Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 26286-26289 [2013-10652]

Download as PDF 26286 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 87 / Monday, May 6, 2013 / Proposed Rules DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2012–0425; Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–273–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); reopening of comment period. AGENCY: Examining the AD Docket We are revising an earlier proposed airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Boeing Company Model 717– 200 airplanes. That NPRM proposed requiring repetitive inspections for cracking of the overwing frames, and corrective actions if necessary. That NPRM was prompted by multiple reports of cracks of overwing frames. This action revises that NPRM by revising the initial compliance time and providing an optional modification that would extend the compliance time for the next repetitive inspection. We are proposing this supplemental NPRM to detect and correct such cracking, which could sever a frame and increase the loading of adjacent frames, and could result in damage to the adjacent structure and consequent loss of structural integrity of the airplane. Since certain actions impose an additional burden over that proposed in the NPRM, we are reopening the comment period to allow the public the chance to comment on these proposed changes. DATES: We must receive comments on this supplemental NPRM by June 20, 2013. SUMMARY: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 ADDRESSES: VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:19 May 03, 2013 Jkt 229001 For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 3855 Lakewood Boulevard, MC D800–0019, Long Beach, CA 90846–0001; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 2; fax 206– 766–5683; Internet https:// www.myboeingfleet.com. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: George Garrido, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712–4137; phone: 562–627–5357; fax: 562–627–5210; email: george.garrido@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2012–0425; Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–273–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed AD because of those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR Frm 00007 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Actions Since Previous NPRM Was Issued Since we issued the previous NPRM (77 FR 27142, May 9, 2012), we received additional reports of overwing frame cracks on this model. The cracking occurred below the previous NPRM initial compliance time of 20,000 total flight cycles. Thus, we have determined that a shorter compliance time for the initial inspection is necessary. Relevant Service Information We have reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 717–53A0034, Revision 1, dated November 7, 2012; and Boeing Service Bulletin 717–53–0035, dated June 8, 2012. For information on the procedures and compliance times, see this service information at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for Docket No. FAA–2012–0425. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to comment on the previous NPRM (77 FR 27142, May 9, 2012). The following presents the comments received on the previous NPRM and the FAA’s response to each comment. Request To Extend Comment Period Comments Invited PO 00000 part 39 to include an AD that would apply to all The Boeing Company Model 717–200 airplanes. That NPRM published in the Federal Register on May 9, 2012 (77 FR 27142). That NPRM proposed to require repetitive inspections for cracking of the overwing frames, and corrective actions if necessary. Boeing requested that we revise the original NPRM (77 FR 27142, May 9, 2012) to extend the comment period for up to 90 additional days to give time to assess the information provided in the reports of Model 717 overwing frame cracks. We do not agree with the commenter’s request to extend the comment period since we are issuing this supplemental NPRM (before issuing the final rule), which automatically extends the comment period. We have not changed the AD in this regard. Request To Delay Issuance of AD Airtran/Southwest Airlines requested a delay in the issuance of this AD until Boeing (the original equipment manufacturer) had time to build up an adequate stock of kits and/or frames until frame replacements are required. We disagree with the request to delay release of the AD since Boeing has advised the FAA that the required kits will be available in support of the compliance time of the AD. We have not E:\FR\FM\06MYP1.SGM 06MYP1 26287 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 87 / Monday, May 6, 2013 / Proposed Rules changed this supplemental NPRM in this regard. Request To Add Optional Overwing Frames Modification Airtran/Southwest Airlines requested that we revise the original NPRM (77 FR 27142, May 9, 2012) to add a paragraph stating: If Boeing Service Bulletin 717–53–0035, dated June 8, 2012 is accomplished, the inspection of overwing frame(s) for cracks can be extended to 45,000 flight cycles from the time of modification of SB 717–53–0035 and 15,000 flight cycles thereafter. We agree with the commenter’s request to add a paragraph to add the overwing frames modification as an option to the AD because the modification provides protection against cracking of the overwing frame(s). We disagree that the initial compliance time can be extended to 45,000 flight cycles, but agree that the first post-modification high frequency eddy current (HFEC) repetitive inspection may be extended to 45,000 flight cycles. We have added paragraph (h) to this supplemental NPRM to provide this option. We have also revised paragraph (g) in this supplemental NPRM to correspond to the manufacturer’s recommended initial compliance time for the inspections before the accumulation of 12,000 total flight cycles, with a compliance time of 24 months or 8,275 flight cycles, whichever occurs first. FAA’s Determination We are proposing this supplemental NPRM because we evaluated all the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design. Certain changes described above expand the scope of the original NPRM (77 FR 27142, May 9, 2012). As a result, we have determined that it is necessary to reopen the comment period to provide additional opportunity for the public to comment on this supplemental NPRM. Proposed Requirements of the Supplemental NPRM This supplemental NPRM would require accomplishing the actions specified in the service information described previously, except as discussed under ‘‘Differences Between the Supplemental NPRM and the Service Information.’’ Differences Between the Supplemental NPRM and the Service Information Boeing Service Bulletin 717–53–0035, dated June 8, 2012, specifies to contact the manufacturer for FAA-approved repair instructions. This proposed AD would require repairing those conditions in one of the following ways: • Using a method that we approve; or • Using data that meet the certification basis of the airplane, and that have been approved by an Authorized Representative for the Boeing Commercial Airplanes ODA whom we have authorized to make those findings. Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 717–53A0034, Revision 1, dated November 7, 2012, provides a compliance time for the initial inspection (specified in paragraph (g) of this supplemental NPRM) of before 12,000 total flight cycles or within 8,275 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later, this AD provides a compliance time of the later of either before the accumulation of 12,000 total flight cycles, or within 8,275 flight cycles or 24 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first. In developing an appropriate compliance time for this AD, we considered not only the manufacturer’s recommendation, but the degree of urgency associated with addressing the subject unsafe condition, the average utilization of the affected fleet, and the time necessary to perform the inspections. In light of all of these factors, we find a minimum compliance time of 24 months or 8,275 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD for completing the required actions to be warranted, in that it represents an appropriate interval of time for affected airplanes to continue to operate without compromising safety. This difference has been coordinated with Boeing. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 129 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Cost on U.S. operators Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Inspections ................................................. 46 work-hours × $85 per hour = $3,910 per inspection cycle. 30 work-hours × $85 per hour = $2,550 per inspection cycle. $0 ..................... $3,910 .............. $504,390. Up to $2,727 .... Up to $5,277 ..... Up to $680,733. Installation of optional modification ............ We estimate the following costs to do any necessary replacements/repairs that would be required based on the results of the proposed inspections. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need these replacements: ON-CONDITION COSTS pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 Action Labor cost Parts cost Blendout repair .......................................................... Replacement of a frame station ................................ 12 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,020 ................... 130 work-hours × $85 per hour = $11,050 ............... $0 ..................... Up to $86,977 ... 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 VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:19 May 03, 2013 Jkt 229001 the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs’’ describes in more detail the scope of the Agency’s authority. PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Cost per product $1,020. Up to $98,027. 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 E:\FR\FM\06MYP1.SGM 06MYP1 26288 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 87 / Monday, May 6, 2013 / Proposed Rules promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed regulation: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 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): pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 ■ The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA– 2012–0425; Directorate Identifier 2011– NM–273–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by June 20, 2013. (b) Affected ADs None. VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:19 May 03, 2013 Jkt 229001 (c) Applicability This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 717–200 airplanes, certificated in any category. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/ Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by multiple reports of cracks of overwing frames. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct such cracking that could sever a frame, which may increase the loading of adjacent frames, and result in damage to the adjacent structure and consequent loss of structural integrity of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Inspections and Corrective Actions At the later of the times specified in paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD: Do a general visual inspection and a high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection for cracking of the left-side and right-side overwing frames at stations 674, 696, and 715; and do all applicable corrective actions; in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 717–53A0034, Revision 1, dated November 7, 2012. Repeat the inspections thereafter at the applicable time specified in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 717–53A0034, Revision 1, dated November 7, 2012, except as provided by paragraph (h) of this AD. (1) Before the accumulation of 12,000 total flight cycles. (2) Within 24 months or 8,275 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first. (h) Optional Terminating Action Modification of left-side and right-side overwing frames at stations 674, 696, and 715, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 717– 53–0035, dated June 8, 2012, terminates the inspections required by paragraph (g) of this AD, and extends the compliance time of the modified area for the next repetitive HFEC inspection to 45,000 flight cycles after the modification, provided that the actions in paragraphs (h)(1), (h)(2), and (h)(3) of this AD are accomplished, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 717–53–0035, dated June 8, 2012. Do the inspections specified in paragraph (g) of this AD prior to, or concurrently with, the modification specified in paragraph (h) of this AD. (1) The overwing frame improvement modification of left-side and right-side overwing frames at stations 674, 696, and 715 is installed and HFEC inspection is done within 45,000 flight cycles from the time the modification is installed, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 717–53–0035, dated June 8, 2012. PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 (2) If no crack is found during any inspection specified by paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, the HFEC inspections at the modified area are repeated thereafter at the applicable time specified in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 717–53–0035, dated June 8, 2012. (3) If any crack is found during any inspection specified by paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, the frame is repaired or replaced using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (j) of this AD, before further flight. (i) Credit for Previous Actions This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD, if the general visual inspection and HFEC inspection for cracking of the left-side and right-side overwing frames at stations 674, 696, and 715, and the applicable related investigative and corrective actions, were performed before the effective date of this AD using Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 717– 53A0034, dated October 5, 2011, which is not incorporated by reference in this AD. (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Los Angeles 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. (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, Los Angeles ACO to make those findings. For a repair method to be approved, the repair must meet the certification basis of the airplane and 14 FR 25.571, Amendment 45, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. (k) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact George Garrido, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712– 4137; phone: 562–627–5357; fax: 562–627– 5210; email: george.garrido@faa.gov. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 3855 Lakewood Boulevard, MC D800–0019, Long Beach, CA 90846–0001; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 2; fax 206–766–5683; 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. E:\FR\FM\06MYP1.SGM 06MYP1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 87 / Monday, May 6, 2013 / Proposed Rules For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 26, 2013. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–10652 Filed 5–3–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION 16 CFR PART 23 Guides for the Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries: Public Roundtable Federal Trade Commission (‘‘FTC’’ or ‘‘Commission’’). ACTION: Announcement of public roundtable. AGENCY: The Federal Trade Commission (‘‘FTC’’ or ‘‘Commission’’) will hold a public roundtable on June 19, 2013 to examine possible modifications to the FTC’s Guides for the Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries (‘‘Jewelry Guides’’ or ‘‘Guides’’). This Notice describes the issues the roundtable will examine and invites comments regarding the questions to be addressed. DATES: The roundtable will be held on Wednesday, June 19, 2013, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the FTC’s Satellite Building Conference Center, located at 601 New Jersey Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20001. Prior to the roundtable, the Commission will publish an agenda and further information on its Web site. Comments will be accepted until June 5, 2013. Registration Information: The roundtable is open to the public, and there is no fee for attendance. For admittance to the Conference Center, all attendees will be required to show a valid photo identification, such as a driver’s license. The FTC will accept pre-registration for this roundtable. Preregistration is not necessary to attend, but is encouraged so that we may better plan this event. To pre-register, please email your name and affiliation to lkoss@ftc.gov. When you pre-register, we will collect your name, affiliation, and your email address. This information will be used to estimate how many people will attend. We may use your email address to contact you with information about the roundtable. Under the Freedom of Information Act (‘‘FOIA’’) or other laws, we may be required to disclose to outside organizations the information you provide. For additional information, pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 SUMMARY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:19 May 03, 2013 Jkt 229001 including routine uses permitted by the Privacy Act, see the Commission’s Privacy Policy at www.ftc.gov/ftc/ privacy.htm. The FTC Act and other laws the Commission administers permit the collection of this contact information for consideration and use for the above purposes. ADDRESSES: The submission of comments is not required for attendance at the roundtable. Interested parties may file comments online or on paper by following the instructions in the Request for Comments part of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below. Write ‘‘Jewelry Guides Roundtable, 16 CFR Part 23, Project No. G711001’’ on your comment, and file your comment online at https:// ftcpublic.commentworks.com/ftc/ jewelryguidesroundtable by following the instructions on the web-based form. If you prefer to file your comment on paper, mail or deliver your comment to the following address: Federal Trade Commission, Office of the Secretary, Room H–113 (Annex O), 600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20580. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Reenah L. Kim, Attorney, (202) 326– 2272, or Laura D. Koss, Attorney, (202) 326–2890, Division of Enforcement, Bureau of Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, 600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Mailstop M–8102B, Washington, DC 20580. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Introduction The FTC commenced its regulatory review of the Jewelry Guides on July 2, 2012 with the publication of a Federal Register Notice (‘‘2012 Notice’’) seeking public comments on the Guides.1 After review of comments received in response, the FTC has determined that a public roundtable will help it address possible revisions to the Guides. Accordingly, the Commission will hold such a roundtable on June 19, 2013. To facilitate a productive roundtable, this announcement first provides background on the Jewelry Guides and the regulatory review process, including comments received in response to the 2012 Notice. It then provides a brief description of the issues the upcoming roundtable will explore, outlines questions to be addressed, and invites comments for further discussion of these issues. A. Background Information The Jewelry Guides address claims made about precious metal, pewter, 1 77 PO 00000 FR 39201 (July 2, 2012). Frm 00010 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 26289 diamond, gemstone, and pearl products. 16 CFR Part 23. The Guides explain how to avoid making deceptive claims and, for certain products, discuss when disclosures should be made to avoid unfair or deceptive trade practices.2 B. Jewelry Guides Regulatory Review The 2012 Notice commenced the decennial review of the Jewelry Guides.3 The Notice solicited public comments in response to questions about the Guides’ costs, benefits, and effectiveness. It also posed specific questions based on inquiries received by Commission staff in recent years suggesting that technological developments and related changes in industry standards and practice may affect certain provisions of the Jewelry Guides. II. Issues and Questions for Discussion at the Roundtable In response to the 2012 Notice, the Commission received 20 comments addressing a range of issues.4 Many commenters proposed revisions to 2 The Commission issues industry guides to help the industry conduct its affairs in conformity with legal requirements. 16 CFR Part 17. Industry guides are administrative interpretations of the law; they do not have the force of law and are not independently enforceable. Failure to follow industry guides may result, however, in enforcement action under the FTC Act, 15 U.S.C. 45. In any such action, the Commission must prove that the act or practice at issue is unfair or deceptive in violation of Section 5 of the FTC Act. 3 To ensure that its regulations and guides continue to achieve their intended goals without unduly burdening commerce, the Commission systematically reviews its regulations and guides on a ten-year cycle; i.e., the Commission schedules its reviews ten years after implementation and ten years after the completion of each review. Since completing its last review of the Jewelry Guides in 1996, the Commission revised sections of the Guides and addressed other issues raised in petitions from jewelry trade associations. See Federal Trade Commission: Guides for the Metallic Watch Band Industry and Guides for the Jewelry Industry: Final guides, 61 FR 27178 (May 30, 1996); Federal Trade Commission: Guides for the Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries: Final guides, 62 FR 16669 (Apr. 8, 1997); Federal Trade Commission: Guides for the Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries: Revision of the Guides for the Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries, 64 FR 33193 (June 22, 1999); Federal Trade Commission: Guides for the Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries: Final guides, 65 FR 78738 (Dec. 15, 2000); Federal Trade Commission: Guides for the Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries: Final Guides Amendments, 75 FR 81443 (Dec. 28, 2010). The Commission therefore scheduled the Guides for another comprehensive review in 2011, but postponed it due to resource constraints. Federal Trade Commission: Notice Announcing Ten-Year Regulatory Review Schedule and Request for Public Comment on the Federal Trade Commission’s Regulatory Review Program, 76 FR 41150 (Jul. 13, 2011). 4 Available at https://www.ftc.gov/os/comments/ jewelryguidesreview/index.shtm. Citations to comments below identify the commenter by name and assigned comment number. E:\FR\FM\06MYP1.SGM 06MYP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 87 (Monday, May 6, 2013)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 26286-26289]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-10652]



[[Page 26286]]

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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2012-0425; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-273-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); reopening of 
comment period.

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

SUMMARY: We are revising an earlier proposed airworthiness directive 
(AD) for all The Boeing Company Model 717-200 airplanes. That NPRM 
proposed requiring repetitive inspections for cracking of the overwing 
frames, and corrective actions if necessary. That NPRM was prompted by 
multiple reports of cracks of overwing frames. This action revises that 
NPRM by revising the initial compliance time and providing an optional 
modification that would extend the compliance time for the next 
repetitive inspection. We are proposing this supplemental NPRM to 
detect and correct such cracking, which could sever a frame and 
increase the loading of adjacent frames, and could result in damage to 
the adjacent structure and consequent loss of structural integrity of 
the airplane. Since certain actions impose an additional burden over 
that proposed in the NPRM, we are reopening the comment period to allow 
the public the chance to comment on these proposed changes.

DATES: We must receive comments on this supplemental NPRM by June 20, 
2013.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 
3855 Lakewood Boulevard, MC D800-0019, Long Beach, CA 90846-0001; 
telephone 206-544-5000, extension 2; fax 206-766-5683; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may review copies of the referenced service 
information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind 
Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this 
material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Management Facility 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory 
evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street 
address for the Docket Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES 
section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after 
receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: George Garrido, Aerospace Engineer, 
Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification 
Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712-4137; phone: 562-
627-5357; fax: 562-627-5210; email: george.garrido@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2012-0425; 
Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-273-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed AD because of those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 to include an AD that would apply to all The Boeing Company 
Model 717-200 airplanes. That NPRM published in the Federal Register on 
May 9, 2012 (77 FR 27142). That NPRM proposed to require repetitive 
inspections for cracking of the overwing frames, and corrective actions 
if necessary.

Actions Since Previous NPRM Was Issued

    Since we issued the previous NPRM (77 FR 27142, May 9, 2012), we 
received additional reports of overwing frame cracks on this model. The 
cracking occurred below the previous NPRM initial compliance time of 
20,000 total flight cycles. Thus, we have determined that a shorter 
compliance time for the initial inspection is necessary.

Relevant Service Information

    We have reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 717-53A0034, 
Revision 1, dated November 7, 2012; and Boeing Service Bulletin 717-53-
0035, dated June 8, 2012. For information on the procedures and 
compliance times, see this service information at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for Docket No. FAA-2012-0425.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to comment on the previous NPRM 
(77 FR 27142, May 9, 2012). The following presents the comments 
received on the previous NPRM and the FAA's response to each comment.

Request To Extend Comment Period

    Boeing requested that we revise the original NPRM (77 FR 27142, May 
9, 2012) to extend the comment period for up to 90 additional days to 
give time to assess the information provided in the reports of Model 
717 overwing frame cracks.
    We do not agree with the commenter's request to extend the comment 
period since we are issuing this supplemental NPRM (before issuing the 
final rule), which automatically extends the comment period. We have 
not changed the AD in this regard.

Request To Delay Issuance of AD

    Airtran/Southwest Airlines requested a delay in the issuance of 
this AD until Boeing (the original equipment manufacturer) had time to 
build up an adequate stock of kits and/or frames until frame 
replacements are required.
    We disagree with the request to delay release of the AD since 
Boeing has advised the FAA that the required kits will be available in 
support of the compliance time of the AD. We have not

[[Page 26287]]

changed this supplemental NPRM in this regard.

Request To Add Optional Overwing Frames Modification

    Airtran/Southwest Airlines requested that we revise the original 
NPRM (77 FR 27142, May 9, 2012) to add a paragraph stating:

    If Boeing Service Bulletin 717-53-0035, dated June 8, 2012 is 
accomplished, the inspection of overwing frame(s) for cracks can be 
extended to 45,000 flight cycles from the time of modification of SB 
717-53-0035 and 15,000 flight cycles thereafter.

    We agree with the commenter's request to add a paragraph to add the 
overwing frames modification as an option to the AD because the 
modification provides protection against cracking of the overwing 
frame(s). We disagree that the initial compliance time can be extended 
to 45,000 flight cycles, but agree that the first post-modification 
high frequency eddy current (HFEC) repetitive inspection may be 
extended to 45,000 flight cycles. We have added paragraph (h) to this 
supplemental NPRM to provide this option. We have also revised 
paragraph (g) in this supplemental NPRM to correspond to the 
manufacturer's recommended initial compliance time for the inspections 
before the accumulation of 12,000 total flight cycles, with a 
compliance time of 24 months or 8,275 flight cycles, whichever occurs 
first.

FAA's Determination

    We are proposing this supplemental NPRM because we evaluated all 
the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described 
previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same 
type design. Certain changes described above expand the scope of the 
original NPRM (77 FR 27142, May 9, 2012). As a result, we have 
determined that it is necessary to reopen the comment period to provide 
additional opportunity for the public to comment on this supplemental 
NPRM.

Proposed Requirements of the Supplemental NPRM

    This supplemental NPRM would require accomplishing the actions 
specified in the service information described previously, except as 
discussed under ``Differences Between the Supplemental NPRM and the 
Service Information.''

Differences Between the Supplemental NPRM and the Service Information

    Boeing Service Bulletin 717-53-0035, dated June 8, 2012, specifies 
to contact the manufacturer for FAA-approved repair instructions. This 
proposed AD would require repairing those conditions in one of the 
following ways:
     Using a method that we approve; or
     Using data that meet the certification basis of the 
airplane, and that have been approved by an Authorized Representative 
for the Boeing Commercial Airplanes ODA whom we have authorized to make 
those findings.
    Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 717-53A0034, Revision 1, dated 
November 7, 2012, provides a compliance time for the initial inspection 
(specified in paragraph (g) of this supplemental NPRM) of before 12,000 
total flight cycles or within 8,275 flight cycles after the effective 
date of this AD, whichever occurs later, this AD provides a compliance 
time of the later of either before the accumulation of 12,000 total 
flight cycles, or within 8,275 flight cycles or 24 months after the 
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first. In developing an 
appropriate compliance time for this AD, we considered not only the 
manufacturer's recommendation, but the degree of urgency associated 
with addressing the subject unsafe condition, the average utilization 
of the affected fleet, and the time necessary to perform the 
inspections. In light of all of these factors, we find a minimum 
compliance time of 24 months or 8,275 flight cycles after the effective 
date of this AD for completing the required actions to be warranted, in 
that it represents an appropriate interval of time for affected 
airplanes to continue to operate without compromising safety. This 
difference has been coordinated with Boeing.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 129 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                Cost on U.S.
            Action                Labor cost         Parts cost         Cost per product          operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspections..................  46 work-hours x  $0..................  $3,910..............  $504,390.
                                $85 per hour =
                                $3,910 per
                                inspection
                                cycle.
Installation of optional       30 work-hours x  Up to $2,727........  Up to $5,277........  Up to $680,733.
 modification.                  $85 per hour =
                                $2,550 per
                                inspection
                                cycle.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Action                      Labor cost               Parts cost               Cost per product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blendout repair...................  12 work-hours x $85    $0........................  $1,020.
                                     per hour = $1,020.
Replacement of a frame station....  130 work-hours x $85   Up to $86,977.............  Up to $98,027.
                                     per hour = $11,050.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

[[Page 26288]]

promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed 
regulation:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
    (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

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

The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA-2012-0425; Directorate Identifier 
2011-NM-273-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by June 20, 2013.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 717-200 
airplanes, certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

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

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by multiple reports of cracks of overwing 
frames. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct such cracking 
that could sever a frame, which may increase the loading of adjacent 
frames, and result in damage to the adjacent structure and 
consequent loss of structural integrity of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Inspections and Corrective Actions

    At the later of the times specified in paragraphs (g)(1) and 
(g)(2) of this AD: Do a general visual inspection and a high 
frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection for cracking of the left-
side and right-side overwing frames at stations 674, 696, and 715; 
and do all applicable corrective actions; in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 717-
53A0034, Revision 1, dated November 7, 2012. Repeat the inspections 
thereafter at the applicable time specified in paragraph 1.E., 
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 717-53A0034, 
Revision 1, dated November 7, 2012, except as provided by paragraph 
(h) of this AD.
    (1) Before the accumulation of 12,000 total flight cycles.
    (2) Within 24 months or 8,275 flight cycles after the effective 
date of this AD, whichever occurs first.

(h) Optional Terminating Action

    Modification of left-side and right-side overwing frames at 
stations 674, 696, and 715, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 717-53-0035, dated June 8, 
2012, terminates the inspections required by paragraph (g) of this 
AD, and extends the compliance time of the modified area for the 
next repetitive HFEC inspection to 45,000 flight cycles after the 
modification, provided that the actions in paragraphs (h)(1), 
(h)(2), and (h)(3) of this AD are accomplished, in accordance with 
the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
717-53-0035, dated June 8, 2012. Do the inspections specified in 
paragraph (g) of this AD prior to, or concurrently with, the 
modification specified in paragraph (h) of this AD.
    (1) The overwing frame improvement modification of left-side and 
right-side overwing frames at stations 674, 696, and 715 is 
installed and HFEC inspection is done within 45,000 flight cycles 
from the time the modification is installed, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 717-53-0035, 
dated June 8, 2012.
    (2) If no crack is found during any inspection specified by 
paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, the HFEC inspections at the modified 
area are repeated thereafter at the applicable time specified in 
paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
717-53-0035, dated June 8, 2012.
    (3) If any crack is found during any inspection specified by 
paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, the frame is repaired or replaced using 
a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in 
paragraph (j) of this AD, before further flight.

(i) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by 
paragraph (g) of this AD, if the general visual inspection and HFEC 
inspection for cracking of the left-side and right-side overwing 
frames at stations 674, 696, and 715, and the applicable related 
investigative and corrective actions, were performed before the 
effective date of this AD using Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 717-
53A0034, dated October 5, 2011, which is not incorporated by 
reference in this AD.

(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Los Angeles 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.
    (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, Los Angeles ACO to 
make those findings. For a repair method to be approved, the repair 
must meet the certification basis of the airplane and 14 FR 25.571, 
Amendment 45, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD.

(k) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact George Garrido, 
Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los Angeles 
Aircraft Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, 
CA 90712-4137; phone: 562-627-5357; fax: 562-627-5210; email: 
george.garrido@faa.gov.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 
3855 Lakewood Boulevard, MC D800-0019, Long Beach, CA 90846-0001; 
telephone 206-544-5000, extension 2; fax 206-766-5683; 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.

[[Page 26289]]

For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, 
call 425-227-1221.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 26, 2013.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-10652 Filed 5-3-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.