Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 43763-43766 [2013-17137]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 140 / Monday, July 22, 2013 / Rules and Regulations 10,000 total flight hours, whichever occurs first. (h) Retained Follow-on Action With Revised Service Information This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD 2011–13–08, Amendment 39–16731 (76 FR 37253, June 27, 2011), with revised service information. If, during the check required by paragraph (g) of this AD, the bearing free-play is within the limits specified in Bombardier Service Bulletin 84–27–52, dated May 25, 2010, or Revision A, dated March 5, 2012; no further action is required by this AD. As of the effective date of this AD, only Bombardier Service Bulletin 84–27–52, Revision A, dated March 5, 2012, may be used to accomplish the actions required by this paragraph. (i) Retained Corrective Actions With Revised Service Information This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (i) of AD 2011–13–08, Amendment 39–16731 (76 FR 37253, June 27, 2011), with revised service information. If, during the check required by paragraph (g) of this AD, the bearing free-play exceeds the limits specified in Bombardier Service Bulletin 84– 27–52, dated May 25, 2010; or Revision A, dated March 5, 2012: Before further flight, replace the elevator PCU with a serviceable one, in accordance with paragraph 3.B., Part B, of Bombardier Service Bulletin 84–27–52, dated May 25, 2010; or Revision A, dated March 5, 2012. As of the effective date of this AD, only Bombardier Service Bulletin 84– 27–52, Revision A, dated March 5, 2012, may be used to accomplish the actions required by this paragraph. (j) New Free-Play Check For airplanes having S/N 4305 through 4334 inclusive, and 4336: At the applicable time specified in paragraphs (j)(1) and (j)(2) of this AD, perform a free-play check for any shaft swaged bearing having P/N MS14103– 7 that is installed in the tailstock end of each elevator PCU (three PCUs per elevator surface), having P/Ns 390600–1007 and 390600–1009, in accordance with paragraph 3.B., Part A, of Bombardier Service Bulletin 84–27–52, Revision A, dated March 5, 2012. (1) For airplanes that have accumulated 8,000 or more total flight hours as of the effective date of this AD: Within 2,000 flight hours after the effective date of this AD. (2) For airplanes that have accumulated less than 8,000 total flight hours as of the effective date of this AD: Within 6,000 flight hours after the effective date of this AD, or before the accumulation of 10,000 total flight hours, whichever occurs first. ehiers on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES (k) New Corrective Actions During the check required by paragraph (j) of this AD, if the bearing free-play is found to exceed the limits specified in Bombardier Service Bulletin 84–27–52, Revision A, dated March 5, 2012: Before further flight, replace the elevator PCU with a serviceable one, in accordance with paragraph 3.B., Part B, of Bombardier Service Bulletin 84–27–52, Revision A, dated March 5, 2012. VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:52 Jul 19, 2013 Jkt 229001 (l) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, New York Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), ANE–170, 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 ACO, send it to Program Manager, Continuing Operational Safety, FAA, New York ACO, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (516) 228–7300; fax (516) 794–5531. 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. (m) Related Information Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF–2010–28R1, dated June 12, 2012, for related information, which can be found in the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov. (n) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on August 26, 2013. (i) Bombardier Service Bulletin 84–27–52, Revision A, dated March 5, 2012. (ii) Reserved. (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on August 1, 2011 (76 FR 37253, June 27, 2011). (i) Bombardier Service Bulletin 84–27–52, dated May 25, 2010. (ii) Reserved. (5) For service information identified in this AD, contact Bombardier, Inc., Q-Series Technical Help Desk, 123 Garratt Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario M3K 1Y5, Canada; telephone 416–375–4000; fax 416–375–4539; email thd.qseries@aero.bombardier.com; Internet https://www.bombardier.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 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 43763 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 June 21, 2013. Jeffrey E. Duven, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–17210 Filed 7–19–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0204; Directorate Identifier 2012–NM–229–AD; Amendment 39–17510; AD 2013–14–05] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 747–400 and 747–400F series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of cracking in the outboard flange of the longeron extension fittings, which attach to the wing-to-body fairing support frame. This AD requires repetitive inspections of the longeron extension fittings for cracking, and corrective actions if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks in the longeron extension fittings, which can become large and adversely affect the structural integrity of the airplane. DATES: This AD is effective August 26, 2013. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of August 26, 2013. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P. O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–5680; Internet https:// www.myboeingfleet.com. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\22JYR1.SGM 22JYR1 43764 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 140 / Monday, July 22, 2013 / Rules and Regulations Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The address for the Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is Document Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Nathan Weigand, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; phone: 425– 917–6428; fax: 425–917–6590; email: Nathan.P.Weigand@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to the specified products. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on March 7, 2013 (78 FR 14731). The NPRM proposed to require repetitive inspections of the longeron extension fittings for cracking, and corrective actions if necessary. ehiers on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. The following presents the comments received on the proposal (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013) and the FAA’s response to each comment. United Airlines (UAL) did not have any technical comments regarding the NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013). Request to Change Applicability UPS and Virgin Atlantic Airways (VIR) stated that airplane line numbers 1199 through 1419 inclusive are included in the effectivity of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, and that the applicability of the NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013) includes airplane line numbers 1076 through 1419 inclusive. The commenters noted that Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, does not provide inspection or repair instructions for airplanes with line numbers prior to 1199. UPS requested that paragraph (c), ‘‘Applicability,’’ in the NPRM be revised to match the effectivity included in the VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:52 Jul 19, 2013 Jkt 229001 Boeing service information. We infer that VIR made the same request. Boeing requested that changes be made to paragraph (c), ‘‘Applicability,’’ and paragraph (i)(3), ‘‘Exceptions to Service Bulletin Specifications,’’ of the NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013), in regard to the applicability. Boeing noted that line number 1076, included in paragraph (c), ‘‘Applicability,’’ does not align with any production line changes and the line numbers should be changed from 1076 through 1419 inclusive to 1097 through 1419 inclusive. Boeing stated that paragraph (i)(3) of the NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013) should be revised to clearly define the applicable airplanes because, as written, it could be interpreted to include more than the appropriate airplanes. Boeing requested that paragraph (i)(3) of the NPRM be revised to state ‘‘For airplanes not identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, but are included in paragraph (c) of this AD: These airplanes are in Group 1 of the subject service bulletin for the purposes of this AD and are required to do the applicable actions specified in the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012.’’ We agree with Boeing’s position regarding paragraphs (c) and (i)(3) of this final rule. We had conservatively established the applicability as starting at line number 1076 based on the information available at the time the NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013) was issued. Since that time, Boeing has determined that the manufacturing change started at line number 1097. Boeing advised that Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, will be revised and the effectivity in that service bulletin will be changed to start with line number 1097. Based on this information, we revised paragraph (c) in this final rule to include line numbers 1097 through 1419 inclusive. We revised paragraph (i)(3) in this final rule to include text similar to that proposed by Boeing. We do not agree with UPS and VIR that the applicability of this final rule should match the effectivity in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012. As stated previously, Boeing advised us that Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747– 53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, will be revised and the effectivity in the revised service bulletin will start with line number 1097. We have not changed this final rule in this regard. PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Request to Clarify the Difference in the Line Numbers Between the Service Information and the NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013) Boeing requested changes to the Discussion section of the NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013) to clarify the differences between the airplane line numbers (1199 through 1419 inclusive) identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, and the airplane line numbers (1076 through 1419 inclusive) identified in paragraph (c) of the NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013). Boeing stated that, after the release of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, a crack was reported on airplane line number 1101 and that the longeron extension fitting had been redesigned at line number 1097. Boeing suggested that the text ‘‘. . . Subsequent analysis by Boeing indicated that the cracks were caused by fatigue combined with preload stress from improper fit-up during assembly. A manufacturing process change that began at line number 1199 might have resulted in preloading the longeron extension fittings . . .’’ be changed to ‘‘Subsequent review by Boeing has shown that the reported cracking correlates with this design change made at line number 1097.’’ We agree that the suggestions made by Boeing provide a more accurate description of how the affected line numbers were determined; however, this information is not restated in the Discussion section of this final rule, so no change is needed. The line numbers were changed from 1076 through 1419 inclusive to 1097 through 1419 inclusive in paragraph (c), ‘‘Applicability,’’ of this final rule, as explained previously. Concern Regarding Parts Availability UAL stated that Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, does not include price and supply data for replacement longeron fittings. UAL asked if operators are expected to fabricate these replacement fittings. UAL noted that, if operators do not have the capabilities to fabricate fittings, it could be difficult for those operators to get parts. We acknowledge the commenter’s concern regarding the availability of replacement longeron fittings. Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, lists other available options as alternatives to replacing longeron extension fittings. The availability of required parts was considered when developing the compliance time for this AD. We have E:\FR\FM\22JYR1.SGM 22JYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 140 / Monday, July 22, 2013 / Rules and Regulations contacted Boeing regarding parts availability and Boeing responded that parts are available. Longeron extension fittings are a one piece forging and operators are not expected to fabricate these fittings. We have not changed this final rule in this regard. public interest require adopting this AD with the changes described previously— and minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes: • Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013) for correcting the unsafe condition; and • Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013). Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, and determined that air safety and the 43765 We also determined that these changes will not increase the economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 41 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost High frequency eddy current inspection for cracking in longeron extension fittings. Option to do preventative modification instead of repetitive inspections. 32 work-hours × $85 per hour = $2,720, per inspection cycle. 479 work-hours × $85 per hour = $40,715. We estimate the following costs to do any necessary replacements that would Cost per product Parts cost Cost on U.S. operators $0 $2,720 $111,520, per inspection cycle. 0 40,715 $1,669,315. be required based on the results of the inspection. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need this replacement: ON-CONDITION COSTS Action Labor cost Replacement .... 464 work-hours × $85 per hour = $39,440 .............................................................................. ehiers on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide cost estimates for the on-condition actions specified in this AD. According to the manufacturer, some of the costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost estimate. 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 VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:52 Jul 19, 2013 Jkt 229001 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. PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4700 Cost per product Parts cost Sfmt 4700 $0 $39,440 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): ■ 2013–14–05 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39–17510; Docket No. FAA–2013–0204; Directorate Identifier 2012–NM–229–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective August 26, 2013. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 747–400 and 747–400F series airplanes, certificated in any category, line numbers 1097 through 1419 inclusive. E:\FR\FM\22JYR1.SGM 22JYR1 43766 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 140 / Monday, July 22, 2013 / Rules and Regulations (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/ Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of cracking in the outboard flange of the longeron extension fittings, which attach to the wing-to-body fairing support frame. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks in the longeron extension fittings, which can become large and adversely affect the structural integrity of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Inspection of Longeron Extension Fitting For all airplanes: Except as required by paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(4) of this AD, at the time specified in table 1 of paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, do a surface high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection of the left and right longeron extension fittings for cracking, and do all applicable corrective actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, except as required by paragraphs (i)(2) and (i)(3) of this AD. Do all applicable corrective actions before further flight. If no cracking is found, repeat the inspection thereafter at the intervals specified in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, until a permanent repair, longeron extension fitting replacement, or preventative modification is done, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012. ehiers on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES (h) Inspection of Temporary Repair and Corrective Actions For airplanes on which a temporary repair as specified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860 has been done: At the times specified in table 2 of paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, do a surface HFEC inspection of the temporary repair of the longeron extension fittings for cracking, and do all applicable corrective actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, except as required by paragraph (i)(3) of this AD. Do all applicable corrective actions before further flight. (i) Exceptions to Service Information (1) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, specifies a compliance time relative to the issue date of that service bulletin, this AD requires compliance within the specified compliance time after the effective date of this AD. (2) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, specifies to contact Boeing for repair VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:52 Jul 19, 2013 Jkt 229001 information: Before further flight, repair using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (k) of this AD. (3) For airplanes not identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, but included in paragraph (c) of this AD: These airplanes are in Group 1 for the purposes of this AD. This AD requires that the applicable actions specified in the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, be accomplished on these airplanes. (4) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, specifies ‘‘all airplanes,’’ this means all airplanes identified in paragraph (c) of this AD. (j) Optional Terminating Action Doing the permanent repair, longeron extension fitting replacement, or preventative modification, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, terminates the repetitive inspections required by paragraph (g) of this AD. (k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the attention of the person identified in the Related Information section of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANMSeattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair required by this AD if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO, to make those findings. For a repair method to be approved, the repair must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. (l) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Nathan Weigand, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6428; fax: 425– 917–6590; email: Nathan.P.Weigand@faa.gov. (m) 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. PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747– 53A2860, dated December 4, 2012. (ii) Reserved. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P. O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone 206– 544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. (4) You may view this service information at 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. (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 June 25, 2013. Jeffrey E. Duven, Acting Manager, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–17137 Filed 7–19–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0206; Directorate Identifier 2012–NM–068–AD; Amendment 39–17507; AD 2013–14–02] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Boeing Company Model 727 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of spanwise cracks and corrosion in the wing center box upper skin and rear spar upper chord between left buttock line (LBL) 70.50 and right buttock line (RBL) 70.50 at body station (STA) 870. This AD requires repetitive inspections of the wing center box for cracking around certain fastener rows on the rear spar upper chord horizontal flange; for certain airplanes, repetitive inspections for cracking of the rear spar upper chord radius; for certain other airplanes, repetitive inspections for damage, cracking, and corrosion of the pressure SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\22JYR1.SGM 22JYR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 140 (Monday, July 22, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 43763-43766]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-17137]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2013-0204; Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-229-AD; 
Amendment 39-17510; AD 2013-14-05]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain 
The Boeing Company Model 747-400 and 747-400F series airplanes. This AD 
was prompted by reports of cracking in the outboard flange of the 
longeron extension fittings, which attach to the wing-to-body fairing 
support frame. This AD requires repetitive inspections of the longeron 
extension fittings for cracking, and corrective actions if necessary. 
We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks in the longeron 
extension fittings, which can become large and adversely affect the 
structural integrity of the airplane.

DATES: This AD is effective August 26, 2013.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of August 26, 
2013.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P. 
O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-5000, 
extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. 
You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
Washington. For information on the availability of this material at the 
FAA, call 425-227-1221.

[[Page 43764]]

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Management Facility 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, 
any comments received, and other information. The address for the 
Docket Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is Document Management Facility, 
U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West 
Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., 
Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Nathan Weigand, Aerospace Engineer, 
Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-
6428; fax: 425-917-6590; email: Nathan.P.Weigand@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 to include an AD that would apply to the specified products. 
The NPRM published in the Federal Register on March 7, 2013 (78 FR 
14731). The NPRM proposed to require repetitive inspections of the 
longeron extension fittings for cracking, and corrective actions if 
necessary.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the proposal 
(78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013) and the FAA's response to each comment.
    United Airlines (UAL) did not have any technical comments regarding 
the NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013).

Request to Change Applicability

    UPS and Virgin Atlantic Airways (VIR) stated that airplane line 
numbers 1199 through 1419 inclusive are included in the effectivity of 
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, and 
that the applicability of the NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013) 
includes airplane line numbers 1076 through 1419 inclusive. The 
commenters noted that Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated 
December 4, 2012, does not provide inspection or repair instructions 
for airplanes with line numbers prior to 1199. UPS requested that 
paragraph (c), ``Applicability,'' in the NPRM be revised to match the 
effectivity included in the Boeing service information. We infer that 
VIR made the same request.
    Boeing requested that changes be made to paragraph (c), 
``Applicability,'' and paragraph (i)(3), ``Exceptions to Service 
Bulletin Specifications,'' of the NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013), in 
regard to the applicability. Boeing noted that line number 1076, 
included in paragraph (c), ``Applicability,'' does not align with any 
production line changes and the line numbers should be changed from 
1076 through 1419 inclusive to 1097 through 1419 inclusive.
    Boeing stated that paragraph (i)(3) of the NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 
7, 2013) should be revised to clearly define the applicable airplanes 
because, as written, it could be interpreted to include more than the 
appropriate airplanes. Boeing requested that paragraph (i)(3) of the 
NPRM be revised to state ``For airplanes not identified in Boeing Alert 
Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, but are included 
in paragraph (c) of this AD: These airplanes are in Group 1 of the 
subject service bulletin for the purposes of this AD and are required 
to do the applicable actions specified in the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated 
December 4, 2012.''
    We agree with Boeing's position regarding paragraphs (c) and (i)(3) 
of this final rule. We had conservatively established the applicability 
as starting at line number 1076 based on the information available at 
the time the NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013) was issued. Since that 
time, Boeing has determined that the manufacturing change started at 
line number 1097. Boeing advised that Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
747-53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, will be revised and the 
effectivity in that service bulletin will be changed to start with line 
number 1097. Based on this information, we revised paragraph (c) in 
this final rule to include line numbers 1097 through 1419 inclusive. We 
revised paragraph (i)(3) in this final rule to include text similar to 
that proposed by Boeing.
    We do not agree with UPS and VIR that the applicability of this 
final rule should match the effectivity in Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated December 4, 2012. As stated previously, 
Boeing advised us that Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated 
December 4, 2012, will be revised and the effectivity in the revised 
service bulletin will start with line number 1097. We have not changed 
this final rule in this regard.

Request to Clarify the Difference in the Line Numbers Between the 
Service Information and the NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013)

    Boeing requested changes to the Discussion section of the NPRM (78 
FR 14731, March 7, 2013) to clarify the differences between the 
airplane line numbers (1199 through 1419 inclusive) identified in 
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, and 
the airplane line numbers (1076 through 1419 inclusive) identified in 
paragraph (c) of the NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013). Boeing stated 
that, after the release of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, 
dated December 4, 2012, a crack was reported on airplane line number 
1101 and that the longeron extension fitting had been redesigned at 
line number 1097.
    Boeing suggested that the text ``. . . Subsequent analysis by 
Boeing indicated that the cracks were caused by fatigue combined with 
preload stress from improper fit-up during assembly. A manufacturing 
process change that began at line number 1199 might have resulted in 
preloading the longeron extension fittings . . .'' be changed to 
``Subsequent review by Boeing has shown that the reported cracking 
correlates with this design change made at line number 1097.''
    We agree that the suggestions made by Boeing provide a more 
accurate description of how the affected line numbers were determined; 
however, this information is not restated in the Discussion section of 
this final rule, so no change is needed. The line numbers were changed 
from 1076 through 1419 inclusive to 1097 through 1419 inclusive in 
paragraph (c), ``Applicability,'' of this final rule, as explained 
previously.

Concern Regarding Parts Availability

    UAL stated that Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated 
December 4, 2012, does not include price and supply data for 
replacement longeron fittings. UAL asked if operators are expected to 
fabricate these replacement fittings. UAL noted that, if operators do 
not have the capabilities to fabricate fittings, it could be difficult 
for those operators to get parts.
    We acknowledge the commenter's concern regarding the availability 
of replacement longeron fittings. Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-
53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, lists other available options as 
alternatives to replacing longeron extension fittings. The availability 
of required parts was considered when developing the compliance time 
for this AD. We have

[[Page 43765]]

contacted Boeing regarding parts availability and Boeing responded that 
parts are available. Longeron extension fittings are a one piece 
forging and operators are not expected to fabricate these fittings. We 
have not changed this final rule in this regard.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, 
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting 
this AD with the changes described previously--and minor editorial 
changes. We have determined that these minor changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013) for correcting the unsafe condition; 
and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM (78 FR 14731, March 7, 2013).
    We also determined that these changes will not increase the 
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 41 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                          Cost per
              Action                      Labor cost        Parts cost    product       Cost on U.S. operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
High frequency eddy current         32 work-hours x $85             $0       $2,720  $111,520, per inspection
 inspection for cracking in          per hour = $2,720,                               cycle.
 longeron extension fittings.        per inspection cycle.
Option to do preventative           479 work-hours x $85             0       40,715  $1,669,315.
 modification instead of             per hour = $40,715.
 repetitive inspections.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We estimate the following costs to do any necessary 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 this 
replacement:

                           On-Condition Costs
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             Cost per
        Action             Labor cost       Parts cost        product
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacement...........  464 work-hours x              $0         $39,440
                         $85 per hour =
                         $39,440.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide 
cost estimates for the on-condition actions specified in this AD.
    According to the manufacturer, some of the costs of this AD may be 
covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected 
individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected 
individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost 
estimate.

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):

2013-14-05 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-17510; Docket No. FAA-
2013-0204; Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-229-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective August 26, 2013.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 747-400 and 747-400F 
series airplanes, certificated in any category, line numbers 1097 
through 1419 inclusive.

[[Page 43766]]

(d) Subject

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

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports of cracking in the outboard 
flange of the longeron extension fittings, which attach to the wing-
to-body fairing support frame. We are issuing this AD to detect and 
correct cracks in the longeron extension fittings, which can become 
large and adversely affect the structural integrity of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Inspection of Longeron Extension Fitting

    For all airplanes: Except as required by paragraphs (i)(1) and 
(i)(4) of this AD, at the time specified in table 1 of paragraph 
1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, 
dated December 4, 2012, do a surface high frequency eddy current 
(HFEC) inspection of the left and right longeron extension fittings 
for cracking, and do all applicable corrective actions, in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert 
Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, except as 
required by paragraphs (i)(2) and (i)(3) of this AD. Do all 
applicable corrective actions before further flight. If no cracking 
is found, repeat the inspection thereafter at the intervals 
specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, until a permanent 
repair, longeron extension fitting replacement, or preventative 
modification is done, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated 
December 4, 2012.

(h) Inspection of Temporary Repair and Corrective Actions

    For airplanes on which a temporary repair as specified in Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2860 has been done: At the times 
specified in table 2 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, do a 
surface HFEC inspection of the temporary repair of the longeron 
extension fittings for cracking, and do all applicable corrective 
actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, 
except as required by paragraph (i)(3) of this AD. Do all applicable 
corrective actions before further flight.

(i) Exceptions to Service Information

    (1) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated 
December 4, 2012, specifies a compliance time relative to the issue 
date of that service bulletin, this AD requires compliance within 
the specified compliance time after the effective date of this AD.
    (2) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated 
December 4, 2012, specifies to contact Boeing for repair 
information: Before further flight, repair using a method approved 
in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (k) of this 
AD.
    (3) For airplanes not identified in Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, but included in 
paragraph (c) of this AD: These airplanes are in Group 1 for the 
purposes of this AD. This AD requires that the applicable actions 
specified in the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, be accomplished on 
these airplanes.
    (4) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated 
December 4, 2012, specifies ``all airplanes,'' this means all 
airplanes identified in paragraph (c) of this AD.

(j) Optional Terminating Action

    Doing the permanent repair, longeron extension fitting 
replacement, or preventative modification, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-
53A2860, dated December 4, 2012, terminates the repetitive 
inspections required by paragraph (g) of this AD.

(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, has 
the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the 
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, 
send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the attention of the 
person identified in the Related Information section of this AD. 
Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding 
district office.
    (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be 
used for any repair required by this AD if it is approved by the 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization 
(ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO, to make 
those findings. For a repair method to be approved, the repair must 
meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must 
specifically refer to this AD.

(l) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Nathan Weigand, 
Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft 
Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 
98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6428; fax: 425-917-6590; email: 
Nathan.P.Weigand@faa.gov.

(m) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2860, dated December 4, 
2012.
    (ii) Reserved.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 
P. O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-
5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com.
    (4) You may view this service information at 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.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 25, 2013.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Acting Manager, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft 
Certification Service.

[FR Doc. 2013-17137 Filed 7-19-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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