Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 19093-19096 [2013-05871]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 61 / Friday, March 29, 2013 / Rules and Regulations (3) For Model ERJ 190–100 ECJ airplanes: Embraer Service Bulletin 190LIN–26–0006, Revision 01, dated June 19, 2012. (j) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Cindy Ashforth, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–2768; fax (425) 227– 1149. Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD. (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority (or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product is airworthy before it is returned to service. erowe on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES (k) Related Information Refer to MCAI Brazilian Airworthiness Directives 2012–07–01 and 2012–07–02, both effective July 30, 2012, and the service bulletins identified in paragraphs (k)(1), (k)(2), and (k)(3) of this AD, for related information. (1) Embraer Service Bulletin 170–26–0011, Revision 02, dated October 17, 2012. (2) Embraer Service Bulletin 190–26–0011, Revision 02, dated October 17, 2012. (3) Embraer Service Bulletin 190LIN–26– 0006, Revision 02, dated September 28, 2012. (l) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Embraer Service Bulletin 170–26–0011, Revision 02, October 17, 2012. (ii) Embraer Service Bulletin 190–26–0011, Revision 02, dated October 17, 2012. (iii) Embraer Service Bulletin 190LIN–26– 0006, Revision 02, dated September 28, 2012. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Embraer S.A., Technical Publications Section (PC 060), Av. Brigadeiro ˜ Faria Lima, 2170—Putim—12227–901 Sao Jose dos Campos—SP—BRASIL; telephone +55 12 3927–5852 or +55 12 3309–0732; fax VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:14 Mar 28, 2013 Jkt 229001 +55 12 3927–7546; email distrib@embraer.com.br; Internet https:// www.flyembraer.com. (4) You may review copies of the service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 6, 2013. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–05839 Filed 3–28–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P 19093 of a certain publication listed in the AD as of May 3, 2013. ADDRESSES: For Boeing service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. For Air Cruisers service information identified in this AD, contact Air Cruisers Company, 1747 State Route 34, Wall, NJ 07727–3935; telephone: 732–681–3527; fax: 732–681–9163; email: Aircruisers@zodiacaerospace.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. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Examining the AD Docket Federal Aviation Administration 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 AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The address for the Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is Document Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ana Martinez Hueto, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Branch, ANM–150S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6592; fax: 425–917–6591; email: ana.m.hueto@faa.gov. 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2011–1417; Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–159–AD; Amendment 39–17382; AD 2013–05–10] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 777 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports that escape slides/rafts did not deploy due to galvanic corrosion of the door-mounted slide/raft packboard release mechanisms. This AD requires doing a general visual inspection of the housing assembly of the packboard release mechanism to determine if its surface treatment has been sealed, and if the surface of the housing assembly is unsealed, replacing the housing assembly with a new or serviceable housing assembly. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct corrosion of the packboard release mechanisms, which could interfere with escape slide/raft deployment, prohibit doors from opening in the armed mode, and cause consequent delay and injury during evacuation of passengers and crew from the cabin in the event of an emergency. DATES: This AD is effective May 3, 2013. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to the specified products. That NPRM published in the Federal Register on January 19, 2012 (77 FR 2666). That NPRM proposed to require doing a general visual inspection of the housing assembly of the packboard release mechanism to determine if its surface treatment has been sealed, and if unsealed, replacing the housing assembly with a new or serviceable housing assembly. E:\FR\FM\29MRR1.SGM 29MRR1 19094 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 61 / Friday, March 29, 2013 / Rules and Regulations Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. The following presents the comments received on the proposal (77 FR 2666, January 19, 2012), and the FAA’s response to each comment. Boeing supported the NPRM. American Airlines stated that it has incorporated the requirements of the NPRM into its maintenance program and will continue to do so. United Airlines (United) did not object to the proposed compliance time. Request To Allow Verification of Stencil United requested that we revise the NPRM (77 FR 2666, January 19, 2012) to provide instructions for inspecting for the accomplishment of Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107–25–30, dated September 30, 2010, by verifying the stencil of the ‘‘Inspected and/or Mod per S.B. 777 107–25–30’’ on the girt assembly and upper lacing cover. United also requested that we revise the NPRM to permit operators to demonstrate compliance by means of a technical records review for the accomplishment of Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107–25–30, dated September 30, 2010. We agree because, if the modification has been accomplished before the issuance of the AD, there is no need to duplicate it. We have revised paragraph (g) of this final rule to specify only slides/rafts that have not been modified using Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107–25–30, dated September 30, 2010, require the replacement of the housing assembly. We also have added a new paragraph (h) to this final rule (and reidentified subsequent paragraphs accordingly) to state that verifying the stencil or a review of technical or maintenance records is acceptable for determining if the modification has been accomplished. Request To Revise Service Information Delta Airlines (Delta) requested that we revise the NPRM (77 FR 2666, January 19, 2012) to provide instructions stating how to inspect for discrepant unsealed components. Delta stated that the instructions are referenced within a note in Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107–25–30, dated September 30, 2010. (Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–25– 0507, dated June 30, 2011, references Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107– 25–30, dated September 30, 2010, as an additional source of guidance for inspecting and installing a new housing assembly of the door-mounted slide/raft packboard release mechanism.) Delta stated that it is not recommended to have important instructions listed only within a note. We disagree with the commenter’s request to revise the AD to provide inspection instructions. We reference the Air Cruisers Service Bulletin as an additional source of guidance for accomplishing the actions. To delay this AD so manufacturer service information could be revised would be inappropriate, in light of the identified unsafe condition. We have not changed the AD in this regard. Request To Extend Compliance Time Delta expressed concern that the 42month compliance time would be difficult to meet if replacement part kits were not available upon the issuance of the AD. We infer from this comment that Delta is requesting that the 42month compliance time be extended to allow the part supplier adequate time to make part kits available. We disagree with the request to extend the compliance time because we have confirmed that the supplier has prepared to have parts available and also to support the compliance time of the AD. If adequate parts are not available as planned approaching the end of the compliance period, paragraph (j) of this AD provides operators the opportunity to request approval of an alternative compliance time if data are presented that prove that the alternative compliance time will provide an acceptable level of safety. We have not changed this AD regarding this issue. Request To Provide Credit for Previous Actions United requested that we allow credit for work done prior to the effective date of the AD using Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107–25–30, dated September 30, 2010, since Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107–25–30 is now at Revision 1. We find that no change is necessary because this AD requires that actions be done in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777– 25–0507, dated June 30, 2011, which references Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107–25–30, dated September 30, 2010, as an additional source of guidance for inspecting and installing a new housing assembly of the doormounted slide/raft packboard release mechanism. Boeing has not revised its service bulletin and, therefore, this AD references the original issue of Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107–25– 30, dated September 30, 2010. We have not changed this AD in this regard. Explanation of Change Made to This Final Rule We have changed Note 1 to paragraph (g) of the NPRM (77 FR 2666, January 19, 2012), which defined a general visual inspection, to new paragraph (i) in the regulatory text of this AD, and reidentified subsequent paragraphs and notes accordingly. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD with the changes described previously— and minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes: • Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM (77 FR 2666, January 19, 2012) for correcting the unsafe condition; and • Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM (77 FR 2666, January 19, 2012). We also determined that these changes will not increase the economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of the AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 161 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS erowe on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES Action Labor cost Parts cost Inspection ....................... Between 4 and 16 work-hours × $85 per hour = Between $340 and $1,360. $0 VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:14 Mar 28, 2013 Jkt 229001 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Cost per product Between $340 and $1,360. E:\FR\FM\29MRR1.SGM 29MRR1 Cost on U.S. operators Between $54,740 and $218,960. Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 61 / Friday, March 29, 2013 / Rules and Regulations We estimate the following costs to do any necessary replacements that would be required based on the results of the inspection. We have no way of 19095 determining the number of aircraft that might need these replacements: ON-CONDITION COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Replacement ...................................... 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ................................................................. $137 $222 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 This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under 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. erowe on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:37 Mar 28, 2013 Jkt 229001 the FAA amends 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): ■ 2013–05–10 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39–17382; Docket No. FAA–2011–1417; Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–159–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective May 3, 2013. (b) Affected ADs None. (h) Optional Terminating Action (c) Applicability This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 777–200, –200LR, –300, –300ER, and 777F series airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–25–0507, dated June 30, 2011. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/ Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 25, Equipment/Furnishings. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports that escape slides/rafts did not deploy due to galvanic corrosion of the door-mounted slide/raft packboard release mechanisms. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct corrosion in the packboard release mechanisms, which could interfere with escape slide/raft deployment, prohibit doors from opening in the armed mode, and cause consequent delay and injury during evacuation of passengers and crew from the cabin in the event of an emergency. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Inspection and Replacement Within 42 months after the effective date of this AD, at the applicable passenger/crew entry doors identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–25–0507, dated June 30, 2011, that have not been PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4700 modified as specified in Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107–25–30, dated September 30, 2010 (which is not incorporated by reference in this AD): Do a general visual inspection of the housing assembly of the packboard release mechanism to determine if its surface treatment has been sealed; and if unsealed, before further flight, replace the housing assembly with a new or serviceable housing assembly; in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–25– 0507, dated June 30, 2011. Note 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD: Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–25– 0507, dated June 30, 2011, refers to Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107–25–30, dated September 30, 2010 (which is not incorporated by reference in this AD), as an additional source of guidance for inspecting and installing a new housing assembly of the door-mounted slide/raft packboard release mechanism. Sfmt 4700 Verifying the housing assembly has been replaced with a new or serviceable housing assembly by inspecting for a stencil to verify that there is a stencil marked ‘‘Inspected and/ or Mod per S.B. 777 107–25–30’’ on the girt assembly and upper lacing cover on the housing assembly of the packboard release mechanism; or by reviewing technical or maintenance records, if it can be conclusively determined that the modification specified in Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107–25–30, dated September 30, 2010, (which is not incorporated by reference in this AD), as specified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–25–0507, dated June 30, 2011, has been accomplished; terminates the requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD. (i) Definition of a General Visual Inspection For the purposes of this AD, a general visual inspection is: A visual examination of an interior or exterior area, installation, or assembly to detect obvious damage, failure, or irregularity. This level of inspection is made from within touching distance unless otherwise specified. A mirror may be necessary to ensure visual access to all surfaces in the inspection area. This level of inspection is made under normally available lighting conditions such as daylight, hangar lighting, flashlight, or droplight and may require removal or opening of access panels or doors. Stands, ladders, or platforms may be required to gain proximity to the area being checked. E:\FR\FM\29MRR1.SGM 29MRR1 19096 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 61 / Friday, March 29, 2013 / Rules and Regulations (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the attention of the person identified in the Related Information section of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANMSeattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. (k) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Ana Martinez Hueto, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Branch, ANM–150S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6592; fax: 425–917–6591; email: ana.m.hueto@faa.gov. (2) For Air Cruisers service information identified in this AD, contact Air Cruisers Company, 1747 State Route 34, Wall, NJ 07727–3935; telephone: 732 681–3527; fax: 732 681–9163; email: Aircruisers@zodiacaerospace.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. erowe on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES (l) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–25–0507, dated June 30, 2011. (ii) Reserved. (3) For Boeing service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P. O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766– 5680; Internet https:// www.myboeingfleet.com. (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:14 Mar 28, 2013 Jkt 229001 Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 5, 2013. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–05871 Filed 3–28–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2012–0651; Airspace Docket No. 12–AGL–7] Amendment of Class E Airspace; Middletown, OH Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: SUMMARY: This action amends Class E airspace at Middletown, OH. Additional controlled airspace is necessary to accommodate new Area Navigation (RNAV) Standard Instrument Approach Procedures at Middletown Regional/ Hook Field Airport. The airport’s nondirectional beacon’s (NDB) geographic coordinates are also updated, as well as the airport name. The FAA is taking this action to enhance the safety and management of Instrument Flight Rule (IFR) operations at the airport. DATES: Effective date: 0901 UTC, June 27, 2013. The Director of the Federal Register approves this incorporation by reference action under 1 CFR part 51, subject to the annual revision of FAA Order 7400.9 and publication of conforming amendments. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Scott Enander, Central Service Center, Operations Support Group, Federal Aviation Administration, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, TX 76137; telephone 817–321– 7716. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: History On November 30, 2012, the FAA published in the Federal Register a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend Class E airspace for the Middletown, OH, area, creating additional controlled airspace at Middletown Regional/Hook Field Airport (77 FR 71364) Docket No. FAA– 2012–0651. Interested parties were invited to participate in this rulemaking effort by submitting written comments on the proposal to the FAA. No comments were received. Class E airspace designations are published in PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 paragraph 6005 of FAA Order 7400.9W dated August 8, 2012, and effective September 15, 2012, which is incorporated by reference in 14 CFR 71.1. The Class E airspace designations listed in this document will be published subsequently in the Order. The Rule This action amends Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) Part 71 by amending Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface to ensure that required controlled airspace exists from the 6.5-mile radius of the airport to 12.3 miles northeast of the airport, 11.2 miles southwest of the airport, and 7 miles southwest of the Hook Field NDB navigation aid, to contain aircraft executing new standard instrument approach procedures at Middletown Regional/Hook Field Airport, Middletown, OH. This action enhances the safety and management of IFR operations at the airport. The geographic coordinates of the Middletown Regional/Hook Field airport, formerly known as Hook Field Airport, and the Hook Field NDB are also updated to coincide with the FAA’s aeronautical database. The FAA has determined that this regulation only involves an established body of technical regulations for which frequent and routine amendments are necessary to keep them operationally current. Therefore, this regulation: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; (2) is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034; February 26, 1979); and (3) does not warrant preparation of a regulatory evaluation as the anticipated impact is so minimal. Since this is a routine matter that will only affect air traffic procedures and air navigation, it is certified that this rule, when promulgated, will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. The FAA’s authority to issue rules regarding aviation safety is found in Title 49 of the U.S. Code. Subtitle 1, Section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs, describes in more detail the scope of the agency’s authority. This rulemaking is promulgated under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that section, the FAA is charged with prescribing regulations to assign the use of airspace necessary to ensure the safety of aircraft and the efficient use of airspace. This regulation is within the scope of that authority as it amends E:\FR\FM\29MRR1.SGM 29MRR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 61 (Friday, March 29, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 19093-19096]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-05871]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2011-1417; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-159-AD; 
Amendment 39-17382; AD 2013-05-10]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain 
The Boeing Company Model 777 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports 
that escape slides/rafts did not deploy due to galvanic corrosion of 
the door-mounted slide/raft packboard release mechanisms. This AD 
requires doing a general visual inspection of the housing assembly of 
the packboard release mechanism to determine if its surface treatment 
has been sealed, and if the surface of the housing assembly is 
unsealed, replacing the housing assembly with a new or serviceable 
housing assembly. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct 
corrosion of the packboard release mechanisms, which could interfere 
with escape slide/raft deployment, prohibit doors from opening in the 
armed mode, and cause consequent delay and injury during evacuation of 
passengers and crew from the cabin in the event of an emergency.

DATES: This AD is effective May 3, 2013.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of May 3, 2013.

ADDRESSES: For Boeing service information identified in this AD, 
contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services 
Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 
206-544-5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. For Air Cruisers service information identified 
in this AD, contact Air Cruisers Company, 1747 State Route 34, Wall, NJ 
07727-3935; telephone: 732-681-3527; fax: 732-681-9163; email: 
Aircruisers@zodiacaerospace.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 AD, the regulatory evaluation, 
any comments received, and other information. The address for the 
Docket Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is Document Management Facility, 
U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West 
Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., 
Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ana Martinez Hueto, Aerospace 
Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Branch, ANM-150S, FAA, 
Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., 
Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6592; fax: 425-917-6591; email: 
ana.m.hueto@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 to include an AD that would apply to the specified products. 
That NPRM published in the Federal Register on January 19, 2012 (77 FR 
2666). That NPRM proposed to require doing a general visual inspection 
of the housing assembly of the packboard release mechanism to determine 
if its surface treatment has been sealed, and if unsealed, replacing 
the housing assembly with a new or serviceable housing assembly.

[[Page 19094]]

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the proposal 
(77 FR 2666, January 19, 2012), and the FAA's response to each comment. 
Boeing supported the NPRM. American Airlines stated that it has 
incorporated the requirements of the NPRM into its maintenance program 
and will continue to do so. United Airlines (United) did not object to 
the proposed compliance time.

Request To Allow Verification of Stencil

    United requested that we revise the NPRM (77 FR 2666, January 19, 
2012) to provide instructions for inspecting for the accomplishment of 
Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107-25-30, dated September 30, 2010, 
by verifying the stencil of the ``Inspected and/or Mod per S.B. 777 
107-25-30'' on the girt assembly and upper lacing cover. United also 
requested that we revise the NPRM to permit operators to demonstrate 
compliance by means of a technical records review for the 
accomplishment of Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107-25-30, dated 
September 30, 2010.
    We agree because, if the modification has been accomplished before 
the issuance of the AD, there is no need to duplicate it. We have 
revised paragraph (g) of this final rule to specify only slides/rafts 
that have not been modified using Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 
107-25-30, dated September 30, 2010, require the replacement of the 
housing assembly. We also have added a new paragraph (h) to this final 
rule (and re-identified subsequent paragraphs accordingly) to state 
that verifying the stencil or a review of technical or maintenance 
records is acceptable for determining if the modification has been 
accomplished.

Request To Revise Service Information

    Delta Airlines (Delta) requested that we revise the NPRM (77 FR 
2666, January 19, 2012) to provide instructions stating how to inspect 
for discrepant unsealed components. Delta stated that the instructions 
are referenced within a note in Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107-
25-30, dated September 30, 2010. (Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 777-25-0507, dated June 30, 2011, references Air Cruisers 
Service Bulletin 777 107-25-30, dated September 30, 2010, as an 
additional source of guidance for inspecting and installing a new 
housing assembly of the door-mounted slide/raft packboard release 
mechanism.) Delta stated that it is not recommended to have important 
instructions listed only within a note.
    We disagree with the commenter's request to revise the AD to 
provide inspection instructions. We reference the Air Cruisers Service 
Bulletin as an additional source of guidance for accomplishing the 
actions. To delay this AD so manufacturer service information could be 
revised would be inappropriate, in light of the identified unsafe 
condition. We have not changed the AD in this regard.

Request To Extend Compliance Time

    Delta expressed concern that the 42-month compliance time would be 
difficult to meet if replacement part kits were not available upon the 
issuance of the AD. We infer from this comment that Delta is requesting 
that the 42-month compliance time be extended to allow the part 
supplier adequate time to make part kits available.
    We disagree with the request to extend the compliance time because 
we have confirmed that the supplier has prepared to have parts 
available and also to support the compliance time of the AD. If 
adequate parts are not available as planned approaching the end of the 
compliance period, paragraph (j) of this AD provides operators the 
opportunity to request approval of an alternative compliance time if 
data are presented that prove that the alternative compliance time will 
provide an acceptable level of safety. We have not changed this AD 
regarding this issue.

Request To Provide Credit for Previous Actions

    United requested that we allow credit for work done prior to the 
effective date of the AD using Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107-
25-30, dated September 30, 2010, since Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 
777 107-25-30 is now at Revision 1.
    We find that no change is necessary because this AD requires that 
actions be done in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-25-0507, dated June 30, 
2011, which references Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107-25-30, 
dated September 30, 2010, as an additional source of guidance for 
inspecting and installing a new housing assembly of the door-mounted 
slide/raft packboard release mechanism. Boeing has not revised its 
service bulletin and, therefore, this AD references the original issue 
of Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107-25-30, dated September 30, 
2010. We have not changed this AD in this regard.

Explanation of Change Made to This Final Rule

    We have changed Note 1 to paragraph (g) of the NPRM (77 FR 2666, 
January 19, 2012), which defined a general visual inspection, to new 
paragraph (i) in the regulatory text of this AD, and re-identified 
subsequent paragraphs and notes accordingly.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, 
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting 
the AD with the changes described previously--and minor editorial 
changes. We have determined that these minor changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM (77 FR 2666, January 19, 2012) for correcting the unsafe 
condition; and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM (77 FR 2666, January 19, 2012).
    We also determined that these changes will not increase the 
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of the AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 161 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                 Cost on U.S.
             Action                      Labor cost         Parts cost    Cost per product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection......................  Between 4 and 16 work-           $0   Between $340 and     Between $54,740 and
                                   hours x $85 per hour =                $1,360.              $218,960.
                                   Between $340 and $1,360.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 19095]]

    We estimate the following costs to do any necessary replacements 
that would be required based on the results of the inspection. We have 
no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need these 
replacements:

                                               On-condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                      Cost per
                    Action                                   Labor cost                Parts cost      product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacement..................................  1 work-hour x $85 per hour = $85.....         $137          $222
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

    This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, 
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or 
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various 
levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under 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.

Adoption of the Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

2013-05-10 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-17382; Docket No. FAA-
2011-1417; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-159-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective May 3, 2013.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 777-200, -200LR, -
300, -300ER, and 777F series airplanes, certificated in any 
category, as identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 
777-25-0507, dated June 30, 2011.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport Association 
(ATA) of America Code 25, Equipment/Furnishings.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports that escape slides/rafts did not 
deploy due to galvanic corrosion of the door-mounted slide/raft 
packboard release mechanisms. We are issuing this AD to detect and 
correct corrosion in the packboard release mechanisms, which could 
interfere with escape slide/raft deployment, prohibit doors from 
opening in the armed mode, and cause consequent delay and injury 
during evacuation of passengers and crew from the cabin in the event 
of an emergency.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Inspection and Replacement

    Within 42 months after the effective date of this AD, at the 
applicable passenger/crew entry doors identified in Boeing Special 
Attention Service Bulletin 777-25-0507, dated June 30, 2011, that 
have not been modified as specified in Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 
777 107-25-30, dated September 30, 2010 (which is not incorporated 
by reference in this AD): Do a general visual inspection of the 
housing assembly of the packboard release mechanism to determine if 
its surface treatment has been sealed; and if unsealed, before 
further flight, replace the housing assembly with a new or 
serviceable housing assembly; in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-25-
0507, dated June 30, 2011.

    Note 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD: Boeing Special Attention 
Service Bulletin 777-25-0507, dated June 30, 2011, refers to Air 
Cruisers Service Bulletin 777 107-25-30, dated September 30, 2010 
(which is not incorporated by reference in this AD), as an 
additional source of guidance for inspecting and installing a new 
housing assembly of the door-mounted slide/raft packboard release 
mechanism.

(h) Optional Terminating Action

    Verifying the housing assembly has been replaced with a new or 
serviceable housing assembly by inspecting for a stencil to verify 
that there is a stencil marked ``Inspected and/or Mod per S.B. 777 
107-25-30'' on the girt assembly and upper lacing cover on the 
housing assembly of the packboard release mechanism; or by reviewing 
technical or maintenance records, if it can be conclusively 
determined that the modification specified in Air Cruisers Service 
Bulletin 777 107-25-30, dated September 30, 2010, (which is not 
incorporated by reference in this AD), as specified in Boeing 
Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-25-0507, dated June 30, 2011, 
has been accomplished; terminates the requirements of paragraph (g) 
of this AD.

(i) Definition of a General Visual Inspection

    For the purposes of this AD, a general visual inspection is: A 
visual examination of an interior or exterior area, installation, or 
assembly to detect obvious damage, failure, or irregularity. This 
level of inspection is made from within touching distance unless 
otherwise specified. A mirror may be necessary to ensure visual 
access to all surfaces in the inspection area. This level of 
inspection is made under normally available lighting conditions such 
as daylight, hangar lighting, flashlight, or droplight and may 
require removal or opening of access panels or doors. Stands, 
ladders, or platforms may be required to gain proximity to the area 
being checked.

[[Page 19096]]

(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.

(k) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Ana Martinez 
Hueto, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems 
Branch, ANM-150S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6592; 
fax: 425-917-6591; email: ana.m.hueto@faa.gov.
    (2) For Air Cruisers service information identified in this AD, 
contact Air Cruisers Company, 1747 State Route 34, Wall, NJ 07727-
3935; telephone: 732 681-3527; fax: 732 681-9163; email: 
Aircruisers@zodiacaerospace.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.

(l) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-25-0507, dated 
June 30, 2011.
    (ii) Reserved.
    (3) For Boeing service information identified in this AD, 
contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services 
Management, P. O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; 
telephone 206-544-5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet 
https://www.myboeingfleet.com.
    (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
425-227-1221.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 5, 2013.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-05871 Filed 3-28-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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