Airworthiness Directives; Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd. Sailplanes, 14467-14469 [2013-05229]

Download as PDF 14467 Proposed Rules Federal Register Vol. 78, No. 44 Wednesday, March 6, 2013 This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY 10 CFR Part 430 [Docket No. EERE–2011–BT–STD–0006] RIN 1904–AC43 Energy Conservation Program: Availability of the Preliminary Technical Support Document for General Service Fluorescent Lamps and Incandescent Reflector Lamps Correction In proposed rule document 2013– 04711, appearing on pages 13563–13566 in the issue of Thursday, February 28, 2013, make the following correction: On page 13563, in the second column, in the sixth paragraph, on the first and second lines, ‘‘GSFL-IRL_2011-STD0006@ee.doe.gov’’ should read ‘‘GSFLIRL_2011-STD-0006@ee.doe.gov’’. [FR Doc. C1–2013–04711 Filed 3–5–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 1505–01–D DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0220; Directorate Identifier 2013–CE–002–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd. Sailplanes originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as an incident of glue joint failure on a starboard wing caused by water entering the area of the airbrake box that resulted in delamination and corrosion in the area of the aluminum alloy spar booms and the wing attach fittings. We are issuing this proposed AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by April 22, 2013. ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Slingsby Advanced Composites Ltd., Ings Lane, Kirkbymoorside, North Yorkshire, England YO62 6EZ; telephone: +44(0)1751 432474; Internet: none. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329– 4148. AGENCY: Examining the AD Docket SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd. Models Dart T.51, Dart T.51/17, and Dart T.51/17R sailplanes equipped with aluminum alloy spar booms that would supersede an existing AD. This proposed AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) 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 (telephone (800) 647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. TKELLEY on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). VerDate Mar<15>2010 20:21 Mar 05, 2013 Jkt 229001 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Jim Rutherford, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–4165; fax: (816) 329–4090; email: jim.rutherford@faa.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2013–0220; Directorate Identifier 2013–CE–002–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:// 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 On October 22, 1998, we issued AD 98–22–15, Amendment 39–10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998). That AD required actions intended to address an unsafe condition on the products listed above. Since we issued AD 98–22–15, Amendment 39–10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998), Slingsby Aviation Ltd. has revised the related service information to remove the 5-year repetitive ‘‘cutout’’ inspection and to add a repetitive annual inspection using an endoscope. The endoscope inspection method would be done using existing drain holes in the lower wing skin. Using revised service information is mandatory within the United Kingdom airworthiness system. It is not necessary for the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), which is the aviation authority for the United Kingdom, to issue an AD to mandate the use of new service information. Proposing AD action is the only way the FAA can mandate the use of new service information; however, owners/ E:\FR\FM\06MRP1.SGM 06MRP1 14468 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 44 / Wednesday, March 6, 2013 / Proposed Rules operators may request approval from the FAA to use an alternative method of compliance (AMOC). Several U.S. operators have complained that the repetitive 5-year ‘‘cutout’’ inspection in the wooden wing skin, currently required by AD 98–22– 15, Amendment 39–10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998), was by default growing larger and larger with each inspection. We have determined that the current 5-year repetitive ‘‘cutout’’ inspections will eventually weaken the wing structure and could result in an unsafe condition. We concur with the change to the annual endoscope inspection. Relevant Service Information Slingsby Aviation Ltd. has issued Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue 3, dated August 21, 2000. The actions described in this service information are intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI. TKELLEY on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS FAA’s Determination and Requirements of the Proposed AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, they have notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all information and determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD will affect 10 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would take about 40 work-hours per product to comply with the initial inspection requirement retained from AD 98–22– 15, Amendment 39–10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998) in this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the initial inspection proposed in this AD on U.S. operators to be $34,000, or $3,400 per product. We also estimate that it would take about 2 work-hours per product to comply with the new repetitive inspection requirement in this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the new repetitive inspection proposed in this AD on U.S. operators to be $1,700, or $170 per product. VerDate Mar<15>2010 20:21 Mar 05, 2013 Jkt 229001 We have no way of determining the number of repetitive inspections an owner/operator will incur over the life of the sailplane or the number of sailplanes that will need repairs. 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. 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. § 39.13 Regulatory Findings (d) Subject Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 57: Wing. 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: PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by removing Amendment 39–10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998), and adding the following new AD: ■ Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd.: Docket No. FAA– 2013–0220; Directorate Identifier 2013– CE–002–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by April 22, 2013. (b) Affected ADs This AD supersedes AD 98–22–15, Amendment 39–10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998). (c) Applicability This AD applies to Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd. Models Dart T.51, Dart T.51/17, and Dart T.51/17R sailplanes, that are: (1) Equipped with aluminum alloy spar booms; and (2) Certificated in any category. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by an incident of glue joint failure on a starboard wing caused by water entering the area of the airbrake box that resulted in delamination and corrosion in the area of the aluminum alloy spar booms and the wing attach fittings. The manufacturer has also issued revised service information that changes the repetitive inspection interval and method. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the spar assembly and adjoining structure, which could result in reduced controllability or complete loss of control. (f) Actions and Compliance Retained From AD 98–22–15, Amendment 39–10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998) Unless already done, do the following actions: (1) Within the next 6 calendar months after December 14, 1998 (the effective date retained from AD 98–22–15, Amendment 39– 10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998)), inspect the aluminum alloy spar booms and the wing attach fittings for delamination or corrosion damage following the ACTION section of Slingsby Aviation Ltd. Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue No. 2, dated October 7, 1997, or the ACTION section of Slingsby Aviation Ltd. Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue 3, dated August 21, 2000. Note to paragraph (f)(1) of this AD: Slingsby Aviation Ltd. Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue No. 2, dated October 7, 1997, and T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue 3, dated August 21, 2000, include guidance to E:\FR\FM\06MRP1.SGM 06MRP1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 44 / Wednesday, March 6, 2013 / Proposed Rules determine whether an affected sailplane is equipped with aluminum alloy spar booms. (2) If any corrosion or delamination damage is found during the inspection required by paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, before further flight, contact the manufacturer at the address specified in paragraph (i) of this AD to obtain an FAA-approved repair scheme and incorporate the repair. TKELLEY on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS (g) New Actions and Compliance (1) Within 5 years after the last inspection required by AD 98–22–15, Amendment 39– 10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998) and repetitively thereafter at intervals not to exceed 12 months, using an endoscope, inspect the aluminum alloy spar booms and the wing attach fittings for delamination or corrosion damage following paragraph 11. of the ACTION section of Slingsby Aviation Ltd. Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue 3, dated August 21, 2000. (2) If any corrosion or delamination damage is found during any inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, before further flight, contact the manufacturer at the address specified in paragraph (i) of this AD to obtain an FAAapproved repair scheme and incorporate the repair. (h) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Standards Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to ATTN: Jim Rutherford, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–4165; fax: (816) 329– 4090; email: jim.rutherford@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC on any sailplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO. (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. (3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in this AD, a federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 2120–0056. Public reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 5 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the collection of information. All responses to this collection of information are mandatory. Comments VerDate Mar<15>2010 20:21 Mar 05, 2013 Jkt 229001 concerning the accuracy of this burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES–200. (i) Related Information Refer to Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) AD British AD 005–09–97, dated October 3, 1997; Slingsby Aviation Ltd. Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue No. 2, dated October 7, 1997; and Slingsby Aviation Ltd. Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue 3, dated August 21, 2000, for related information. For service information related to this AD, contact Slingsby Advanced Composites Ltd., Ings Lane, Kirkbymoorside, North Yorkshire, England YO62 6EZ ; telephone: +44(0)1751 432474; Internet: none. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on February 27, 2013. Earl Lawrence, Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–05229 Filed 3–5–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0097; Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–243–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: SUMMARY: We propose to supersede an existing airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to certain The Boeing Company Model 747–100, 747–100B, 747–100B SUD, 747–200B, 747–200C, 747–200F, 747–300, 747–400, 747– 400D, 747–400F, and 747SR series airplanes. The existing AD currently requires repetitive inspections to find cracking of the web, strap, inner chords, inner chord angle of the forward edge frame of the number 5 main entry door cutouts, the frame segment between stringers 16 and 31, and repair if necessary; and repetitive inspections for cracking of repairs. Since we issued that AD, we have received multiple reports of cracking outside of the previous fuselage inspection areas and a report of PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 14469 a crack that initiated at the aft edge of the inner chord rather than initiating at a fastener location, which was the previous cracking location. This proposed AD would expand the previous fuselage areas that are inspected for cracking. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct such cracks, which could cause damage to the adjacent body structure and could result in depressurization of the airplane in flight. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by April 22, 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 service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–5680; Internet https:// www.myboeingfleet.com. You may review copies of the 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: Nathan Weigand, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6428; fax: 425–917–6590; email: Nathan.P.Weigand@faa.gov. E:\FR\FM\06MRP1.SGM 06MRP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 44 (Wednesday, March 6, 2013)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 14467-14469]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-05229]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2013-0220; Directorate Identifier 2013-CE-002-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd. Sailplanes

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

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd. Models Dart T.51, Dart T.51/17, and Dart T.51/
17R sailplanes equipped with aluminum alloy spar booms that would 
supersede an existing AD. This proposed AD results from mandatory 
continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation 
authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe 
condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe 
condition as an incident of glue joint failure on a starboard wing 
caused by water entering the area of the airbrake box that resulted in 
delamination and corrosion in the area of the aluminum alloy spar booms 
and the wing attach fittings. We are issuing this proposed AD to 
require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by April 22, 2013.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: (202) 493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact 
Slingsby Advanced Composites Ltd., Ings Lane, Kirkbymoorside, North 
Yorkshire, England YO62 6EZ; telephone: +44(0)1751 432474; Internet: 
none. You may review copies of the referenced service information at 
the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 
64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, 
call (816) 329-4148.

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 (telephone (800) 647-5527) is in the 
ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly 
after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jim Rutherford, Aerospace Engineer, 
FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, 
Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4165; fax: (816) 329-4090; email: 
jim.rutherford@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2013-0220; 
Directorate Identifier 2013-CE-002-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://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

    On October 22, 1998, we issued AD 98-22-15, Amendment 39-10863 (63 
FR 58624, November 2, 1998). That AD required actions intended to 
address an unsafe condition on the products listed above.
    Since we issued AD 98-22-15, Amendment 39-10863 (63 FR 58624, 
November 2, 1998), Slingsby Aviation Ltd. has revised the related 
service information to remove the 5-year repetitive ``cutout'' 
inspection and to add a repetitive annual inspection using an 
endoscope. The endoscope inspection method would be done using existing 
drain holes in the lower wing skin.
    Using revised service information is mandatory within the United 
Kingdom airworthiness system. It is not necessary for the Civil 
Aviation Authority (CAA), which is the aviation authority for the 
United Kingdom, to issue an AD to mandate the use of new service 
information.
    Proposing AD action is the only way the FAA can mandate the use of 
new service information; however, owners/

[[Page 14468]]

operators may request approval from the FAA to use an alternative 
method of compliance (AMOC).
    Several U.S. operators have complained that the repetitive 5-year 
``cutout'' inspection in the wooden wing skin, currently required by AD 
98-22-15, Amendment 39-10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998), was by 
default growing larger and larger with each inspection.
    We have determined that the current 5-year repetitive ``cutout'' 
inspections will eventually weaken the wing structure and could result 
in an unsafe condition. We concur with the change to the annual 
endoscope inspection.

Relevant Service Information

    Slingsby Aviation Ltd. has issued Technical Instruction T.I. No. 
109/T51, Issue 3, dated August 21, 2000. The actions described in this 
service information are intended to correct the unsafe condition 
identified in the MCAI.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of the Proposed AD

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, they 
have notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and 
service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because 
we evaluated all information and determined the unsafe condition exists 
and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type 
design.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD will affect 10 products of U.S. 
registry. We also estimate that it would take about 40 work-hours per 
product to comply with the initial inspection requirement retained from 
AD 98-22-15, Amendment 39-10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998) in this 
proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour.
    Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the initial 
inspection proposed in this AD on U.S. operators to be $34,000, or 
$3,400 per product.
    We also estimate that it would take about 2 work-hours per product 
to comply with the new repetitive inspection requirement in this 
proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour.
    Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the new repetitive 
inspection proposed in this AD on U.S. operators to be $1,700, or $170 
per product.
    We have no way of determining the number of repetitive inspections 
an owner/operator will incur over the life of the sailplane or the 
number of sailplanes that will need repairs.

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 removing Amendment 39-10863 (63 FR 
58624, November 2, 1998), and adding the following new AD:

Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd.: Docket No. FAA-2013-0220; Directorate 
Identifier 2013-CE-002-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by April 22, 2013.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD supersedes AD 98-22-15, Amendment 39-10863 (63 FR 58624, 
November 2, 1998).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd. Models Dart T.51, 
Dart T.51/17, and Dart T.51/17R sailplanes, that are:
    (1) Equipped with aluminum alloy spar booms; and
    (2) Certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 57: Wing.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by an incident of glue joint failure on a 
starboard wing caused by water entering the area of the airbrake box 
that resulted in delamination and corrosion in the area of the 
aluminum alloy spar booms and the wing attach fittings. The 
manufacturer has also issued revised service information that 
changes the repetitive inspection interval and method. We are 
issuing this AD to prevent failure of the spar assembly and 
adjoining structure, which could result in reduced controllability 
or complete loss of control.

(f) Actions and Compliance Retained From AD 98-22-15, Amendment 39-
10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998)

    Unless already done, do the following actions:
    (1) Within the next 6 calendar months after December 14, 1998 
(the effective date retained from AD 98-22-15, Amendment 39-10863 
(63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998)), inspect the aluminum alloy spar 
booms and the wing attach fittings for delamination or corrosion 
damage following the ACTION section of Slingsby Aviation Ltd. 
Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue No. 2, dated October 
7, 1997, or the ACTION section of Slingsby Aviation Ltd. Technical 
Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue 3, dated August 21, 2000.

    Note to paragraph (f)(1) of this AD: Slingsby Aviation Ltd. 
Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue No. 2, dated October 
7, 1997, and T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue 3, dated August 21, 2000, 
include guidance to

[[Page 14469]]

determine whether an affected sailplane is equipped with aluminum 
alloy spar booms.

    (2) If any corrosion or delamination damage is found during the 
inspection required by paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, before further 
flight, contact the manufacturer at the address specified in 
paragraph (i) of this AD to obtain an FAA-approved repair scheme and 
incorporate the repair.

(g) New Actions and Compliance

    (1) Within 5 years after the last inspection required by AD 98-
22-15, Amendment 39-10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998) and 
repetitively thereafter at intervals not to exceed 12 months, using 
an endoscope, inspect the aluminum alloy spar booms and the wing 
attach fittings for delamination or corrosion damage following 
paragraph 11. of the ACTION section of Slingsby Aviation Ltd. 
Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue 3, dated August 21, 
2000.
    (2) If any corrosion or delamination damage is found during any 
inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, before further 
flight, contact the manufacturer at the address specified in 
paragraph (i) of this AD to obtain an FAA-approved repair scheme and 
incorporate the repair.

(h) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
Standards Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this 
AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send 
information to ATTN: Jim Rutherford, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small 
Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 
64106; telephone: (816) 329-4165; fax: (816) 329-4090; email: 
jim.rutherford@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC on any 
sailplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office 
(FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO.
    (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.
    (3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in 
this AD, a federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person 
is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a 
penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information 
subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless 
that collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control 
Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 
2120-0056. Public reporting for this collection of information is 
estimated to be approximately 5 minutes per response, including the 
time for reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the 
collection of information. All responses to this collection of 
information are mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this 
burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to 
the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: 
Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES-200.

(i) Related Information

    Refer to Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) AD British AD 005-09-97, 
dated October 3, 1997; Slingsby Aviation Ltd. Technical Instruction 
T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue No. 2, dated October 7, 1997; and Slingsby 
Aviation Ltd. Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue 3, dated 
August 21, 2000, for related information. For service information 
related to this AD, contact Slingsby Advanced Composites Ltd., Ings 
Lane, Kirkbymoorside, North Yorkshire, England YO62 6EZ ; telephone: 
+44(0)1751 432474; Internet: none. You may review copies of the 
referenced service information at the FAA, Small Airplane 
Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
(816) 329-4148.

    Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on February 27, 2013.
Earl Lawrence,
Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-05229 Filed 3-5-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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