Airworthiness Directives; Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd. Sailplanes, 28723-28725 [2013-10794]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 95 / Thursday, May 16, 2013 / Rules and Regulations Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on May 8, 2013. Earl Lawrence, Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–11731 Filed 5–15–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd. Sailplanes erowe on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES Conclusion SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: Discussion We are superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for all Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd. Models Dart T.51, Dart T.51/17, and Dart T.51/17R sailplanes equipped with aluminum alloy spar booms. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as an incident of glue joint failure on a starboard wing caused by water entering the area of the airbrake box that resulted in delamination and corrosion in the area of the aluminum alloy spar booms and the wing attach fittings. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective June 20, 2013. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of June 20, 2013. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain other publication listed in this AD as of December 14, 1998 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998). ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov or in person at the Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 14:43 May 15, 2013 default growing larger and larger with each inspection. We have determined that the current 5-year repetitive ‘‘cutout’’ inspections will eventually weaken the wing structure and could result in an unsafe condition. We concur with the change to the annual endoscope inspection. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: [Docket No. FAA–2013–0220; Directorate Identifier 2013–CE–002–AD; Amendment 39–17451; AD 2013–09–09] VerDate Mar<15>2010 Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. For service information identified in this AD, contact Slingsby Advanced Composites Ltd., Ings Lane, Kirkbymoorside, North Yorkshire, England YO62 6EZ; telephone: +44(0)1751 432474; Internet: None. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329– 4148. Jim Rutherford, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–4165; fax: (816) 329–4090; email: jim.rutherford@faa.gov. eliminated. Minimization must be considered during initial design and not presented as an analysis after design completion. SUMMARY: Jkt 229001 28723 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 was published in the Federal Register on March 6, 2013 (78 FR 14467), and proposed to supersede AD 98–22–15, Amendment 39–10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998). Since we issued AD 98–22–15, Amendment 39–10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998), Slingsby Aviation Ltd. has revised the related service information to remove the 5-year repetitive ‘‘cutout’’ inspection and to add a repetitive annual inspection using an endoscope. The endoscope inspection method would be done using existing drain holes in the lower wing skin. Using revised service information is mandatory within the United Kingdom airworthiness system. It is not necessary for the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), which is the aviation authority for the United Kingdom, to issue an AD to mandate the use of new service information. AD action is the only way the FAA can mandate the use of new service information; however, owners/operators may request approval from the FAA to use an alternative method of compliance (AMOC). Several U.S. operators have complained that the repetitive 5-year ‘‘cutout’’ inspection in the wooden wing skin, currently required by AD 98–22– 15, Amendment 39–10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998), was by PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. We have considered the comments received. John Wells, Michael Hoke, Chad Croix Wille, and one anonymous commenter support the NPRM (78 FR 14467, March 6, 2013). We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD as proposed except for minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes: • Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM (78 FR 14467, March 6, 2013) for correcting the unsafe condition; and • Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM (78 FR 14467, March 6, 2013). Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD will affect 10 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it will take about 40 workhours per product to comply with the initial inspection requirement retained from AD 98–22–15, Amendment 39– 10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998) in this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the initial inspection required in this AD on U.S. operators to be $34,000, or $3,400 per product. We also estimate that it will take about 2 work-hours per product to comply with the new repetitive inspection requirement in this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the new repetitive inspection required in this AD on U.S. operators to be $1,700, or $170 per product. We have no way of determining the number of repetitive inspections an owner/operator will incur over the life of the sailplane or the number of sailplanes that will need repairs. 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 E:\FR\FM\16MYR1.SGM 16MYR1 28724 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 95 / Thursday, May 16, 2013 / Rules and Regulations the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more detail the scope of the Agency’s authority. We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, section 44701: General requirements.’’ Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this AD: (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. erowe on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES 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 the NPRM (78 FR 14467, March 6, 2013), the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Office (telephone (800) 647– 5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:43 May 15, 2013 Jkt 229001 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 removing Amendment 39–10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998), and adding the following new AD: ■ 2013–09–09 Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd.: Amendment 39–17451; Docket No. FAA–2013–0220; Directorate Identifier 2013–CE–002–AD. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective June 20, 2013. (b) Affected ADs This AD supersedes AD 98–22–15, Amendment 39–10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998). (c) Applicability This AD applies to Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd. Models Dart T.51, Dart T.51/17, and Dart T.51/17R sailplanes, all serial numbers, that are: (1) Equipped with aluminum alloy spar booms; and (2) certificated in any category. (d) Subject Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 57: Wing. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by an incident of glue joint failure on a starboard wing caused by water entering the area of the airbrake box that resulted in delamination and corrosion in the area of the aluminum alloy spar booms and the wing attach fittings. The manufacturer has also issued revised service information that changes the repetitive inspection interval and method. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the spar assembly and adjoining structure, which could result in reduced controllability or complete loss of control. (f) Actions and Compliance Retained From AD 98–22–15, Amendment 39–10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998) Unless already done, do the following actions specified in paragraphs (f)(1) and (f)(2) of this AD: (1) Within the next 6 calendar months after December 14, 1998 (the effective date retained from AD 98–22–15, Amendment 39– 10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998)), inspect the aluminum alloy spar booms and the wing attach fittings for delamination or corrosion damage following the ACTION section of Slingsby Aviation Ltd. Technical PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue No. 2, dated October 7, 1997, or the ACTION section of Slingsby Aviation Ltd. Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue 3, dated August 21, 2000. Note 1 to paragraph (f)(1) of this AD: Slingsby Aviation Ltd. Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue No. 2, dated October 7, 1997, and T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue 3, dated August 21, 2000, include guidance to determine whether an affected sailplane is equipped with aluminum alloy spar booms. (2) If any corrosion or delamination damage is found during the inspection required by paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, before further flight, contact the manufacturer at the address specified in paragraph (j)(5) of this AD to obtain an FAA-approved repair scheme and incorporate the repair. (g) New Actions and Compliance Unless already done, do the following actions specified in paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD: (1) Within 5 years after the last inspection required by AD 98–22–15, Amendment 39– 10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998) and repetitively thereafter at intervals not to exceed 12 months, using an endoscope, inspect the aluminum alloy spar booms and the wing attach fittings for delamination or corrosion damage following paragraph 11 of the ACTION section of Slingsby Aviation Ltd. Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue 3, dated August 21, 2000. (2) If any corrosion or delamination damage is found during any inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, before further flight, contact the manufacturer at the address specified in paragraph (j)(5) of this AD to obtain an FAAapproved repair scheme and incorporate the repair. (h) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Standards Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to ATTN: Jim Rutherford, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–4165; fax: (816) 329– 4090; email: jim.rutherford@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC on any sailplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO. (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority (or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product is airworthy before it is returned to service. (3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in this AD, a federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty for E:\FR\FM\16MYR1.SGM 16MYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 95 / Thursday, May 16, 2013 / Rules and Regulations failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 2120–0056. Public reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 5 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the collection of information. All responses to this collection of information are mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES–200. (i) Related Information Refer to Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) AD British AD 005–09–97, dated October 3, 1997, for related information. (j) Material Incorporated by Reference erowe on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES (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. (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on June 20, 2013. (i) Slingsby Aviation Ltd. Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue 3, dated August 21, 2000. (ii) Reserved. (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on December 14, 1998 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998). (i) Slingsby Aviation Ltd. Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue No. 2, dated October 7, 1997. (ii) Reserved. (5) For Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd. service information identified in this AD, contact Slingsby Advanced Composites Ltd., Ings Lane, Kirkbymoorside, North Yorkshire, England YO62 6EZ; telephone: +44(0)1751 432474; Internet: none. (6) You may view this service information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. (7) 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 Kansas City, Missouri, on April 30, 2013. Earl Lawrence, Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–10794 Filed 5–15–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:43 May 15, 2013 Jkt 229001 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2012–0221; Directorate Identifier 2010–SW–082–AD; Amendment 39–17454; AD 2013–10–01] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Spectrolab Nightsun XP Searchlight Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for a certain Spectrolab Nightsun XP Searchlight Assembly (searchlight) installed on, but not limited to Agusta S.p.A. (Agusta) Model AB139 and Model AW139 helicopters, Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) Model S–92A helicopters, and Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH (Eurocopter) Model EC135 and Model MBB–BK 117 C–2 helicopters. This AD requires, before further flight, inserting information into the Normal Procedures section of the Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM), a daily check of the searchlight, and at a specified time interval or if certain conditions are found, modifying any affected searchlight gimbal assembly. This AD was prompted by a report of a searchlight vibrating and an investigation that revealed that the gimbal azimuth top nut was loose. A loose nut, if not detected and corrected, could result in a gap between the rubber edging of the top shroud and the gimbal frame, leading to degradation of pointing accuracy and stability performance of the searchlight and excessive vibration. If the nut were to entirely disengage, the searchlight could disconnect partially or totally from the helicopter, resulting in damage to the helicopter and injury to persons on the ground. The actions of this AD are intended to ensure that the searchlight remains firmly attached to the helicopter. SUMMARY: This AD is effective June 20, 2013. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain documents listed in this AD as of June 20, 2013. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact Spectrolab, Inc. ATTN: Saul Vargas, 12500 Gladstone Ave., Sylmar, CA 91342, telephone (818) 365–4611, fax (818) 361–5102, or on the internet at https://www.spectrolab.com. You may DATES: PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 28725 review the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov or in person at the Docket Operations Office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, any incorporated-by-reference service information, the economic evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations Office (phone: 800– 647–5527) is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations Office, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222–5110; email matthew.fuller@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion On March 8, 2012, at 77 FR 13993, the Federal Register published our notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which proposed to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to certain Spectrolab Nightsun XP Searchlights. The NPRM proposed to require before further flight, inserting information into the Normal Procedures section of the RFM, a daily check of the searchlight, and at a specified time interval or if certain conditions are found, modifying any affected searchlight gimbal assembly. An owner/ operator (pilot) holding at least a private pilot certificate may perform the visual check and must show compliance by updating the helicopter maintenance records in accordance with 14 CFR 43.9(a)(1)–(4) and 91.417(a)(2)(v). This visual check is authorized because it requires no special tools and can be performed equally well by a pilot or mechanic; this authorization is an exception to our standard maintenance regulations. The proposed requirements were intended to ensure the searchlight remains firmly attached to the helicopter after a report that the searchlight was vibrating. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD No. 2010– E:\FR\FM\16MYR1.SGM 16MYR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 95 (Thursday, May 16, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 28723-28725]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-10794]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2013-0220; Directorate Identifier 2013-CE-002-AD; 
Amendment 39-17451; AD 2013-09-09]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd. Sailplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) 
for all Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd. Models Dart T.51, Dart T.51/17, and 
Dart T.51/17R sailplanes equipped with aluminum alloy spar booms. This 
AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) 
issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and 
correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes 
the unsafe condition as an incident of glue joint failure on a 
starboard wing caused by water entering the area of the airbrake box 
that resulted in delamination and corrosion in the area of the aluminum 
alloy spar booms and the wing attach fittings. We are issuing this AD 
to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective June 20, 2013.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of June 20, 
2013.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain other publication listed in this AD as of 
December 14, 1998 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998).

ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov or in person at the Docket 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 service information identified in this AD, contact Slingsby 
Advanced Composites Ltd., Ings Lane, Kirkbymoorside, North Yorkshire, 
England YO62 6EZ; telephone: +44(0)1751 432474; Internet: None. You may 
review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Small 
Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 
329-4148.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jim Rutherford, Aerospace Engineer, 
FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, 
Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4165; fax: (816) 329-4090; email: 
jim.rutherford@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 was published in the Federal Register on March 6, 2013 (78 FR 
14467), and proposed to supersede AD 98-22-15, Amendment 39-10863 (63 
FR 58624, November 2, 1998).
    Since we issued AD 98-22-15, Amendment 39-10863 (63 FR 58624, 
November 2, 1998), Slingsby Aviation Ltd. has revised the related 
service information to remove the 5-year repetitive ``cutout'' 
inspection and to add a repetitive annual inspection using an 
endoscope. The endoscope inspection method would be done using existing 
drain holes in the lower wing skin.
    Using revised service information is mandatory within the United 
Kingdom airworthiness system. It is not necessary for the Civil 
Aviation Authority (CAA), which is the aviation authority for the 
United Kingdom, to issue an AD to mandate the use of new service 
information.
    AD action is the only way the FAA can mandate the use of new 
service information; however, owners/operators may request approval 
from the FAA to use an alternative method of compliance (AMOC).
    Several U.S. operators have complained that the repetitive 5-year 
``cutout'' inspection in the wooden wing skin, currently required by AD 
98-22-15, Amendment 39-10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998), was by 
default growing larger and larger with each inspection.
    We have determined that the current 5-year repetitive ``cutout'' 
inspections will eventually weaken the wing structure and could result 
in an unsafe condition. We concur with the change to the annual 
endoscope inspection.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. We have considered the comments received. John Wells, Michael 
Hoke, Chad Croix Wille, and one anonymous commenter support the NPRM 
(78 FR 14467, March 6, 2013).

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, 
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting 
the AD as proposed except for minor editorial changes. We have 
determined that these minor changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM (78 FR 14467, March 6, 2013) for correcting the unsafe condition; 
and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM (78 FR 14467, March 6, 2013).

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD will affect 10 products of U.S. registry. 
We also estimate that it will take about 40 work-hours per product to 
comply with the initial inspection requirement retained from AD 98-22-
15, Amendment 39-10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998) in this AD. The 
average labor rate is $85 per work-hour.
    Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the initial 
inspection required in this AD on U.S. operators to be $34,000, or 
$3,400 per product.
    We also estimate that it will take about 2 work-hours per product 
to comply with the new repetitive inspection requirement in this AD. 
The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour.
    Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the new repetitive 
inspection required in this AD on U.S. operators to be $1,700, or $170 
per product.
    We have no way of determining the number of repetitive inspections 
an owner/operator will incur over the life of the sailplane or the 
number of sailplanes that will need repairs.

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

[[Page 28724]]

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

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications 
under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct 
effect on the States, on the relationship between the national 
government and the States, or on the distribution of power and 
responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify this AD:
    (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.

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 the NPRM (78 FR 14467, March 6, 2013), 
the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other 
information. The street address for the Docket Office (telephone (800) 
647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in 
the AD docket shortly after receipt.

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 removing Amendment 39-10863 (63 FR 
58624, November 2, 1998), and adding the following new AD:

2013-09-09 Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd.: Amendment 39-17451; Docket No. 
FAA-2013-0220; Directorate Identifier 2013-CE-002-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective June 20, 
2013.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD supersedes AD 98-22-15, Amendment 39-10863 (63 FR 58624, 
November 2, 1998).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd. Models Dart T.51, 
Dart T.51/17, and Dart T.51/17R sailplanes, all serial numbers, that 
are:
    (1) Equipped with aluminum alloy spar booms; and
    (2) certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 57: Wing.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by an incident of glue joint failure on a 
starboard wing caused by water entering the area of the airbrake box 
that resulted in delamination and corrosion in the area of the 
aluminum alloy spar booms and the wing attach fittings. The 
manufacturer has also issued revised service information that 
changes the repetitive inspection interval and method. We are 
issuing this AD to prevent failure of the spar assembly and 
adjoining structure, which could result in reduced controllability 
or complete loss of control.

(f) Actions and Compliance Retained From AD 98-22-15, Amendment 39-
10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998)

    Unless already done, do the following actions specified in 
paragraphs (f)(1) and (f)(2) of this AD:
    (1) Within the next 6 calendar months after December 14, 1998 
(the effective date retained from AD 98-22-15, Amendment 39-10863 
(63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998)), inspect the aluminum alloy spar 
booms and the wing attach fittings for delamination or corrosion 
damage following the ACTION section of Slingsby Aviation Ltd. 
Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue No. 2, dated October 
7, 1997, or the ACTION section of Slingsby Aviation Ltd. Technical 
Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue 3, dated August 21, 2000.

    Note 1 to paragraph (f)(1) of this AD:  Slingsby Aviation Ltd. 
Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue No. 2, dated October 
7, 1997, and T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue 3, dated August 21, 2000, 
include guidance to determine whether an affected sailplane is 
equipped with aluminum alloy spar booms.

    (2) If any corrosion or delamination damage is found during the 
inspection required by paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, before further 
flight, contact the manufacturer at the address specified in 
paragraph (j)(5) of this AD to obtain an FAA-approved repair scheme 
and incorporate the repair.

(g) New Actions and Compliance

    Unless already done, do the following actions specified in 
paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD:
    (1) Within 5 years after the last inspection required by AD 98-
22-15, Amendment 39-10863 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998) and 
repetitively thereafter at intervals not to exceed 12 months, using 
an endoscope, inspect the aluminum alloy spar booms and the wing 
attach fittings for delamination or corrosion damage following 
paragraph 11 of the ACTION section of Slingsby Aviation Ltd. 
Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/T51, Issue 3, dated August 21, 
2000.
    (2) If any corrosion or delamination damage is found during any 
inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, before further 
flight, contact the manufacturer at the address specified in 
paragraph (j)(5) of this AD to obtain an FAA-approved repair scheme 
and incorporate the repair.

(h) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
Standards Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this 
AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send 
information to ATTN: Jim Rutherford, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small 
Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 
64106; telephone: (816) 329-4165; fax: (816) 329-4090; email: 
jim.rutherford@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC on any 
sailplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office 
(FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO.
    (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain 
corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these 
actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered 
FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority 
(or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product 
is airworthy before it is returned to service.
    (3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in 
this AD, a federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person 
is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a 
penalty for

[[Page 28725]]

failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the 
requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection 
of information displays a current valid OMB Control Number. The OMB 
Control Number for this information collection is 2120-0056. Public 
reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be 
approximately 5 minutes per response, including the time for 
reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the collection of 
information. All responses to this collection of information are 
mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden and 
suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to the FAA 
at: 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: 
Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES-200.

(i) Related Information

    Refer to Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) AD British AD 005-09-97, 
dated October 3, 1997, for related information.

(j) 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.
    (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
June 20, 2013.
    (i) Slingsby Aviation Ltd. Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/
T51, Issue 3, dated August 21, 2000.
    (ii) Reserved.
    (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
December 14, 1998 (63 FR 58624, November 2, 1998).
    (i) Slingsby Aviation Ltd. Technical Instruction T.I. No. 109/
T51, Issue No. 2, dated October 7, 1997.
    (ii) Reserved.
    (5) For Slingsby Sailplanes Ltd. service information identified 
in this AD, contact Slingsby Advanced Composites Ltd., Ings Lane, 
Kirkbymoorside, North Yorkshire, England YO62 6EZ; telephone: 
+44(0)1751 432474; Internet: none.
    (6) You may view this service information at the FAA, Small 
Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
(816) 329-4148.
    (7) 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 Kansas City, Missouri, on April 30, 2013.
Earl Lawrence,
Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-10794 Filed 5-15-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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