Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes, 59732-59735 [2012-23393]

Download as PDF 59732 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 190 / Monday, October 1, 2012 / Rules and Regulations (ii) Measure the electrical resistance across each bonding joint of the six previouslyinstalled braided strap assemblies and verify that brackets have an acceptable fillet seal, and do all applicable corrective actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin DC10–53–109, Revision 8, dated March 10, 2011. Do all applicable corrective actions before further flight. (5) For Group 1–4, Configuration 4 airplanes, as identified in Boeing Service Bulletin DC10–53–109, Revision 8, dated March 10, 2011: Do the actions specified in paragraphs (l)(5)(i) and (l)(5)(ii) of this AD. (i) Inspect to determine the existence of an installed solid metal bonding strap, and replace any missing strap and any solid metal bonding strap with a new braided bonding strap, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin DC10–53–109, Revision 8, dated March 10, 2011. (ii) Measure the electrical resistance across each bonding joint of the six previouslyinstalled braided strap assemblies and verify that brackets have an acceptable fillet seal, and do all applicable corrective actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin DC10–53–109, Revision 8, dated March 10, 2011. Do all applicable corrective actions before further flight. (6) For Group 1–4, Configuration 5 airplanes, as identified in Boeing Service Bulletin DC10–53–109, Revision 8, dated March 10, 2011: Inspect to determine the existence of an installed solid metal bonding strap, and replace any missing strap and any solid metal bonding strap with a new braided bonding strap, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin DC10–53–109, Revision 8, dated March 10, 2011. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES (m) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Los Angeles 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. (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. (3) AMOCs approved previously in accordance with AD 2006–16–03, Amendment 39–14703 (71 FR 43962, August 3, 2006), are approved as AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of paragraphs (g), (h), (i), and (j) of this AD. (4) AMOCs approved previously in accordance with AD 2009–26–17, Amendment 39–16156 (74 FR 69268, December 31, 2009), are approved as AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of paragraphs (g), (h), (i), and (j) of this AD. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:08 Sep 28, 2012 Jkt 226001 (n) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Samuel Lee, Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Branch, ANM–140L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California 90712–4137; phone: 562–627–5262; fax: 562– 627–5210; email: Samuel.Lee@faa.gov. (2) For service information specified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 3855 Lakewood Boulevard, MC D800–0019, Long Beach, California 90846–0001; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 2; fax 206–766– 5683; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet. (o) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on November 5, 2012. (i) Boeing Service Bulletin DC10–53–109, Revision 8, dated March 10, 2011. (ii) Boeing Service Bulletin DC10–53–111, Revision 7, dated March 16, 2011. (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on February 4, 2010 (74 FR 69268, December 31, 2009). (i) Boeing Service Bulletin DC10–53–109, Revision 7, dated March 3, 2009. (ii) Boeing Service Bulletin DC10–53–111, Revision 6, dated March 3, 2009. (5) The following service information was approved for IBR on September 7, 2006 (71 FR 43962, August 3, 2006). (i) McDonnell Douglas DC–10 Service Bulletin 53–109, Revision 4, dated October 7, 1992. (ii) McDonnell Douglas DC–10 Service Bulletin 53–111, Revision 3, dated August 24, 1992. (6) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 3855 Lakewood Boulevard, MC D800–0019, Long Beach, California 90846– 0001; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 2; fax 206–766–5683; Internet https:// www.myboeingfleet. (7) 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. (8) You may also review copies of the service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/ cfr/ibr_locations.html. PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Issued in Renton, Washington, on September 11, 2012. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2012–23049 Filed 9–28–12; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2012–0996; Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–040–AD; Amendment 39–17202; AD 2012–19–07] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A340–500 and –600 series airplanes. This AD requires repetitive inspections for corrosion of the drag stay lower arm assembly of the nose landing gear (NLG), and replacement if necessary. This AD also requires eventual replacement of the drag stay lower arm assembly of the NLG with an improved assembly having corrosion protection, which terminates the repetitive inspections required by this AD. This AD was prompted by findings of corrosion traces in the lugs and on the bearing outer surface of the NLG during routine maintenance checks. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the drag stay lower arm, which could result in NLG collapse and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane during takeoff. DATES: This AD becomes effective October 16, 2012. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of October 16, 2012. We must receive comments on this AD by November 15, 2012. ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\01OCR1.SGM 01OCR1 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 190 / Monday, October 1, 2012 / Rules and Regulations • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. —Replacement of the affected NLG drag stay lower arm assembly by a new or modified part with an improved corrosion protection, as a terminating action of the requirements of this [EASA] AD. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Operations office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–1138; fax (425) 227–1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Relevant Service Information mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES Discussion The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2010– 0214, dated November 2, 2010 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: Several NLG drag stay lower arms on A340–500/–600 aeroplanes have exhibited corrosion and rust traces in the lugs and on the bearing outer surface, discovered visually during scheduled maintenance checks or aeroplane walk-around. Investigation has revealed that this corrosion of the drag stay lower arm can be due to: —the damage to the sealant applied on the external interface between the lug bore and the bearing race, —the ingress of contaminants and moisture between the lug bore and bearing race, —the degradation of the Cadmium plating by chemical phenomena, —the degradation of the Cadmium plating by mechanical phenomena. The failure of the drag stay lower arm may result in NLG collapse, which would constitute an unsafe condition during the take off phase. For the above described reasons, this [EASA] AD requires: —repetitive inspections of the NLG drag stay lower arm assembly part number (P/N) 30–1018002–01 at the interface between the arm and the spherical bearing races, for identification of corrosion traces, and replacement of the NLG drag stay lower arm assembly in case of findings, and VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:08 Sep 28, 2012 Jkt 226001 You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket. Airbus has issued Mandatory Service Bulletins A340–32–5099, dated September 23, 2010; and A340–32– 5101, dated October 20, 2010. The actions described in this service information are intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of this AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all pertinent information and determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. There are no products of this type currently registered in the United States. However, this rule is necessary to ensure that the described unsafe condition is addressed if any of these products are placed on the U.S. Register in the future. Difference Between the AD and the MCAI or Service Information This AD differs from the MCAI and/ or service information as follows: The MCAI and the service information include a reporting requirement. This AD does not require reporting of the inspection results to the airplane manufacturer. FAA’s Determination of the Effective Date Since there are currently no domestic operators of this product, notice and opportunity for public comment before issuing this AD are unnecessary. Comments Invited This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety, and we did not precede it by notice and opportunity for public comment. We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2012–0996; PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 59733 Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–040– AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this 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 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 AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and 4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket. E:\FR\FM\01OCR1.SGM 01OCR1 59734 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 190 / Monday, October 1, 2012 / Rules and Regulations List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment 2012–19–07 Airbus: Amendment 39–17202. Docket No. FAA–2012–0996; Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–040–AD. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective October 16, 2012. (b) Affected ADs Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: None. (c) Applicability PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES This AD applies to Airbus Model A340– 541 and –642 airplanes; certificated in any category; all manufacturer serial numbers; weight variant (WV) 000, WV001, WV002, WV003, and WV004. 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: (d) Subject ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 32, Landing gear. (e) Reason [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new AD: ■ This AD was prompted by findings of corrosion and rust traces in the lugs and on the bearing outer surface of the nose landing gear (NLG) during routine maintenance checks. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the drag stay lower arm, which could result in NLG collapse and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane during takeoff. (f) Compliance You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the actions have already been done. (g) Initial and Repetitive General Visual Inspections/Corrective Action (1) At the applicable compliance time specified in table 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD: Do a general visual inspection of the drag stay lower arm assembly having part number (P/N) 30–1018002–01 of the NLG at the interface between the arm and the spherical bearing races for corrosion traces, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340–32–5099, dated September 23, 2010. TABLE 1 TO PARAGRAPH (g) OF THIS AD—COMPLIANCE TIME Age of NLG drag stay lower arm assembly as of the effective date of this AD since its first installation on any airplane, or since last NLG overhaul, or last P/N 30– 1018002–01 replacement, whichever occurs latest Compliance time since first installation of the NLG drag stay lower arm assembly on any airplane, or since last NLG overhaul, or since last P/N 30-1018002–01 replacement, whichever occurs latest Less than 36 months ......................................................... 36 months or more, but less than 45 months ................... Before the accumulation of 45 months. Before the accumulation of 52 months, or within 9 this AD, whichever occurs first. Before the accumulation of 65 months, or within 7 this AD, whichever occurs first. Before the accumulation of 75 months, or within 5 this AD, whichever occurs first. Before the accumulation of 85 months, or within 3 this AD, whichever occurs first. Within 1 month after the effective date of this AD. 45 months or more, but less than 60 months ................... 60 months or more, but less than 72 months ................... 72 months or more, but less than 84 months ................... 84 months or more ............................................................. (2) If no corrosion traces are found during the inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD: Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 6 months. (3) If any corrosion traces are found during any inspection required by paragraph (g)(1), (g)(2), or (g)(4) of this AD: At the applicable time after the inspection specified in table 2 to paragraph (g)(3) of this AD, replace the months after the effective date of months after the effective date of months after the effective date of months after the effective date of NLG drag stay lower arm assembly with a new or serviceable assembly, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340–32– 5099, dated September 23, 2010. TABLE 2 TO PARAGRAPH (g)(3) OF THIS AD—REPLACEMENT COMPLIANCE TIME As of the date of accomplishing the inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD: Age of NLG drag stay lower arm assembly, since its first installation on any airplane, or since last NLG overhaul, or last P/N 30–1018002–01 replacement— mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES More than 85 months and on which no inspection has been performed during the last 6 months. 65 months or more but 85 months or less, and on which no inspection has been performed during the last 6 months. More than 64 months and on which an inspection has been performed during the last 6 months. Less than 65 months ................................................................................................ (4) Within 45 months after each replacement of the NLG drag stay lower arm assembly: Perform the initial inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340–32–5099, dated September 23, VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:08 Sep 28, 2012 Jkt 226001 Then, after the inspection, replace— Within 5 flight cycles. Within 1 month. Within 3 months. Within 3 months. 2010. Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 6 months. (h) Terminating Action Within 10 years after the effective date of this AD: Replace the NLG drag stay lower arm assembly with a serviceable assembly PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 having improved corrosion protection, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340–32–5101, dated October 20, 2010. Accomplishing this replacement terminates the inspections required by paragraph (g) of this AD. E:\FR\FM\01OCR1.SGM 01OCR1 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 190 / Monday, October 1, 2012 / Rules and Regulations (i) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057– 3356; telephone (425) 227–1138; fax (425) 227–1149: Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD. (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority (or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product is airworthy before it is returned to service. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES (j) Related Information Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2010–0214, dated November 2, 2010, and the service information specified in paragraphs (j)(1) and (j)(2) of this AD, for related information. (1) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340–32–5099, dated September 23, 2010. (2) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340–32–5101, dated October 20, 2010. (k) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the following service information under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use the following service information to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340–32–5099, dated September 23, 2010. (ii) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340–32–5101, dated October 20, 2010. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus SAS—Airworthiness Office—EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 45 80; email airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com. (4) You may review copies of the service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. (5) You may also review copies of the service information that is incorporated by VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:08 Sep 28, 2012 Jkt 226001 reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at an NARA facility, call 202–741– 6030, or go to https://www.archives.gov/ federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. Issued in Renton, Washington on September 12, 2012. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2012–23393 Filed 9–28–12; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 97 [Docket No. 30862; Amdt. No. 3497] Standard Instrument Approach Procedures, and Takeoff Minimums and Obstacle Departure Procedures; Miscellaneous Amendments Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: This rule establishes, amends, suspends, or revokes Standard Instrument Approach Procedures (SIAPs) and associated Takeoff Minimums and Obstacle Departure Procedures for operations at certain airports. These regulatory actions are needed because of the adoption of new or revised criteria, or because of changes occurring in the National Airspace System, such as the commissioning of new navigational facilities, adding new obstacles, or changing air traffic requirements. These changes are designed to provide safe and efficient use of the navigable airspace and to promote safe flight operations under instrument flight rules at the affected airports. This rule is effective October 1, 2012. The compliance date for each SIAP, associated Takeoff Minimums, and ODP is specified in the amendatory provisions. The incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the regulations is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as of October 1, 2012. ADDRESSES: Availability of matters incorporated by reference in the amendment is as follows: For Examination— 1. FAA Rules Docket, FAA Headquarters Building, 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591; PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 2. The FAA Regional Office of the region in which the affected airport is located; 3. The National Flight Procedures Office, 6500 South MacArthur Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73169 or, 4. The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/ federal_register/ code_of_federal_regulations/ ibr_locations.html. Availability—All SIAPs and Takeoff Minimums and ODPs are available online free of charge. Visit https:// www.nfdc.faa.gov to register. Additionally, individual SIAP and Takeoff Minimums and ODP copies may be obtained from: 1. FAA Public Inquiry Center (APA– 200), FAA Headquarters Building, 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591; or 2. The FAA Regional Office of the region in which the affected airport is located. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: SUMMARY: DATES: 59735 Richard A. Dunham III, Flight Procedure Standards Branch (AFS–420), Flight Technologies and Programs Divisions, Flight Standards Service, Federal Aviation Administration, Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, 6500 South MacArthur Blvd. Oklahoma City, OK. 73169 (Mail Address: P.O. Box 25082, Oklahoma City, OK 73125) Telephone: (405) 954–4164. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This rule amends Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 97 (14 CFR part 97), by establishing, amending, suspending, or revoking SIAPS, Takeoff Minimums and/or ODPS. The complete regulators description of each SIAP and its associated Takeoff Minimums or ODP for an identified airport is listed on FAA form documents which are incorporated by reference in this amendment under 5 U.S.C. 552(a), 1 CFR part 51, and 14 CFR part 97.20. The applicable FAA Forms are FAA Forms 8260–3, 8260–4, 8260–5, 8260–15A, and 8260–15B when required by an entry on 8260–15A. The large number of SIAPs, Takeoff Minimums and ODPs, in addition to their complex nature and the need for a special format make publication in the Federal Register expensive and impractical. Furthermore, airmen do not use the regulatory text of the SIAPs, Takeoff Minimums or ODPs, but instead refer to their depiction on charts printed by publishers of aeronautical materials. The advantages of incorporation by reference are realized and publication of the complete description of each SIAP, E:\FR\FM\01OCR1.SGM 01OCR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 77, Number 190 (Monday, October 1, 2012)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 59732-59735]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2012-23393]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2012-0996; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-040-AD; 
Amendment 39-17202; AD 2012-19-07]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain 
Airbus Model A340-500 and -600 series airplanes. This AD requires 
repetitive inspections for corrosion of the drag stay lower arm 
assembly of the nose landing gear (NLG), and replacement if necessary. 
This AD also requires eventual replacement of the drag stay lower arm 
assembly of the NLG with an improved assembly having corrosion 
protection, which terminates the repetitive inspections required by 
this AD. This AD was prompted by findings of corrosion traces in the 
lugs and on the bearing outer surface of the NLG during routine 
maintenance checks. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the 
drag stay lower arm, which could result in NLG collapse and consequent 
reduced controllability of the airplane during takeoff.

DATES: This AD becomes effective October 16, 2012.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of October 16, 
2012.
    We must receive comments on this AD by November 15, 2012.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: (202) 493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.

[[Page 59733]]

     Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday 
through Friday, except Federal holidays.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Operations office 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, 
any comments received, and other information. The street address for 
the Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is in the 
ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly 
after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 
227-1138; fax (425) 227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA 
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2010-0214, dated November 2, 2010 
(referred to after this as ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe 
condition for the specified products. The MCAI states:

    Several NLG drag stay lower arms on A340-500/-600 aeroplanes 
have exhibited corrosion and rust traces in the lugs and on the 
bearing outer surface, discovered visually during scheduled 
maintenance checks or aeroplane walk-around.
    Investigation has revealed that this corrosion of the drag stay 
lower arm can be due to:
    --the damage to the sealant applied on the external interface 
between the lug bore and the bearing race,
    --the ingress of contaminants and moisture between the lug bore 
and bearing race,
    --the degradation of the Cadmium plating by chemical phenomena,
    --the degradation of the Cadmium plating by mechanical 
phenomena.
    The failure of the drag stay lower arm may result in NLG 
collapse, which would constitute an unsafe condition during the take 
off phase.
    For the above described reasons, this [EASA] AD requires:
    --repetitive inspections of the NLG drag stay lower arm assembly 
part number (P/N) 30-1018002-01 at the interface between the arm and 
the spherical bearing races, for identification of corrosion traces, 
and replacement of the NLG drag stay lower arm assembly in case of 
findings, and
    --Replacement of the affected NLG drag stay lower arm assembly 
by a new or modified part with an improved corrosion protection, as 
a terminating action of the requirements of this [EASA] AD.

You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD 
docket.

Relevant Service Information

    Airbus has issued Mandatory Service Bulletins A340-32-5099, dated 
September 23, 2010; and A340-32-5101, dated October 20, 2010. The 
actions described in this service information are intended to correct 
the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of this AD

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have 
been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service 
information referenced above. We are issuing this AD because we 
evaluated all pertinent information and determined the unsafe condition 
exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same 
type design.
    There are no products of this type currently registered in the 
United States. However, this rule is necessary to ensure that the 
described unsafe condition is addressed if any of these products are 
placed on the U.S. Register in the future.

Difference Between the AD and the MCAI or Service Information

    This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service information as 
follows: The MCAI and the service information include a reporting 
requirement. This AD does not require reporting of the inspection 
results to the airplane manufacturer.

FAA's Determination of the Effective Date

    Since there are currently no domestic operators of this product, 
notice and opportunity for public comment before issuing this AD are 
unnecessary.

Comments Invited

    This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight 
safety, and we did not precede it by notice and opportunity for public 
comment. We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under 
the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2012-0996; Directorate 
Identifier 2011-NM-040-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. We 
specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, 
environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will consider all 
comments received by the closing date and may amend this 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 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 AD will not have federalism implications 
under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct 
effect on the States, on the relationship between the national 
government and the States, or on the distribution of power and 
responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
    3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and
    4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to 
comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket.

[[Page 59734]]

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

Adoption of the Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new AD:

2012-19-07 Airbus: Amendment 39-17202. Docket No. FAA-2012-0996; 
Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-040-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective October 16, 
2012.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Model A340-541 and -642 airplanes; 
certificated in any category; all manufacturer serial numbers; 
weight variant (WV) 000, WV001, WV002, WV003, and WV004.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 32, Landing 
gear.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by findings of corrosion and rust traces in 
the lugs and on the bearing outer surface of the nose landing gear 
(NLG) during routine maintenance checks. We are issuing this AD to 
prevent failure of the drag stay lower arm, which could result in 
NLG collapse and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane 
during takeoff.

(f) Compliance

    You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD 
performed within the compliance times specified, unless the actions 
have already been done.

(g) Initial and Repetitive General Visual Inspections/Corrective Action

    (1) At the applicable compliance time specified in table 1 to 
paragraph (g) of this AD: Do a general visual inspection of the drag 
stay lower arm assembly having part number (P/N) 30-1018002-01 of 
the NLG at the interface between the arm and the spherical bearing 
races for corrosion traces, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-32-5099, 
dated September 23, 2010.

          Table 1 to Paragraph (g) of This AD--Compliance Time
------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Age of NLG drag stay lower arm
 assembly as of the effective date       Compliance time since first
    of this AD since its first        installation of the NLG drag stay
 installation on any airplane, or    lower arm assembly on any airplane,
since last NLG overhaul, or last P/ or since last NLG overhaul, or since
   N 30-1018002-01 replacement,          last P/N 30[dash]1018002-01
      whichever occurs latest       replacement, whichever occurs latest
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less than 36 months...............  Before the accumulation of 45
                                     months.
36 months or more, but less than    Before the accumulation of 52
 45 months.                          months, or within 9 months after
                                     the effective date of this AD,
                                     whichever occurs first.
45 months or more, but less than    Before the accumulation of 65
 60 months.                          months, or within 7 months after
                                     the effective date of this AD,
                                     whichever occurs first.
60 months or more, but less than    Before the accumulation of 75
 72 months.                          months, or within 5 months after
                                     the effective date of this AD,
                                     whichever occurs first.
72 months or more, but less than    Before the accumulation of 85
 84 months.                          months, or within 3 months after
                                     the effective date of this AD,
                                     whichever occurs first.
84 months or more.................  Within 1 month after the effective
                                     date of this AD.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

     (2) If no corrosion traces are found during the inspection 
required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD: Repeat the inspection 
thereafter at intervals not to exceed 6 months.
    (3) If any corrosion traces are found during any inspection 
required by paragraph (g)(1), (g)(2), or (g)(4) of this AD: At the 
applicable time after the inspection specified in table 2 to 
paragraph (g)(3) of this AD, replace the NLG drag stay lower arm 
assembly with a new or serviceable assembly, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin 
A340-32-5099, dated September 23, 2010.

   Table 2 to Paragraph (g)(3) of This AD--Replacement Compliance Time
------------------------------------------------------------------------
    As of the date of accomplishing the
inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) or
  (g)(2) of this AD: Age of NLG drag stay
    lower arm assembly, since its first      Then, after the inspection,
  installation on any airplane, or since              replace--
last NLG overhaul, or last P/N 30-1018002-
             01 replacement--
------------------------------------------------------------------------
More than 85 months and on which no         Within 5 flight cycles.
 inspection has been performed during the
 last 6 months.
65 months or more but 85 months or less,    Within 1 month.
 and on which no inspection has been
 performed during the last 6 months.
More than 64 months and on which an         Within 3 months.
 inspection has been performed during the
 last 6 months.
Less than 65 months.......................  Within 3 months.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

     (4) Within 45 months after each replacement of the NLG drag 
stay lower arm assembly: Perform the initial inspection required by 
paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-32-5099, 
dated September 23, 2010. Repeat the inspection thereafter at 
intervals not to exceed 6 months.

(h) Terminating Action

    Within 10 years after the effective date of this AD: Replace the 
NLG drag stay lower arm assembly with a serviceable assembly having 
improved corrosion protection, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-32-5101, 
dated October 20, 2010. Accomplishing this replacement terminates 
the inspections required by paragraph (g) of this AD.

[[Page 59735]]

(i) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using 
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 
39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Vladimir 
Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 227-1138; fax (425) 227-1149: 
Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. 
Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal 
inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the 
local flight standards district office/certificate holding district 
office. The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this 
AD.
    (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain 
corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these 
actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered 
FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority 
(or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product 
is airworthy before it is returned to service.

(j) Related Information

    Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) 
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2010-0214, dated November 2, 2010, and 
the service information specified in paragraphs (j)(1) and (j)(2) of 
this AD, for related information.
    (1) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-32-5099, dated 
September 23, 2010.
    (2) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-32-5101, dated 
October 20, 2010.

(k) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the following service 
information under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use the following service information to do the 
actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-32-5099, dated 
September 23, 2010.
    (ii) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-32-5101, dated 
October 20, 2010.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus SAS--Airworthiness Office--EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice 
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; 
fax +33 5 61 93 45 80; email airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com; 
Internet https://www.airbus.com.
    (4) You may review copies of the service information at the FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
Washington. For information on the availability of this material at 
the FAA, call 425-227-1221.
    (5) You may also review copies of the service information that 
is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records 
Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this 
material at an NARA facility, call 202-741-6030, or go to https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Renton, Washington on September 12, 2012.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2012-23393 Filed 9-28-12; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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