Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 9346-9349 [2013-02896]

Download as PDF 9346 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 27 / Friday, February 8, 2013 / Proposed Rules the inspection required by paragraph (t) of this AD thereafter at the applicable interval specified in paragraphs (u)(1), (u)(2), and (u)(3) of this AD. (1) For airplanes fitted with twin wheel MLG that have been equipped with EMM BSCU standard L4.8: At intervals not to exceed 20 months, or 6,000 flight hours, or 4,500 flight cycles, whichever occurs first. (2) For airplanes fitted with twin wheel MLG that have been equipped with EMM BSCU standard L4.1 or L4.5: At intervals not to exceed 6 months, or 1,800 flight hours, or 1,350 flight cycles, whichever occurs first. (3) For airplanes fitted with bogie MLG: At intervals not to exceed 20 months, or 6,000 flight hours, or 4,500 flight cycles, whichever occurs first. (v) Modification For airplanes fitted with twin wheel MLG: Within 6 months after the effective date of this AD, modify the airplane by installing EMM BSCU standard L4.9B, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320–32–1350, dated July 3, 2008. (w) Optional Method of Modification Doing a modification specified in paragraph (w)(1), (w)(2), or (w)(3) of this AD, is acceptable for compliance with the requirements of paragraph (v) of this AD. (1) Modification of the airplane by installing EMM BSCU standard L4.9B, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320– 32–1387, dated April 7, 2011. (2) Modification of the airplane by installing conventional EMM BSCU standard 10, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320– 32–1360, dated March 18, 2009; or Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A320–32–1336, Revision 01, dated January 10, 2008. (3) Modification of the airplane by installing conventional EMM BSCU standard 10.1 in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320– 32–1369, Revision 01, dated March 31, 2010. wreier-aviles on DSK7SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS (x) Terminating Action In-service modification of an airplane fitted with twin wheel MLG as required by paragraph (v) of this AD constitutes terminating action for the initial and repetitive inspections required by paragraph (t) of this AD. In addition, the AFM changes required by paragraph (r) of this AD may be removed from the AFM; and the requirements of paragraph (s) of this AD are no longer required. (y) Exemption From Certain Actions Except for paragraph (y) of this AD, airplanes that have been delivered with Airbus modification 38973 and/or Airbus modification 151575 that install EMM BSCU standard L4.9B are not affected by the requirements of this AD, provided that no installation of previous EMM BSCU standards L4.1, L4.5, or L4.8 has been performed since the airplane first flight. (z) Parts Installation For airplanes that do not have EMM BSCU L4.1, or EMM BSCU L4.5, or EMM BSCU VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:16 Feb 07, 2013 Jkt 229001 L4.8 installed: As of the effective date of this AD, no person may modify an airplane by installing EMM BSCU standards L4.1, L4.5, or L4.8 on any airplane. (aa) Credit for Previous Actions (1) This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (n) of AD 2007– 18–09, Amendment 39–15189 (72 FR 51164, September 6, 2007). This paragraph provides credit for the inspections required by paragraph (j) of this AD, if those inspections were performed before October 11, 2007 (the effective date of AD 2007–18–09, Amendment 39–15189 (72 FR 51164, September 6, 2007)) using Chapter 12, Subject 12–14–32 of the Airbus A318/A319/ A320/A321 AMM, as revised by Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321 AMM Temporary Revision 12–001, dated November 13, 2005. (2) This paragraph provides credit for the inspections and related investigative/ corrective actions required by paragraphs (j), (k), and (l) of this AD, if those inspections were performed before the effective date of this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin A320– 32–1310, dated February 8, 2006. (3) This paragraph provides credit for the modifications specified in paragraph (w)(2) of this AD, if those modifications were performed before the effective date of this AD using Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A320–32–1336, dated September 19, 2007. (4) This paragraph provides credit for the modifications required by paragraph (w)(3) of this AD, if those modifications were performed before the effective date of this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin A320–32–1369, dated March 22, 2009. (bb) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–1405; fax (425) 227– 1149. Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD. AMOCs approved previously in accordance with AD 2007–18–09, Amendment 39–15189 (72 FR 51164, September 6, 2007), are not approved as AMOCs with 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 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 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. (cc) Related Information (1) Refer to MCAI EASA Airworthiness Directive 2011–0201, dated October 13, 2011, and the service information service information identified in paragraphs (cc)(1)(i) through (cc)(1)(viii) for related information. (i) Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321, Task 12–12–32–610–001–A Check NLG Shock Absorber Fluid Level and Charge Pressure (‘‘Two-Point Check’’—Aircraft on Jacks to start), Revision August 1, 2012. (ii) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A320–32–1310, Revision 01, dated June 23, 2011. (iii) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A320–32–1336, Revision 01, dated January 10, 2008. (iv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–32– 1350, dated July 31, 2008. (v) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–32–1360, dated March 18, 2009. (vi) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–32– 1369, Revision 01, dated March 31, 2010. (vii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–32– 1387, dated April 7, 2011. (viii) Airbus Technical Note 957.1901/05, dated October 18, 2005. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office—EAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com. 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 January 31, 2013. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–02898 Filed 2–7–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0090; Directorate Identifier 2012–NM–149–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 SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\08FEP1.SGM 08FEP1 wreier-aviles on DSK7SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 27 / Friday, February 8, 2013 / Proposed Rules The Boeing Company Model 747–100, 747–100B, 747–100B SUD, 747–200B, 747–200C, 747–300, 747–400, 747– 400D, and 747SP series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of worn or incorrectly assembled latches on main deck escape slides installed on airplane doors. This proposed AD would require determining if the latches are correctly assembled; and corrective actions if necessary. This proposed AD also would require, for certain airplanes, modifications to the escape slide/rafts and escape slides. We are proposing this AD to prevent a latch hook moving from closed to open in an escape slide/raft or escape slide, which could result in the escape slide/raft or escape slide not deploying correctly in an emergency, or releasing/inflating into the passenger cabin and causing injury to passengers and crew. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by March 25, 2013. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For Boeing 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. For Goodrich service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Goodrich Corporation, Aircraft Interior Products, ATTN: Technical Publications, 3414 South Fifth Street, Phoenix, AZ 85040– 1169; telephone 602–243–2200; Internet https://www.goodrich.com/TechPubs. 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. VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:16 Feb 07, 2013 Jkt 229001 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: Sarah Piccola, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Branch, ANM–150S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6483; fax: 425–917–6590; email: sarah.piccola@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– 2013–0090; Directorate Identifier 2012– NM–149–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 reports that, in service, latches in the main deck escape slide/ rafts and escape slides installed on airplane doors were not fully closed. The current latch design uses friction to keep the latch hook closed. Corrosion and worn parts reduce friction between the parts of the latch that keep it closed. The new latch design has a retention feature to make sure the latch stays closed. A latch hook moving from the closed to the open position in an escape PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 9347 slide/raft or escape slide, if not corrected, could result in an escape slide/raft or escape slide not deploying correctly in an emergency, or releasing/ inflating into the passenger cabin and causing injury to passengers and crew. Relevant Service Information We reviewed Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–25– 3428, Revision 3, dated June 14, 2012. For information on the procedures and compliance times, see this service information at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for Docket No. FAA–2013–0090. Concurrent Service Information Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–25–3428, Revision 3, dated June 14, 2012, specifies concurrent or prior accomplishment of Boeing Service Bulletin 747–25–2425, Revision 1, dated September 7, 1979. For information on the procedures, see this service information at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for Docket No. FAA 2013 0090. 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 the same type design. Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions specified in the service information described previously. The phrase ‘‘related investigative actions’’ might be used in this proposed AD. ‘‘Related investigative actions’’ are follow-on actions that (1) are related to the primary action, and (2) are actions that further investigate the nature of any condition found. Related investigative actions in an AD could include, for example, inspections. In addition, the phrase ‘‘corrective actions’’ might be used in this proposed AD. ‘‘Corrective actions’’ are actions that correct or address any condition found. Corrective actions in an AD could include, for example, repairs. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 121 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: E:\FR\FM\08FEP1.SGM 08FEP1 9348 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 27 / Friday, February 8, 2013 / Proposed Rules ESTIMATED COSTS Action Determine if latches are correctly assembled. Option to rework/replace latches instead of determining if latches are correctly assembled. Cost on U.S. operators Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85. Between 3 and 24 work-hours × $85 per hour = Between $255 and $2,040. $0 ............................................ $85 .......................................... $10,285. $286 per latch ........................ Between $541 and $2,326 ..... Between $65,461 and $281,446. We estimate the following costs to do any necessary replacements that would be required based on the results of the proposed latch assembly determination. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need this replacement: ON-CONDITION COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Corrective action ....................................... Between 3 and 24 work-hours × $85 per hour = Between $255 and $ 2,040. $286 per latch .......................................... According to the manufacturer, all of the costs of this proposed AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost estimate. wreier-aviles on DSK7SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS 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 VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:16 Feb 07, 2013 Jkt 229001 responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed regulation: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA– 2013–0090; Directorate Identifier 2012– NM–149–AD. PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Cost per product Between $541 and $2,326. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by March 25, 2013. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 747–100, 747–100B, 747–100B SUD, 747–200B, 747–200C, 747–300, 747–400, 747–400D, and 747SP series airplanes; certificated in any category; as identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–25–3428, Revision 3, dated June 14, 2012; except for Groups 3–4, Configuration 2, and Group 9, Configuration 2, airplanes. (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 worn or incorrectly assembled latches on main deck escape slides installed on airplane doors. We are issuing this AD to prevent a latch hook moving from closed to open in an escape slide/raft or escape slide, which could result in the escape slide/raft or escape slide not deploying correctly in an emergency, or releasing/inflating into the passenger cabin and causing injury to passengers and crew. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Replacement or Rework of Escape Slide Latch Assembly Within 48 months after the effective date of this AD: Determine if the latches in the main deck escape slide/rafts and the escape slides installed on the airplane doors are correctly assembled, and do all applicable corrective actions, in accordance with the E:\FR\FM\08FEP1.SGM 08FEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 27 / Friday, February 8, 2013 / Proposed Rules Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–25– 3428, Revision 3, dated June 14, 2012. Do all applicable corrective actions before further flight. Options provided in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–25–3428, Revision 3, dated June 14, 2012, for determining the correct assembly of the latches are acceptable for the corresponding requirement of this paragraph. (h) Concurrent Requirements For Groups 1, 5, 10, and 13 airplanes, as identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–25–3428, Revision 3, dated June 14, 2012: Prior to or concurrently with accomplishing the actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD, replace the packboard cap nuts with flush-type inserts, reinforce the lower packboard support bracket attachments, install hooks, modify the lower liner of the main entry door and packboard, and remove the ‘‘Press to Test’’ circuit panel and associated circuitry, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 747– 25–2425, Revision 1, dated September 7, 1979. wreier-aviles on DSK7SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS (i) Credit for Previous Actions This paragraph provides credit for the applicable concurrent actions required by paragraph (h) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using Boeing Service Bulletin 747– 25–2425, dated August 25, 1978, which is not incorporated by reference in this AD. (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. (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. (k) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Sarah Piccola, 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– VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:16 Feb 07, 2013 Jkt 229001 6483; fax: 425–917–6590; email: sarah.piccola@faa.gov. (2) For Boeing 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. For Goodrich service information identified in this AD, contact Goodrich Corporation, Aircraft Interior Products, ATTN: Technical Publications, 3414 South Fifth Street, Phoenix, AZ 85040–1169; telephone 602– 243–2200; Internet https:// www.goodrich.com/TechPubs. You may also 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 February 1, 2013. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–02896 Filed 2–7–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Food and Drug Administration 21 CFR Part 886 [Docket No. FDA–2013–N–0069] Medical Devices; Ophthalmic Devices; Classification of the Eyelid Weight AGENCY: Food and Drug Administration, HHS. ACTION: Proposed rule. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is proposing to classify the eyelid weight into class II (special controls). The eyelid weight may be adhered to the outer skin of the upper eyelid (external eyelid weight) or implanted into the upper eyelid (implantable eyelid weight), and is intended for the gravity assisted treatment of lagophthalmos (incomplete eyelid closure). FDA is also giving notice of its intent to exempt the external eyelid weight device from the premarket notification requirements of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act). After considering public comments on the proposed classification, FDA will publish a final regulation classifying this device type. DATES: Submit either electronic or written comments by May 9, 2013. See section IV of this document for the proposed effective date of a final rule that may issue based on this proposal. SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 9349 You may submit comments, identified by Docket No. FDA–2013–N– 0069, by any of the following methods: ADDRESSES: Electronic Submissions Submit electronic comments in the following way: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: https:// www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. Written Submissions Submit written submissions in the following way: • Mail/Hand delivery/Courier (for paper or CD–ROM submissions): Division of Dockets Management (HFA– 305), Food and Drug Administration, 5630 Fishers Lane, rm. 1061, Rockville, MD 20852. Instructions: All submissions received must include the Agency name and Docket No. FDA–2013–N–0069 for this rulemaking. All comments received may be posted without change to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information provided. For additional information on submitting comments, see the ‘‘Comments’’ heading of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section of this document. Docket: For access to the docket to read background documents or comments received, go to https:// www.regulations.gov and insert the docket number, found in brackets in the heading of this document, into the ‘‘Search’’ box and follow the prompts and/or go to the Division of Dockets Management, 5630 Fishers Lane, rm. 1061, Rockville, MD 20852. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tina Kiang, Center for Devices and Radiological Health, Food and Drug Administration, 10903 New Hampshire Ave., Bldg. 66, rm. 2414, Silver Spring, MD 20993–0002, 301–796–6860, Tina.Kiang@fda.hhs.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Background A. Statutory and Regulatory Authorities The FD&C Act (21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.), as amended by the Medical Device Amendments of 1976 (Pub. L. 94–295), the Safe Medical Devices Act of 1990 (Pub. L. 101–629), and the Food and Drug Administration Modernization Act of 1997 (Pub. L. 105–115), among other amendments, established a comprehensive system for the regulation of medical devices intended for human use. Section 513 of the FD&C Act (21 U.S.C. 360c) established three categories (classes) of devices, depending on the regulatory controls needed to provide reasonable assurance of their safety and effectiveness. The three categories of E:\FR\FM\08FEP1.SGM 08FEP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 27 (Friday, February 8, 2013)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 9346-9349]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-02896]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2013-0090; Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-149-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

[[Page 9347]]

The Boeing Company Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 
747-200C, 747-300, 747-400, 747-400D, and 747SP series airplanes. This 
proposed AD was prompted by reports of worn or incorrectly assembled 
latches on main deck escape slides installed on airplane doors. This 
proposed AD would require determining if the latches are correctly 
assembled; and corrective actions if necessary. This proposed AD also 
would require, for certain airplanes, modifications to the escape 
slide/rafts and escape slides. We are proposing this AD to prevent a 
latch hook moving from closed to open in an escape slide/raft or escape 
slide, which could result in the escape slide/raft or escape slide not 
deploying correctly in an emergency, or releasing/inflating into the 
passenger cabin and causing injury to passengers and crew.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by March 25, 2013.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For Boeing 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. For Goodrich service information identified in 
this proposed AD, contact Goodrich Corporation, Aircraft Interior 
Products, ATTN: Technical Publications, 3414 South Fifth Street, 
Phoenix, AZ 85040-1169; telephone 602-243-2200; Internet https://www.goodrich.com/TechPubs. 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: Sarah Piccola, Aerospace Engineer, 
Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Branch, ANM-150S, FAA, Seattle 
Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-
3356; phone: 425-917-6483; fax: 425-917-6590; email: 
sarah.piccola@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-2013-0090; 
Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-149-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 reports that, in service, latches in the main deck 
escape slide/rafts and escape slides installed on airplane doors were 
not fully closed. The current latch design uses friction to keep the 
latch hook closed. Corrosion and worn parts reduce friction between the 
parts of the latch that keep it closed. The new latch design has a 
retention feature to make sure the latch stays closed. A latch hook 
moving from the closed to the open position in an escape slide/raft or 
escape slide, if not corrected, could result in an escape slide/raft or 
escape slide not deploying correctly in an emergency, or releasing/
inflating into the passenger cabin and causing injury to passengers and 
crew.

Relevant Service Information

    We reviewed Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-25-3428, 
Revision 3, dated June 14, 2012. For information on the procedures and 
compliance times, see this service information at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for Docket No. FAA-2013-0090.

Concurrent Service Information

    Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-25-3428, Revision 3, 
dated June 14, 2012, specifies concurrent or prior accomplishment of 
Boeing Service Bulletin 747-25-2425, Revision 1, dated September 7, 
1979. For information on the procedures, see this service information 
at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for Docket No. FAA 2013 
0090.

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 the same type design.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions specified 
in the service information described previously.
    The phrase ``related investigative actions'' might be used in this 
proposed AD. ``Related investigative actions'' are follow-on actions 
that (1) are related to the primary action, and (2) are actions that 
further investigate the nature of any condition found. Related 
investigative actions in an AD could include, for example, inspections.
    In addition, the phrase ``corrective actions'' might be used in 
this proposed AD. ``Corrective actions'' are actions that correct or 
address any condition found. Corrective actions in an AD could include, 
for example, repairs.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 121 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD:

[[Page 9348]]



                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                 Cost on U.S.
             Action                  Labor cost          Parts cost       Cost per product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Determine if latches are         1 work-hour x $85   $0................  $85...............  $10,285.
 correctly assembled.             per hour = $85.
Option to rework/replace         Between 3 and 24    $286 per latch....  Between $541 and    Between $65,461 and
 latches instead of determining   work-hours x $85                        $2,326.             $281,446.
 if latches are correctly         per hour =
 assembled.                       Between $255 and
                                  $2,040.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We estimate the following costs to do any necessary replacements 
that would be required based on the results of the proposed latch 
assembly determination. We have no way of determining the number of 
aircraft that might need this replacement:

                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                        Labor cost               Parts cost            Cost per  product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Corrective action...................  Between 3 and 24 work-   $286 per latch.........  Between $541 and $2,326.
                                       hours x $85 per hour =
                                       Between $255 and $
                                       2,040.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    According to the manufacturer, all of the costs of this proposed AD 
may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on 
affected individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected 
individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost 
estimate.

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed 
regulation:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
    (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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 airworthiness 
directive (AD):

The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA-2013-0090; Directorate Identifier 
2012-NM-149-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by March 25, 2013.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 747-100, 747-100B, 
747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-200C, 747-300, 747-400, 747-400D, and 
747SP series airplanes; certificated in any category; as identified 
in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-25-3428, Revision 
3, dated June 14, 2012; except for Groups 3-4, Configuration 2, and 
Group 9, Configuration 2, airplanes.

(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 worn or incorrectly assembled 
latches on main deck escape slides installed on airplane doors. We 
are issuing this AD to prevent a latch hook moving from closed to 
open in an escape slide/raft or escape slide, which could result in 
the escape slide/raft or escape slide not deploying correctly in an 
emergency, or releasing/inflating into the passenger cabin and 
causing injury to passengers and crew.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Replacement or Rework of Escape Slide Latch Assembly

    Within 48 months after the effective date of this AD: Determine 
if the latches in the main deck escape slide/rafts and the escape 
slides installed on the airplane doors are correctly assembled, and 
do all applicable corrective actions, in accordance with the

[[Page 9349]]

Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 747-25-3428, Revision 3, dated June 14, 2012. Do all 
applicable corrective actions before further flight. Options 
provided in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-25-3428, 
Revision 3, dated June 14, 2012, for determining the correct 
assembly of the latches are acceptable for the corresponding 
requirement of this paragraph.

(h) Concurrent Requirements

    For Groups 1, 5, 10, and 13 airplanes, as identified in Boeing 
Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-25-3428, Revision 3, dated 
June 14, 2012: Prior to or concurrently with accomplishing the 
actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD, replace the packboard 
cap nuts with flush-type inserts, reinforce the lower packboard 
support bracket attachments, install hooks, modify the lower liner 
of the main entry door and packboard, and remove the ``Press to 
Test'' circuit panel and associated circuitry, in accordance with 
the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 747-25-
2425, Revision 1, dated September 7, 1979.

(i) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for the applicable concurrent 
actions required by paragraph (h) of this AD, if those actions were 
performed before the effective date of this AD using Boeing Service 
Bulletin 747-25-2425, dated August 25, 1978, which is not 
incorporated by reference in this AD.

(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO) 
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested 
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 
CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local 
Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending 
information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the 
attention of the person identified in the Related Information 
section of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding 
district office.
    (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.

(k) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Sarah Piccola, 
Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Branch, 
ANM-150S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind 
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6483; fax: 425-
917-6590; email: sarah.piccola@faa.gov.
    (2) For Boeing 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. For Goodrich service information 
identified in this AD, contact Goodrich Corporation, Aircraft 
Interior Products, ATTN: Technical Publications, 3414 South Fifth 
Street, Phoenix, AZ 85040-1169; telephone 602-243-2200; Internet 
https://www.goodrich.com/TechPubs. You may also 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 February 1, 2013.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-02896 Filed 2-7-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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