Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 50411-50414 [2012-20473]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 162 / Tuesday, August 21, 2012 / Proposed Rules February 14, 2011, to accomplish the modifications required by this paragraph. pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 (j) Retained Action for Airplanes on Which Modifications Were Accomplished Previously This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (d) of AD 2000–07–06, Amendment 39–11660 (65 FR 19302, April 11, 2000). For all airplanes on which modifications of the forward lower corner of the door frame and the cross beam of the forward cargo door were accomplished in accordance with Boeing Service Bulletin 737–52–1100, dated August 25, 1988, or Revision 1, dated July 20, 1989; or in accordance with the requirements of AD 90– 06–02, Amendment 39–6489 (55 FR 8372, March 7, 1990): Within 4 years or 12,000 flight cycles after May 16, 2000 (the effective date of AD 2000–07–06), whichever occurs later, install the reinforcement modification of the aft corner of the door frame of the forward cargo door, in accordance with Boeing Service Bulletin 737–52–1100, Revision 2, dated March 31, 1994. Accomplishment of such modification constitutes terminating action for the repetitive inspections required by paragraphs (g)(1) and (h)(1) of this AD. (k) New Inspections and Corrective Actions Except as provided by paragraphs (m)(1) and (m)(2) of this AD: At the applicable time specified in paragraph 1.E, ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–52A1100, Revision 5, dated February 14, 2011, do the inspections required by paragraphs (k)(1) and (k)(2) of this AD, as applicable. Do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions before further flight, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–52A1100, Revision 5, dated February 14, 2011; except as required by paragraph (m)(3) of this AD. Accomplishment of the inspections required by paragraph (k) of this AD terminates the requirements of the repetitive inspections required by paragraphs (g)(1) and (h)(1) of this AD. If any cracking is found in the number 4 cross beam, before further flight, repair in accordance with Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–52–1149, dated December 11, 2003. Note 2 to paragraph (k) of this AD: Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–52A1100, Revision 5, dated February 14, 2011, refers to Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–52–1149, dated December 11, 2003, as an additional source of guidance for the inspection for cracks of the number 4 cross beam. (1) For airplanes identified in Tables 1 and 2 of paragraph 1.E, ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–52A1100, Revision 5, dated February 14, 2011: Do a one-time HFEC inspection of the applicable location for cracks, in accordance with the Work Instructions, Part I, of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–52A1100, Revision 5, dated February 14, 2011. (2) For airplanes identified in Table 3 of paragraph 1.E, ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–52A1100, Revision 5, dated February 14, 2011: Do a one-time general visual inspection of the VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:17 Aug 20, 2012 Jkt 226001 reinforcement angle for excessive shimming or fastener pull-up, in accordance with the Work Instructions, Part III, of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–52A1100, Revision 5, dated February 14, 2011. (l) No Supplemental Structural Inspections Required by This AD (1) The supplemental structural inspections specified in Table 4 of paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ and Part 5 of the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–52A1100, Revision 5, dated February 14, 2011, are not required by this AD. (2) The supplemental structural inspections specified in Table 4 of paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–52A1100, Revision 5, dated February 14, 2011, may be used in support of compliance with section 121.1109(c)(2) or 129.109(c)(2) of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 121.1109(c)(2) or 14 CFR 129.109(c)(2)). The corresponding actions specified in the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–52A1100, Revision 5, dated February 14, 2011, are not required by this AD. (m) Exceptions to Certain Service Information (1) Where paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–52A1100, Revision 5, dated February 14, 2011, specifies a compliance time relative to the Revision 5 issue date of the service bulletin, this AD requires compliance within the specified compliance time after the effective date of this AD. (2) Where Table 1, ‘‘Condition’’ column of Paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–52A1100, Revision 5, dated February 14, 2011, specifies ‘‘airplanes without either the repair or modification accomplished in accordance with previous releases of this service bulletin,’’ the corresponding condition in this AD is for ‘‘airplanes on which either a repair or modification was not accomplished before the effective date of this AD.’’ (3) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–52A1100, Revision 5, dated February 14, 2011, specifies to contact Boeing for certain actions: Before further flight, do the repair using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (n)(1) of this AD. (n) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Seattle ACO, 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 emailed 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. PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 50411 (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair required by this AD if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes ODA that has been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO to make those findings. For a repair method to be approved, the repair must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. (4) AMOCs approved previously in accordance with AD 2000–07–06, Amendment 39–11660 (65 FR 19302, April 11, 2000), are approved as AMOCs for the corresponding requirements of this AD. (o) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle ACO, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; phone (425) 917– 6450; fax (425) 917–6590; email alan.pohl@faa.gov. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, Washington 98124–2207; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766– 5680; 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. Issued in Renton, Washington, on August 13, 2012. John P. Piccola, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2012–20470 Filed 8–20–12; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2012–0856; Directorate Identifier 2012–NM–093–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 747–100, 747–100B, 747–100B SUD, 747–200B, 747–200F, 747–300, 747–400, 747– 400D, 747–400F, 747SR, and 747SP series airplanes; Model 767–200, –300, –300F, and –400ER series airplanes; and Model 777–200, –200LR, –300, and –300ER series airplanes. This proposed SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\21AUP1.SGM 21AUP1 50412 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 162 / Tuesday, August 21, 2012 / Proposed Rules AD was prompted by reports of burned Boeing Material Specification (BMS) 8– 39 urethane foam, and a report from the airplane manufacturer that airplanes were assembled with seals throughout various areas of the airplane (including flight deck and cargo compartments) made of BMS 8–39 urethane foam, a material with fire-retardant properties that deteriorate with age. This proposed AD would require replacing seals made of BMS 8–39 urethane foam in certain areas of the airplane. We are proposing this AD to prevent the failure of urethane seals to maintain sufficient Halon concentrations in the cargo compartments to extinguish or contain fire or smoke, and to prevent penetration of fire or smoke in areas of the airplane that are difficult to access for fire and smoke detection or suppression. We must receive comments on this proposed AD by October 5, 2012. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P. O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–5680; 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, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. DATES: pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 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 proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is in the VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:17 Aug 20, 2012 Jkt 226001 ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Eric M. Brown, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Branch, ANM–150S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6476; fax: 425–917– 6590; email: Eric.M.Brown@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA– 2012–0856; Directorate Identifier 2012– NM–093–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 because of those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. Discussion We have received reports of burned BMS 8–39 urethane foam insulation on two Model 767–200 series airplanes. The airplane manufacturer has also notified us that certain Model 747, 767, and 777 airplanes were assembled with seals throughout various areas of the airplane (including flight deck and cargo compartments) made of BMS 8–39 urethane foam. The fire retardants in BMS 8–39 urethane foam are mixed into, but are not chemically connected with, the remaining components of the foam. The fire-retardant properties of BMS 8–39 urethane foam deteriorate with age (5 to 10 years). This, along with dust, dirt, and other carbon particulate contamination of the urethane foam, adds an available fuel source for a potential fire. Once ignited, the deteriorated foam emits noxious smoke, does not self-extinguish, and drips droplets of liquefied urethane, which can further propagate a fire. Deteriorated BMS 8–39 urethane foam seals in a cargo compartment also compromise the Halon retention and smoke/fire-blocking capabilities of the cargo compartment. These conditions, if not corrected, could result in failure of urethane seals to PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 maintain sufficient Halon concentrations in the cargo compartments to extinguish or contain fire or smoke, and could result in penetration of fire or smoke in areas of the airplane that are difficult to access for fire and smoke detection or suppression. Other Relevant Rulemaking We issued the following ADs to require reworking certain air distribution ducts in the environmental control system (ECS) wrapped with BMS 8–39 or Aeronautical Materials Specifications (AMS) 3570 urethane foam insulation. These ADs resulted from reports from the airplane manufacturer that airplanes were assembled with duct assemblies in the ECS wrapped with BMS 8–39 urethane foam insulation, a material with fireretardant properties that deteriorate with age, and reports of duct assemblies in the ECS with burned BMS 8–39 urethane foam insulation. We issued these ADs to prevent a potential electrical arc from igniting the BMS 8– 39 urethane foam insulation on the duct assemblies of the ECS, which could propagate a small fire and lead to a larger fire that might spread throughout the airplane through the ECS. • AD 2008–02–16, Amendment 39– 15346 (73 FR 4061, January 24, 2008), applicable to certain Model 767–200 and 767–300 series airplanes. • AD 2010–14–01, Amendment 39– 16344 (75 FR 38007, July 1, 2010), applicable to certain Model 747–100, 747–100B, 747–100B SUD, 747–200B, 747–200C, 747–200F, 747–300, 747– 400, 747–400F, 747SR, and 747SP series airplanes. • AD 2012–02–09, Amendment 39– 16932 (77 FR 5996, February 7, 2012), for certain Model 737–100, –200, –200C, and –300 series airplanes. Relevant Service Information We reviewed the following Boeing service bulletins: • For Model 747–100, 747–100B, 747–100B SUD, 747–200B, 747–200F, 747–300, 747–400, 747–400D, 747– 400F, 747SR, and 747SP series airplanes: Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–25–3381, Revision 1, dated May 17, 2012. This service bulletin describes procedures for replacing BMS 8–39 urethane foam seals with either BMS 8–371 insulation foam or BMS 1–68 silicone foam rubber seals. (The required actions depend on requirements for use and location of the BMS 8–39 urethane foam in the airplane.) Procedures for the replacement include, for some airplanes, doing a general visual E:\FR\FM\21AUP1.SGM 21AUP1 50413 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 162 / Tuesday, August 21, 2012 / Proposed Rules inspection of the airplane sidewalls for air baffles, and of the BMS 8–39 urethane foam for penetrations (e.g., wire penetrations). The replacement is to be done in the following areas of the airplane (depending on airplane configuration): • Main deck system tube/wire foam seals (left/right sidewalls) • Main deck foam air seal (left/right sidewalls) • Main deck air baffle foam (left/right sidewalls) • Main deck ceiling panel foam strip • Forward and aft cargo system tube/ wire foam seal • Flight deck overheard electrical equipment panel/structure and overhead drip-shield foam • E1/E2 rack wire integration unit cover assemblies • For Model 767–200, –300, –300F, and –400ER series airplanes: Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 767– 25–0381, dated August 19, 2010. This service bulletin describes procedures for doing a general visual inspection for BMS 8–39 urethane foam for certain airplanes, covering the BMS 8–39 foam with cargo liner joint sealing tape in certain areas, replacing certain BMS 8– 39 foam pads with Nomex felt in certain areas, and replacing BMS 8–39 urethane foam seals with either BMS 8–371 insulation foam or BMS 1–68 silicone foam rubber seals. (The required actions depend on requirements for use and location of the BMS 8–39 urethane foam in the airplane.) The actions are to be done in the following areas of the airplane (depending on airplane configuration): • Forward and aft cargo compartments • Flight deck • Crown area (foam pad to be replaced with Nomex felt) • Over wing escape hatch (corner seals) • For Model 777–200, –200LR, –300, and –300ER series airplanes: Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777– 25–0362, dated August 19, 2010. This service bulletin describes procedures for replacing BMS 8–39 urethane foam seals with BMS 1–68 silicone foam rubber seals in the forward and aft cargo compartments of the airplane. FAA’s Determination We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of these same type designs. Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions specified in the service information described previously. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 694 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Replacement for Model 747 airplanes, depending on airplane configuration (165 airplanes). Replacement for Model 767 airplanes, depending on airplane configuration (399 airplanes). Replacement for Model 777 airplanes (130 airplanes). Cost on U.S. operators Parts cost Cost per product Up to 432 work-hours × $85 per hour = $36,720. Up to $6,162 ........... Up to $42,882 ......... Up to $7,075,530. Up to 72 work-hours × $85 per hour = $6,120. Up to $3,967 ........... Up to $10,087 ......... Up to $4,024,713. 16 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,360. $1,038 ..................... $2,398 ..................... $311,740. pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 Authority for This Rulemaking Regulatory Findings List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 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. 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. Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:17 Aug 20, 2012 Jkt 226001 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA– 2012–0856; Directorate Identifier 2012– NM–093–AD. E:\FR\FM\21AUP1.SGM 21AUP1 50414 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 162 / Tuesday, August 21, 2012 / Proposed Rules (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by October 5, 2012. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to The Boeing Company airplanes, certificated in any category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), and (c)(3) of this AD. (1) Model 747–100, 747–100B, 747–100B SUD, 747–200B, 747–200F, 747–300, 747– 400, 747–400D, 747–400F, 747SR, and 747SP series airplanes, as identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–25– 3381, Revision 1, dated May 17, 2012. (2) Model 767–200, –300, –300F, and –400ER series airplanes, as identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 767–25–0381, dated August 19, 2010. (3) Model 777–200, –200LR, –300, and –300ER series airplanes, as identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–25–0362, dated August 19, 2010. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/ Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 25, Equipment/furnishings. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of burned Boeing Material Specification (BMS) 8–39 urethane foam, and a report from the airplane manufacturer that airplanes were assembled with seals throughout various areas of the airplane (including flight deck and cargo compartments) made of BMS 8–39 urethane foam, a material with fire-retardant properties that deteriorate with age. We are issuing this AD to prevent the failure of urethane seals to maintain sufficient Halon concentrations in the cargo compartments to extinguish or contain fire or smoke, and to prevent penetration of fire or smoke in areas of the airplane that are difficult to access for fire and smoke detection or suppression. pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) BMS 8–39 Urethane Foam Seal Replacements Within 72 months after the effective date of this AD, do the actions specified in paragraph (g)(1), (g)(2), or (g)(3) of this AD, as applicable. (1) For Model 747–100, 747–100B, 747– 100B SUD, 747–200B, 747–200F, 747–300, 747–400, 747–400D, 747–400F, 747SR, and 747SP series airplanes: Replace the BMS 8– 39 urethane foam seals (including doing a general visual inspection of the airplane sidewalls for air baffles, and of the BMS 8– 39 urethane foam for penetrations (e.g., wire penetrations)) with BMS 8–371 insulation foam or BMS 1–68 silicone foam rubber seals, as applicable, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions and Appendix A, as applicable, of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–25–3381, Revision 1, dated May 17, 2012. VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:17 Aug 20, 2012 Jkt 226001 (2) For Model 767–200, –300, –300F, and –400ER series airplanes: Perform a general visual inspection for the presence of BMS 8– 39 urethane foam, cover the BMS 8–39 foam with cargo liner joint sealing tape in certain areas, replace certain BMS 8–39 foam pads with Nomex felt in certain areas, and replace BMS 8–39 urethane foam seals with BMS 8– 371 insulation foam or BMS 1–68 silicone foam rubber seals, as applicable, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions and Appendix A, as applicable, of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 767–25–0381, dated August 19, 2010. (3) For Model 777–200, –200LR, –300, and –300ER series airplanes: Replace BMS 8–39 urethane foam seals with BMS 1–68 silicone foam rubber seals in the forward and aft cargo compartments of the airplane, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–25–0362, dated August 19, 2010. (h) Credit for Previous Actions For Groups 4 and 5 airplanes, as identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–25–3381, Revision 1, dated May 17, 2012: This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, if those actions were done before the effective date of this AD using Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–25–3381, dated August 19, 2010. (i) Parts Installation Prohibition As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install a BMS 8–39 urethane foam seal on any airplane. (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (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 emailed 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. (k) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Eric M. Brown, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Branch, ANM–150S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917– 6476; fax: 425–917–6590; email: Eric.M.Brown@faa.gov. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone 206– 544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 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. Issued in Renton, Washington, on August 9, 2012. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2012–20473 Filed 8–20–12; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2012–0857; Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–244–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 737–100, –200, –200C, –300, –400, and –500 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a report of an approximate 8-inch crack found in the fuselage skin under the aft drain mast. This proposed AD would require a detailed inspection for cracking and corrosion of the channel and fillers adjacent to the drain mast bolts, an inspection to determine the location of the bonding strap, a measurement of the washers under the drain mast bolts, and related investigative actions and repair if necessary. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct cracking in the fuselage skin and internal support structure, which could result in uncontrolled decompression of the airplane. SUMMARY: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by October 5, 2012. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, 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. DATES: E:\FR\FM\21AUP1.SGM 21AUP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 77, Number 162 (Tuesday, August 21, 2012)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 50411-50414]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2012-20473]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2012-0856; Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-093-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company 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 The Boeing Company Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-
200B, 747-200F, 747-300, 747-400, 747-400D, 747-400F, 747SR, and 747SP 
series airplanes; Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and -400ER series 
airplanes; and Model 777-200, -200LR, -300, and -300ER series 
airplanes. This proposed

[[Page 50412]]

AD was prompted by reports of burned Boeing Material Specification 
(BMS) 8-39 urethane foam, and a report from the airplane manufacturer 
that airplanes were assembled with seals throughout various areas of 
the airplane (including flight deck and cargo compartments) made of BMS 
8-39 urethane foam, a material with fire-retardant properties that 
deteriorate with age. This proposed AD would require replacing seals 
made of BMS 8-39 urethane foam in certain areas of the airplane. We are 
proposing this AD to prevent the failure of urethane seals to maintain 
sufficient Halon concentrations in the cargo compartments to extinguish 
or contain fire or smoke, and to prevent penetration of fire or smoke 
in areas of the airplane that are difficult to access for fire and 
smoke detection or suppression.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by October 5, 2012.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P. 
O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-5000, 
extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; 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, WA. 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 proposed AD, the regulatory 
evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street 
address for the Docket Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES 
section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after 
receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Eric M. Brown, Aerospace Engineer, 
Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Branch, ANM-150S, FAA, Seattle 
Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-
3356; phone: 425-917-6476; fax: 425-917-6590; email: 
Eric.M.Brown@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed 
under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2012-0856; 
Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-093-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 because of those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    We have received reports of burned BMS 8-39 urethane foam 
insulation on two Model 767-200 series airplanes. The airplane 
manufacturer has also notified us that certain Model 747, 767, and 777 
airplanes were assembled with seals throughout various areas of the 
airplane (including flight deck and cargo compartments) made of BMS 8-
39 urethane foam. The fire retardants in BMS 8-39 urethane foam are 
mixed into, but are not chemically connected with, the remaining 
components of the foam. The fire-retardant properties of BMS 8-39 
urethane foam deteriorate with age (5 to 10 years). This, along with 
dust, dirt, and other carbon particulate contamination of the urethane 
foam, adds an available fuel source for a potential fire. Once ignited, 
the deteriorated foam emits noxious smoke, does not self-extinguish, 
and drips droplets of liquefied urethane, which can further propagate a 
fire. Deteriorated BMS 8-39 urethane foam seals in a cargo compartment 
also compromise the Halon retention and smoke/fire-blocking 
capabilities of the cargo compartment. These conditions, if not 
corrected, could result in failure of urethane seals to maintain 
sufficient Halon concentrations in the cargo compartments to extinguish 
or contain fire or smoke, and could result in penetration of fire or 
smoke in areas of the airplane that are difficult to access for fire 
and smoke detection or suppression.

Other Relevant Rulemaking

    We issued the following ADs to require reworking certain air 
distribution ducts in the environmental control system (ECS) wrapped 
with BMS 8-39 or Aeronautical Materials Specifications (AMS) 3570 
urethane foam insulation. These ADs resulted from reports from the 
airplane manufacturer that airplanes were assembled with duct 
assemblies in the ECS wrapped with BMS 8-39 urethane foam insulation, a 
material with fire-retardant properties that deteriorate with age, and 
reports of duct assemblies in the ECS with burned BMS 8-39 urethane 
foam insulation. We issued these ADs to prevent a potential electrical 
arc from igniting the BMS 8-39 urethane foam insulation on the duct 
assemblies of the ECS, which could propagate a small fire and lead to a 
larger fire that might spread throughout the airplane through the ECS.
     AD 2008-02-16, Amendment 39-15346 (73 FR 4061, January 24, 
2008), applicable to certain Model 767-200 and 767-300 series 
airplanes.
     AD 2010-14-01, Amendment 39-16344 (75 FR 38007, July 1, 
2010), applicable to certain Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 
747-200B, 747-200C, 747-200F, 747-300, 747-400, 747-400F, 747SR, and 
747SP series airplanes.
     AD 2012-02-09, Amendment 39-16932 (77 FR 5996, February 7, 
2012), for certain Model 737-100, -200, -200C, and -300 series 
airplanes.

Relevant Service Information

    We reviewed the following Boeing service bulletins:
     For Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-
200F, 747-300, 747-400, 747-400D, 747-400F, 747SR, and 747SP series 
airplanes: Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-25-3381, 
Revision 1, dated May 17, 2012. This service bulletin describes 
procedures for replacing BMS 8-39 urethane foam seals with either BMS 
8-371 insulation foam or BMS 1-68 silicone foam rubber seals. (The 
required actions depend on requirements for use and location of the BMS 
8-39 urethane foam in the airplane.) Procedures for the replacement 
include, for some airplanes, doing a general visual

[[Page 50413]]

inspection of the airplane sidewalls for air baffles, and of the BMS 8-
39 urethane foam for penetrations (e.g., wire penetrations). The 
replacement is to be done in the following areas of the airplane 
(depending on airplane configuration):
     Main deck system tube/wire foam seals (left/right 
sidewalls)
     Main deck foam air seal (left/right sidewalls)
     Main deck air baffle foam (left/right sidewalls)
     Main deck ceiling panel foam strip
     Forward and aft cargo system tube/wire foam seal
     Flight deck overheard electrical equipment panel/structure 
and overhead drip-shield foam
     E1/E2 rack wire integration unit cover assemblies
     For Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and -400ER series 
airplanes: Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 767-25-0381, dated 
August 19, 2010. This service bulletin describes procedures for doing a 
general visual inspection for BMS 8-39 urethane foam for certain 
airplanes, covering the BMS 8-39 foam with cargo liner joint sealing 
tape in certain areas, replacing certain BMS 8-39 foam pads with Nomex 
felt in certain areas, and replacing BMS 8-39 urethane foam seals with 
either BMS 8-371 insulation foam or BMS 1-68 silicone foam rubber 
seals. (The required actions depend on requirements for use and 
location of the BMS 8-39 urethane foam in the airplane.) The actions 
are to be done in the following areas of the airplane (depending on 
airplane configuration):
     Forward and aft cargo compartments
     Flight deck
     Crown area (foam pad to be replaced with Nomex felt)
     Over wing escape hatch (corner seals)
     For Model 777-200, -200LR, -300, and -300ER series 
airplanes: Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-25-0362, dated 
August 19, 2010. This service bulletin describes procedures for 
replacing BMS 8-39 urethane foam seals with BMS 1-68 silicone foam 
rubber seals in the forward and aft cargo compartments of the airplane.

FAA's Determination

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

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions specified 
in the service information described previously.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 694 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                 Cost on U.S.
             Action                   Labor cost          Parts cost       Cost per product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacement for Model 747         Up to 432 work-     Up to $6,162......  Up to $42,882.....  Up to $7,075,530.
 airplanes, depending on           hours x $85 per
 airplane configuration (165       hour = $36,720.
 airplanes).
Replacement for Model 767         Up to 72 work-      Up to $3,967......  Up to $10,087.....  Up to $4,024,713.
 airplanes, depending on           hours x $85 per
 airplane configuration (399       hour = $6,120.
 airplanes).
Replacement for Model 777         16 work-hours x     $1,038............  $2,398............  $311,740.
 airplanes (130 airplanes).        $85 per hour =
                                   $1,360.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

    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

    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 
airworthiness directive (AD):

The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA-2012-0856; Directorate Identifier 
2012-NM-093-AD.

[[Page 50414]]

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by October 5, 2012.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to The Boeing Company airplanes, certificated in 
any category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), and (c)(3) of 
this AD.
    (1) Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-200F, 
747-300, 747-400, 747-400D, 747-400F, 747SR, and 747SP series 
airplanes, as identified in Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 747-25-3381, Revision 1, dated May 17, 2012.
    (2) Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and -400ER series airplanes, as 
identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 767-25-0381, 
dated August 19, 2010.
    (3) Model 777-200, -200LR, -300, and -300ER series airplanes, as 
identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-25-0362, 
dated August 19, 2010.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport Association 
(ATA) of America Code 25, Equipment/furnishings.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports of burned Boeing Material 
Specification (BMS) 8-39 urethane foam, and a report from the 
airplane manufacturer that airplanes were assembled with seals 
throughout various areas of the airplane (including flight deck and 
cargo compartments) made of BMS 8-39 urethane foam, a material with 
fire-retardant properties that deteriorate with age. We are issuing 
this AD to prevent the failure of urethane seals to maintain 
sufficient Halon concentrations in the cargo compartments to 
extinguish or contain fire or smoke, and to prevent penetration of 
fire or smoke in areas of the airplane that are difficult to access 
for fire and smoke detection or suppression.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) BMS 8-39 Urethane Foam Seal Replacements

    Within 72 months after the effective date of this AD, do the 
actions specified in paragraph (g)(1), (g)(2), or (g)(3) of this AD, 
as applicable.
    (1) For Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-
200F, 747-300, 747-400, 747-400D, 747-400F, 747SR, and 747SP series 
airplanes: Replace the BMS 8-39 urethane foam seals (including doing 
a general visual inspection of the airplane sidewalls for air 
baffles, and of the BMS 8-39 urethane foam for penetrations (e.g., 
wire penetrations)) with BMS 8-371 insulation foam or BMS 1-68 
silicone foam rubber seals, as applicable, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions and Appendix A, as applicable, of Boeing 
Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-25-3381, Revision 1, dated 
May 17, 2012.
    (2) For Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and -400ER series airplanes: 
Perform a general visual inspection for the presence of BMS 8-39 
urethane foam, cover the BMS 8-39 foam with cargo liner joint 
sealing tape in certain areas, replace certain BMS 8-39 foam pads 
with Nomex felt in certain areas, and replace BMS 8-39 urethane foam 
seals with BMS 8-371 insulation foam or BMS 1-68 silicone foam 
rubber seals, as applicable, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions and Appendix A, as applicable, of Boeing Special 
Attention Service Bulletin 767-25-0381, dated August 19, 2010.
    (3) For Model 777-200, -200LR, -300, and -300ER series 
airplanes: Replace BMS 8-39 urethane foam seals with BMS 1-68 
silicone foam rubber seals in the forward and aft cargo compartments 
of the airplane, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions 
of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-25-0362, dated 
August 19, 2010.

(h) Credit for Previous Actions

    For Groups 4 and 5 airplanes, as identified in Boeing Special 
Attention Service Bulletin 747-25-3381, Revision 1, dated May 17, 
2012: This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by 
paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, if those actions were done before the 
effective date of this AD using Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 747-25-3381, dated August 19, 2010.

(i) Parts Installation Prohibition

    As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install a BMS 
8-39 urethane foam seal on any airplane.

(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (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 emailed 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.

(k) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Eric M. Brown, 
Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Branch, 
ANM-150S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind 
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6476; fax: 425-
917-6590; email: Eric.M.Brown@faa.gov.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 
P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-
5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; 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, WA. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on August 9, 2012.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2012-20473 Filed 8-20-12; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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