Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 18917-18920 [2013-07205]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 60 / Thursday, March 28, 2013 / Proposed Rules entities or members of the public that would constitute collections of information requiring approval under the Paperwork Reduction Act, 44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq. List of Subjects in 12 CFR Part 1090 Consumer protection, Credit. Authority and Issuance For the reasons set forth in the preamble, the Bureau proposes to amend 12 CFR Part 1090, Subpart B, to read as follows: PART 1090—DEFINING LARGER PARTICIPANTS OF CERTAIN CONSUMER FINANCIAL PRODUCT AND SERVICE MARKETS 1. The authority citation for part 1090 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 12 U.S.C. 5514(a)(1)(B); 12 U.S.C. 5514(a)(2); 12 U.S.C. 5514(b)(7)(A); and 12 U.S.C. 5512(b)(1). 2. Add a new § 1090.106 to subpart B to read as follows: ■ mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS § 1090.106 Student loan servicing market. (a) Market-Related definitions. As used in this subpart: Account volume means the number of accounts with respect to which a nonbank covered person is considered to perform student loan servicing, calculated as follows: (i) Number of accounts. A nonbank covered person has at least one account for each student or prior student with respect to whom the nonbank covered person performs student loan servicing. If a nonbank covered person is receiving separate fees for performing student loan servicing with respect to a given student or prior student, the nonbank covered person has one account for each stream of fees to which the person is entitled. (ii) Time of measurement. The number of accounts is counted as of December 31 of the prior calendar year. (iii) Affiliated companies. (A) The account volume of a nonbank covered person is the sum of the number of accounts of that nonbank covered person and of any affiliated companies of that person. (B) If two persons become affiliated companies, each person’s number of accounts as of the prior calendar year’s December 31 is included in the total account volume. (C) If two affiliated companies cease to be affiliated companies, the number of accounts of each continues to be included in the other’s account volume until the succeeding December 31. Post-secondary education expenses means any of the expenses that are VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:19 Mar 27, 2013 Jkt 229001 included as part of the cost of attendance of a student as defined in 20 U.S.C. 1087ll. Post-secondary education loan means an extension of credit that is made, insured or guaranteed under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070 et seq.) or that is extended to a consumer with the expectation that the funds extended will be used in whole or in part to pay post-secondary education expenses. A loan that is extended in order to refinance or consolidate a consumer’s existing postsecondary education loans is also a post-secondary education loan. However, no extension of credit under an open-end credit plan (as defined in Regulation Z, 12 CFR 1026.2(a)(20)) or loan that is secured by real property is a post-secondary education loan, regardless of the purpose for the extension of credit. Student loan servicing means receiving any scheduled periodic payments from a borrower pursuant to the terms of any post-secondary education loan, and making the payments of principal and interest and other amounts with respect to the amounts received from the borrower as may be required pursuant to the terms of the post-secondary education loan or of the contract governing the servicing; or, during a period when payment on a post-secondary education loan is deferred, maintaining account records for the loan and communicating with the borrower regarding the loan, on behalf of the loan’s holder. Student loan servicing also includes interactions with a borrower to facilitate such receiving or making of payments or maintaining of account records and communicating with borrowers. Among the interactions that constitute student loan servicing are activities to help delinquent borrowers avoid or prevent default on obligations arising from post-secondary education loans. (b) Test to define larger participants. A nonbank covered person that offers or provides student loan servicing is a larger participant of the student loan servicing market if the nonbank covered person’s account volume exceeds one million. Dated: March 13, 2013. Richard Cordray, Director, Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection. [FR Doc. 2013–06291 Filed 3–27–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4810–AM–P PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 18917 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0211; Directorate Identifier 2012–NM–230–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 adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 747–100, –100B, –100B SUD, –200B, –200C, –200F, –300, –400, –400D, –400F, and 747SR series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of cracking at the aft upper corner of the main entry door (MED) 5 cutout. This proposed AD would require inspecting for the presence of repairs and measuring the edge margin at certain fastener locations around the upper aft corner of the door cutout, inspecting for any cracking of the fuselage skin assembly and bear strap in the aft upper corner area of the door cutout, and repairing or modifying the fuselage skin assembly and bear strap if necessary. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct cracking of the skin and bear straps at the aft upper corner of the MED 5 cutout, which could result in in-flight depressurization. We must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 13, 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 DATES: E:\FR\FM\28MRP1.SGM 28MRP1 18918 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 60 / Thursday, March 28, 2013 / Proposed Rules review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 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: Bill Ashforth, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: (425) 917–6432; fax: (425) 917– 6590; email: bill.ashforth@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– 2013–0211; Directorate Identifier 2012– NM–230–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed AD because of those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. Discussion We received a report of a 3.65-inchlong crack that was found at the aft upper corner of the right MED 5 cutout on an airplane with 11,047 total flight cycles. The skin (including the bonded doubler and tripler) and bear strap were found to be cracked. This crack extended up to the door edge frame. That report also stated that cracks that did not extend up to the door edge frame were found on more than 30 airplanes. Those affected airplanes had flown between 10,042 and 31,140 total flight cycles. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could result in in-flight depressurization. Relevant Service Information We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2839, dated November 6, 2012. For information on the procedures and compliance times, see this service information at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for Docket No. FAA–2013–0211. 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, except as discussed under ‘‘Differences Between the Proposed AD and the Service Information.’’ 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 actions, 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. Differences Between the Proposed AD and the Service Information Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747– 53A2839, dated November 6, 2012, specifies to contact the manufacturer for disposition of certain repair conditions, but this proposed AD would require repairing those conditions in one of the following ways: • In accordance with a method that we approve; or • Using data that meet the certification basis of the airplane, and that have been approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) whom we have authorized to make those findings. Table 3 in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2839, dated November 6, 2012, specifies post-modification inspections at the aft corner of the MED 5 cutouts, which may be used in support of compliance with section 121.1109(c)(2) or 129.109(b)(2) of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 121.1109(c)(2) or 129.109(b)(2)). However, this NPRM does not propose to require those post-modification inspections. This difference has been coordinated with Boeing. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 246 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Inspect for repair and measure edge margin. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS Action 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 per door (up to 2 doors per airplane). None ..................... Up to $170 ............ We estimate the following costs to do any necessary repetitive inspections, repairs or modifications that would be VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:19 Mar 27, 2013 Jkt 229001 required based on the results of the proposed inspection. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Cost on U.S. operators Up to $41,820. might need these inspections, repairs or modification: E:\FR\FM\28MRP1.SGM 28MRP1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 60 / Thursday, March 28, 2013 / Proposed Rules 18919 ON-CONDITION COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Repetitive inspection of un-repaired area ........ 6 work-hours × $85 per hour = $510 per door, per inspection cycle. 10 work-hours × $85 per hour = $850 per door. None ........................... $510 per door, per inspection cycle. Between $8,504 and $18,276 per door. Repair or modification ...................................... 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. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS 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. VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:19 Mar 27, 2013 Jkt 229001 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– 2013–0211; Directorate Identifier 2012– NM–230–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by May 13, 2013. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 747–100, –100B, –100B SUD, –200B, –200C, –200F, –300, –400, –400D, –400F, and 747SR series airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2839, dated November 6, 2012. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/ Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of cracking at the aft upper corner of the main entry door (MED) 5 cutout. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking of the skin and bear straps at the aft upper corner of the MED 5 cutout, which could result in in-flight depressurization. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Inspections and Measurement Except as specified in paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, at the applicable time specified in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2839, dated November 6, 2012; Do a detailed inspection for the presence of repairs at the aft upper corner of the MED 5 cutout, and measure the PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Between $7,654 and $17,426 per door. edge margin at certain fastener locations around the corner of the door cutout, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2839, dated November 6, 2012. (1) If a repair is found: Before further flight, inspect or change the repair, using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (j) of this AD. (2) If no repair is found, except as specified in paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, at the applicable time specified in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2839, dated November 6, 2012, do detailed and high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections for any cracking of the fuselage skin assembly and bear strap in the aft upper corner area of the door cutout, as applicable, and do all applicable corrective actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2839, dated November 6, 2012, except as required by paragraph (h)(2) of this AD. Do all applicable corrective actions before further flight. Options provided in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2839, dated November 6, 2012, for accomplishing the corrective action are acceptable for the corresponding requirements of this paragraph, provided that the inspections and preventative modification are done at the applicable times in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2839, dated November 6, 2012. (h) Exceptions to the Service Information (1) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2839, dated November 6, 2012, specifies compliance times ‘‘after the original issue date of this service bulletin,’’ this AD requires compliance within the specified compliance times ‘‘after the effective date of this AD.’’ (2) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2839, dated November 6, 2012, specifies to contact Boeing for appropriate action: Before further flight, do the action using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (j) of this AD. (i) Post-Repair/Post-Modification Inspections The post-repair or post-modification inspections specified in Table 3 of paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2839, dated November 6, 2012, are not required by this AD. Note 1 to paragraph (i) of this AD: The post-repair or post-modification inspection specified in Table 3 of paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2839, dated November 6, 2012, may be used in support of compliance with section 121.1109(c)(2) or 129.109(b)(2) E:\FR\FM\28MRP1.SGM 28MRP1 18920 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 60 / Thursday, March 28, 2013 / Proposed Rules of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 121.1109(c)(2) or 14 CFR 129.109(b)(2)). The corresponding actions specified in the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2839, dated November 6, 2012, are not required by this AD. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) RIN 2120–AA64 (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. Airworthiness Directives; Austro Engine GmbH Engines (k) Related Information mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS (1) For more information about this AD, contact Bill Ashforth, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: (425) 917–6432; fax: (425) 917–6590; email: bill.ashforth@faa.gov. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone 206– 544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate; 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. BILLING CODE 4910–13–P VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:19 Mar 27, 2013 Jkt 229001 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0164; Directorate Identifier 2013–NE–10–AD] Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Austro Engine GmbH model E4 engines. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of several power loss events due to fracture of the waste gate controller lever. This proposed AD would require removing from service certain part number (P/N) waste gate controllers. We are proposing this AD to prevent engine power loss or in-flight shutdown, which could result in loss of control and damage to the airplane. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 28, 2013. ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov and follow the instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Mail: Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, Washington, DC 20590–0001. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. • Fax: 202–493–2251. For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Austro Engine GmbH, Rudolf-Diesel-Strasse 11, A–2700 Weiner Neustadt, Austria, phone: +43 2622 23000; fax: +43 2622 23000–2711, or go to: www.austroengine.at. You may view this service information at the FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 781– 238–7125. 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–2013–0164; Directorate Identifier 2013–NE–10–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 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 with FAA personnel concerning this proposed AD. Using the search function of the Web site, anyone can find and read the comments in any of our dockets, including, if provided, the name of the individual who sent the comment (or signed the comment on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). You may review the DOT’s complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477–78). Discussion Examining the AD Docket The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2013–0025, dated February 6, 2013 (referred to herein after as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: 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, Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 20, 2013. Jeffrey E. Duven, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–07205 Filed 3–27–13; 8:45 am] Federal Aviation Administration 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 (phone: 800–647–5527) is the same as the Mail address provided in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Frederick Zink, Aerospace Engineer, Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781–238–7779; fax: 781–238– 7199; email: frederick.zink@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Several power loss events have been reported on Austro E4 engines, due to fracture of the waste gate controller lever. This condition, if not corrected, could lead to further cases of power loss events, possibly PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\28MRP1.SGM 28MRP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 60 (Thursday, March 28, 2013)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 18917-18920]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-07205]


=======================================================================
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2013-0211; Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-230-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
certain The Boeing Company Model 747-100, -100B, -100B SUD, -200B, -
200C, -200F, -300, -400, -400D, -400F, and 747SR series airplanes. This 
proposed AD was prompted by reports of cracking at the aft upper corner 
of the main entry door (MED) 5 cutout. This proposed AD would require 
inspecting for the presence of repairs and measuring the edge margin at 
certain fastener locations around the upper aft corner of the door 
cutout, inspecting for any cracking of the fuselage skin assembly and 
bear strap in the aft upper corner area of the door cutout, and 
repairing or modifying the fuselage skin assembly and bear strap if 
necessary. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct cracking of 
the skin and bear straps at the aft upper corner of the MED 5 cutout, 
which could result in in-flight depressurization.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 13, 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

[[Page 18918]]

review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, 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: Bill Ashforth, Aerospace Engineer, 
Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: (425) 917-6432; 
fax: (425) 917-6590; email: bill.ashforth@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-2013-0211; 
Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-230-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed AD because of those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    We received a report of a 3.65-inch-long crack that was found at 
the aft upper corner of the right MED 5 cutout on an airplane with 
11,047 total flight cycles. The skin (including the bonded doubler and 
tripler) and bear strap were found to be cracked. This crack extended 
up to the door edge frame. That report also stated that cracks that did 
not extend up to the door edge frame were found on more than 30 
airplanes. Those affected airplanes had flown between 10,042 and 31,140 
total flight cycles. This condition, if not detected and corrected, 
could result in in-flight depressurization.

Relevant Service Information

    We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2839, dated 
November 6, 2012. For information on the procedures and compliance 
times, see this service information at https://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for Docket No. FAA-2013-0211.

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

Differences Between the Proposed AD and the Service Information

    Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2839, dated November 6, 2012, 
specifies to contact the manufacturer for disposition of certain repair 
conditions, but this proposed AD would require repairing those 
conditions in one of the following ways:
     In accordance with a method that we approve; or
     Using data that meet the certification basis of the 
airplane, and that have been approved by the Boeing Commercial 
Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) whom we have 
authorized to make those findings.
    Table 3 in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 747-53A2839, dated November 6, 2012, specifies post-
modification inspections at the aft corner of the MED 5 cutouts, which 
may be used in support of compliance with section 121.1109(c)(2) or 
129.109(b)(2) of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 
121.1109(c)(2) or 129.109(b)(2)). However, this NPRM does not propose 
to require those post-modification inspections. This difference has 
been coordinated with Boeing.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 246 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                 Cost on U.S.
             Action                   Labor cost          Parts cost       Cost per product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspect for repair and measure    1 work-hour x $85   None..............  Up to $170........  Up to $41,820.
 edge margin.                      per hour = $85
                                   per door (up to 2
                                   doors per
                                   airplane).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We estimate the following costs to do any necessary repetitive 
inspections, repairs or modifications that would be required based on 
the results of the proposed inspection. We have no way of determining 
the number of aircraft that might need these inspections, repairs or 
modification:

[[Page 18919]]



                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                Action                        Labor cost               Parts cost            Cost per product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Repetitive inspection of un-repaired   6 work-hours x $85 per   None...................  $510 per door, per
 area.                                  hour = $510 per door,                             inspection cycle.
                                        per inspection cycle.
Repair or modification...............  10 work-hours x $85 per  Between $7,654 and       Between $8,504 and
                                        hour = $850 per door.    $17,426 per door.        $18,276 per door.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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-2013-0211; Directorate Identifier 
2012-NM-230-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by May 13, 2013.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 747-100, -100B, -
100B SUD, -200B, -200C, -200F, -300, -400, -400D, -400F, and 747SR 
series airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in 
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2839, dated November 6, 2012.

(d) Subject

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

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports of cracking at the aft upper 
corner of the main entry door (MED) 5 cutout. We are issuing this AD 
to detect and correct cracking of the skin and bear straps at the 
aft upper corner of the MED 5 cutout, which could result in in-
flight depressurization.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Inspections and Measurement

    Except as specified in paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, at the 
applicable time specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of 
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2839, dated November 6, 2012; 
Do a detailed inspection for the presence of repairs at the aft 
upper corner of the MED 5 cutout, and measure the edge margin at 
certain fastener locations around the corner of the door cutout, in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert 
Service Bulletin 747-53A2839, dated November 6, 2012.
    (1) If a repair is found: Before further flight, inspect or 
change the repair, using a method approved in accordance with the 
procedures specified in paragraph (j) of this AD.
    (2) If no repair is found, except as specified in paragraph 
(h)(1) of this AD, at the applicable time specified in paragraph 
1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2839, 
dated November 6, 2012, do detailed and high frequency eddy current 
(HFEC) inspections for any cracking of the fuselage skin assembly 
and bear strap in the aft upper corner area of the door cutout, as 
applicable, and do all applicable corrective actions, in accordance 
with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 747-53A2839, dated November 6, 2012, except as required by 
paragraph (h)(2) of this AD. Do all applicable corrective actions 
before further flight. Options provided in Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 747-53A2839, dated November 6, 2012, for accomplishing the 
corrective action are acceptable for the corresponding requirements 
of this paragraph, provided that the inspections and preventative 
modification are done at the applicable times in paragraph 1.E., 
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2839, dated 
November 6, 2012.

(h) Exceptions to the Service Information

    (1) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2839, dated 
November 6, 2012, specifies compliance times ``after the original 
issue date of this service bulletin,'' this AD requires compliance 
within the specified compliance times ``after the effective date of 
this AD.''
    (2) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2839, dated 
November 6, 2012, specifies to contact Boeing for appropriate 
action: Before further flight, do the action using a method approved 
in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (j) of this 
AD.

(i) Post-Repair/Post-Modification Inspections

    The post-repair or post-modification inspections specified in 
Table 3 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 747-53A2839, dated November 6, 2012, are not required by 
this AD.

    Note 1 to paragraph (i) of this AD: The post-repair or post-
modification inspection specified in Table 3 of paragraph 1.E., 
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2839, dated 
November 6, 2012, may be used in support of compliance with section 
121.1109(c)(2) or 129.109(b)(2)

[[Page 18920]]

of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 121.1109(c)(2) or 14 CFR 
129.109(b)(2)). The corresponding actions specified in the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-
53A2839, dated November 6, 2012, are not required by 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 Bill Ashforth, 
Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft 
Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; 
phone: (425) 917-6432; fax: (425) 917-6590; email: 
bill.ashforth@faa.gov.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 
P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-
5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may review copies of the referenced 
service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate; 1601 
Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 20, 2013.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-07205 Filed 3-27-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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