Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 50414-50417 [2012-20476]

Download as PDF 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 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 162 / Tuesday, August 21, 2012 / Proposed Rules • 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: Wayne Lockett, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6447; fax: 425–917–6590; email: wayne.lockett@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– 2012–0857; Directorate Identifier 2011– NM–244–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 received a report of an aft drain mast found loose on a Model 737–400 series airplane with approximately 30,500 total flight cycles. Further investigation revealed the fuselage skin and surrounding back-up structure were cracked. An 8-inch crack common to the fuselage skin was hidden under the drain mast. The crack was likely caused by incorrect installation of the drain mast. A drain mast that is not installed correctly can cause cracks in the fuselage skin and the internal support structure. The skin cracks cannot be seen because they are hidden by the drain mast. This condition, if not corrected, could result in uncontrolled decompression of the airplane. Relevant Service Information We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1318, dated October 31, 2011. For airplanes identified as Group 1 in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737– 53A1318, dated October 31, 2011, this service bulletin describes procedures for doing 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. Related investigative actions include removing the drain mast and doing a high frequency eddy current (HFEC) and detailed inspection for cracking and corrosion of the skin, channel, and fillers. This service 50415 bulletin also specifies contacting Boeing for repair instructions and doing the repair. For airplanes identified as Group 2 in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737– 53A1318, dated October 31, 2011, this service bulletin specifies contacting Boeing for inspection and repair instructions and doing the actions. The compliance time for the inspection is within 120 days, and before further flight for the repair. 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, except as discussed under ‘‘Differences Between the Proposed AD and the Service Information.’’ Differences Between the Proposed AD and the Service Information Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737– 53A1318, dated October 31, 2011, specifies to contact the manufacturer for instructions on how to inspect and repair certain conditions, but this proposed AD would require that those actions be accomplished in one of the following ways: • In accordance with a method that we approve; or • Using data that meet the certification basis of the airplane, and that have been approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) whom we have authorized to make those findings. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 612 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators Detailed inspection, bonding strap inspection, washer measurement. 4 work-hours × $85 per hour = $340 $0 $340 $208,080 We estimate the following costs to do certain necessary conditional actions VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:17 Aug 20, 2012 Jkt 226001 that would be required based on the results of the proposed inspection. We PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 have no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need these actions: E:\FR\FM\21AUP1.SGM 21AUP1 50416 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 162 / Tuesday, August 21, 2012 / Proposed Rules ON-CONDITION COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Drain mast removal, HFEC and detailed inspections, and drain mast installation. 5 work-hours × $85 per hour = $425 ............................... $0 $425 We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide a cost estimate for the repair specified in this proposed AD. pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA’s authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, describes in more detail the scope of the Agency’s authority. We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: ‘‘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, 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. VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:17 Aug 20, 2012 Jkt 226001 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– 2012–0857; Directorate Identifier 2011– NM–244–AD. (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 Model 737–100, –200, –200C, –300, –400, and –500 series airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1318, dated October 31, 2011. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/ Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a report of an approximate 8-inch crack found in the fuselage skin under the aft drain mast. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking in the fuselage skin and internal support structure, which could result in uncontrolled decompression of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Inspection and Repair (1) For airplanes identified as Group 1 airplanes in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1318, dated October 31, 2011: At the times specified in paragraph 1.E. ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1318, dated October 31, 2011, do the actions specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i), (g)(1)(ii), and (g)(1)(iii) of this AD, and do all related investigative actions and PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 repair, as applicable, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1318, dated October 31, 2011, except as required by paragraph (h) of this AD. Related investigative actions and repairs must be done before further flight. If the drain mast is found to be installed correctly, no further action is required by this paragraph. (i) Do a detailed inspection for cracking and signs of corrosion of the channel and the fillers adjacent to the drain mast bolts. (ii) Inspect the bonding strap for the correct location. (iii) Measure the diameter and thickness of the washers under the drain mast bolts. (2) For airplanes identified as Group 2 airplanes in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1318, dated October 31, 2011: Within 120 days after the effective date of this AD, inspect and repair, as required, using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (i) of this AD. Repairs must be done before further flight. (h) Exception (1) Where Paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1318, dated October 31, 2011, specifies a compliance time after the original issue date of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737– 53A1318, dated October 31, 2011, this AD requires compliance within the specified compliance time after the effective date of this AD. (2) For airplanes identified as Group 1 airplanes in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1318, dated October 31, 2011: If any cracking or sign of corrosion is found during any inspection required by this AD, and Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1318, dated October 31, 2011, specifies to contact Boeing for appropriate action, before further flight, repair the crack or sign of corrosion using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (i) of this AD. (i) 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 E:\FR\FM\21AUP1.SGM 21AUP1 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 162 / Tuesday, August 21, 2012 / Proposed Rules of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair required by this AD if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO to make those findings. For a repair method to be approved, the repair must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. (j) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Wayne Lockett, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6447; fax: 425–917–6590; email: wayne.lockett@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 8, 2012. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2012–20476 Filed 8–20–12; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2012–0384; Airspace Docket No. 12–ANM–9] Proposed Amendment of Class D and Class E Airspace; Lewiston, ID Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM). AGENCY: The FAA is issuing a SNPRM for the notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) of June 4, 2012, in order to elicit comments addressing increasing further the controlled Class E airspace area at Lewiston-Nez Perce County Airport, Lewiston, ID. The NPRM proposed a modification of Class D airspace, and Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface and 1,200 feet above the surface, and an adjustment to the geographic coordinates. This SNPRM would further enlarge the Class E airspace 1,200 feet pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 SUMMARY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:17 Aug 20, 2012 Jkt 226001 above the surface area to enhance safety in the Lewiston-Nez Pearce County Airport, Lewiston, ID area. DATES: Comments must be received on or before October 5, 2012. ADDRESSES: Send comments on this proposal to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590; telephone (202) 366–9826. You must identify FAA Docket No. FAA–2012–0384; Airspace Docket No. 12–ANM–9, at the beginning of your comments. You may also submit comments through the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Eldon Taylor, Federal Aviation Administration, Operations Support Group, Western Service Center, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057; telephone (425) 203–4537. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: History On June 4, 2012, the FAA published a NPRM to modify Class D airspace, and Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface at LewistonNez Perce County Airport, Lewiston, ID (77 FR 32921). Also the geographic coordinates of the airport and navigation aids would be adjusted in the respective Class D and Class E airspace areas. The comment period closed July 19, 2012. The FAA received one comment from the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). The NBAA recommended making the Class E airspace area extending upward from 1,200 feet above the surface larger by lowering some of the adjacent Class E airspace, which begins from between 10,000 Mean Sea Level (MSL) and 14,500 MSL, for aircraft safety. The FAA found merit in this comment, and, therefore, proposes the additional Class E airspace area, extending upward from 1,200 feet above the surface, be made larger. The FAA seeks comments on this SNPRM. Comments Invited Interested parties are invited to participate in this proposed rulemaking by submitting such written data, views, or arguments, as they may desire. Comments that provide the factual basis supporting the views and suggestions presented are particularly helpful in developing reasoned regulatory decisions on the proposal. Comments are specifically invited on the overall regulatory, aeronautical, economic, environmental, and energy-related aspects of the proposal. PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 50417 Communications should identify both docket numbers (FAA Docket No. FAA 2012–0384 and Airspace Docket No. 12– ANM–9) and be submitted in triplicate to the Docket Management System (see ADDRESSES section for address and phone number). You may also submit comments through the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov. Commenters wishing the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments on this action must submit with those comments a self-addressed stamped postcard on which the following statement is made: ‘‘Comments to FAA Docket No. FAA–2012–0384 and Airspace Docket No. 12–ANM–9’’. The postcard will be date/time stamped and returned to the commenter. All communications received on or before the specified closing date for comments will be considered before taking action on the proposed rule. The proposal contained in this action may be changed in light of comments received. All comments submitted will be available for examination in the public docket both before and after the closing date for comments. A report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel concerned with this rulemaking will be filed in the docket. Availability of NPRMs An electronic copy of this document may be downloaded through the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov. Recently published rulemaking documents can also be accessed through the FAA’s web page at https:// www.faa.gov/airports_airtraffic/ air_traffic/publications/ airspace_amendments/. You may review the public docket containing the proposal, any comments received, and any final disposition in person in the Dockets Office (see the ADDRESSES section for the address and phone number) between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except federal holidays. An informal docket may also be examined during normal business hours at the Northwest Mountain Regional Office of the Federal Aviation Administration, Air Traffic Organization, Western Service Center, Operations Support Group, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057. Persons interested in being placed on a mailing list for future NPRMs should contact the FAA’s Office of Rulemaking, (202) 267–9677, for a copy of Advisory Circular No. 11–2A, Notice of Proposed Rulemaking Distribution System, which describes the application procedure. E:\FR\FM\21AUP1.SGM 21AUP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 77, Number 162 (Tuesday, August 21, 2012)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 50414-50417]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2012-20476]


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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

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 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.

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.

[[Page 50415]]

     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: Wayne Lockett, Aerospace Engineer, 
Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6447; fax: 
425-917-6590; email: wayne.lockett@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-2012-0857; 
Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-244-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 received a report of an aft drain mast found loose on a Model 
737-400 series airplane with approximately 30,500 total flight cycles. 
Further investigation revealed the fuselage skin and surrounding back-
up structure were cracked. An 8-inch crack common to the fuselage skin 
was hidden under the drain mast. The crack was likely caused by 
incorrect installation of the drain mast. A drain mast that is not 
installed correctly can cause cracks in the fuselage skin and the 
internal support structure. The skin cracks cannot be seen because they 
are hidden by the drain mast. This condition, if not corrected, could 
result in uncontrolled decompression of the airplane.

Relevant Service Information

    We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1318, dated 
October 31, 2011.
    For airplanes identified as Group 1 in Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 737-53A1318, dated October 31, 2011, this service bulletin 
describes procedures for doing 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. Related investigative 
actions include removing the drain mast and doing a high frequency eddy 
current (HFEC) and detailed inspection for cracking and corrosion of 
the skin, channel, and fillers. This service bulletin also specifies 
contacting Boeing for repair instructions and doing the repair.
    For airplanes identified as Group 2 in Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 737-53A1318, dated October 31, 2011, this service bulletin 
specifies contacting Boeing for inspection and repair instructions and 
doing the actions.
    The compliance time for the inspection is within 120 days, and 
before further flight for the repair.

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, except as discussed 
under ``Differences Between the Proposed AD and the Service 
Information.''

Differences Between the Proposed AD and the Service Information

    Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1318, dated October 31, 2011, 
specifies to contact the manufacturer for instructions on how to 
inspect and repair certain conditions, but this proposed AD would 
require that those actions be accomplished in one of the following 
ways:
     In accordance with a method that we approve; or
     Using data that meet the certification basis of the 
airplane, and that have been approved by the Boeing Commercial 
Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) whom we have 
authorized to make those findings.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 612 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                    Cost per       Cost on U.S.
               Action                       Labor cost            Parts cost        product         operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Detailed inspection, bonding strap   4 work-hours x $85 per                $0             $340         $208,080
 inspection, washer measurement.      hour = $340.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We estimate the following costs to do certain necessary conditional 
actions that would be required based on the results of the proposed 
inspection. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that 
might need these actions:

[[Page 50416]]



                                               On-condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                      Cost per
                   Action                                   Labor cost                 Parts cost      product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Drain mast removal, HFEC and detailed        5 work-hours x $85 per hour = $425.....           $0          $425
 inspections, and drain mast installation.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide 
a cost estimate for the repair specified in this proposed AD.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, 
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: ``General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    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, 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-2012-0857; Directorate Identifier 
2011-NM-244-AD.

(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 Model 737-100, -200, -
200C, -300, -400, and -500 series airplanes, certificated in any 
category, as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-
53A1318, dated October 31, 2011.

(d) Subject

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

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by a report of an approximate 8-inch crack 
found in the fuselage skin under the aft drain mast. We are issuing 
this AD to detect and correct cracking in the fuselage skin and 
internal support structure, which could result in uncontrolled 
decompression of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Inspection and Repair

    (1) For airplanes identified as Group 1 airplanes in Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1318, dated October 31, 2011: At the 
times specified in paragraph 1.E. ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert 
Service Bulletin 737-53A1318, dated October 31, 2011, do the actions 
specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i), (g)(1)(ii), and (g)(1)(iii) of 
this AD, and do all related investigative actions and repair, as 
applicable, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1318, dated October 31, 2011, 
except as required by paragraph (h) of this AD. Related 
investigative actions and repairs must be done before further 
flight. If the drain mast is found to be installed correctly, no 
further action is required by this paragraph.
    (i) Do a detailed inspection for cracking and signs of corrosion 
of the channel and the fillers adjacent to the drain mast bolts.
    (ii) Inspect the bonding strap for the correct location.
    (iii) Measure the diameter and thickness of the washers under 
the drain mast bolts.
    (2) For airplanes identified as Group 2 airplanes in Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1318, dated October 31, 2011: Within 
120 days after the effective date of this AD, inspect and repair, as 
required, using a method approved in accordance with the procedures 
specified in paragraph (i) of this AD. Repairs must be done before 
further flight.

(h) Exception

    (1) Where Paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert 
Service Bulletin 737-53A1318, dated October 31, 2011, specifies a 
compliance time after the original issue date of Boeing Alert 
Service Bulletin 737-53A1318, dated October 31, 2011, this AD 
requires compliance within the specified compliance time after the 
effective date of this AD.
    (2) For airplanes identified as Group 1 airplanes in Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1318, dated October 31, 2011: If any 
cracking or sign of corrosion is found during any inspection 
required by this AD, and Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1318, 
dated October 31, 2011, specifies to contact Boeing for appropriate 
action, before further flight, repair the crack or sign of corrosion 
using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified 
in paragraph (i) of this AD.

(i) 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

[[Page 50417]]

of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding 
district office.
    (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be 
used for any repair required by this AD if it is approved by the 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization 
(ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO to make 
those findings. For a repair method to be approved, the repair must 
meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must 
specifically refer to this AD.

(j) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Wayne Lockett, 
Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft 
Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; 
phone: 425-917-6447; fax: 425-917-6590; email: 
wayne.lockett@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 8, 2012.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2012-20476 Filed 8-20-12; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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