Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 49910-49913 [2013-19811]

Download as PDF 49910 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 159 / Friday, August 16, 2013 / Rules and Regulations autopilot control panel and the center switch panel. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the hardware/software combination within the autopilot control panel and/or center switch panel, which could result in uncommanded fire suppression system activation and simultaneous shutdown of both engines. (f) Compliance Unless already done, do the following actions within the compliance times specified in paragraph (g) of this AD. (g) Update Aircraft Computer Software (ACS) (1) For airplanes equipped with Avio or Avio with ETT avionics suites: Within 6 calendar months after September 20, 2013 (the effective date of this AD), update the ACS following paragraphs 3.A. through 3.C. of the Accomplishment Instructions in Eclipse Aerospace, Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin Number SB 500–31–014, Rev. A, dated February 15, 2011. (2) For airplanes equipped with NG 1.0 avionics suites: Within 6 calendar months after September 20, 2013 (the effective date of this AD), do one of the following: (i) Insert Temporary Revision No. 016, to EA500 POH and FAA-Approved Airplane Flight Manual, Firewall Valve, 06–122204– TR016, issued November 9, 2012, into the Limitations section of the airplane flight manual following paragraph 3.B.(1)(a) of the Accomplishment Instructions in Eclipse Aerospace, Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin Number SB 500–31–026, Rev. A, dated December 7, 2012, or Eclipse Aerospace, Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin Number SB 500– 31–026, Rev. B, dated March 27, 2013; or (ii) Update the ACS following paragraphs 3.A. through 3.C. of the Accomplishment Instructions in Eclipse Aerospace, Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin Number SB 500– 31–019, Rev. B, dated March 13, 2013. tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES (h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Chicago 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. (i) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Scott Fohrman, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Chicago ACO, 2300 East Devon Avenue, Room 107, Des Plaines, Illinois 60018; phone: (847) 294–7136; fax: (847) 294–7834; email: scott.fohrman@faa.gov. (j) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:24 Aug 15, 2013 Jkt 229001 (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) Eclipse Aerospace, Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin Number SB 500–31–014, Rev. A, dated February 15, 2011. (ii) Eclipse Aerospace, Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin Number SB 500–31–019, Rev. B, dated March 13, 2013. (iii) Eclipse Aerospace, Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin Number SB 500–31–026, Rev. A, dated December 7, 2012. (iv) Eclipse Aerospace, Inc. Mandatory Service Bulletin Number SB 500–31–026, Rev. B, dated March 27, 2013. (v) Temporary Revision No. 016, to EA500 POH and FAA-Approved Airplane Flight Manual, Firewall Valve, 06–122204–TR016, issued November 9, 2012. (3) For Eclipse Aerospace, Inc. service information identified in this AD, contact Eclipse Aerospace, Inc. 26 East Palatine Road, Wheeling, Illinois 60090; telephone: (877) 373–7978; Internet: www.eclipse.aero. (4) 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. (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 July 31, 2013. James E. Jackson, Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–18912 Filed 8–15–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0207; Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–071–AD; Amendment 39–17530; AD 2013–15–14] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are superseding airworthiness directive (AD) 2008–06– 29, which applied to all The Boeing Company Model 737–300, –400, and –500 series airplanes. AD 2008–06–29 SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 required repetitive inspections of the downstop assemblies on the main tracks of the No. 2, 3, 4, and No. 5 slats and the inboard track of the No. 1 and 6 slats to verify if any parts are missing, damaged, or in the wrong order; other specified actions; and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. This new AD retains these requirements and adds an inspection of the slat can interior for foreign object debris (FOD), and removal of any FOD found; modification of the slat track hardware; an inspection for FOD and for damage to the interior surface of the slat cans; and related investigative and corrective actions, if necessary. This AD was prompted by development of a modification by the manufacturer, which, when installed, would terminate the repetitive inspections. We are issuing this AD to prevent loose or missing parts in the main slat track downstop assemblies, which could puncture the slat track housing and result in a fuel leak and consequent fire. DATES: This AD is effective September 20, 2013. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of September 20, 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, Washington 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. 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: Nancy Marsh, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, E:\FR\FM\16AUR1.SGM 16AUR1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 159 / Friday, August 16, 2013 / Rules and Regulations Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; phone: (425) 917–6440; fax: (425) 917–6590; email: nancy.marsh@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to supersede AD 2008–06–29, Amendment 39–15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008) (‘‘AD 2008–06–29’’). AD 2008–06–29 applied to the specified products. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on March 11, 2013 (78 FR 15332). The NPRM proposed to continue to require repetitive inspections of the downstop assemblies on the main tracks of the No. 2, 3, 4, and No. 5 slats and the inboard track of the No. 1 and 6 slats to verify if any parts are missing, damaged, or in the wrong order; other specified actions; and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. The NPRM also proposed to add an inspection of the slat can interior for foreign object debris (FOD), and removal of any FOD found; modification of the slat track hardware; an inspection for FOD and for damage to the interior surface of the slat cans; and related investigative 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 15332, March 11, 2013) and the FAA’s response to each comment. Concurrence With NPRM (78 FR 15332, March 11, 2013) Boeing stated that it concurs with the content of the proposed rule (78 FR 15332, March 11, 2013). Statement Regarding Installation of Winglets Aviation Partners Boeing (APB) stated that the installation of winglets per STC ST01219SE (https://rgl.faa.gov/ Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/ rgstc.nsf/0/2C6E3DBDDD36F91C8 62576A4005D64E2?OpenDocument& Highlight=st01219se) does not affect the actions specified in the NPRM (78 FR 15332, March 11, 2013). We concur. We have added new paragraph (c)(2) to this AD, which states that STC ST01219SE (https://rgl.faa.gov/ Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/ rgstc.nsf/0/2C6E3DBDDD36F91C8625 76A4005D64E2?OpenDocument& Highlight=st01219se) does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST01219SE is installed, a ‘‘change in product’’ alternative method of compliance 49911 (AMOC) approval request is not necessary to comply with the requirements of Section 39.17 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 39.17). For all other AMOC requests, the operator must request approval of an AMOC in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (k) of this AD. 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 change 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 15332, March 11, 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 15332, March 11, 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 568 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Cost per product Labor cost Inspection of slat track housing [retained actions from AD 2008–06–29 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008)]. One-time detailed inspection of slat can [new action]. Installation of modification [new action] .......... 4 work-hours × $85 per hour = $340 per inspection cycle. $0 $340 $193,120 5 work-hours × $85 per hour = $85 ............... 0 425 241,400 12 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,020 ........ 3,124 4,144 2,353,792 tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide a cost estimate for the on-condition actions specified in this AD. 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 VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:24 Aug 15, 2013 Jkt 229001 Parts cost Cost on U.S. operators Action promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings We have determined that this AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 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. E:\FR\FM\16AUR1.SGM 16AUR1 49912 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 159 / Friday, August 16, 2013 / Rules and Regulations 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 removing airworthiness directive (AD) 2008–06–29, Amendment 39–15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008), and adding the following new AD: ■ 2013–15–14 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39–17530; Docket No. FAA–2013–0207; Directorate Identifier 2011–NM–071–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective September 20, 2013. (b) Affected ADs This AD supersedes AD 2008–06–29, Amendment 39–15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008). (c) Applicability (1) This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 737–300, –400, and –500 series airplanes, certificated in any category. (2) Installation of Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) ST01219SE (https://rgl. faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/ rgstc.nsf/0/2C6E3DBDDD36F91C862576A40 05D64E2?OpenDocument&Highlight= st01219se) does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST01219SE is installed, a ‘‘change in product’’ alternative method of compliance (AMOC) approval request is not necessary to comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 39.17. tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/ Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 57: Wings. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of fuel leaking from a puncture in the slat track housing (referred to as ‘‘slat can’’). We are issuing this AD to prevent loose or missing parts in the main slat track downstop assemblies, which could puncture the slat track housing and result in a fuel leak and consequent fire. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:24 Aug 15, 2013 Jkt 229001 (g) Retained Inspection of Downstop Assemblies and Corrective Action This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (f) of AD 2008–06–29, Amendment 39–15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008), with revised service information. At the applicable times specified in Table 1 of paragraph 1.E. of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, dated February 5, 2008; or Boeing Service Bulletin 737– 57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011; except as provided by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD: Do a detailed inspection or borescope inspection of the downstop assemblies on the main tracks of the No. 2, 3, 4, and 5 slats and the inboard track of the No. 1 and 6 slats to verify if any parts are missing, damaged, or installed in the wrong order; and do all the other specified, related investigative, and corrective actions as applicable; by accomplishing all of the applicable actions specified in the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, dated February 5, 2008; or Boeing Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011; except as provided by paragraphs (g)(2) and (g)(3) of this AD. Repeat the inspection thereafter at the applicable times specified in Table 1 of paragraph 1.E. of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, dated February 5, 2008; or Boeing Service Bulletin 737– 57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011. Do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions before further flight. As of the effective date of this AD, only Boeing Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011, may be used to accomplish the actions required by this paragraph. (1) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, dated February 5, 2008, or Boeing Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011, specifies counting the compliance time from ‘‘the date on the service bulletin,’’ this AD requires counting the compliance time from April 8, 2008 (the effective date of AD 2008–06–29, Amendment 39–15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008)). (2) For airplanes on which any downstop assembly part is missing or damaged, a borescope inspection of the inside of the slat track housing for loose parts and damage to the wall of the slat track housing may be accomplished in lieu of the detailed inspection of the inside of the slat track housing that is specified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, dated February 5, 2008; or Boeing Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011. As of the effective date of this AD, only Boeing Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011, may be used to do the actions specified in this paragraph. (3) If any damaged slat track housing is found during any inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD: Before further flight, repair in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011; replace the slat can with a new slat can having the same part number, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011; or repair the slat can using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (k) of this AD. (h) New Detailed Inspection for Foreign Object Debris (FOD) Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD, do a one-time detailed inspection of the slat can interior to detect FOD, in accordance with Part III of the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011. If any FOD is found, before further flight, remove it, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011. (i) New Modification and Inspection Within 72 months or 15,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first, after the effective date of this AD: Modify the slat track hardware by installing new downstop assembly hardware, and do a detailed inspection for FOD and a one-time inspection for damage to the interior surface of the slat can for the inboard and outboard tracks of slats 2 through 5, and the inboard slats of tracks 1 and 6; and do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions; in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011. Do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions before further flight. Accomplishment of the actions required by this paragraph terminates the inspections required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD. (j) Credit for Previous Actions This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by paragraphs (g), (h), and (i) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision 1, dated September 24, 2009; or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision 2, dated January 17, 2011; which are not incorporated by reference in this AD. (k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Seattle 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. 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 E:\FR\FM\16AUR1.SGM 16AUR1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 159 / Friday, August 16, 2013 / Rules and Regulations 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. (4) AMOCs approved previously in accordance with AD 2008–06–29, Amendment 39–15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008), are approved as AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of this AD. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (l) Related Information Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes For more information about this AD, contact Nancy Marsh, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: (425) 917–6440; fax: (425) 917–6590; email: nancy.marsh@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 this AD specifies otherwise. (i) Boeing Service Bulletin 737–57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011. (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, Washington 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 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. (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 July 21, 2013. Stephen P. Boyd, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–19811 Filed 8–15–13; 8:45 am] tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES BILLING CODE 4910–13–P Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0362; Directorate Identifier 2013–NM–030–AD; Amendment 39–17531; AD 2013–15–15] RIN 2120–AA64 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: 17:24 Aug 15, 2013 Examining the AD Docket Jkt 229001 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 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: Berhane Alazar, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; phone: 425– 917–6577; fax: 425–917–6590; email: berhane.alazar@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 727 airplanes. This AD was prompted by an evaluation by the design approval holder indicating that the frame-to-floor beam attachment is subject to widespread fatigue damage. This AD requires repetitive high frequency eddy current inspections for any crack of the frames at body station (STA) 188 through STA 344, and repair if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking at the frame-to-floor beam attachment, on both the left- and right-sides, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane, and decompression of the cabin. DATES: This AD is effective September 20, 2013. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of September 20, 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 98057–3356. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227– 1221. SUMMARY: 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 VerDate Mar<15>2010 49913 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 May 3, 2013 (78 FR 25905). The NPRM proposed to require repetitive high frequency eddy current inspections for any crack of the frames at body STA 188 through STA 344, and repair if necessary. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. We have considered the comments received. Boeing stated that it supports the NPRM (78 FR 25905, May 3, 2013). Fedex stated that the NPRM (78 FR 25905, May 3, 2013) will be effective for twenty of its Model 727–200 airplanes, the inspection threshold and intervals will fit within its planned scheduled maintenance checks and therefore will be no impact to available lift, the number of man-hours and elapsed time to accomplish the inspections will not impact the overall span-time of its planned scheduled maintenance check, and the inspections do not require any special inspection techniques, training, or tooling. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting thisAD as proposed—except for minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes: • Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM (78 FR 25905, May 3, 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 25905, May 3, 2013). E:\FR\FM\16AUR1.SGM 16AUR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 159 (Friday, August 16, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 49910-49913]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-19811]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2013-0207; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-071-AD; 
Amendment 39-17530; AD 2013-15-14]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are superseding airworthiness directive (AD) 2008-06-29, 
which applied to all The Boeing Company Model 737-300, -400, and -500 
series airplanes. AD 2008-06-29 required repetitive inspections of the 
downstop assemblies on the main tracks of the No. 2, 3, 4, and No. 5 
slats and the inboard track of the No. 1 and 6 slats to verify if any 
parts are missing, damaged, or in the wrong order; other specified 
actions; and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. 
This new AD retains these requirements and adds an inspection of the 
slat can interior for foreign object debris (FOD), and removal of any 
FOD found; modification of the slat track hardware; an inspection for 
FOD and for damage to the interior surface of the slat cans; and 
related investigative and corrective actions, if necessary. This AD was 
prompted by development of a modification by the manufacturer, which, 
when installed, would terminate the repetitive inspections. We are 
issuing this AD to prevent loose or missing parts in the main slat 
track downstop assemblies, which could puncture the slat track housing 
and result in a fuel leak and consequent fire.

DATES: This AD is effective September 20, 2013.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of September 
20, 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, Washington 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.

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: Nancy Marsh, Aerospace Engineer, 
Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA,

[[Page 49911]]

Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., 
Renton, Washington 98057-3356; phone: (425) 917-6440; fax: (425) 917-
6590; email: nancy.marsh@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 to supersede AD 2008-06-29, Amendment 39-15441 (73 FR 15397, 
March 24, 2008) (``AD 2008-06-29''). AD 2008-06-29 applied to the 
specified products. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on March 
11, 2013 (78 FR 15332). The NPRM proposed to continue to require 
repetitive inspections of the downstop assemblies on the main tracks of 
the No. 2, 3, 4, and No. 5 slats and the inboard track of the No. 1 and 
6 slats to verify if any parts are missing, damaged, or in the wrong 
order; other specified actions; and related investigative and 
corrective actions if necessary. The NPRM also proposed to add an 
inspection of the slat can interior for foreign object debris (FOD), 
and removal of any FOD found; modification of the slat track hardware; 
an inspection for FOD and for damage to the interior surface of the 
slat cans; and related investigative 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 15332, March 11, 2013) and the FAA's response to each comment.

Concurrence With NPRM (78 FR 15332, March 11, 2013)

    Boeing stated that it concurs with the content of the proposed rule 
(78 FR 15332, March 11, 2013).

Statement Regarding Installation of Winglets

    Aviation Partners Boeing (APB) stated that the installation of 
winglets per STC ST01219SE (https://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/2C6E3DBDDD36F91C862576A4005D64E2?OpenDocument&Highlight=st01219se) does 
not affect the actions specified in the NPRM (78 FR 15332, March 11, 
2013).
    We concur. We have added new paragraph (c)(2) to this AD, which 
states that STC ST01219SE (https://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/2C6E3DBDDD36F91C862576A4005D64E2?OpenDocument&Highlight=st01219se) does 
not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by this AD. 
Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST01219SE is installed, a 
``change in product'' alternative method of compliance (AMOC) approval 
request is not necessary to comply with the requirements of Section 
39.17 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 39.17). For all other 
AMOC requests, the operator must request approval of an AMOC in 
accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (k) of this AD.

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 change 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 15332, March 11, 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 15332, March 11, 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 568 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 of slat track housing        4 work-hours x $85 per                $0            $340        $193,120
 [retained actions from AD 2008-06-29    hour = $340 per
 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008)].         inspection cycle.
One-time detailed inspection of slat    5 work-hours x $85 per                 0             425         241,400
 can [new action].                       hour = $85.
Installation of modification [new       12 work-hours x $85 per            3,124           4,144       2,353,792
 action].                                hour = $1,020.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide 
a cost estimate for the on-condition actions specified in this AD.

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

Regulatory Findings

    We have determined that this AD will not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a 
substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between 
the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power 
and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under 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.

[[Page 49912]]

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

Adoption of the Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by removing airworthiness directive (AD) 
2008-06-29, Amendment 39-15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008), and 
adding the following new AD:

2013-15-14 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-17530; Docket No. FAA-
2013-0207; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-071-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective September 20, 2013.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD supersedes AD 2008-06-29, Amendment 39-15441 (73 FR 
15397, March 24, 2008).

(c) Applicability

    (1) This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 737-300, -
400, and -500 series airplanes, certificated in any category.
    (2) Installation of Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) 
ST01219SE (https://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/2C6E3DBDDD36F91C862576A4005D64E2?OpenDocument&Highlight=st01219se) 
does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by 
this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST01219SE is 
installed, a ``change in product'' alternative method of compliance 
(AMOC) approval request is not necessary to comply with the 
requirements of 14 CFR 39.17.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport Association 
(ATA) of America Code 57: Wings.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports of fuel leaking from a puncture 
in the slat track housing (referred to as ``slat can''). We are 
issuing this AD to prevent loose or missing parts in the main slat 
track downstop assemblies, which could puncture the slat track 
housing and result in a fuel leak and consequent fire.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Retained Inspection of Downstop Assemblies and Corrective Action

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (f) of AD 
2008-06-29, Amendment 39-15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008), with 
revised service information. At the applicable times specified in 
Table 1 of paragraph 1.E. of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-
57A1301, dated February 5, 2008; or Boeing Service Bulletin 737-
57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011; except as provided by 
paragraph (g)(1) of this AD: Do a detailed inspection or borescope 
inspection of the downstop assemblies on the main tracks of the No. 
2, 3, 4, and 5 slats and the inboard track of the No. 1 and 6 slats 
to verify if any parts are missing, damaged, or installed in the 
wrong order; and do all the other specified, related investigative, 
and corrective actions as applicable; by accomplishing all of the 
applicable actions specified in the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, dated February 5, 2008; 
or Boeing Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 
2011; except as provided by paragraphs (g)(2) and (g)(3) of this AD. 
Repeat the inspection thereafter at the applicable times specified 
in Table 1 of paragraph 1.E. of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-
57A1301, dated February 5, 2008; or Boeing Service Bulletin 737-
57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011. Do all applicable 
related investigative and corrective actions before further flight. 
As of the effective date of this AD, only Boeing Service Bulletin 
737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011, may be used to 
accomplish the actions required by this paragraph.
    (1) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, dated 
February 5, 2008, or Boeing Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 
3, dated August 11, 2011, specifies counting the compliance time 
from ``the date on the service bulletin,'' this AD requires counting 
the compliance time from April 8, 2008 (the effective date of AD 
2008-06-29, Amendment 39-15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008)).
    (2) For airplanes on which any downstop assembly part is missing 
or damaged, a borescope inspection of the inside of the slat track 
housing for loose parts and damage to the wall of the slat track 
housing may be accomplished in lieu of the detailed inspection of 
the inside of the slat track housing that is specified in Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, dated February 5, 2008; or 
Boeing Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 
2011. As of the effective date of this AD, only Boeing Service 
Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011, may be used 
to do the actions specified in this paragraph.
    (3) If any damaged slat track housing is found during any 
inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD: Before further 
flight, repair in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Boeing Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 
2011; replace the slat can with a new slat can having the same part 
number, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing 
Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011; or 
repair the slat can using a method approved in accordance with the 
procedures specified in paragraph (k) of this AD.

(h) New Detailed Inspection for Foreign Object Debris (FOD)

    Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD, do a one-
time detailed inspection of the slat can interior to detect FOD, in 
accordance with Part III of the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Boeing Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 
2011. If any FOD is found, before further flight, remove it, in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service 
Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 2011.

(i) New Modification and Inspection

    Within 72 months or 15,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs 
first, after the effective date of this AD: Modify the slat track 
hardware by installing new downstop assembly hardware, and do a 
detailed inspection for FOD and a one-time inspection for damage to 
the interior surface of the slat can for the inboard and outboard 
tracks of slats 2 through 5, and the inboard slats of tracks 1 and 
6; and do all applicable related investigative and corrective 
actions; in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Boeing Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated August 11, 
2011. Do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions 
before further flight. Accomplishment of the actions required by 
this paragraph terminates the inspections required by paragraphs (g) 
and (h) of this AD.

(j) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by 
paragraphs (g), (h), and (i) of this AD, if those actions were 
performed before the effective date of this AD using Boeing Alert 
Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 1, dated September 24, 2009; 
or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 2, dated 
January 17, 2011; which are not incorporated by reference in this 
AD.

(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Seattle 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. 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

[[Page 49913]]

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.
    (4) AMOCs approved previously in accordance with AD 2008-06-29, 
Amendment 39-15441 (73 FR 15397, March 24, 2008), are approved as 
AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of this AD.

(l) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Nancy Marsh, 
Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft 
Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-
3356; phone: (425) 917-6440; fax: (425) 917-6590; email: 
nancy.marsh@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 this AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Boeing Service Bulletin 737-57A1301, Revision 3, dated 
August 11, 2011.
    (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, Washington 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 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.
    (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 July 21, 2013.
Stephen P. Boyd,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-19811 Filed 8-15-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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