Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 25369-25372 [2013-09114]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 84 / Wednesday, May 1, 2013 / Rules and Regulations 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 to the extent that it justifies making a regulatory distinction; 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. We prepared an economic evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket. 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 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): ■ 2012–25–01 Eurocopter France: Amendment 39–17282; Docket No. FAA–2012–0631; Directorate Identifier 2011–SW–021–AD. wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with RULES (a) Applicability This AD applies to Eurocopter France Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350C, AS350D, AS350D1, AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N, and AS355NP helicopters with an Aerazur emergency flotation gear attachment bracket, part number 158172, 158173, 158288, or 158289, installed, certificated in any category. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as a crack in an attachment bracket of the emergency flotation gear. This condition could result in failure of the emergency flotation system and loss of float stability in the event of a water landing. (c) Effective Date This AD becomes effective June 5, 2013. VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:02 Apr 30, 2013 Jkt 229001 (d) Compliance You are responsible for performing each action required by this AD within the specified compliance time unless accomplished previously. (e) Required Actions Within 110 hours time-in-service or 3 months, whichever occurs first, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 13 months: (1) Using a 5X or higher power magnifying glass, visually inspect the front emergency floatation gear attachment bracket, section B– B, item (e) in Areas F, G, and H of Figure 1 of Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin No. AS350–05.00.63 or No. AS355–05.00.58, both Revision 1, and both dated April 18, 2011, as applicable to your model helicopter (ASB); and the rear emergency flotation gear attachment bracket, section A–A, item (a) in Areas D and E of Figure 1 of the ASB, for a crack. (2) If there is a crack, replace the cracked emergency floatation gear attachment bracket with an airworthy emergency floatation gear attachment bracket prior to reinstallation of the emergency flotation equipment. (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Robert Grant, Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222– 5110; email robert.grant@faa.gov. (2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that you notify your principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office or certificate holding district office, before operating any aircraft complying with this AD through an AMOC. (g) Additional Information The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety Agency AD No. 2011–0072, dated April 20, 2011. (h) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 2560, Emergency Equipment. (i) 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) Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. AS350–05.00.63, Revision 1, dated April 18, 2011. (ii) Eurocopter ASB No. AS355–05.00.58, Revision 1, dated April 18, 2011. (3) For Eurocopter service information identified in this AD, contact American Eurocopter Corporation, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, Texas 75052; telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax (972) PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 25369 641–3775; or at https://www.eurocopter.com/ techpub. (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110. (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 Fort Worth, Texas, on April 12, 2013. Lance T. Gant, Acting Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–09437 Filed 4–30–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2012–0936; Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–269–AD; Amendment 39–17433; AD 2013–08–16] 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 737–700 and –700C series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of early fatigue cracks at chem-mill areas on the crown skin panels. This AD requires repetitive inspections for cracking of the fuselage skin at certain locations at chem-mill areas, and repair if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking of the skin panel at the specified chem-mill step locations, which could result in rapid decompression of the airplane. DATES: This AD is effective June 5, 2013. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of June 5, 2013. ADDRESSES: 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:// E:\FR\FM\01MYR1.SGM 01MYR1 25370 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 84 / Wednesday, May 1, 2013 / Rules and Regulations www.myboeingfleet.com. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this 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: Wayne Lockett, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: (425) 917–6447; fax: (425) 917–6590; email: Wayne.Lockett@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 September 18, 2012 (77 FR 57536). That NPRM proposed to require repetitive inspections for cracking of the fuselage skin at certain locations at chem-mill areas, and repair if necessary. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. The following presents the comments received on the proposal (77 FR 57536, September 18, 2012) and the FAA’s response to each comment. Request To Revise Federal Aviation Regulations Citations Boeing stated that references to section 129.109(c)(2) of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 129.109(c)(2)) are incorrect, since that paragraph does not exist in the current revision of the Federal Aviation Regulations, and that the correct paragraph reference is section 129.109(b)(2). Boeing noted that this error occurred in the second paragraph of the ‘‘Differences Between the Proposed AD and the Service Information’’ section, and in Note 1 to paragraph (k) of the proposed AD (77 FR 57536, September 18, 2012). We agree that the specified references are incorrect. We agree that the citation in the proposed AD (77 FR 57536, September 18, 2012) is inaccurate, but since that section of the preamble does not reappear in this AD, no corresponding change to this AD is necessary. We have corrected the citation in Note 1 to paragraph (k) of this AD. Winglet Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) Comment Aviation Partners Boeing stated that the installation of winglets per STC ST00830SE (https://rgl.faa.gov/ Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/ rgstc.nsf/0/408E012E008616A 7862578880060456C?OpenDocument& Highlight=st00830se) does not affect the actions specified in the NPRM (77 FR 57536, September 18, 2012). We concur. We have added paragraph (c)(2) to this AD to state that installation of STC ST00830SE (https://rgl.faa.gov/ Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/ rgstc.nsf/0/408E012E008616A 7862578880060456C?Open Document&Highlight=st00830se) does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST00830SE is installed, a ‘‘change in product’’ alternative method of compliance (AMOC) approval request is not necessary to comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 39.17. 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 57536, September 18, 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 57536, September 18, 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 545 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Inspection of chem-mill step locations. 37 work-hours × $85 per hour = $3,145, per inspection cycle. None ...... $3,145, per inspection cycle .... wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with RULES We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide cost estimates for the on-condition actions specified in this AD. Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA’s authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, describes in more VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:02 Apr 30, 2013 Jkt 229001 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 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Cost on U.S. operators $1,714,025, per inspection cycle. 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 E:\FR\FM\01MYR1.SGM 01MYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 84 / Wednesday, May 1, 2013 / Rules and Regulations 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 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): ■ 2013–08–16 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39–17433; Docket No. FAA–2012–0936; Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–269–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective June 5, 2013. wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with RULES (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability (1) This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 737–700 and –700C series airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in Boeing Service Bulletin 737–53– 1310, dated October 20, 2011. (2) Installation of Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) ST00830SE (https:// rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_ Library/rgstc.nsf/0/408E012E008616A786257 8880060456C?OpenDocument&Highlight= st00830se) does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST00830SE is installed, a ‘‘change in product’’ alternative method of compliance (AMOC) approval request is not necessary to comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 39.17. VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:02 Apr 30, 2013 Jkt 229001 (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 early fatigue cracks at chem-mill areas on the crown skin panels. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking of the skin panel at the specified chem-mill step locations, which could result in rapid decompression of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Inspections At the applicable time specified in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Service Bulletin 737–53–1310, dated October 20, 2011, except as required by paragraph (j) of this AD: Do an external detailed inspection and an external nondestructive inspection (a medium frequency eddy current (MFEC), magneto optic imager (MOI), C-scan, or ultrasonic phased array (UTPA) inspection) for cracking in the fuselage skin along the chem-mill steps at certain locations specified in, and in accordance with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 737–53–1310, dated October 20, 2011. Repeat the inspections thereafter at the applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Service Bulletin 737–53–1310, dated October 20, 2011. (h) Repair If any cracking is found during any inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD, before further flight, repair the cracking using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (l) of this AD. Accomplishing the repair approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (l) of this AD terminates the repetitive inspection requirement for that area under the repair only. (i) Optional Terminating Modification Modification of an inspection area, including an external detailed inspection and an external nondestructive inspection (MFEC, MOI, C-scan, or UTPA) for cracking of the area to be modified, and a high frequency eddy current inspection of all existing holes for cracking as applicable, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 737– 53–1310, dated October 20, 2011, terminates the repetitive inspections required by paragraph (g) of this AD for that modified area only. If any cracking is found during any inspection described by this paragraph, before further flight, repair the cracking using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (l) of this AD. (j) Service Bulletin Exception Boeing Service Bulletin 737–53–1310, dated October 20, 2011, specifies compliance times ‘‘after the original issue date of this service bulletin.’’ However, this AD requires PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 25371 compliance within the specified compliance times ‘‘after the effective date of this AD.’’ (k) Post-Modification Inspections The post-modification inspections specified in Tables 2 through 7 of paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Service Bulletin 737–53–1310, dated October 20, 2011, are not required by this AD. Note 1 to paragraph (k) of this AD: The damage tolerance inspections specified in Tables 2 through 7 of paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Service Bulletin 737–53–1310, dated October 20, 2011, 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 14 CFR 129.109(b)(2)). The actions specified in Part 5 of the Accomplishment Instructions and corresponding figures of Boeing Service Bulletin 737–53–1310, dated October 20, 2011, are not required by this AD. (l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the attention of the person identified in the Related Information section of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANMSeattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair required by this AD if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO, to make those findings. For a repair method to be approved, the repair must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. (m) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Wayne Lockett, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: (425) 917–6447; fax: (425) 917–6590; email: Wayne.Lockett@faa.gov. (n) 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 Service Bulletin 737–53–1310, dated October 20, 2011. (ii) Reserved. E:\FR\FM\01MYR1.SGM 01MYR1 25372 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 84 / Wednesday, May 1, 2013 / Rules and Regulations (3) 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. (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. Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 4, 2013. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–09114 Filed 4–30–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2012–0937; Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–270–AD; Amendment 39–17432; AD 2013–08–15] RIN 2120–AA64 & 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, 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: Wayne Lockett, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: (425) 917–6447; fax: (425) 917–6590; email: Wayne.Lockett@faa.gov. Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. 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 September 18, 2012 (77 FR 57529). That NPRM proposed to require repetitive inspections for cracking of the fuselage skin along chem-mill steps at certain crown skin and shear wrinkle areas, and repair if necessary. wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with RULES AGENCY: SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 737–800 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of early fatigue cracks at chem-mill areas on the crown skin panels. This AD requires repetitive inspections for cracking of the fuselage skin along chem-mill steps at certain crown skin and shear wrinkle areas, and repair if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking of the skin panel at the specified chem-mill step locations, which could result in rapid decompression of the airplane. DATES: This AD is effective June 5, 2013. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of June 5, 2013. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:02 Apr 30, 2013 Jkt 229001 Discussion Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. The following presents the comments received on the proposal (77 FR 57529, September 18, 2012) and the FAA’s response to each comment. Request To Revise Federal Aviation Regulations Citations Boeing stated that references to section 129.109(c)(2) of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 129.109(c)(2)) are incorrect, since that paragraph does not exist in the current revision of the Federal Aviation PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Regulations, and that the correct paragraph reference is section 129.109(b)(2). Boeing noted that this error occurred in the second paragraph of the ‘‘Differences Between the Proposed AD and the Service Information’’ section, and in Note 1 to paragraph (l) of the proposed AD (77 FR 57529, September 18, 2012). We agree that the specified references are incorrect. We agree that the citation in the proposed AD (77 FR 57529, September 18, 2012) is inaccurate, but since that section of the preamble does not reappear in this AD, no corresponding change to this AD is necessary. We have corrected the citations in Note 1 to paragraph (l) of this AD. Winglet Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) Comment Aviation Partners Boeing stated that the installation of winglets per STC ST00830SE (https://rgl.faa.gov/ Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/ rgstc.nsf/0/408E012E008616A 7862578880060456C?OpenDocument& Highlight=st00830se) does not affect the actions specified in the NPRM (77 FR 57529, September 18, 2012). We concur. We have added paragraph (c)(2) to this AD to state that installation of STC ST00830SE does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST00830SE is installed, a ‘‘change in product’’ alternative method of compliance (AMOC) approval request is not necessary to comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 39.17. 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 57529, September 18, 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 57529, September 18, 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 441 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: E:\FR\FM\01MYR1.SGM 01MYR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 84 (Wednesday, May 1, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 25369-25372]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-09114]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2012-0936; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-269-AD; 
Amendment 39-17433; AD 2013-08-16]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain 
The Boeing Company Model 737-700 and -700C series airplanes. This AD 
was prompted by reports of early fatigue cracks at chem-mill areas on 
the crown skin panels. This AD requires repetitive inspections for 
cracking of the fuselage skin at certain locations at chem-mill areas, 
and repair if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct 
fatigue cracking of the skin panel at the specified chem-mill step 
locations, which could result in rapid decompression of the airplane.

DATES: This AD is effective June 5, 2013.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of June 5, 2013.

ADDRESSES: 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://

[[Page 25370]]

www.myboeingfleet.com. You may review copies of the referenced service 
information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind 
Avenue SW., Renton, Washington. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Management Facility 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The AD docket contains this 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: Wayne Lockett, Aerospace Engineer, 
Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: (425) 917-6447; 
fax: (425) 917-6590; email: Wayne.Lockett@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 September 18, 2012 (77 
FR 57536). That NPRM proposed to require repetitive inspections for 
cracking of the fuselage skin at certain locations at chem-mill areas, 
and repair if necessary.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the proposal 
(77 FR 57536, September 18, 2012) and the FAA's response to each 
comment.

Request To Revise Federal Aviation Regulations Citations

    Boeing stated that references to section 129.109(c)(2) of the 
Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 129.109(c)(2)) are incorrect, 
since that paragraph does not exist in the current revision of the 
Federal Aviation Regulations, and that the correct paragraph reference 
is section 129.109(b)(2). Boeing noted that this error occurred in the 
second paragraph of the ``Differences Between the Proposed AD and the 
Service Information'' section, and in Note 1 to paragraph (k) of the 
proposed AD (77 FR 57536, September 18, 2012).
    We agree that the specified references are incorrect. We agree that 
the citation in the proposed AD (77 FR 57536, September 18, 2012) is 
inaccurate, but since that section of the preamble does not reappear in 
this AD, no corresponding change to this AD is necessary. We have 
corrected the citation in Note 1 to paragraph (k) of this AD.

Winglet Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) Comment

    Aviation Partners Boeing stated that the installation of winglets 
per STC ST00830SE (https://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/408E012E008616A7862578880060456C?OpenDocument&Highlight=st00830se) does 
not affect the actions specified in the NPRM (77 FR 57536, September 
18, 2012).
    We concur. We have added paragraph (c)(2) to this AD to state that 
installation of STC ST00830SE (https://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/408E012E008616A7862578880060456C?OpenDocument&Highlight=st00830se) does 
not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by this AD. 
Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST00830SE is installed, a 
``change in product'' alternative method of compliance (AMOC) approval 
request is not necessary to comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 
39.17.

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 57536, September 18, 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 57536, September 18, 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 545 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 of chem-mill step      37 work-hours x $85  None............  $3,145, per          $1,714,025, per
 locations.                        per hour = $3,145,                     inspection cycle.    inspection cycle.
                                   per inspection
                                   cycle.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide 
cost estimates for the on-condition actions specified in this AD.

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

Regulatory Findings

    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

[[Page 25371]]

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):

2013-08-16 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-17433; Docket No. FAA-
2012-0936; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-269-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective June 5, 2013.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    (1) This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 737-700 and -
700C series airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified 
in Boeing Service Bulletin 737-53-1310, dated October 20, 2011.
    (2) Installation of Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) 
ST00830SE (https://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/408E012E008616A7862578880060456C?OpenDocument&Highlight=st00830se) 
does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by 
this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST00830SE is 
installed, a ``change in product'' alternative method of compliance 
(AMOC) approval request is not necessary to comply with the 
requirements of 14 CFR 39.17.

(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 early fatigue cracks at chem-
mill areas on the crown skin panels. We are issuing this AD to 
detect and correct fatigue cracking of the skin panel at the 
specified chem-mill step locations, which could result in rapid 
decompression of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Inspections

    At the applicable time specified in paragraph 1.E., 
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Service Bulletin 737-53-1310, dated 
October 20, 2011, except as required by paragraph (j) of this AD: Do 
an external detailed inspection and an external nondestructive 
inspection (a medium frequency eddy current (MFEC), magneto optic 
imager (MOI), C-scan, or ultrasonic phased array (UTPA) inspection) 
for cracking in the fuselage skin along the chem-mill steps at 
certain locations specified in, and in accordance with, the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 737-53-1310, 
dated October 20, 2011. Repeat the inspections thereafter at the 
applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of 
Boeing Service Bulletin 737-53-1310, dated October 20, 2011.

(h) Repair

    If any cracking is found during any inspection required by 
paragraph (g) of this AD, before further flight, repair the cracking 
using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified 
in paragraph (l) of this AD. Accomplishing the repair approved in 
accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (l) of this AD 
terminates the repetitive inspection requirement for that area under 
the repair only.

(i) Optional Terminating Modification

    Modification of an inspection area, including an external 
detailed inspection and an external nondestructive inspection (MFEC, 
MOI, C-scan, or UTPA) for cracking of the area to be modified, and a 
high frequency eddy current inspection of all existing holes for 
cracking as applicable, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 737-53-1310, dated October 
20, 2011, terminates the repetitive inspections required by 
paragraph (g) of this AD for that modified area only. If any 
cracking is found during any inspection described by this paragraph, 
before further flight, repair the cracking using a method approved 
in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (l) of this 
AD.

(j) Service Bulletin Exception

    Boeing Service Bulletin 737-53-1310, dated October 20, 2011, 
specifies compliance times ``after the original issue date of this 
service bulletin.'' However, this AD requires compliance within the 
specified compliance times ``after the effective date of this AD.''

(k) Post-Modification Inspections

    The post-modification inspections specified in Tables 2 through 
7 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Service Bulletin 737-
53-1310, dated October 20, 2011, are not required by this AD.

    Note 1 to paragraph (k) of this AD: The damage tolerance 
inspections specified in Tables 2 through 7 of paragraph 1.E., 
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Service Bulletin 737-53-1310, dated 
October 20, 2011, 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 14 CFR 129.109(b)(2)). The actions 
specified in Part 5 of the Accomplishment Instructions and 
corresponding figures of Boeing Service Bulletin 737-53-1310, dated 
October 20, 2011, are not required by this AD.

(l) 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.

(m) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Wayne Lockett, 
Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft 
Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; 
phone: (425) 917-6447; fax: (425) 917-6590; email: 
Wayne.Lockett@faa.gov.

(n) 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 Service Bulletin 737-53-1310, dated October 20, 2011.
    (ii) Reserved.

[[Page 25372]]

    (3) 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.
    (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 April 4, 2013.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-09114 Filed 4-30-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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