Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 15332-15335 [2013-05505]
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15332
Proposed Rules
Federal Register
Vol. 78, No. 47
Monday, March 11, 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 TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2013–0207; Directorate
Identifier 2011–NM–071–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 supersede an
existing airworthiness directive (AD)
that applies to all The Boeing Company
Model 737–300, –400, and –500 series
airplanes. The existing AD currently
requires repetitive inspections of the
downstop assemblies on the main tracks
of the No. 2, 3, 4, and No. 5 slats and
the inboard track of the No. 1 and 6 slats
to verify if any parts are missing,
damaged, or in the wrong order; other
specified actions; and related
investigative and corrective actions if
necessary. Since we issued that AD, the
manufacturer has developed a
modification, which, when installed,
would terminate the repetitive
inspections. This proposed AD would
add an inspection of the slat can interior
for foreign object debris (FOD), and
removal of any FOD found; modification
of the slat track hardware; an inspection
for FOD and for damage to the interior
surface of the slat cans; and related
investigative and corrective actions, if
necessary. We are proposing this AD to
prevent loose or missing parts in the
main slat track downstop assemblies,
which could puncture the slat track
housing and result in a fuel leak and
consequent fire.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by April 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:
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SUMMARY:
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• 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, Washington 98124–
2207; telephone 206–544–5000,
extension 1; fax 206–766–5680; Internet
https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You
may review copies of the referenced
service information at the FAA,
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601
Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington.
For information on the availability of
this material at the FAA, call 425–227–
1221.
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:
Nancy Marsh, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA,
Seattle Aircraft Certification Office
(ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton,
Washington 98057–3356; phone: (425)
917–6440; fax: (425) 917–6590; email:
nancy.marsh@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–2013–0207; Directorate Identifier
2011–NM–071–AD’’ at the beginning of
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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
On March 11, 2008, we issued AD
2008–06–29, Amendment 39–15441 (73
FR 15397, March 24, 2008), for all The
Boeing Company Model 737–300, -400,
and -500 series airplanes. That AD
requires repetitive inspections of the
downstop assemblies on the main tracks
of the No. 2, 3, 4, and 5 slats and the
inboard track of the No. 1 and 6 slats to
verify if any parts are missing, damaged,
or in the wrong order; and related
investigative and corrective actions if
necessary. That AD resulted from
reports of fuel leaking from a puncture
in the slat track housing. We issued that
AD to detect and correct loose or
missing parts in the main slat track
downstop assemblies, which could
puncture the slat track housing and
result in a fuel leak and consequent fire.
Actions Since Existing AD (73 FR
15397, March 24, 2008) Was Issued
The preamble to AD 2008–06–29,
Amendment 39–15441 (73 FR 15397,
March 24, 2008), specifies that we
consider the requirements ‘‘interim
action’’ and that the manufacturer was
developing a modification to address
the unsafe condition. That AD explains
that we might consider further
rulemaking if a modification is
developed, approved, and available. The
manufacturer now has developed such a
modification, and we have determined
that further rulemaking is indeed
necessary; this proposed AD follows
from that determination.
Relevant Service Information
AD 2008–06–29, Amendment 39–
15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008),
refers to Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
737–57A1301, dated February 5, 2008,
as the appropriate source of service
information for the required actions.
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 47 / Monday, March 11, 2013 / Proposed Rules
Boeing has since revised this service
information. We reviewed Boeing
Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision
3, dated August 11, 2011, which adds
procedures for inspecting the slat can
interior for foreign object debris (FOD),
removing any FOD found, modifying the
slat track hardware; an inspection for
FOD and a one-time inspection for
damage to the interior surface of the slat
cans for the inboard and outboard tracks
of slats No. 2 through 5 and the inboard
slats of tracks No. 1 and 6; and related
investigative and corrective actions if
necessary. Modifying the slat track
hardware eliminates the need for the
repetitive inspections.
Related investigative actions include a
determination of the wall thickness of
damaged slat cans, and an inspection for
clearance between the bottom of the slat
can and slat main track. Corrective
actions include a blend-out repair or
replacement of the slat can with a new
or serviceable slat can, proper torque of
nuts, and installation of a tapered filler.
Amendment 39–15441 (73 FR 15397,
March 24, 2008), and also would require
the actions specified in the service
information described previously.
FAA’s Determination
This proposed AD would retain all
requirements of AD 2008–06–29,
Amendment 39–15441 (73 FR 15397,
March 24, 2008). Since AD 2008–06–29
was issued, the AD format has been
revised, and certain paragraphs have
been rearranged. As a result, the
corresponding paragraph identifiers
have changed in this proposed AD, as
listed in the following table:
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 retain all
requirements of AD 2008–06–29,
Change to Existing AD (73 FR 15397,
March 24, 2008)
REVISED PARAGRAPH IDENTIFIERS
Requirement in AD 2008–06–29, Amendment 39-15441 (73 FR 15397,
March 24, 2008)
Corresponding requirement in this proposed AD
paragraph (d)
paragraph (e)
paragraph (f)
paragraph (e)
paragraph (f)
paragraph (g)
In addition, Boeing Commercial
Airplanes has received an Organization
Designation Authorization (ODA),
which replaces the previous designation
as a Delegation Option Authorization
(DOA) holder. We have revised
paragraph (k) of this proposed AD to
add delegation of authority to Boeing
Commercial Airplanes ODA to approve
an alternative method of compliance for
certain repairs required by this
proposed AD.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD
affects 568 airplanes of U.S. registry.
We estimate the following costs to
comply with this proposed AD:
ESTIMATED COSTS
Parts cost
Cost per
product
Cost on
U.S. operators
4 work-hours × $85 per hour = $340 per inspection
cycle.
$0
$340
$193,120
5 work-hours × $85 per hour = $85 .........................
$0
$425
$241,400
12 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,020 ..................
$3,124
$4,144
$2,353,792
Action
Labor cost
Inspection of slat track housing [retained actions
from existing AD 2008-06-29, Amendment 39–
15441, (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008)].
One-time detailed inspection of slat can [new proposed action].
Installation of modification [new proposed action] ....
We have received no definitive data
that would enable us to provide a cost
estimate for the on-condition actions
specified in this proposed AD.
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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
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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 have 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
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on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that the 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.
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 47 / Monday, March 11, 2013 / Proposed Rules
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
removing airworthiness directive (AD)
2008–06–29, Amendment 39–15441 (73
FR 15397, March 24, 2008), and adding
the following new AD:
■
The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA–
2013–0207; Directorate Identifier 2011–
NM–071–AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
The FAA must receive comments on this
AD action by April 25, 2013.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD supersedes AD 2008–06–29,
Amendment 39–15441 (73 FR 15397, March
24, 2008).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all The Boeing
Company Model 737–300, -400, and -500
series airplanes, certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America
Code 57: Wings.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of fuel
leaking from a puncture in the slat track
housing (referred to as ‘‘slat can’’). We are
issuing this AD to prevent loose or missing
parts in the main slat track downstop
assemblies, which could puncture the slat
track housing and result in a fuel leak and
consequent fire.
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(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Retained Inspection of Downstop
Assemblies and Corrective Action
This paragraph restates the requirements of
paragraph (f) of AD 2008–06–29, Amendment
39–15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008),
with revised service information. At the
applicable times specified in Table 1 of
paragraph 1.E. of Boeing Service Bulletin
737–57A1301, dated February 5, 2008; or
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–57A1301,
Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011; except as
provided by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD: Do
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a detailed inspection or borescope inspection
of the downstop assemblies on the main
tracks of the No. 2, 3, 4, and 5 slats and the
inboard track of the No. 1 and 6 slats to verify
if any parts are missing, damaged, or
installed in the wrong order; and do all the
other specified, related investigative, and
corrective actions as applicable; by
accomplishing all of the applicable actions
specified in the Accomplishment
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
737–57A1301, dated February 5, 2008; or
Boeing Service Bulletin 737–57A1301,
Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011; except as
provided by paragraphs (g)(2) and (g)(3) of
this AD. Repeat the inspection thereafter at
the applicable times specified in Table 1 of
paragraph 1.E. of Boeing Service Bulletin
737–57A1301, dated February 5, 2008; or
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–57A1301,
Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011. Do all
applicable related investigative and
corrective actions before further flight. As of
the effective date of this AD, only Boeing
Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision 3,
dated August 11, 2011, may be used to
accomplish the actions required by this
paragraph.
(1) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
737–57A1301, dated February 5, 2008, or
Boeing Service Bulletin 737–57A1301,
Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011, specifies
counting the compliance time from ‘‘the date
on the service bulletin,’’ this AD requires
counting the compliance time from April 8,
2008 (the effective date of AD 2008–06–29,
Amendment 39–15441 (73 FR 15397, March
24, 2008)).
(2) For airplanes on which any downstop
assembly part is missing or damaged, a
borescope inspection of the inside of the slat
track housing for loose parts and damage to
the wall of the slat track housing may be
accomplished in lieu of the detailed
inspection of the inside of the slat track
housing that is specified in Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, dated
February 5, 2008; or Boeing Service Bulletin
737–57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11,
2011. As of the effective date of this AD, only
Boeing Service Bulletin 737–57A1301,
Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011, may be
used to do the actions specified in this
paragraph.
(3) If any damaged slat track housing is
found during any inspection required by
paragraph (g) of this AD: Before further flight,
repair in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing
Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision 3,
dated August 11, 2011; replace the slat can
with a new slat can having the same part
number, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing
Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision 3,
dated August 11, 2011; or repair the slat can
using a method approved in accordance with
the procedures specified in paragraph (k) of
this AD.
(h) New Detailed Inspection for Foreign
Object Debris (FOD)
Within 24 months after the effective date
of this AD, do a one-time detailed inspection
of the slat can interior to detect FOD, in
accordance with Part III of the
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Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing
Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision 3,
dated August 11, 2011. If any FOD is found,
before further flight, remove it, in accordance
with the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Service Bulletin 737–57A1301,
Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011.
(i) New Modification and Inspection
Within 72 months or 15,000 flight cycles,
whichever occurs first, after the effective date
of this AD: Modify the slat track hardware by
installing new downstop assembly hardware,
and do a detailed inspection for FOD and a
one-time inspection for damage to the
interior surface of the slat can for the inboard
and outboard tracks of slats 2 through 5, and
the inboard slats of tracks 1 and 6; and do
all applicable related investigative and
corrective actions; in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing
Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision 3,
dated August 11, 2011. Do all applicable
related investigative and corrective actions
before further flight. Accomplishment of the
actions required by this paragraph terminates
the inspections required by paragraphs (g)
and (h) of this AD.
(j) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for the
actions required by paragraphs (g), (h), and
(i) of this AD, if those actions were performed
before the effective date of this AD using
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–57A1301,
Revision 1, dated September 24, 2009; or
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–57A1301,
Revision 2, dated January 17, 2011; which are
not incorporated by reference in this AD.
(k) 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.
(4) AMOCs approved previously in
accordance with AD 2008–06–29,
Amendment 39–15441 (73 FR 15397, March
24, 2008), are approved as AMOCs for the
corresponding provisions of this AD.
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 47 / Monday, March 11, 2013 / Proposed Rules
(l) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD,
contact Nancy Marsh, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle
Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356;
phone: (425) 917–6440; fax: (425) 917–6590;
email: nancy.marsh@faa.gov.
(2) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Boeing Commercial
Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services
Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65,
Seattle, Washington 98124–2207; telephone
206–544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–
5680; Internet https://
www.myboeingfleet.com. You may review
copies of the referenced service information
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington.
For information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on February
28, 2013.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2013–05505 Filed 3–8–13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
• 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, between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
For service information identified in
this proposed AD, contact Airbus,
Airworthiness Office—EIAS, 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.
Federal Aviation Administration
Examining the AD Docket
14 CFR Part 39
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 proposed 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:
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.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
[Docket No. FAA–2013–0208; Directorate
Identifier 2012–NM–204–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
We propose to adopt a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and
A321 series airplanes. This proposed
AD was prompted by a determination
that certain maintenance activities, such
as repairs or the accumulation of paint
layers, might cause the weight of an
elevator to exceed the certified limits.
This proposed AD would require
checking the weight of certain elevators,
and corrective action if necessary; and
re-identifying the elevators. We are
proposing this AD to detect and correct
elevators that exceed the certified
weight limits, which could result in
reduced control of the airplane.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by April 25, 2013.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by
any of the following methods:
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SUMMARY:
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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–2013–0208; Directorate Identifier
2012–NM–204–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
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15335
closing date and may amend this
proposed AD based on 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
The European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Community, has issued EASA
Airworthiness Directive 2012–0221,
dated October 23, 2012 (referred to after
this as the Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the
MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition
for the specified products. The MCAI
states:
It has been identified that maintenance
activities, such as repairs or the
accumulation of paint layers, may cause the
weight of an elevator to exceed the certified
limits.
This condition, if not detected and
corrected, could result in reduced control of
the aeroplane.
For the reasons described above, this
[EASA] AD requires a onetime weight check
of both left-hand (LH) and right-hand (RH)
elevators, accomplishment of corrective
actions, as applicable, depending on
findings, and re-identification of the
elevators.
The monitoring of elevator weight
evolution after having complied with this
[EASA] AD is ensured by Airbus A318/A319/
A320/A321 ALS Part 2 CDCCL (Critical
Design Configuration Control Limitations),
compliance with which is currently required
by EASA AD 2010–0071R1 [which
corresponds to FAA AD 2011–14–06,
Amendment 39–16741 (76 FR 42024, July 18,
2011)].
Corrective action includes removing the
paint from the elevator surface and
repainting, or replacing the elevator
with a serviceable elevator if the weight
estimate is over the certified weight
limit; and repairing the elevator. You
may obtain further information by
examining the MCAI in the AD docket.
Relevant Service Information
Airbus has issued Service Bulletin
A320–55–1034, including Appendices 1
and 2, dated August 19, 2011; and
Service Bulletin A320–55–1042,
Revision 01, dated June 29, 2012. 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 Proposed AD
This product has been approved by
the aviation authority of another
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 47 (Monday, March 11, 2013)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 15332-15335]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-05505]
========================================================================
Proposed Rules
Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________
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.
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 47 / Monday, March 11, 2013 /
Proposed Rules
[[Page 15332]]
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2013-0207; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-071-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
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SUMMARY: We propose to supersede an existing airworthiness directive
(AD) that applies to all The Boeing Company Model 737-300, -400, and -
500 series airplanes. The existing AD currently requires repetitive
inspections of the downstop assemblies on the main tracks of the No. 2,
3, 4, and No. 5 slats and the inboard track of the No. 1 and 6 slats to
verify if any parts are missing, damaged, or in the wrong order; other
specified actions; and related investigative and corrective actions if
necessary. Since we issued that AD, the manufacturer has developed a
modification, which, when installed, would terminate the repetitive
inspections. This proposed AD would add an inspection of the slat can
interior for foreign object debris (FOD), and removal of any FOD found;
modification of the slat track hardware; an inspection for FOD and for
damage to the interior surface of the slat cans; and related
investigative and corrective actions, if necessary. We are proposing
this AD to prevent loose or missing parts in the main slat track
downstop assemblies, which could puncture the slat track housing and
result in a fuel leak and consequent fire.
DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by April 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 service information identified in this proposed AD, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.
O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, Washington 98124-2207; telephone 206-
544-5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may review copies of the referenced service
information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind
Avenue SW., Renton, Washington. For information on the availability of
this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.
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: Nancy Marsh, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office
(ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; phone:
(425) 917-6440; fax: (425) 917-6590; email: nancy.marsh@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-2013-0207;
Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-071-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
On March 11, 2008, we issued AD 2008-06-29, Amendment 39-15441 (73
FR 15397, March 24, 2008), for all The Boeing Company Model 737-300, -
400, and -500 series airplanes. That AD requires repetitive inspections
of the downstop assemblies on the main tracks of the No. 2, 3, 4, and 5
slats and the inboard track of the No. 1 and 6 slats to verify if any
parts are missing, damaged, or in the wrong order; and related
investigative and corrective actions if necessary. That AD resulted
from reports of fuel leaking from a puncture in the slat track housing.
We issued that AD to detect and correct loose or missing parts in the
main slat track downstop assemblies, which could puncture the slat
track housing and result in a fuel leak and consequent fire.
Actions Since Existing AD (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008) Was Issued
The preamble to AD 2008-06-29, Amendment 39-15441 (73 FR 15397,
March 24, 2008), specifies that we consider the requirements ``interim
action'' and that the manufacturer was developing a modification to
address the unsafe condition. That AD explains that we might consider
further rulemaking if a modification is developed, approved, and
available. The manufacturer now has developed such a modification, and
we have determined that further rulemaking is indeed necessary; this
proposed AD follows from that determination.
Relevant Service Information
AD 2008-06-29, Amendment 39-15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008),
refers to Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, dated February 5,
2008, as the appropriate source of service information for the required
actions.
[[Page 15333]]
Boeing has since revised this service information. We reviewed Boeing
Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011, which
adds procedures for inspecting the slat can interior for foreign object
debris (FOD), removing any FOD found, modifying the slat track
hardware; an inspection for FOD and a one-time inspection for damage to
the interior surface of the slat cans for the inboard and outboard
tracks of slats No. 2 through 5 and the inboard slats of tracks No. 1
and 6; and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary.
Modifying the slat track hardware eliminates the need for the
repetitive inspections.
Related investigative actions include a determination of the wall
thickness of damaged slat cans, and an inspection for clearance between
the bottom of the slat can and slat main track. Corrective actions
include a blend-out repair or replacement of the slat can with a new or
serviceable slat can, proper torque of nuts, and installation of a
tapered filler.
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 retain all requirements of AD 2008-06-29,
Amendment 39-15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008), and also would
require the actions specified in the service information described
previously.
Change to Existing AD (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008)
This proposed AD would retain all requirements of AD 2008-06-29,
Amendment 39-15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008). Since AD 2008-06-29
was issued, the AD format has been revised, and certain paragraphs have
been rearranged. As a result, the corresponding paragraph identifiers
have changed in this proposed AD, as listed in the following table:
Revised Paragraph Identifiers
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Requirement in AD 2008-06-29,
Amendment 39[dash]15441 (73 FR Corresponding requirement in this
15397, March 24, 2008) proposed AD
------------------------------------------------------------------------
paragraph (d) paragraph (e)
paragraph (e) paragraph (f)
paragraph (f) paragraph (g)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
In addition, Boeing Commercial Airplanes has received an
Organization Designation Authorization (ODA), which replaces the
previous designation as a Delegation Option Authorization (DOA) holder.
We have revised paragraph (k) of this proposed AD to add delegation of
authority to Boeing Commercial Airplanes ODA to approve an alternative
method of compliance for certain repairs required by this proposed AD.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD affects 568 airplanes of U.S.
registry.
We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD:
Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost on
Action Labor cost Parts Cost per U.S.
cost product operators
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Inspection of slat track housing [retained 4 work-hours x $85 per hour = $0 $340 $193,120
actions from existing AD $340 per inspection cycle.
2008[dash]06[dash]29, Amendment 39-15441,
(73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008)].
One-time detailed inspection of slat can 5 work-hours x $85 per hour = $85 $0 $425 $241,400
[new proposed action].
Installation of modification [new proposed 12 work-hours x $85 per hour = $3,124 $4,144 $2,353,792
action]. $1,020.
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We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide
a cost estimate for the on-condition actions specified in this proposed
AD.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, Section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701, ``General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
We have 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 that the 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.
[[Page 15334]]
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 airworthiness directive (AD)
2008-06-29, Amendment 39-15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008), and
adding the following new AD:
The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA-2013-0207; Directorate Identifier
2011-NM-071-AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by April 25,
2013.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD supersedes AD 2008-06-29, Amendment 39-15441 (73 FR
15397, March 24, 2008).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 737-300, -400,
and -500 series airplanes, certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport Association
(ATA) of America Code 57: Wings.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of fuel leaking from a puncture
in the slat track housing (referred to as ``slat can''). We are
issuing this AD to prevent loose or missing parts in the main slat
track downstop assemblies, which could puncture the slat track
housing and result in a fuel leak and consequent fire.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Retained Inspection of Downstop Assemblies and Corrective Action
This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (f) of AD
2008-06-29, Amendment 39-15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008), with
revised service information. At the applicable times specified in
Table 1 of paragraph 1.E. of Boeing Service Bulletin 737-57A1301,
dated February 5, 2008; or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-
57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011; except as provided by
paragraph (g)(1) of this AD: Do a detailed inspection or borescope
inspection of the downstop assemblies on the main tracks of the No.
2, 3, 4, and 5 slats and the inboard track of the No. 1 and 6 slats
to verify if any parts are missing, damaged, or installed in the
wrong order; and do all the other specified, related investigative,
and corrective actions as applicable; by accomplishing all of the
applicable actions specified in the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, dated February 5, 2008;
or Boeing Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11,
2011; except as provided by paragraphs (g)(2) and (g)(3) of this AD.
Repeat the inspection thereafter at the applicable times specified
in Table 1 of paragraph 1.E. of Boeing Service Bulletin 737-57A1301,
dated February 5, 2008; or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-
57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011. Do all applicable
related investigative and corrective actions before further flight.
As of the effective date of this AD, only Boeing Service Bulletin
737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011, may be used to
accomplish the actions required by this paragraph.
(1) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, dated
February 5, 2008, or Boeing Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision
3, dated August 11, 2011, specifies counting the compliance time
from ``the date on the service bulletin,'' this AD requires counting
the compliance time from April 8, 2008 (the effective date of AD
2008-06-29, Amendment 39-15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008)).
(2) For airplanes on which any downstop assembly part is missing
or damaged, a borescope inspection of the inside of the slat track
housing for loose parts and damage to the wall of the slat track
housing may be accomplished in lieu of the detailed inspection of
the inside of the slat track housing that is specified in Boeing
Alert Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, dated February 5, 2008; or
Boeing Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11,
2011. As of the effective date of this AD, only Boeing Service
Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011, may be used
to do the actions specified in this paragraph.
(3) If any damaged slat track housing is found during any
inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD: Before further
flight, repair in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11,
2011; replace the slat can with a new slat can having the same part
number, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing
Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011; or
repair the slat can using a method approved in accordance with the
procedures specified in paragraph (k) of this AD.
(h) New Detailed Inspection for Foreign Object Debris (FOD)
Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD, do a one-
time detailed inspection of the slat can interior to detect FOD, in
accordance with Part III of the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11,
2011. If any FOD is found, before further flight, remove it, in
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service
Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011.
(i) New Modification and Inspection
Within 72 months or 15,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs
first, after the effective date of this AD: Modify the slat track
hardware by installing new downstop assembly hardware, and do a
detailed inspection for FOD and a one-time inspection for damage to
the interior surface of the slat can for the inboard and outboard
tracks of slats 2 through 5, and the inboard slats of tracks 1 and
6; and do all applicable related investigative and corrective
actions; in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11,
2011. Do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions
before further flight. Accomplishment of the actions required by
this paragraph terminates the inspections required by paragraphs (g)
and (h) of this AD.
(j) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by
paragraphs (g), (h), and (i) of this AD, if those actions were
performed before the effective date of this AD using Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 1, dated September 24, 2009;
or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 2, dated
January 17, 2011; which are not incorporated by reference in this
AD.
(k) 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.
(4) AMOCs approved previously in accordance with AD 2008-06-29,
Amendment 39-15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008), are approved as
AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of this AD.
[[Page 15335]]
(l) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact Nancy Marsh,
Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft
Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-
3356; phone: (425) 917-6440; fax: (425) 917-6590; email:
nancy.marsh@faa.gov.
(2) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management,
P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, Washington 98124-2207; telephone
206-544-5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may review copies of the referenced
service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601
Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington. For information on the
availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on February 28, 2013.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-05505 Filed 3-8-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
