
dated January 29, 2010.
(ii) Thales Avionics Service Bulletin C16291A-34-007, Revision
03, dated April 10, 2012.
(2) For Airbus service information identified in this 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. For Thales Avionics service
information identified in this AD, contact Thales Avionics, Retrofit
Manager, 105, Avenue du G[eacute]n[eacute]ral Eisenhower, BP 63647,
31036 Toulouse Cedex 1, France; telephone +33 5 61 19 76 95; fax +33
5 61 19 68 20; email retrofit.ata@fr.thalesgroup.com; Internet
https://www.thalesgroup.com/aerospace. 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.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 5, 2012.
Kalene C. Yanamura,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2012-16970 Filed 7-10-12; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
