Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes, 37437-37446 [2013-14698]
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[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 120 (Friday, June 21, 2013)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 37437-37446] From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov] [FR Doc No: 2013-14698] ======================================================================== Rules and Regulations Federal Register ________________________________________________________________________ This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510. The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents. Prices of new books are listed in the first FEDERAL REGISTER issue of each week. ======================================================================== Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 120 / Friday, June 21, 2013 / Rules and Regulations [[Page 37437]] DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2012-1034; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-051-AD; Amendment 39-17383; AD 2013-05-11] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We are superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. That AD currently requires one-time and repetitive inspections of specific areas and, when necessary, corrective actions for those rudders where production rework has been identified. This new AD adds airplanes with certain rudders to the AD applicability; changes an inspection type for certain reinforced rudder areas; requires pre- inspections and repairs if needed; and requires permanent restoration of vacuum loss holes. This AD also requires additional inspections for certain rudders and repair if needed, and requires replacement of certain rudders with new rudders. This AD was prompted by reports of surface defects on rudders that were the result of debonding between the skin and honeycomb core. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct extended de-bonding, which might degrade the structural integrity of the rudder. The loss of the rudder leads to degradation of the handling qualities and reduces the controllability of the airplane. DATES: This AD becomes effective July 26, 2013. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of July 26, 2013. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain other publications listed in this AD as of December 10, 2010 ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010)). ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov or in person at the U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone (425) 227-1405; fax (425) 227-1149. 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 October 2, 2012 (77 FR 60064), and proposed to supersede AD 2010-23-07, Amendment 39-16496 ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010)). That NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2010-0164, dated August 5, 2010 (referred to after this as ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: Surface defects were visually detected on the rudder of one A319 and one A321 in-service aeroplane. Investigation has determined that the defects reported on both rudders corresponded to areas that had been reworked in production. The investigation confirmed that the defects were a result of de- bonding between the skin and honeycomb core. An extended de-bonding, if not detected and corrected, may degrade the structural integrity of the rudder. The loss of the rudder leads to degradation of the handling qualities and reduces the controllability of the aeroplane. EASA AD 2009-0141 required inspections of specific areas and, when necessary, the application of corrective actions for those rudders where production reworks have been identified. This [EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA AD 2009-0141 (addressing the populations of rudders affected by AOT A320-55- 1038), which is superseded, and requires: --a local ultrasonic inspection for reinforced area instead of the local thermography inspection, which is maintained for non- reinforced areas, and --additional work performance for rudders on which this thermography inspection has been performed in the reinforced area, and --additional work performance for some rudders on which an additional area requiring inspections is defined. This [EASA] AD also addresses the populations of rudders affected by AOT A320-55-1039 and Airbus SB A320-55-1035, A320-55- 1036 and A320-55-1037 which were not included in EASA AD 2009-0141. Part number (P/N) D554 71000 020 00, serial number (S/N) TS-1494; and P/N D554 71002 000 00 0002, S/N TS-2212; are listed in Appendix A of the MCAI. These two items are included in this AD, because they were not listed in previous AD 2010-23-07, Amendment 39-16496 ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010)). This AD requires the permanent restoration of vacuum loss holes and does not allow the temporary restoration with self-adhesive patches, or temporary restoration with resin that is specified in the MCAI. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. We considered the comments received. Support for the NPRM (77 FR 60064, October 2, 2012) United Airlines (UAL) stated that it generally agrees with the proposed requirements of the NPRM (77 FR 60064, October 2, 2012). Request for Additional Compliance Time UAL requested that we add ``a grace period from the AD effective date'' for the compliance time for the inspection specified in paragraph (y) of the NPRM (77 FR 60064, October 2, 2012). UAL [[Page 37438]] stated that some rudders used in sampling inspections may be over the compliance threshold specified in paragraph (y) of the NPRM. UAL proposed an alternative method of inspection for the affected rudders. We partially agree. We agree with adding a compliance time of 30 days after the effective date of this AD for the inspection specified in paragraph (y) of this AD. We disagree with the commenter's proposed alternate method of inspection because no justification was submitted to substantiate that this alternate inspection method would adequately address the identified unsafe condition. Under the provisions of paragraph (ff) of this AD, we will consider requests for approval of an alternate method of compliance (AMOC) if sufficient data are submitted to substantiate that an alternate inspection method would provide an acceptable level of safety. Request To Correct Contact Information Airbus requested that we change certain contact information. Airbus stated that paragraphs (j) and (dd) of the NPRM (77 FR 60064, October 2, 2012) should state that, for negative findings, submit the report to SEES1, Customer Services, fax +33 (0)5 61 93 36 14. Airbus also requested that we replace EAS with EIAS in paragraph (gg)(2) of the NPRM. We agree and have changed paragraphs (j) and (dd) of this AD accordingly. We have also included the term EIAS in paragraphs (gg)(2) and (hh)(5) of this AD. Request for Permanent Repair Approval Airbus requested that we consider each Airbus Repair Approval Sheet (RAS) approved under Airbus Design Organization Approval (DOA) EASA.21J.031, provided to each rudder after damage is reported, as an approved method for permanent repair of rudder damage. We agree. Airbus is an EASA delegated agent and therefore a RAS approved under Airbus Design Organization Approval (DOA) EASA.21J.031 would be method of compliance for a repair required by this AD. We have not changed this AD in this regard. Request To Clarify Temporary Repairs Airbus requested that we clarify why the NPRM (77 FR 60064, October 2, 2012) does not allow the temporary restoration with self-adhesive patches, or the temporary restoration with resin, which are specified in the MCAI. We agree to clarify. Airbus All Operators Telex (AOT) A320-55A1038, Revision 02, dated September 28, 2009, does not provide specific procedures for operators to apply and inspect temporary restoration of vacuum loss inspection holes. This service information also does not specify pass/fail criteria for the detailed visual inspections associated with temporary repairs. This service information states that details of the hole restoration are provided in technical adaptations. We do not have access to technical adaptations for incorporating the technical adaptations by reference. Under the provisions of paragraph (ff) of this AD, we will consider requests for approval of an AMOC if sufficient data are submitted to specify an acceptable process for temporary repairs and that those temporary repairs would provide an acceptable level of safety. We have not changed the AD in this regard. Additional Changes Made to This AD In the NPRM (77 FR 60064, October 2, 2012), we included rudders P/N D554 71000 020 00, S/N TS-1494; and P/N D554 71002 000 00 0002, S/N TS- 2212 in table 6 to paragraph (c) of the NPRM. In this final rule, we have specified these part/serial numbers in paragraphs (c), (aa), and (ee) of this AD, and removed table 6 to paragraph (c) of this AD. We have also revised this final rule to change tables 4a, 4b, 5a, and 5b to figures 1, 2, 3, and 4 of this AD; we made no change to the content of those tables. These changes were made for formatting purposes only. Conclusion We reviewed the available data, including 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 changes:Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM (77 FR 60064, October 2, 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 60064, October 2, 2012). Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD will affect about 721 products of U.S. registry. The actions that are required by AD 2010-23-07, Amendment 39-16496 ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010)), and retained in this AD take about 11 work-hours per product, at an average labor rate of $85 per work hour. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the currently required actions on U.S. operators to be $674,135, or $935 per product. We estimate that it will take about 11 work-hours per product to comply with the new basic requirements of this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the AD on U.S. operators to be $674,135, or $935 per product. In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would take about 12 work-hours and require parts costing $10,000, for a cost of $11,020 per product. We have no way of determining the number of products that may need these actions. Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority. We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in ``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: 1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under 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 [[Page 37439]] under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket. 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, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations 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 airworthiness directive (AD) 2010-23-07, Amendment 39-16496 ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010)), and adding the following new AD: 2013-05-11 Airbus: Amendment 39-17383. Docket No. FAA-2012-1034; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-051-AD. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective July 26, 2013. (b) Affected ADs This AD supersedes AD 2010-23-07, Amendment 39-16496 ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010)). (c) Applicability This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes identified in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), and (c)(4) of this AD, certificated in any category, all serial numbers (S/N) having a rudder with a part number (P/N) and serial number listed in tables 1, 2, and 3, and figures 1 and 2, and 3 and 4 of this AD; and rudders P/N D554 71000 020 00, S/N TS-1494, and P/N D554 71002 000 00 0002, S/N TS-2212. (1) Model A318-111, -112, -121, and -122 airplanes. (2) Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, and -133 airplanes. (3) Model A320-111, -211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes. (4) Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes. Table 1 to Paragraph (c) of This AD ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Affected Rudder P/N rudder S/N ------------------------------------------------------------------------ D554 71000 010 00.......................................... TS-1069 D554 71000 010 00.......................................... TS-1090 D554 71000 012 00.......................................... TS-1227 D554 71000 014 00.......................................... TS-1350 D554 71000 014 00.......................................... TS-1366 D554 71000 014 00.......................................... TS-1371 D554 71000 014 00.......................................... TS-1383 D554 71000 014 00.......................................... TS-1387 D554 71000 016 00.......................................... TS-1412 D554 71000 018 00.......................................... TS-1443 D554 71000 018 00.......................................... TS-1444 D554 71000 018 00.......................................... TS-1468 D554 71000 020 00.......................................... TS-1480 D554 71000 020 00.......................................... TS-1491 D554 71000 020 00.......................................... TS-1495 D554 71000 020 00.......................................... TS-1498 D554 71000 020 00.......................................... TS-1499 D554 71000 020 00.......................................... TS-1500 D554 71000 020 00.......................................... TS-1505 D554 71000 020 00.......................................... TS-1506 D554 71000 020 00.......................................... TS-1507 D554 71000 020 00.......................................... TS-1509 D554 71000 020 00.......................................... TS-1515 D554 71000 020 00.......................................... TS-1528 D554 71000 020 00.......................................... TS-1530 D554 71000 020 00.......................................... TS-1532 D554 71000 020 00.......................................... TS-1535 D554 71000 020 00.......................................... TS-1536 D554 71000 020 00.......................................... TS-1538 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1537 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1540 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1541 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1543 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1548 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1549 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1551 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1554 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1555 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1556 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1557 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1559 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1562 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1563 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1564 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1565 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1566 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1567 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1568 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1569 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1570 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1573 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1575 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1578 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1579 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1580 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1581 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1582 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1584 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1593 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1594 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1596 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1599 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1603 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1609 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1621 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1626 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1627 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1635 D554 71001 000 00.......................................... TS-1637 D554 71002 000 00.......................................... TS-2306 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2003 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2005 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2013 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2016 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2019 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2020 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2022 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2024 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2026 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2031 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2033 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2043 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2047 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2048 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2054 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2058 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2059 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2064 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2072 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2075 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2076 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2079 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2083 D554 71002 000 00 0001..................................... TS-2089 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2090 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2095 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2103 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2116 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2122 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2133 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2142 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2147 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2157 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2158 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2162 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2167 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2174 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2176 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2181 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2189 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2191 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2203 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2205 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2207 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2224 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2229 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2233 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2241 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2246 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2249 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2270 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2275 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2289 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2290 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2294 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2309 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2347 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2348 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2349 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2357 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2361 [[Page 37440]] D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2380 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2383 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2390 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2394 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2396 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2401 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2406 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2461 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2468 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2516 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2537 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2543 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2546 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2619 D554 71002 000 00 0002..................................... TS-2684 D554 71002 000 00 0003..................................... TS-2752 D554 71002 000 00 0003..................................... TS-2869 D554 71002 000 00 0003..................................... TS-2876 D554 71002 000 00 0003..................................... TS-2970 D554 71002 000 00 0003..................................... TS-2971 D554 71002 000 00 0003..................................... TS-2987 D554 71004 000 00 0000..................................... TS-3083 D554 71004 000 00 0000..................................... TS-3197 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Note 1 to paragraph (c) of this AD: For table 1 to paragraph (c) of this AD, only rudder P/N D554 71000 010 00 having affected rudder S/Ns TS-1069 and TS-1090, and rudder P/N D554 71000 012 00 having affected rudder S/N TS-1227, have a core density of 24 kilogram (kg)/meters cubed (m\3\). Table 2 to Paragraph (c) of This AD ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Affected Rudder P/N rudder S/N ------------------------------------------------------------------------ D554-71000-014-00.......................................... TS-1278 D554-71002-000-00-0001..................................... TS-2081 D554-71002-000-00-0002..................................... TS-2125 D554-71002-000-00-0002..................................... TS-2129 D554-71002-000-00-0002..................................... TS-2160 D554-71002-000-00-0002..................................... TS-2201 D554-71002-000-00-0002..................................... TS-2328 D554-71002-000-00-0002..................................... TS-2425 D554-71002-000-00-0002..................................... TS-2511 D554-71002-000-00-0003..................................... TS-2768 D554-71002-000-00-0003..................................... TS-2999 D554-71002-000-00-0003..................................... TS-3004 D554-71002-000-00-0003..................................... TS-3051 D554-71004-000-00-0001..................................... TS-3288 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Table 3 to Paragraph (c) of This AD ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Affected Rudder P/N rudder S/N ------------------------------------------------------------------------ D554-71000-008-00.......................................... TS-1032 D554-71000-010-00.......................................... TS-1092 D554-71000-014-00.......................................... TS-1314 D554-71000-018-00.......................................... TS-1445 D554-71000-020-00.......................................... TS-1520 D554-71002-000-00-0001..................................... TS-2037 D554-71002-000-00-0002..................................... TS-2109 D554-71002-000-00-0002..................................... TS-2123 D554-71002-000-00-0002..................................... TS-2124 D554-71002-000-00-0002..................................... TS-2424 D554-71002-000-00-0002..................................... TS-2559 D554-71002-000-00-0003..................................... TS-3061 D554-71004-000-00-0001..................................... TS-3694 D554-71004-000-00-0001..................................... TS-3709 D554-71004-000-00-0002..................................... TS-4148 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Note 2 to paragraph (c) of this AD: For table 3 to paragraph (c) of this AD, only rudder P/N D554-71000-008-00 having affected rudder S/N TS-1032, and rudder P/N D554-71000-010-00 having affected rudder S/N TS-1092, have a core density of 24 kg/m\3\. Figure 1--Rudder P/N With Any S/N Listed in Figure 2 of This AD Rudder P/N With Any S/N Listed in Figure 2 of This AD ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------- D5547100000000 D5547100000200 D5547100000400 D5547100000600 D5547100000800 D5547100001000 D5547100001200 D5547100001400 D5547100001600 D5547100001800 D5547100002000 D5547100100000 D5547100200000 D5547100300000 D5547100400000 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Figure 2--Affected S/Ns for Rudders Listed in Figure 1 of This AD Affected S/N for Rudders Listed in Figure 1 of This AD ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TS-1368 TS-1616 TS-2080 TS-2159 TS-2222 TS-2276 TS-2327 TS-1389 TS-1619 TS-2082 TS-2163 TS-2223 TS-2279 TS-2330 TS-1496 TS-1622 TS-2084 TS-2168 TS-2227 TS-2280 TS-2331 TS-1501 TS-1632 TS-2085 TS-2169 TS-2228 TS-2281 TS-2332 TS-1503 TS-1639 TS-2086 TS-2170 TS-2230 TS-2284 TS-2333 TS-1508 TS-2004 TS-2094 TS-2172 TS-2231 TS-2285 TS-2334 TS-1516 TS-2008 TS-2096 TS-2175 TS-2232 TS-2286 TS-2336 TS-1527 TS-2010 TS-2097 TS-2177 TS-2234 TS-2293 TS-2337 TS-1529 TS-2012 TS-2098 TS-2179 TS-2235 TS-2297 TS-2338 TS-1534 TS-2014 TS-2100 TS-2182 TS-2236 TS-2298 TS-2339 TS-1545 TS-2017 TS-2101 TS-2183 TS-2238 TS-2299 TS-2340 TS-1547 TS-2018 TS-2106 TS-2185 TS-2240 TS-2302 TS-2341 TS-1553 TS-2023 TS-2113 TS-2192 TS-2242 TS-2303 TS-2343 TS-1560 TS-2025 TS-2115 TS-2193 TS-2244 TS-2304 TS-2346 TS-1561 TS-2029 TS-2118 TS-2195 TS-2245 TS-2305 TS-2352 TS-1571 TS-2032 TS-2126 TS-2199 TS-2248 TS-2307 TS-2353 TS-1572 TS-2034 TS-2130 TS-2200 TS-2250 TS-2310 TS-2354 TS-1574 TS-2039 TS-2131 TS-2204 TS-2251 TS-2311 TS-2355 TS-1576 TS-2040 TS-2132 TS-2206 TS-2252 TS-2312 TS-2356 TS-1577 TS-2041 TS-2134 TS-2208 TS-2254 TS-2313 TS-2358 TS-1583 TS-2046 TS-2136 TS-2209 TS-2258 TS-2315 TS-2360 TS-1585 TS-2050 TS-2140 TS-2210 TS-2259 TS-2316 TS-2362 TS-1588 TS-2051 TS-2143 TS-2211 TS-2260 TS-2319 TS-2363 TS-1591 TS-2052 TS-2144 TS-2213 TS-2261 TS-2320 TS-2364 TS-1600 TS-2053 TS-2145 TS-2216 TS-2262 TS-2321 TS-2365 TS-1602 TS-2056 TS-2149 TS-2217 TS-2265 TS-2322 TS-2366 TS-1607 TS-2060 TS-2152 TS-2218 TS-2268 TS-2323 TS-2367 TS-1608 TS-2069 TS-2154 TS-2220 TS-2271 TS-2325 TS-2370 TS-1614 TS-2070 TS-2155 TS-2221 TS-2272 TS-2326 TS-2371 TS-2372 TS-2483 TS-2583 TS-2665 TS-2743 TS-2813 TS-2878 TS-2373 TS-2484 TS-2584 TS-2666 TS-2744 TS-2814 TS-2879 [[Page 37441]] TS-2374 TS-2486 TS-2585 TS-2667 TS-2745 TS-2815 TS-2880 TS-2377 TS-2488 TS-2586 TS-2668 TS-2747 TS-2816 TS-2881 TS-2381 TS-2491 TS-2587 TS-2671 TS-2749 TS-2818 TS-2882 TS-2382 TS-2493 TS-2590 TS-2674 TS-2751 TS-2819 TS-2885 TS-2387 TS-2494 TS-2591 TS-2675 TS-2753 TS-2821 TS-2886 TS-2388 TS-2498 TS-2592 TS-2676 TS-2754 TS-2822 TS-2890 TS-2392 TS-2499 TS-2593 TS-2677 TS-2755 TS-2823 TS-2891 TS-2393 TS-2501 TS-2596 TS-2679 TS-2756 TS-2824 TS-2892 TS-2395 TS-2505 TS-2597 TS-2680 TS-2757 TS-2826 TS-2893 TS-2397 TS-2506 TS-2601 TS-2681 TS-2758 TS-2827 TS-2896 TS-2398 TS-2508 TS-2602 TS-2682 TS-2759 TS-2828 TS-2897 TS-2399 TS-2510 TS-2603 TS-2683 TS-2760 TS-2830 TS-2898 TS-2407 TS-2512 TS-2605 TS-2685 TS-2762 TS-2831 TS-2899 TS-2408 TS-2514 TS-2606 TS-2688 TS-2765 TS-2832 TS-2900 TS-2409 TS-2517 TS-2611 TS-2689 TS-2771 TS-2833 TS-2903 TS-2410 TS-2518 TS-2612 TS-2691 TS-2772 TS-2834 TS-2904 TS-2411 TS-2521 TS-2614 TS-2695 TS-2773 TS-2835 TS-2906 TS-2412 TS-2522 TS-2615 TS-2697 TS-2775 TS-2836 TS-2907 TS-2415 TS-2527 TS-2616 TS-2698 TS-2776 TS-2837 TS-2908 TS-2417 TS-2529 TS-2617 TS-2699 TS-2778 TS-2838 TS-2909 TS-2421 TS-2532 TS-2620 TS-2700 TS-2779 TS-2839 TS-2910 TS-2422 TS-2536 TS-2625 TS-2701 TS-2780 TS-2840 TS-2911 TS-2423 TS-2540 TS-2626 TS-2707 TS-2782 TS-2843 TS-2913 TS-2427 TS-2544 TS-2628 TS-2710 TS-2783 TS-2844 TS-2914 TS-2428 TS-2545 TS-2629 TS-2711 TS-2784 TS-2845 TS-2916 TS-2435 TS-2547 TS-2630 TS-2712 TS-2785 TS-2846 TS-2917 TS-2437 TS-2551 TS-2631 TS-2713 TS-2786 TS-2848 TS-2919 TS-2440 TS-2552 TS-2632 TS-2714 TS-2788 TS-2849 TS-2920 TS-2444 TS-2553 TS-2634 TS-2716 TS-2790 TS-2850 TS-2922 TS-2446 TS-2554 TS-2635 TS-2717 TS-2791 TS-2851 TS-2923 TS-2447 TS-2555 TS-2636 TS-2719 TS-2792 TS-2852 TS-2924 TS-2453 TS-2558 TS-2637 TS-2722 TS-2793 TS-2853 TS-2925 TS-2455 TS-2562 TS-2640 TS-2724 TS-2794 TS-2854 TS-2927 TS-2458 TS-2563 TS-2641 TS-2725 TS-2795 TS-2855 TS-2928 TS-2460 TS-2566 TS-2642 TS-2726 TS-2796 TS-2856 TS-2929 TS-2463 TS-2568 TS-2644 TS-2727 TS-2797 TS-2857 TS-2930 TS-2466 TS-2570 TS-2647 TS-2728 TS-2799 TS-2860 TS-2932 TS-2467 TS-2571 TS-2648 TS-2732 TS-2801 TS-2861 TS-2933 TS-2471 TS-2572 TS-2650 TS-2734 TS-2803 TS-2862 TS-2934 TS-2472 TS-2573 TS-2651 TS-2735 TS-2804 TS-2863 TS-2935 TS-2474 TS-2574 TS-2653 TS-2736 TS-2805 TS-2864 TS-2937 TS-2476 TS-2575 TS-2656 TS-2738 TS-2807 TS-2865 TS-2938 TS-2477 TS-2576 TS-2657 TS-2739 TS-2808 TS-2868 TS-2939 TS-2478 TS-2579 TS-2658 TS-2740 TS-2810 TS-2872 TS-2943 TS-2481 TS-2580 TS-2659 TS-2741 TS-2811 TS-2874 TS-2944 TS-2482 TS-2581 TS-2662 TS-2742 TS-2812 TS-2877 TS-2946 TS-2948 TS-3040 TS-3113 TS-3177 TS-3249 TS-3689 TS-3928 TS-2949 TS-3043 TS-3114 TS-3178 TS-3250 TS-3690 TS-3936 TS-2950 TS-3046 TS-3116 TS-3179 TS-3251 TS-3695 TS-3939 TS-2951 TS-3049 TS-3119 TS-3180 TS-3252 TS-3699 TS-3942 TS-2953 TS-3050 TS-3120 TS-3181 TS-3253 TS-3702 TS-3950 TS-2954 TS-3052 TS-3121 TS-3182 TS-3255 TS-3703 TS-3958 TS-2955 TS-3054 TS-3122 TS-3183 TS-3256 TS-3704 TS-3961 TS-2957 TS-3055 TS-3123 TS-3184 TS-3257 TS-3706 TS-3968 TS-2958 TS-3056 TS-3124 TS-3185 TS-3259 TS-3708 TS-3987 TS-2959 TS-3058 TS-3125 TS-3186 TS-3262 TS-3710 TS-3993 TS-2960 TS-3060 TS-3126 TS-3188 TS-3271 TS-3717 TS-3995 TS-2962 TS-3065 TS-3127 TS-3189 TS-3276 TS-3718 TS-4003 TS-2964 TS-3066 TS-3129 TS-3191 TS-3278 TS-3734 TS-4027 TS-2965 TS-3071 TS-3131 TS-3193 TS-3282 TS-3743 TS-4031 TS-2968 TS-3072 TS-3132 TS-3194 TS-3286 TS-3761 TS-4087 TS-2969 TS-3074 TS-3133 TS-3195 TS-3289 TS-3772 TS-4099 TS-2973 TS-3075 TS-3134 TS-3198 TS-3290 TS-3780 TS-4118 TS-2976 TS-3076 TS-3135 TS-3200 TS-3291 TS-3789 TS-4145 TS-2980 TS-3077 TS-3138 TS-3201 TS-3292 TS-3805 TS-4146 TS-2984 TS-3078 TS-3139 TS-3202 TS-3295 TS-3820 TS-4147 TS-2985 TS-3079 TS-3140 TS-3204 TS-3297 TS-3821 TS-4163 TS-2986 TS-3080 TS-3141 TS-3205 TS-3306 TS-3822 TS-4167 TS-2988 TS-3081 TS-3142 TS-3207 TS-3309 TS-3824 TS-4175 TS-2991 TS-3082 TS-3143 TS-3210 TS-3310 TS-3825 TS-4178 TS-2998 TS-3084 TS-3144 TS-3215 TS-3317 TS-3839 TS-4181 TS-3001 TS-3087 TS-3145 TS-3216 TS-3320 TS-3841 TS-4186 TS-3002 TS-3088 TS-3148 TS-3217 TS-3328 TS-3843 TS-4195 TS-3003 TS-3089 TS-3149 TS-3218 TS-3388 TS-3844 TS-4212 [[Page 37442]] TS-3005 TS-3090 TS-3151 TS-3219 TS-3392 TS-3846 TS-4232 TS-3006 TS-3091 TS-3154 TS-3221 TS-3395 TS-3849 TS-4271 TS-3009 TS-3093 TS-3155 TS-3222 TS-3429 TS-3850 TS-4331 TS-3011 TS-3094 TS-3156 TS-3223 TS-3441 TS-3851 TS-4345 TS-3016 TS-3096 TS-3158 TS-3224 TS-3516 TS-3853 TS-4366 TS-3018 TS-3097 TS-3159 TS-3226 TS-3561 TS-3855 TS-4396 TS-3020 TS-3098 TS-3160 TS-3227 TS-3567 TS-3857 TS-4401 TS-3021 TS-3100 TS-3161 TS-3232 TS-3574 TS-3860 TS-4420 TS-3025 TS-3101 TS-3162 TS-3234 TS-3590 TS-3862 TS-4461 TS-3026 TS-3102 TS-3164 TS-3235 TS-3591 TS-3863 TS-4480 TS-3027 TS-3103 TS-3166 TS-3236 TS-3595 TS-3871 TS-4636 TS-3028 TS-3104 TS-3167 TS-3237 TS-3598 TS-3878 TS-4651 TS-3030 TS-3105 TS-3168 TS-3240 TS-3609 TS-3879 TS-4678 TS-3031 TS-3106 TS-3169 TS-3241 TS-3625 TS-3882 TS-4696 TS-3032 TS-3107 TS-3170 TS-3242 TS-3638 TS-3883 TS-4770 TS-3033 TS-3108 TS-3171 TS-3243 TS-3650 TS-3885 N/A TS-3034 TS-3109 TS-3172 TS-3244 TS-3669 TS-3910 N/A TS-3035 TS-3110 TS-3174 TS-3245 TS-3684 TS-3914 N/A TS-3037 TS-3111 TS-3175 TS-3247 TS-3685 TS-3921 N/A TS-3038 TS-3112 TS-3176 TS-3248 TS-3687 TS-3924 N/A ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Figure 3--Rudder P/N With Any S/N Listed in Figure 4 of This AD Rudder P/N With Any S/N Listed in Figure 4 of This AD ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------- D5547100000000 D5547100000200 D5547100000400 D5547100000600 D5547100000800 D5547100001000 D5547100001200 D5547100001400 D5547100001600 D5547100001800 D5547100002000 D5547100100000 D5547100200000 D5547100300000 D5547100400000 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Figure 4--Rudder S/N With Any P/N Listed in Figure 3 of This AD Rudder S/N With Any P/N Listed in Figure 3 of This AD ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------- TS-2141 TS-2269 TS-2274 TS-2295 TS-2317 TS-2664 TS-2715 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 55, Stabilizers. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by reports of surface defects on rudders that were the result of debonding between the skin and honeycomb core. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct extended de- bonding, which might degrade the structural integrity of the rudder. The loss of the rudder leads to degradation of the handling qualities and reduces the controllability of the airplane. (f) Compliance You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the actions have already been done. (g) Retained Repetitive Inspections of Rudders With a Core Density of 24 kg/m\3\ This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 2010-23-07, Amendment 39-16496 ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010)). For rudders identified in table 1 to paragraph (c) of this AD with a honeycomb core density of 24 kg/m\3\ (rudder P/N D554 71000 010 00 having affected rudder S/Ns TS-1069 and TS-1090, and rudder P/N D554 71000 012 00 having affected rudder S/N TS-1227), do the actions specified in paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), (g)(3), and (g)(4) of this AD, in accordance with Airbus All Operators Telex (AOT) A320-55A1038, Revision 01, dated June 10, 2009; or Airbus AOT A320-55A1038, Revision 02, dated September 28, 2009; for the locations defined in the applicable AOT specified in this paragraph. (1) Within 200 days after December 10, 2010 (the effective date of AD 2010-23-07, Amendment 39-16496 ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010))): Perform a vacuum loss inspection on the rudder reinforced area. (2) Within 20 months after December 10, 2010 (the effective date of AD 2010-23-07, Amendment 39-16496 ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010))): Perform an elasticity laminate checker (ELCH) inspection on the rudder trailing edge area. Repeat the inspection two times, at intervals not to exceed 4,500 flight cycles, but not sooner than 4,000 flight cycles after the last inspection. (3) Within 200 days after December 10, 2010 (the effective date of AD 2010-23-07, Amendment 39-16496 ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010))): Perform an ELCH inspection of the other areas (splice/lower rib/upper edge/leading edge/other specified locations). Repeat the inspection at intervals not to exceed 1,500 flight cycles or 200 days, whichever comes first. (4) Within 20 months after December 10, 2010 (the effective date of AD 2010-23-07, Amendment 39-16496 ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010))): Perform a vacuum loss inspection of the other areas (splice/lower rib/upper edge/leading edge/other specified locations). Accomplishment of the action specified in paragraph (g)(4) of this AD terminates the requirements of paragraph (g)(3) of this AD. (h) Retained Repetitive Inspections of Rudders Without a Core Density of 24 kg/m\3\ This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD 2010-23-07, Amendment 39-16496 ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010)). For rudders that do not have a honeycomb core density of 24 kg/m\3\ (all rudders identified in table 1 to paragraph (c) of this AD, except rudder P/N D554 71000 010 00 having affected rudder S/Ns TS-1069 and TS-1090, and rudder P/N D554 71000 012 00 having affected rudder S/N TS-1227), do the actions specified in paragraphs (h)(1), (h)(2), (h)(3), and (h)(4) of this AD, in accordance with Airbus AOT A320-55A1038, Revision 01, dated June 10, 2009; or Airbus AOT A320-55A1038, Revision 02, dated September 28, 2009; for the locations defined in the applicable AOT specified in this paragraph. As of the effective date of this AD, use only Airbus AOT A320-55A1038, Revision 02, dated September 28, 2009. For this paragraph, ``reference date'' is defined as December 10, 2010 (the effective date of AD 2010-23-07), or the date when the rudder will accumulate 20,000 total flight cycles from its first installation on an airplane, whichever occurs later. (1) Within 200 days after the reference date, perform a vacuum loss inspection on the rudder reinforced area. (2) Within 20 months after the reference date, perform an ELCH inspection on the rudder trailing edge area. Repeat the inspection two times at intervals not to exceed 4,500 flight cycles, but not sooner [[Page 37443]] than 4,000 flight cycles after the last inspection. (3) Within 200 days after the reference date, perform an ELCH inspection of the other areas (splice/lower rib/upper edge/leading edge/other specified locations). Repeat the inspection at intervals not to exceed 1,500 flight cycles or 200 days, whichever comes first. (4) Within 20 months after the reference date, perform a vacuum loss inspection of the other areas (splice/lower rib/upper edge/ leading edge/other specified locations). Accomplishment of the actions specified in this paragraph terminates the requirements of paragraph (h)(3) of this AD. (i) Retained Corrective Actions for De-Bonding This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (i) of AD 2010-23-07, Amendment 39-16496 ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010)). In case of de-bonding found during any inspection required by paragraph (g) or (h) of this AD, before further flight, contact Airbus for further instructions and apply the associated instructions and corrective actions in accordance with the approved data provided, or repair the debonding using a method approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) (or its delegated agent). After the effective date of this AD, repair the debonding using only a method approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116; or the EASA (or its delegated agent). (j) Retained Reporting for Findings From Actions Required by Paragraphs (g) and (h) of This AD This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (j) of AD 2010-23-07, Amendment 39-16496 ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010)). At the applicable time specified in paragraph (j)(1) or (j)(2) of this AD, submit a report of the findings (both positive and negative) of each inspection required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD. The report must include the inspection results, as specified in Airbus Technical Disposition TD/K4/S2/27086/2009, Issue E, dated September 17, 2009. For positive findings, submit the report to either the Manager, Seer1/Seer2/Seer3 Customer Services, fax +33 (0)5 61 93 28 73, email region1.structurerepairsupport@airbus.com, region2.structurerepairsupport@airbus.com, or region3.structurerepairsupport@airbus.com; or AIRTAC (Airbus Technical AOG Center) Customer Services, telephone +33 (0)5 61 93 34 00, fax +33 (0)5 61 93 35 00, email airtac@airbus.com. For negative findings, submit the report to Nicolas Seynaeve, Sees1, Customer Services; telephone +33 (0)5 61 93 34 38; fax +33 (0)5 61 93 36 14; email nicolas.seynaeve@airbus.com; except, as of the effective date of this AD, only submit the report to SEES1, Customer Services, fax +33 (0)5 61 93 36 14. (1) For any inspection done on or after December 10, 2010 (the effective date of AD 2010-23-07, Amendment 39-16496 ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010))): Submit the report within 30 days after the inspection. (2) For any inspection done before December 10, 2010 (the effective date of AD 2010-23-07, Amendment 39-16496 ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010))): Submit the report within 30 days after December 10, 2010. (k) Retained Inspection in Additional Areas This paragraph restates the provisions of paragraph (k) of AD 2010-23-07, Amendment 39-16496, ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010)). All rudders that have passed the inspection specified in paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), (g)(3), (g)(4), (h)(1), (h)(2), (h)(3), and (h)(4) of this AD before December 10, 2010 (the effective date of AD 2010-23-07), in accordance with Airbus AOT A320-55A1038, dated April 22, 2009; or Airbus Technical Disposition TD/K4/S2/27051/2009, Issue B, dated February 25, 2009; are compliant with this AD only for the areas inspected. Additional areas defined in Section 0, ``Reason for Revision,'' of Airbus AOT A320-55A1038, Revision 01, dated June 10, 2009; or Airbus AOT A320-55A1038, Revision 02, dated September 28, 2009; must be inspected as specified in paragraph (g) or (h) of this AD. For all areas, the repetitive inspections required by paragraph (g) or (h) of this AD remain applicable. (l) Retained Parts Installation Limitations This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (l) of AD 2010-23-07, Amendment 39-16496 ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010)). After December 10, 2010 (the effective date of AD 2010-23-07), no rudder listed in table 1 to paragraph (c) of this AD may be installed on any airplane, unless the rudder is inspected in accordance with paragraph (g) or (h) of this AD, as applicable, and all applicable actions specified in paragraph (i) of this AD are done. (m) New Restoration of Vacuum Loss Holes If no de-bonding is found during any inspection required by paragraph (g) or (h) of this AD: Before further flight, restore the vacuum loss holes by doing a permanent restoration with resin, in accordance with Note 3 of Airbus AOT A320-55A1038, Revision 02, dated September 28, 2009. Before doing the resin injection, do a local ultrasound inspection in reinforced areas, and a thermography inspection in other areas, for damage, in accordance with Note 3 of Airbus AOT A320-55A1038, Revision 02, dated September 28, 2009. If any damage is found during any inspection required by this paragraph: Before further flight, repair the damage using a method approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116; or the EASA (or its delegated agent). (n) New X-Ray, ELCH, Vacuum Loss, or Thermography Inspection For rudders identified in table 2 to paragraph (c) of this AD, do the actions specified in paragraphs (n)(1) and (n)(2) of this AD, in accordance with Airbus AOT A320-55A1039, dated November 4, 2009, for the locations defined in that AOT. For this paragraph, ``reference date'' is defined as the effective date of this AD or the date when the rudder will accumulate 20,000 total flight cycles from its first installation on an airplane, whichever occurs later. (1) Within 20 months after the effective date of this AD, or within 200 days after the reference date, whichever occurs first: Perform x-ray, and/or ELCH, and/or vacuum loss, and/or thermography inspections for damage, as applicable to rudder part number and serial number, in accordance with the instructions of paragraph 4.2.2.1.1. of Airbus AOT A320-55A1039, dated November 4, 2009. (2) At the applicable time specified in paragraph (n)(2)(i) or (n)(2)(ii) of this AD, send the developed x-ray films and the film layout arrangement, if applicable, to Attn: SDC32 Technical Data and Documentation Services, Airbus Customer Services Directorate, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; fax (+33) 5 61 93 28 06; email sb.reporting@airbus.com. (i) If the inspection was done on or after the effective date of this AD: Submit the x-ray films and the film layout arrangement within 10 days after the inspection. (ii) If the inspection was done before the effective date of this AD: Submit the x-ray films and the film layout arrangement within 10 days after the effective date of this AD. (3) If any damage is found during any inspection required by paragraph (n) of this AD: Before further flight, repair the damage using a method approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116; or the EASA (or its delegated agent). (o) New ELCH Inspection, Vacuum Loss Inspection, and Repairs For rudders identified in table 2 to paragraph (c) of this AD: Within 1,500 flight cycles or 200 days after doing the requirements of paragraph (n)(1) of this AD, whichever occurs first, do the actions specified in paragraphs (o)(1) and (o)(2) of this AD. (1) Perform an ELCH inspection for damage on the rudder trailing edge area, in accordance with the instructions of paragraph 4.2.2.1.2. of Airbus AOT A320-55A1039, dated November 4, 2009. In case of no finding, repeat the inspection two times, at intervals not to exceed 4,500 flight cycles but not sooner than 4,000 flight cycles after the last inspection. (2) Perform a vacuum loss inspection for damage of the other areas (splice/lower rib/upper edge/leading edge/other specified locations), in accordance with the instructions of paragraph 4.2.2.1.2. of Airbus AOT A320-55A1039, dated November 4, 2009. (3) If any damage is found during any inspection required by paragraph (o) of this AD: Before further flight, repair the damage using a method approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116; or the EASA (or its delegated agent). [[Page 37444]] (p) New Restorations/Inspections/Repairs of Certain Vacuum Loss Holes for Certain Rudders If no damage is found during any inspection required by paragraph (o) of this AD: Before further flight, restore the vacuum loss holes by doing a permanent restoration with resin, in accordance with Note 3 of Airbus AOT A320-55A1039, dated November 4, 2009. Before doing the resin injection, do a local ultrasound inspection in reinforced areas, and a thermography inspection in other areas, for damage, in accordance with Note 3 of Airbus AOT A320-55A1039, dated November 4, 2009. If any damage is found during any inspection required by this paragraph: Before further flight, repair the damage using a method approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116; or the EASA (or its delegated agent). (q) New Rudder Replacement for Rudders Identified in Table 3 to Paragraph (c) of This AD For rudders identified in table 3 to paragraph (c) of this AD, do the actions specified in paragraphs (q)(1) and (q)(2) of this AD, in accordance with the instructions of Airbus AOT A320-55A1039, dated November 4, 2009, for the locations defined in that AOT. For this paragraph, ``reference date'' is defined as the effective date of this AD or the date when the rudder will accumulate 20,000 total flight cycles from its first installation on an airplane, whichever occurs later. (1) For rudders identified in table 3 to paragraph (c) of this AD with a honeycomb core density of 24 kg/m\3\ (rudder P/N D554- 71000-008-00 having affected rudder S/N TS-1032 and rudder P/N D554- 71000-010-00 having affected rudder S/N TS-1092): Within 200 days after the effective date of this AD, replace the rudder with a new rudder, in accordance with a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116; or the EASA (or its delegated agent). (2) For rudders identified in table 3 to paragraph (c) of this AD that do not have a honeycomb core density of 24 kg/m\3\ (all except rudder P/N D554-71000-008-00 having affected rudder S/N TS- 1032 and rudder P/N D554-71000-010-00 having affected rudder S/N TS- 1092): Within 20 months after the effective date of this AD or within 200 days after the reference date, whichever occurs first, replace the rudder with a new rudder, in accordance with a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116; or the EASA (or its delegated agent). (r) New Vacuum Loss Inspection for Reinforced Areas of Rudder Identified in Figures 1 and 2 of This AD For rudders identified in figures 1 and 2 of this AD: At the later of the times specified in paragraphs (r)(1) and (r)(2) of this AD, perform a vacuum loss inspection on the rudder reinforced area for damage, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1035, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A320 series airplanes); Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1036, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A318 and A321 series airplanes); or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1037, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A319 series airplanes). (1) Before the rudder accumulates 17,000 total flight cycles from its first installation on an airplane without exceeding 20 months from the effective date of this AD. (2) Within 200 days after the effective date of this AD. (s) New ELCH Inspection for Rudder Trailing Edge Area For rudders identified in figures 1 and 2 of this AD: Within 20 months after the effective date of this AD, perform an ELCH inspection for damage on the rudder trailing edge area, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1035, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A320 series airplanes); Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1036, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A318 and A321 series airplanes); or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1037, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A319 series airplanes). Repeat the inspection two times at intervals not to exceed 4,500 flight cycles, but not sooner than 4,000 flight cycles after the last inspection. (t) New ELCH Inspection for Additional Rudder Areas For rudders identified in figures 1 and 2 of this AD: At the later of the times specified in paragraphs (t)(1) and (t)(2) of this AD, perform an ELCH inspection for damage of the other areas (splice/lower rib/upper edge/leading edge/other specified locations) for damage, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1035, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A320 series airplanes); Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1036, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A318 and A321 series airplanes); or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1037, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A319 series airplanes). Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 1,500 flight cycles or 200 days, whichever comes first. (1) Before the rudder accumulates 17,000 total flight cycles from its first installation on an airplane without exceeding 20 months from the effective date of this AD. (2) Within 200 days after the effective date of this AD. (u) New Vacuum Loss Inspection for Certain Areas of Rudders Identified in Figures 1 and 2 of This AD For rudders identified in figures 1 and 2 of this AD: Within 20 months after the effective date of this AD, perform a vacuum loss inspection for damage of the lower rib, upper edge, leading edge, and other specified locations, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1035, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A320 series airplanes); Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1036, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A318 and A321 series airplanes); or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55- 1037, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A319 series airplanes). Accomplishment of the actions specified in this paragraph terminates the requirements of paragraph (t) of this AD. (v) New Corrective Actions for Certain Inspections In case of damage found during any inspection required by paragraph (r), (s), (t), or (u) of this AD: Before further flight, repair the damage using a method approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116; or the EASA (or its delegated agent). (w) New Restorations/Inspections/Repairs of Certain Vacuum Loss Holes for Certain Other Rudders If no damage is found during any inspection required by paragraph (r) or (u) of this AD: Before further flight, restore the vacuum loss holes by doing a permanent restoration with resin, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1035, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A320 series airplanes); Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1036, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A318 and A321 series airplanes); or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1037, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A319 series airplanes). Before doing the resin injection, do a local ultrasound inspection in reinforced areas, and a thermography inspection in other areas, for damage, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1035, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A320 series airplanes); Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1036, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A318 and A321 series airplanes); or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1037, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A319 series airplanes). If any damage is found during any inspection required by this paragraph: Before further flight, repair the damage using a method approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116; or the EASA (or its delegated agent). (x) Credit for Certain Previous Actions This paragraph provides credit for the inspections required by paragraphs (r), (s), (t), (u), and (w) of this AD only for the inspected area for rudders identified in figures 1 and 2 of this AD, if the area passed the inspection before the effective date of this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1035, dated February 17, 2010 (for Model A320 series airplanes); Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1036, dated February 17, 2010 (for Model A318 and A321 series airplanes); or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1037, dated February 17, 2010 (for Model A319 series airplanes); which are not incorporated by reference in this AD. For all other inspected areas, the repetitive inspections required by paragraph (s), (t), and (w) of this AD are still required. (y) New ELCH Inspection and Repairs for Certain Rudders For rudders identified in figures 3 and 4 of this AD: Within 4,500 flight cycles but not sooner than 4,000 flight cycles after the sampling inspection, or within 30 days after [[Page 37445]] the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later, perform an ELCH inspection for damage on the rudder trailing edge area, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1035, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A320 series airplanes); Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1036, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A318 and A321 series airplanes); or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1037, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010 (for Model A319 series airplanes). Repeat the inspection within 4,500 flight cycles, but not sooner than 4,000 flight cycles after the last inspection. If any damage is found during any inspection required by paragraph (y) of this AD: Before further flight, repair the damage using a method approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116; or the EASA (or its delegated agent). (z) Credit for Certain Other Previous Actions This paragraph provides credit for the inspection required by paragraph (y) of this AD only for the inspected area for rudders identified in figures 3 and 4 of this AD if the area passed the inspection before the effective date of this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1035, dated February 17, 2010 (for Model A320 series airplanes); Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1036, dated February 17, 2010 (for Model A318 and A321 series airplanes); or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1037, dated February 17, 2010 (for Model A319 series airplanes); which are not incorporated by reference in this AD. For all inspection areas, the repetitive inspections required by paragraph (y) of this AD are still required. (aa) New Repetitive Inspections of Certain Rudders For rudders P/N D554 71000 020 00, S/N TS-1494; and P/N D554 71002 000 00 0002, S/N TS-2212: Do the actions specified in paragraphs (aa)(1), (aa)(2), (aa)(3), and (aa)(4) of this AD, in accordance with Airbus AOT A320-55A1038, Revision 02, dated September 28, 2009. For this paragraph, ``reference date'' is defined as the date when the rudder will accumulate 20,000 total flight cycles from its first installation on an airplane. (1) Within 200 days after the reference date, perform a vacuum loss inspection on the rudder reinforced area. (2) Within 20 months after the reference date, perform an ELCH inspection on the rudder trailing edge area. Repeat the inspection two times at intervals not to exceed 4,500 flight cycles, but not sooner than 4,000 flight cycles, after the last inspection. (3) Within 200 days after the reference date, perform an ELCH inspection of the other areas (splice/lower rib/upper edge/leading edge/other specified locations). Repeat the inspection at intervals not to exceed 1,500 flight cycles or 200 days, whichever comes first. (4) Within 20 months after the reference date, perform a vacuum loss inspection of the other areas (splice/lower rib/upper edge/ leading edge/other specified locations). Accomplishment of the actions specified in this paragraph terminates the requirements of paragraph (h)(3) of this AD. (bb) New De-Bonding Corrective Actions In case of de-bonding found during any inspection required by paragraph (aa) of this AD: Before further flight, contact Airbus for further instructions and apply the associated instructions and corrective actions in accordance with the approved data provided. (cc) New Restoration of Vacuum Loss Holes If no de-bonding is found during any inspection required by paragraph (aa) of this AD: Before further flight, restore the vacuum loss holes by a permanent restoration with resin, in accordance with Note 3 of Airbus AOT A320-55A1038, Revision 02, dated September 28, 2009. Before doing the resin injection, do a local ultrasound inspection in reinforced areas, and a thermography inspection in other areas, for damage, in accordance with Note 3 of Airbus AOT A320-55A1038, Revision 02, dated September 28, 2009. If any damage is found during any inspection required by this paragraph: Before further flight, repair the damage using a method approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116; or the EASA (or its delegated agent). (dd) New Reporting for Paragraphs (n), (o), (r), (s), (t), (u), (y), and (aa) of This AD At the applicable time specified in paragraph (dd)(1) or (dd)(2) of this AD, submit a report of the findings (both positive and negative) of each inspection required by paragraphs (n), (o), (r), (s), (t), (u), (y), and (aa) of this AD. The report must include the inspection results, as specified in Airbus Technical Disposition TD/ K4/S2/27086/2009, Issue E, dated September 17, 2009. For positive findings, submit the report to either the Manager, Seer1/Seer2/Seer3 Customer Services, fax +33 (0)5 61 93 28 73, email region1.structurerepairsupport@airbus.com, region2.structurerepairsupport@airbus.com, or region3.structurerepairsupport@airbus.com; or AIRTAC (Airbus Technical AOG Center) Customer Services, telephone +33 (0)5 61 93 34 00, fax +33 (0)5 61 93 35 00, email airtac@airbus.com. For negative findings, submit the report to SEES1, Customer Services, fax +33 (0)5 61 93 36 14. (1) For any inspection done on or after the effective date of this AD: Submit the report within 10 days after the inspection. (2) For any inspection done before the effective date of this AD: Submit the report within 10 days after the effective date of this AD. (ee) New Parts Installation Limitation As of the effective date of this AD, no rudder listed in table 1, 2, or 3 of this AD; or figure 1, 2, 3, or 4 of this AD; or a rudder identified in paragraph (ee)(1) or (ee)(2) of this AD; may be installed on any airplane, unless the rudder is in compliance with the requirements of this AD. (1) P/N D554 71000 020 00; S/N TS-1494. (2) P/N D554 71002 000 00 0002; S/N TS-2212. (ff) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone (425) 227- 1405; fax (425) 227-1149. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD. (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority (or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product is airworthy before it is returned to service. (3) Reporting Requirements: 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 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. (gg) Related Information (1) Refer to MCAI EASA Airworthiness Directive 2010-0164, dated August 5, 2010, for related information. (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference may be obtained at the addresses specified in paragraph (hh)(5) and (hh)(6) of this AD. (hh) 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 July 26, 2013. (i) Airbus All Operators Telex (AOT) A320-55A1038, dated April 22, 2009. The [[Page 37446]] first page of this document contains the document number and date; no other pages contain this information. (ii) Airbus AOT A320-55A1039, dated November 4, 2009. The first page of this document contains the document number and date; no other pages contain this information. (iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1035, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010. (iv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1036, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010. (v) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-55-1037, Revision 01, dated July 2, 2010. (vi) Airbus Technical Disposition TD/K4/S2/27051/2009, Issue B, dated February 25, 2009. (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on December 10, 2010 ((75 FR 68181, November 5, 2010); corrected (75 FR 78883, December 17, 2010)). (i) Airbus AOT A320-55A1038, Revision 01, dated June 10, 2009. The first page of this document contains the document number, revision level, and date; no other pages contain this information. (ii) Airbus AOT A320-55A1038, Revision 02, dated September 28, 2009. The first page of this document contains the document number, revision level, and date; no other pages contain this information. (iii) Airbus Technical Disposition TD/K4/S2/27086/2009, Issue E, dated September 17, 2009. The first page of this document contains the document number, revision level, and date; no other pages contain this information. (5) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com. (6) You may review copies of the service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221. (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 Renton, Washington, on March 1, 2013. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013-14698 Filed 6-20-13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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