Airworthiness Directives; Piper Aircraft, Inc. Airplanes, 41277-41280 [2013-15149]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 132 / Wednesday, July 10, 2013 / Rules and Regulations (iii) Dassault Mandatory Service Bulletin F2000EX–171, Revision 2, dated February 15, 2010, which includes the following appendices: (A) Appendix 1, Revision 2, dated February 15, 2010; (B) Appendix 2, Revision 3, dated February 15, 2009; (C) Appendix 3, Revision 2, dated October 21, 2009; (D) Appendix 4, Revision 1, dated October 20, 2009; and (E) Appendix 5, Revision 3, dated February 15, 2010. (i) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, International Branch, ANM–116, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Tom Rodriguez, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–1137; fax (425) 227– 1149. Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD. (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority (or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product is airworthy before it is returned to service. (j) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) European Aviation Safety Agency Airworthiness Directive 2011–0193, dated October 5, 2011, for related information. This MCAI may be viewed on the Internet at https:// ad.easa.europa.eu/blob/ easa_ad_2011_0193.pdf. (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not incorporated by referenced may be obtained at the addresses specified in paragraphs (k)(3) and (k)(4) of this AD. TKELLEY on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES (k) 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. VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:22 Jul 09, 2013 Jkt 229001 (i) Dassault Mandatory Service Bulletin F50–496, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2010, which includes the following appendices: (A) Appendix 1, Revision 2, dated February 15, 2010; (B) Appendix 2, Revision 3, dated February 15, 2009; (C) Appendix 3, Revision 2, dated October 21, 2009; (D) Appendix 4, Revision 1, dated October 20, 2009; and (E) Appendix 5, Revision 3, dated February 15, 2010. (ii) Dassault Mandatory Service Bulletin F900EX–329, Revision 3, dated March 10, 2010, which includes the following appendices: (A) Appendix 1, Revision 2, dated February 15, 2010; (B) Appendix 2, Revision 3, dated February 15, 2009; (C) Appendix 3, Revision 2, dated October 21, 2009; (D) Appendix 4, Revision 1, dated October 20, 2009; and (E) Appendix 5, Revision 3, dated February 15, 2010. (iii) Dassault Mandatory Service Bulletin F900–388, Revision 3, dated October 19, 2011, which includes the following appendices: (A) Appendix 1, Revision 2, dated February 15, 2010; (B) Appendix 2, Revision 3, dated February 15, 2009; (C) Appendix 3, Revision 2, dated October 21, 2009; (D) Appendix 4, Revision 1, dated October 20, 2009; and (E) Appendix 5, Revision 4, dated October 19, 2011. (iv) Dassault Mandatory Service Bulletin F2000–358, Revision 3, dated March 10, 2010, which includes the following appendices: (A) Appendix 1, Revision 2, dated February 15, 2010; (B) Appendix 2, Revision 3, dated February 15, 2009; (C) Appendix 3, Revision 2, dated October 21, 2009; (D) Appendix 4, Revision 1, dated October 20, 2009; and (E) Appendix 5, Revision 3, dated February 15, 2010. (v) Dassault Mandatory Service Bulletin F2000EX–171, Revision 3, dated March 10, 2010, which includes the following appendices: (A) Appendix 1, Revision 2, dated February 15, 2010; (B) Appendix 2, Revision 3, dated February 15, 2009; (C) Appendix 3, Revision 2, dated October 21, 2009; (D) Appendix 4, Revision 1, dated October 20, 2009; and (E) Appendix 5, Revision 3, dated February 15, 2010. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Dassault Falcon Jet, P.O. Box 2000, South Hackensack, New Jersey 07606; telephone 201–440–6700; Internet https:// www.dassaultfalcon.com. (4) You may review copies of the service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 41277 Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 23, 2013. Jeffrey E. Duven, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–15141 Filed 7–9–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0535; Directorate Identifier 2013–CE–018–AD; Amendment 39–17489; AD 2013–13–01] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Piper Aircraft, Inc. Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Piper Aircraft, Inc. Models PA–46–310P, PA–46–350P, PA–46R–350T, and PA– 46–500TP airplanes. This AD requires inspecting the fuel vent valves to identify if the nitrile parts are installed and modifying and eventually replacing the fuel vent valves if the nitrile parts are installed. This AD was prompted by nitrile fuel vent valves not providing the correct ventilation. If not corrected, this unsafe condition may lead to structural damage of the wings, which could result in loss of control. We are issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective July 10, 2013. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of July 10, 2013. We must receive comments on this AD by August 26, 2013. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\10JYR1.SGM 10JYR1 41278 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 132 / Wednesday, July 10, 2013 / Rules and Regulations • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this AD, contact Piper Aircraft, Inc., 2926 Piper Drive, Vero Beach, FL 32960; telephone: 1–877–879–0275; fax: (772) 978–6573; email: customer.service@piper.com; Internet: https://www.piper.com/pages/ publications.cfm. 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. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Office (phone: 800–647– 5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Gary Wechsler, Aerospace Engineer, Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, 1701 Columbia Avenue, College Park, Georgia 30337; telephone: (404) 474–5575; fax: (404) 474–5606; email: gary.wechsler@faa. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We were notified by Piper Aircraft, Inc. that during a demonstration emergency descent from 27,000 feet to 14,000 feet there was an incident on a Model PA–46 airplane. The fuel vent valve of the main fuel tank assembly did not provide proper ventilation, which resulted in structural damage to the wing. The material used to manufacture the fuel vent valve was changed from fluorosilicone to nitrile, which affected the fuel vent valve’s ability to vent atmospheric pressure to the main wing fuel tank during the rapid descent. The nitrile-made part did not allow enough air to flow through it because the stiffer nitrile-made part did not expand and open as large as the fluorosilicone-made part under the same pressure and temperature conditions. Also, in combination with the temperature and pressure changes, the airplane had a low fuel condition, which increased the loading upon the main wing that caused the wing skin and underlying wing structure to buckle. This condition, if not corrected, may lead to structural damage of the wings, which could result in loss of control. Relevant Service Information We reviewed Piper Aircraft, Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 1258, dated June 5, 2013. The service bulletin describes procedures for inspecting the fuel vent valves to identify if the nitrile parts are installed and modifying and eventually replacing the fuel vent valves if the nitrile parts are installed. FAA’s Determination We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design. AD Requirements This AD requires accomplishing the actions specified in the service information described previously. FAA’s Justification and Determination of the Effective Date An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of this AD. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public justifies waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule because nitrile fuel vent valves do not provide correct ventilation and may lead to structural damage of the wings, which could result in loss of control. Therefore, we find that notice and opportunity for prior public comment are impracticable and that good cause exists for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days. Comments Invited This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for public comment. However, we invite you to send any written data, views, or arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include the Docket Number FAA–2013–0535 and Directorate Identifier 2013–CE–018–AD at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this AD because of those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 1,379 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators Inspection to identify installation of nitrile fuel vent valves. TKELLEY on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES Action .5 work-hour × $85 per hour = $42.50 ..... Not applicable ........... $42.50 $58,607.50 We estimate the following costs to do any necessary modifications and replacements that would be required VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:22 Jul 09, 2013 Jkt 229001 based on the results of the inspection. We have no way of determining the PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 number of aircraft that might need these modifications and replacements: E:\FR\FM\10JYR1.SGM 10JYR1 41279 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 132 / Wednesday, July 10, 2013 / Rules and Regulations ON-CONDITION COSTS Cost per product Action Labor cost Parts cost Modification of the nitrile fuel vent valve (non Oring panels). Modification of the nitrile fuel vent valve (O-ring panels). Replacement of the nitrile fuel vent valve with a fluorosilicone fuel vent valve (non O-ring panels). Replacement of the nitrile fuel vent valve with a fluorosilicone fuel vent valve (O-ring panels). 6 work-hours × $85 per hour = $510 ..................... Not applicable ........... $510 2.5 work-hours × $85 per hour = $212.50 ............. Not applicable ........... 212.50 6 work-hours × $85 per hour = $510 ..................... $9 .............................. 519 2.5 work-hours × $85 per hour = $212.50 ............. $9 .............................. 221.50 Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA’s authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs’’ describes in more detail the scope of the Agency’s authority. We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: ‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ 2013–13–01 Piper Aircraft, Inc.: Amendment 39–17489; Docket No. FAA–2013–0535; Directorate Identifier 2013–CE–018–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective July 10, 2013. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to the following Piper Aircraft, Inc. airplanes, listed in table 1 of paragraph (c) of this AD, certificated in any category: TABLE 1 OF PARAGRAPH (C) OF THIS AD—APPLICABLE AIRPLANES Model Serial Nos. PA–46–310P (Malibu) .............................................................................. 46–8408001 through 46–8408087; 46-8508001 through 46–8508109; 46-8608001 through 46–8608067; and 4608001 through 4608140. 4622001 through 4622200; 4636001 through 4636591; and 4636593. 4692001 through 4692190 and 4692192. 4697001 through 4697520. PA–46–350P (Mirage) .............................................................................. PA–46R–350T (Matrix) ............................................................................. PA–46–500TP (Meridian) ......................................................................... (f) Compliance Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/ Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 2810, Fuel Storage. Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (e) Unsafe Condition TKELLEY on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES (d) Subject (g) Inspection and Modification This AD was prompted by certain fuel vent valves not providing the correct ventilation. If not corrected, this unsafe condition may lead to structural damage of the wings, which could result in loss of control. We are issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these products. (1) Within the next 10 hours time-inservice (TIS) after July 10, 2013 (the effective date of this AD), inspect the left and right fuel vent valves of the main fuel tank vent assemblies to identify if they are the nitrile (black) valves following Part I of Piper Aircraft Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 1258, dated June 5, 2013. VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:22 Jul 09, 2013 Jkt 229001 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 (2) If during the inspection required in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, you find that a nitrile (black) fuel vent valve is not installed, except for the requirement of paragraph (h)(3) of this AD, no further action is required by this AD. (3) If during the inspection required in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, you find that a nitrile (black) fuel vent valve is installed, before further flight, modify the fuel vent valve following Part II of Piper Aircraft, Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 1258, dated June 5, 2013. This includes the limitations requirement in paragraphs 3 and 4 of Part II of the service bulletin. E:\FR\FM\10JYR1.SGM 10JYR1 41280 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 132 / Wednesday, July 10, 2013 / Rules and Regulations (4) In lieu of doing the modification required in paragraph (g)(3) of this AD, you may within the next 10 hours TIS after July 10, 2013 (the effective date of this AD), do the fuel vent valve replacement required in paragraph (h)(1) of this AD following Part III of Piper Aircraft, Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 1258, dated June 5, 2013. TKELLEY on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES (h) Replacement (1) If during the inspection required in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, you find that a nitrile (black) fuel vent valve is installed, within the next 90 days after July 10, 2013 (the effective date of this AD) if not already done before further flight as specified in paragraph (i)(4) of this AD, replace the nitrile (black) fuel vent valve with the fluorosilicone (orange) fuel vent valve following Part III of Piper Aircraft, Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 1258, dated June 5, 2013. This would include removing the limitations requirement in paragraphs 3 and 4 of Part II of the service bulletin. (2) You may at any time before 90 days after July 10, 2013 (the effective date of this AD), replace the nitrile (black) fuel vent valve with the flourosilicone (orange) fuel vent valve. This would include removing the limitations requirement in paragraphs 3 and 4 of Part II of the service bulletin. (3) After July 10, 2013 (the effective date of this AD), do not install the nitrile (black) fuel vent valve on any of the affected airplanes. (i) Positioning Flight For the purpose of complying with paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, a singlepositioning flight is allowed to a location where the inspection required in paragraph (g)(1) can be done provided the actions and limitations specified in paragraphs (i)(1) through (i)(4) of this AD are followed, and the flight is done within the initial 10-hour TIS inspection compliance time. A copy of the limitations from paragraphs 3 and 4 of Part II of Piper Aircraft, Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 1258, dated June 5, 2013, must be inserted in the pilot’s operating handbook before the positioning flight and removed after the flight. An owner/ operator (pilot) holding at least a private pilot certificate is allowed to insert these limitations and do the action of paragraph (i)(1) of this AD. (1) During normal procedures checklist of every preflight inspection, check condition of wing surface for buckling, skin wrinkling, distortion or other damage. If any damage is found during the preflight inspection, before further flight, repairs must be done. Contact Piper Aircraft, Inc. at contact information found in paragraph (l)(3) of this AD for an FAA-approved repair and incorporate the repair. At the operator’s discretion, this preflight inspection may be delegated to an appropriately certified mechanic. (2) Flights must be limited to the minimum required crew. No passenger flights are allowed. (3) Outside air temperature must not be lower than ¥34 degrees Celsius (¥30 degrees Fahrenheit) during all phases of flight. (4) Avoid unnecessary rapid decent maneuvers. VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:22 Jul 09, 2013 Jkt 229001 (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (1) The Manager, Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the attention of the person identified in the Related Information section of this AD. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. Federal Aviation Administration For more information about this AD, contact Gary Wechsler, Aerospace Engineer, Atlanta ACO, FAA, 1701 Columbia Avenue, College Park, Georgia 30337; telephone: (404) 474–5575; fax: (404) 474–5606; email: gary.wechsler@faa. (l) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Piper Aircraft, Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 1258, dated June 5, 2013. (ii) Reserved. (3) For Piper Aircraft, Inc. service information identified in this AD, contact Piper Aircraft, Inc., 2926 Piper Drive, Vero Beach, FL 32960; telephone: 1–877–879– 0275; fax: (772) 978–6573; email: customer.service@piper.com; Internet: https:// www.piper.com/pages/publications.cfm. (4) You may view this service information at 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. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on June 18, 2013. James E. Jackson, Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–15149 Filed 7–9–13; 8:45 am] PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 [Docket No. FAA–2012–1039; Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–275–AD; Amendment 39–17491; AD 2013–13–03] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A319–112, –113, and –132 airplanes; Model A320–211, –212, –214, –231, and –232 airplanes; and Model A321–111 and –131 airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report of two fatigue cracks on the left-hand and right-hand sides of the continuity fittings at the front windshield lower framing on a Model A319 series airplane. This AD requires a high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection for any cracking on the lefthand and right-hand sides of the windshield central lower node continuity fittings, and repair if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking of the windshield central lower node continuity fittings, which could reduce the structural integrity of the airplane. DATES: This AD becomes effective August 14, 2013. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of August 14, 2013. 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, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–1405; fax (425) 227–1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: SUMMARY: (k) Related Information BILLING CODE 4910–13–P 14 CFR Part 39 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 E:\FR\FM\10JYR1.SGM 10JYR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 132 (Wednesday, July 10, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 41277-41280]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-15149]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2013-0535; Directorate Identifier 2013-CE-018-AD; 
Amendment 39-17489; AD 2013-13-01]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Piper Aircraft, Inc. Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain 
Piper Aircraft, Inc. Models PA-46-310P, PA-46-350P, PA-46R-350T, and 
PA-46-500TP airplanes. This AD requires inspecting the fuel vent valves 
to identify if the nitrile parts are installed and modifying and 
eventually replacing the fuel vent valves if the nitrile parts are 
installed. This AD was prompted by nitrile fuel vent valves not 
providing the correct ventilation. If not corrected, this unsafe 
condition may lead to structural damage of the wings, which could 
result in loss of control. We are issuing this AD to correct the unsafe 
condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective July 10, 2013.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of July 10, 
2013.
    We must receive comments on this AD by August 26, 2013.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.

[[Page 41278]]

     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this AD, contact Piper 
Aircraft, Inc., 2926 Piper Drive, Vero Beach, FL 32960; telephone: 1-
877-879-0275; fax: (772) 978-6573; email: customer.service@piper.com; 
Internet: https://www.piper.com/pages/publications.cfm. 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.

Examining the AD Docket

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

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Gary Wechsler, Aerospace Engineer, 
Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, 1701 Columbia Avenue, 
College Park, Georgia 30337; telephone: (404) 474-5575; fax: (404) 474-
5606; email: gary.wechsler@faa.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We were notified by Piper Aircraft, Inc. that during a 
demonstration emergency descent from 27,000 feet to 14,000 feet there 
was an incident on a Model PA-46 airplane. The fuel vent valve of the 
main fuel tank assembly did not provide proper ventilation, which 
resulted in structural damage to the wing.
    The material used to manufacture the fuel vent valve was changed 
from fluorosilicone to nitrile, which affected the fuel vent valve's 
ability to vent atmospheric pressure to the main wing fuel tank during 
the rapid descent. The nitrile-made part did not allow enough air to 
flow through it because the stiffer nitrile-made part did not expand 
and open as large as the fluorosilicone-made part under the same 
pressure and temperature conditions.
    Also, in combination with the temperature and pressure changes, the 
airplane had a low fuel condition, which increased the loading upon the 
main wing that caused the wing skin and underlying wing structure to 
buckle.
    This condition, if not corrected, may lead to structural damage of 
the wings, which could result in loss of control.

Relevant Service Information

    We reviewed Piper Aircraft, Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 
1258, dated June 5, 2013. The service bulletin describes procedures for 
inspecting the fuel vent valves to identify if the nitrile parts are 
installed and modifying and eventually replacing the fuel vent valves 
if the nitrile parts are installed.

FAA's Determination

    We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant 
information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is 
likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design.

AD Requirements

    This AD requires accomplishing the actions specified in the service 
information described previously.

FAA's Justification and Determination of the Effective Date

    An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of 
this AD. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public justifies 
waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule because 
nitrile fuel vent valves do not provide correct ventilation and may 
lead to structural damage of the wings, which could result in loss of 
control. Therefore, we find that notice and opportunity for prior 
public comment are impracticable and that good cause exists for making 
this amendment effective in less than 30 days.

Comments Invited

    This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight 
safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for public 
comment. However, we invite you to send any written data, views, or 
arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under 
the ADDRESSES section. Include the Docket Number FAA-2013-0535 and 
Directorate Identifier 2013-CE-018-AD at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will 
consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this 
AD because of those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 1,379 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                    Cost per       Cost on U.S.
            Action                  Labor cost              Parts cost              product         operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection to identify          .5 work-hour x     Not applicable.............          $42.50       $58,607.50
 installation of nitrile fuel    $85 per hour =
 vent valves.                    $42.50.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

[[Page 41279]]



                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Cost per
               Action                        Labor cost                    Parts cost                 product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Modification of the nitrile fuel      6 work-hours x $85 per   Not applicable...................            $510
 vent valve (non O-ring panels).       hour = $510.
Modification of the nitrile fuel      2.5 work-hours x $85     Not applicable...................          212.50
 vent valve (O-ring panels).           per hour = $212.50.
Replacement of the nitrile fuel vent  6 work-hours x $85 per   $9...............................             519
 valve with a fluorosilicone fuel      hour = $510.
 vent valve (non O-ring panels).
Replacement of the nitrile fuel vent  2.5 work-hours x $85     $9...............................          221.50
 valve with a fluorosilicone fuel      per hour = $212.50.
 vent valve (O-ring panels).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

Regulatory Findings

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

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

Adoption of the Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

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

2013-13-01 Piper Aircraft, Inc.: Amendment 39-17489; Docket No. FAA-
2013-0535; Directorate Identifier 2013-CE-018-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective July 10, 2013.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to the following Piper Aircraft, Inc. airplanes, 
listed in table 1 of paragraph (c) of this AD, certificated in any 
category:

        Table 1 of Paragraph (c) of This AD--Applicable Airplanes
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                 Model                             Serial Nos.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
PA-46-310P (Malibu)....................  46-8408001 through 46-8408087;
                                          46[dash]8508001 through 46-
                                          8508109; 46[dash]8608001
                                          through 46-8608067; and
                                          4608001 through 4608140.
PA-46-350P (Mirage)....................  4622001 through 4622200;
                                          4636001 through 4636591; and
                                          4636593.
PA-46R-350T (Matrix)...................  4692001 through 4692190 and
                                          4692192.
PA-46-500TP (Meridian).................  4697001 through 4697520.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport Association 
(ATA) of America Code 2810, Fuel Storage.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by certain fuel vent valves not providing 
the correct ventilation. If not corrected, this unsafe condition may 
lead to structural damage of the wings, which could result in loss 
of control. We are issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition 
on these products.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Inspection and Modification

    (1) Within the next 10 hours time-in-service (TIS) after July 
10, 2013 (the effective date of this AD), inspect the left and right 
fuel vent valves of the main fuel tank vent assemblies to identify 
if they are the nitrile (black) valves following Part I of Piper 
Aircraft Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 1258, dated June 5, 
2013.
    (2) If during the inspection required in paragraph (g)(1) of 
this AD, you find that a nitrile (black) fuel vent valve is not 
installed, except for the requirement of paragraph (h)(3) of this 
AD, no further action is required by this AD.
    (3) If during the inspection required in paragraph (g)(1) of 
this AD, you find that a nitrile (black) fuel vent valve is 
installed, before further flight, modify the fuel vent valve 
following Part II of Piper Aircraft, Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin 
No. 1258, dated June 5, 2013. This includes the limitations 
requirement in paragraphs 3 and 4 of Part II of the service 
bulletin.

[[Page 41280]]

    (4) In lieu of doing the modification required in paragraph 
(g)(3) of this AD, you may within the next 10 hours TIS after July 
10, 2013 (the effective date of this AD), do the fuel vent valve 
replacement required in paragraph (h)(1) of this AD following Part 
III of Piper Aircraft, Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 1258, 
dated June 5, 2013.

(h) Replacement

    (1) If during the inspection required in paragraph (g)(1) of 
this AD, you find that a nitrile (black) fuel vent valve is 
installed, within the next 90 days after July 10, 2013 (the 
effective date of this AD) if not already done before further flight 
as specified in paragraph (i)(4) of this AD, replace the nitrile 
(black) fuel vent valve with the fluorosilicone (orange) fuel vent 
valve following Part III of Piper Aircraft, Inc. Mandatory Service 
Bulletin No. 1258, dated June 5, 2013. This would include removing 
the limitations requirement in paragraphs 3 and 4 of Part II of the 
service bulletin.
    (2) You may at any time before 90 days after July 10, 2013 (the 
effective date of this AD), replace the nitrile (black) fuel vent 
valve with the flourosilicone (orange) fuel vent valve. This would 
include removing the limitations requirement in paragraphs 3 and 4 
of Part II of the service bulletin.
    (3) After July 10, 2013 (the effective date of this AD), do not 
install the nitrile (black) fuel vent valve on any of the affected 
airplanes.

(i) Positioning Flight

    For the purpose of complying with paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, a 
single-positioning flight is allowed to a location where the 
inspection required in paragraph (g)(1) can be done provided the 
actions and limitations specified in paragraphs (i)(1) through 
(i)(4) of this AD are followed, and the flight is done within the 
initial 10-hour TIS inspection compliance time. A copy of the 
limitations from paragraphs 3 and 4 of Part II of Piper Aircraft, 
Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 1258, dated June 5, 2013, must 
be inserted in the pilot's operating handbook before the positioning 
flight and removed after the flight. An owner/operator (pilot) 
holding at least a private pilot certificate is allowed to insert 
these limitations and do the action of paragraph (i)(1) of this AD.
    (1) During normal procedures checklist of every preflight 
inspection, check condition of wing surface for buckling, skin 
wrinkling, distortion or other damage. If any damage is found during 
the preflight inspection, before further flight, repairs must be 
done. Contact Piper Aircraft, Inc. at contact information found in 
paragraph (l)(3) of this AD for an FAA-approved repair and 
incorporate the repair. At the operator's discretion, this preflight 
inspection may be delegated to an appropriately certified mechanic.
    (2) Flights must be limited to the minimum required crew. No 
passenger flights are allowed.
    (3) Outside air temperature must not be lower than -34 degrees 
Celsius (-30 degrees Fahrenheit) during all phases of flight.
    (4) Avoid unnecessary rapid decent maneuvers.

(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested 
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 
CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local 
Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending 
information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the 
attention of the person identified in the Related Information 
section of this AD.
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding 
district office.

(k) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Gary Wechsler, 
Aerospace Engineer, Atlanta ACO, FAA, 1701 Columbia Avenue, College 
Park, Georgia 30337; telephone: (404) 474-5575; fax: (404) 474-5606; 
email: gary.wechsler@faa.

(l) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Piper Aircraft, Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 1258, 
dated June 5, 2013.
    (ii) Reserved.
    (3) For Piper Aircraft, Inc. service information identified in 
this AD, contact Piper Aircraft, Inc., 2926 Piper Drive, Vero Beach, 
FL 32960; telephone: 1-877-879-0275; fax: (772) 978-6573; email: 
customer.service@piper.com; Internet: https://www.piper.com/pages/publications.cfm.
    (4) You may view this service information at 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.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on June 18, 2013.
James E. Jackson,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-15149 Filed 7-9-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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