Airworthiness Directives; the Boeing Company Airplanes, 59801-59805 [2013-22676]
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 189 / Monday, September 30, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
(2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska, and
(4) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
■
2013–19–03 The Boeing Company:
Amendment 39–17585; Docket No.
FAA–2012–0985; Directorate Identifier
2011–NM–250–AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective November 4, 2013.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
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(c) Applicability
(1) This AD applies to The Boeing
Company Model 737–600, –700, –700C,
–800, –900, and –900ER series airplanes,
certificated in any category, line numbers
(L/Ns) 1060 through 3289 inclusive, and
3294, but excluding L/Ns 3138, 3158, 3169,
3175, 3216, 3224, 3253, and 3274.
(2) Installation of Supplemental Type
Certificate (STC) ST00830SE(https://
rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_
Library/rgstc.nsf/0/408E012E008616A786257
8880060456C?OpenDocument&Highlight
=st00830se) does not affect the ability to
accomplish the actions required by this AD.
Therefore, for airplanes on which STC
ST00830SE 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 29, Hydraulic Power.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a report of
chafing damage to a wire bundle that was
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arcing to hydraulic tubing and caused by
insufficient separation between the wire
bundle and the hydraulic tubing in the main
landing gear (MLG) wheel well. We are
issuing this AD to detect and correct possible
damage caused by insufficient separation
between the wire bundles and hydraulic
tubing to prevent electrical arcing in a
flammable fluid leakage zone, which could
lead to a wheel well fire.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Inspection and Installation
Within 24 months after the effective date
of this AD: Do a general visual inspection of
hydraulic tubing having part numbers (P/Ns)
272A4451–136 and 272A4451–137, and wire
bundles W6128, W7122, W8122, and W8222
for wire chafing or damage, install new
clamps in the right MLG wheel well, and do
all applicable corrective actions, in
accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Boeing Special Attention
Service Bulletin 737–29–1113, Revision 1,
dated March 29, 2013. All corrective actions
must be done before further flight.
(h) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for the
corresponding actions specified in paragraph
(g) of this AD, if those actions were
performed before the effective date of this AD
using Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 737–29–1113, dated March 23, 2011,
which is not incorporated by reference in this
AD.
(i) 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
paragraph (j)(1) of this AD. Information may
be emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOCRequests@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.
(j) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD,
contact Marie Hogestad, Aerospace Engineer,
Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM–130S,
FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office,
PO 00000
Frm 00027
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
59801
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–
3356; phone: (425) 917–6418; fax: (425) 917–
6590; email: marie.hogestad@faa.gov.
(2) Service information identified in but
not incorporated by reference in this AD may
be obtained at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (k)(3) and (k)(4) of this AD.
(k) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 737–29–1113, Revision 1, dated
March 29, 2013.
(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 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.
(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
September 10, 2013.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2013–23464 Filed 9–27–13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2012–0723; Directorate
Identifier 2011–NM–137–AD; Amendment
39–17586; AD 2013–19–04]
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 737–600,
–700, –700C, –800, and –900 series
airplanes. This AD was prompted by a
SUMMARY:
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report of cracks found in the skin at
body station (STA) 540 just below
stringer S–22L on a Model 737–700
series airplane. This AD requires
repetitive detailed and high frequency
eddy current inspections for cracking of
the skin around the eight fasteners
common to the ends of the STA 540
bulkhead chords between stringers S–22
and S–23, left and right sides; and
corrective actions and preventive
modification if necessary. We are
issuing this AD to detect and correct
fatigue cracking in the skin, which can
result in rapid decompression of the
cabin.
DATES: This AD is effective November 4,
2013.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in the AD
as of November 4, 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, WA. For information on
the availability of this material at the
FAA, call 425–227–1221.
apply to the specified products. The
NPRM published in the Federal
Register on July 25, 2012 (77 FR 43547).
The NPRM proposed to require
repetitive detailed and high frequency
eddy current (HFEC) inspections for
cracking of the skin around the eight
fasteners common to the ends of the
STA 540 bulkhead chords between
stringers S–22 and S–23, left and right
sides; and corrective actions and
preventive modification if necessary.
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:
Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA,
Seattle Aircraft Certification Office,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA
98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6450; fax:
425–917–6590; email:
alan.pohl@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Request To Change the Compliance
Time
American Airlines requested that all
airplanes have the same compliance
time of 26,500 total flight cycles with a
grace period of 6,500 flight cycles. The
commenter explained that since the
NPRM (77 FR 43547, July 25, 2012) is
for the same type of airplanes with the
same condition, they should have the
same compliance time regardless of the
amount of flight cycles at the time of the
AD release date. The commenter noted
that the NPRM specifies a compliance
time of 18,000 total flight cycles with a
grace period of 4,000 flight cycles for
airplanes with less than 27,500 total
flight cycles. The commenter also stated
that the 4,000 flight cycle grace period
does not allow enough time for
operators to have two good
opportunities to accomplish the
inspections during normal maintenance
visits.
We disagree with changing the
compliance times. In developing
appropriate compliance times for this
action, we considered the urgency
associated with the subject unsafe
condition and the practical aspect of
accomplishing the required actions
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to include an AD that would
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16:39 Sep 27, 2013
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Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to
participate in developing this AD. The
following presents the comments
received on the proposal (77 FR 43547,
July 25, 2012) and the FAA’s response
to each comment.
Concurrence
The Boeing Company concurred with
the content of the NPRM (77 FR 43547,
July 25, 2012).
Support of Compliance Time
AirTran/Southwest Airlines stated
that the inspection threshold and
intervals will fit within its planned
scheduled maintenance checks. The
commenter also stated that the number
of man-hours and elapsed time to
accomplish the NPRM (77 FR 43547,
July 25, 2012) will not impact the
overall span-time of its planned
scheduled maintenance check.
PO 00000
Frm 00028
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
within a period of time that corresponds
to the normal scheduled maintenance
for most affected operators. The shorter
compliance time for airplanes with
higher number of total flight cycles
addresses the increased likelihood of
cracking or larger cracks being present.
Under the provisions of paragraph (l) of
this final rule, we will consider requests
for approval of an adjustment of the
compliance time if sufficient data are
submitted to substantiate that the new
compliance time would provide an
acceptable level of safety. No change has
been made to this final rule in this
regard.
Request for Increased Repetitive
Inspection Intervals
American Airlines requested that the
repetitive inspection interval of 4,000
flight cycles specified in the NPRM (77
FR 43547, July 25, 2012) be changed to
at least 8,000 flight cycles to coordinate
with heavy maintenance visits to
provide the least amount of impact
during the maintenance visit. The
commenter stated that it does not
believe that we have provided sufficient
evidence to warrant such a tight
repetitive inspection interval if no
cracks are found after the initial
inspection. The commenter also noted
that since this crack has only been
found on one airplane, it is not certain
how susceptible the rest of the fleet is
to develop skin cracks at body station
(BS)540.
We disagree with increasing the
repetitive inspection interval. In
developing an appropriate repetitive
inspection interval for this action, we
considered the urgency associated with
the subject unsafe condition and the
practical aspect of accomplishing the
required actions within a period of time
that corresponds to the normal
scheduled maintenance for most
affected operators. The interval was
determined using the same methodology
as for other cracks of primary structure
addressed in other airworthiness
directives. No data has been offered that
would substantiate a change to this final
rule. Under the provisions of paragraph
(l) of this final rule, we will consider
requests for approval of an adjustment
of the repetitive inspection interval if
sufficient data are submitted to
substantiate that the new interval would
provide an acceptable level of safety. No
change has been made to this final rule
in this regard.
Request To Change Cost Estimate
American Airlines requested that we
change the Cost of Compliance table to
account for the removal and installation
of the ram air transition duct and the
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recirculation air filter housing.
American Airlines stated the ram air
transition duct must be removed to
accomplish the inspection of the skin
around the 8 fasteners and will add an
additional 2 work-hours (open and
close) for each airplane. American
Airlines requested that the labor cost for
the inspection be changed to 5 workhours rather than the estimated 3 workhours specified in the NPRM (77 FR
43547, July 25, 2012) to include the
removal and installation of the ram air
transition duct. American Airlines also
stated that the recirculation air filter
housing must be removed to accomplish
the preventative modification and will
add an additional 6 work-hours (open
and close) for each airplane. American
Airlines also noted that the current
price for the modification kit is $993,
rather than $894 as referenced in the
NPRM (77 FR 43547, July 25, 2012).
We partially agree with the request to
change the Cost of Compliance table.
We disagree with the figures used by the
commenter. The work-hours, however,
have been revised in Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 737–53–
1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013.
The Cost of Compliance table has been
revised accordingly.
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Request To Allow the Use of Grip
Length Adjustment Washers
AirTran/Southwest Airlines requested
that we add Note 6 of the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–
53–1294, dated March 31, 2011, to allow
the use of grip length adjustment
washers to accomplish the NPRM (77
FR 43547, July 25, 2012).
We disagree. Note 5 of the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–
53–1294, Revision 1, dated June 14,
2013 (previously Note 6 of the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–
53–1294, dated March 31, 2011), states,
‘‘If the length of any fastener specified
in this service bulletin does not meet
the installation standards in SRM
[structural repair manual] Chapter 51,
then a fastener of the same specification,
or an approved substitute, with a length
which meets the installation standards
in SRM Chapter 51 may be used.’’ Since
the installation standards of Section 51
of the SRM include the use of grip
length adjustment washers, no
additional authorization is necessary.
No change has been made to this final
rule in this regard.
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Request To Remove or Modify
Paragraph (i)(4) of the NPRM (77 FR
43547, July 25, 2012)
AirTran/Southwest Airlines requested
that paragraph (i)(4) of the NPRM (77 FR
43547, July 25, 2012) be removed.
AirTran/Southwest Airlines requested
that we allow the operator to determine
the sequence in which steps are to be
accomplished for the inspections and
modifications, otherwise, the operators
may inadvertently violate the AD by
performing unrelated tasks out of
sequence.
American Airlines requested that we
remove or modify paragraph (i)(4) of the
NPRM (77 FR 43547, July 25, 2012)
stating that paragraph (i)(4) is more
restrictive than necessary to ensure
safety of flight. American Airlines stated
that not being able to accomplish some
steps out of order will prevent
accomplishment of the AD in a timely
manner. American Airlines suggested
modifying paragraph (i)(4) of the NPRM
(77 FR 43547, July 25, 2012) to allow the
modifications and repairs to be
accomplished in any order as long as
the steps within those actions are
accomplished in order.
We agree to remove paragraph (i)(4) of
the NPRM (77 FR 43547, July 25, 2012).
We have received Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 737–53–
1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013,
which removes instructions regarding
the sequencing of steps and changes
certain part numbers. We have revised
paragraphs (c), (g), (h), (i), and (j) of this
final rule to refer to Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 737–53–
1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013.
We have also added new paragraph (k)
to this final rule to allow credit for the
actions required by paragraphs (g), (h),
(i), and (j) of this AD, if those actions
were performed before the effective date
of this final rule using Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 737–53–
1294, dated March 31, 2011. Subsequent
paragraphs have been redesignated
accordingly.
Request To Allow Removal of
Additional or Fewer Parts, and Include
Jacking and Shoring Limitations
AirTran/Southwest Airlines requested
that we include a statement stating that
it is acceptable to remove additional, or
fewer, parts as necessary; however,
jacking and shoring limitations must be
observed.
We partially agree with the request.
We agree that clarification is needed
regarding removal of additional or fewer
parts. We infer that this comment
concerns instructions in Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 737–53–
PO 00000
Frm 00029
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
59803
1294, dated March 31, 2011, regarding
access and restoration, which are not
required to address the unsafe
condition. However, we disagree with
requiring jacking and shoring
limitations in this final rule because
those actions are not required to address
the unsafe condition. Operators may
perform those actions in accordance
with approved maintenance procedures.
We have added new paragraph (i)(4) to
this final rule to state that access and
close actions identified in Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–
53–1294, Revision 1, dated June 14,
2013, are not required by this final rule.
We have also revised paragraphs (g) and
(h) of this final rule to refer to paragraph
(i)(4) of this final rule.
STC Winglet Comment
Aviation Partners Boeing stated that
the installation of winglets per STC
ST00830SE does not affect them.
We have redesignated paragraph (c) of
the NPRM (77 FR 43547, July 25, 2012)
as paragraph (c)(1) in this AD and added
paragraph (c)(2) to this AD to state that
installation of STC ST00830SE (https://
rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_
Library/rgstc.nsf/0/408E012E008616A
7862578880060456C?
OpenDocument&Highlight=st00830se)
does not affect the ability to accomplish
the actions required by this final rule.
Therefore, for airplanes on which STC
ST00830SE 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. For all
other AMOC requests, the operator must
request approval for an AMOC in
accordance with the procedures
specified in paragraph (l) of this final
rule.
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 (77 FR
43547, July 25, 2012) for correcting the
unsafe condition; and
• Do not add any additional burden
upon the public than was already
proposed in the NPRM (77 FR 43547,
July 25, 2012).
We also determined that these
changes will not increase the economic
burden on any operator or increase the
scope of this AD.
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Costs of Compliance
the following costs to comply with this
AD:
We estimate that this AD affects 903
airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate
ESTIMATED COSTS
Action
Labor cost
Inspection (left and right
sides).
14 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,190 per inspection cycle.
We estimate the following costs to do
any necessary repairs and inspections
Parts cost
$0
Cost per product
$1,190 per inspection
cycle.
that would be required based on the
results of the inspection. We have no
Cost on U.S. operators
$1,074,570 per inspection
cycle.
way of determining the number of
aircraft that might need these repairs:
ON-CONDITION COSTS
Action
Labor cost
Parts cost
Preventive modification
(each side).
Skin repair (each side) ...
7 work-hours × $85 per hour = $595 ........................................................
$894 .............................
$1,489.
37 work-hours × $85 per hour = $3,145 ...................................................
Up to $5,635 ................
Up to $8,780.
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.
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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.
16:39 Sep 27, 2013
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
Regulatory Findings
VerDate Mar<15>2010
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.
Jkt 229001
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
■
2013–19–04 the Boeing Company:
Amendment 39–17586; Docket No.
FAA–2012–0723; Directorate Identifier
2011–NM–137–AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective November 4, 2013.
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Frm 00030
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Cost per product
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
(1) This AD applies to the Boeing Company
Model 737–600, –700, –700C, –800, and –900
series airplanes; certificated in any category;
as identified in Boeing Special Attention
Service Bulletin 737–53–1294, Revision 1,
dated June 14, 2013.
(2) Installation of Supplemental Type
Certificate (STC) ST00830SE (https://
rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_
Library/rgstc.nsf/0/408E012E008616
A7862578880060456C?
OpenDocument&Highlight=st00830se) does
not affect the ability to accomplish the
actions required by this AD. Therefore, for
airplanes on which STC ST00830SE 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. For all other
AMOC requests, the operator must request
approval for an AMOC in accordance with
the procedures specified in paragraph (l) of
this AD.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America
Code 53, Fuselage.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a report of
cracks found in the skin at body station
(STA) 540 just below stringer S–22L. We are
issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue
cracking in the skin, which can result in
rapid decompression of the cabin.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Inspection and Corrective Action
(1) Except as required by paragraphs (g)(2),
(i)(2), and (i)(3) of this AD, at the applicable
time specified in table 1 of paragraph 1.E.
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‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Special Attention
Service Bulletin 737–53–1294, Revision 1,
dated June 14, 2013: Do detailed and high
frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections
of the skin for cracking in the area around the
eight fasteners securing the STA 540
bulkhead chords between stringers S–22 and
S–23, and do all applicable corrective
actions, in accordance with Parts 1, 2, 3, 4,
and 5 of the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
737–53–1294, Revision 1, dated June 14,
2013, except as required by paragraphs (i)(1)
and (i)(4) of this AD. If no cracking is found,
repeat the detailed and HFEC inspections at
the intervals specified in table 1 of paragraph
1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 737–53–1294,
Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013, except as
required by paragraph (g)(2) of this AD, until
the optional preventive modification
specified in paragraph (h) of this AD is done.
Do all applicable corrective actions before
further flight.
(2) For airplanes that have incorporated
Boeing Business Jet Lower Cabin Altitude
Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)
ST01697SE (https://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_
and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/
0812969A86AF879B8625766400600105?
OpenDocument&Highlight=st01697se) (6,500
feet maximum cabin altitude in lieu of 8,000
feet), the flight-cycle related compliance
times are different from those specified in
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
737–53–1294, Revision 1, dated June 14,
2013. All initial compliance times specified
in total flight cycles or flight cycles must be
reduced to half of those specified in Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–53–
1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013. All
repetitive interval compliance times
specified in flight cycles must be reduced to
one-quarter of those specified in Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–53–
1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013.
mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES
(h) Optional Preventive Modification
Accomplishing the preventive
modification, including an HFEC inspection
for cracking of the skin and STA 540
bulkhead chords, and all applicable repairs,
in accordance with paragraph 3.B, Part 2 or
Part 4 (left side), and Part 3 or Part 5 (right
side), of the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
737–53–1294, Revision 1, dated June 14,
2013, terminates the inspection requirements
of paragraph (g) of this AD for the side on
which the modification is done, except as
required by paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(4) of this
AD.
(i) Exceptions to Service Bulletin
Specifications
(1) If any cracking is found during any
inspection required by this AD, and Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–53–
1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013,
specifies to contact Boeing for appropriate
action: Before further flight, repair using a
method approved in accordance with the
procedures specified in paragraph (l) of this
AD.
(2) Where Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 737–53–1294, Revision 1, dated June
VerDate Mar<15>2010
16:39 Sep 27, 2013
Jkt 229001
14, 2013, specifies to do the action after the
original issue date of that service bulletin,
this AD requires the compliance time after
the effective date of this AD.
(3) Where the Condition column of table 1
of paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–53–
1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013,
specifies a condition as of the original issue
date of that service bulletin, this AD specifies
the condition as of the effective date of this
AD.
(4) The access and restoration instructions
identified in the Work Instructions of Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–53–
1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013, are not
required by this AD. Operators may perform
those actions in accordance with approved
maintenance procedures.
(j) Post-Repair Inspections
The post-repair inspections, specified in
table 2 of paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
737–53–1294, Revision 1, dated June 14,
2013, are not required by this AD.
Note 1 to paragraph (j) of this AD: The
damage tolerance inspections specified in
table 2 of paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
737–53–1294, Revision 1, dated June 14,
2013, may be used in support of compliance
with Section 121.1109(c)(2) or 129.109(b)(2)
of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR
121.1109(c)(2) or 14 CFR 129.109(b)(2)). The
corresponding actions specified in the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–53–
1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013, are not
required by this AD.
(k) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for the
actions required by paragraphs (g), (h), and
(j) of this AD, if those actions were performed
before the effective date of this AD using
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
737–53–1294, dated March 31, 2011, which
is not incorporated by reference in this AD.
(l) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Seattle 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, it 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
Aircraft Certification Office (ACO) to make
those findings. For a repair method to be
approved, the repair must meet the
PO 00000
Frm 00031
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
59805
certification basis of the airplane and the
approval must specifically refer to this AD.
(m) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD,
contact Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle
Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356;
phone: 425–917–6450; fax: 425–917–6590;
email: alan.pohl@faa.gov.
(2) Service information referenced in this
AD that is not incorporated by reference in
this AD may be obtained at the addresses
identified in paragraphs (n)(3) and (n)(4) of
this AD.
(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.
(i) Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 737–53–1294, Revision 1, dated June
14, 2013.
(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 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
September 9, 2013.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2013–22676 Filed 9–27–13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 71
[Docket No. FAA–2013–0517; Airspace
Docket No. 13–ANM–15]
Establishment of Class E Airspace;
Cody, WY
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
E:\FR\FM\30SER1.SGM
30SER1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 189 (Monday, September 30, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 59801-59805]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-22676]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2012-0723; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-137-AD;
Amendment 39-17586; AD 2013-19-04]
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 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, and -900 series
airplanes. This AD was prompted by a
[[Page 59802]]
report of cracks found in the skin at body station (STA) 540 just below
stringer S-22L on a Model 737-700 series airplane. This AD requires
repetitive detailed and high frequency eddy current inspections for
cracking of the skin around the eight fasteners common to the ends of
the STA 540 bulkhead chords between stringers S-22 and S-23, left and
right sides; and corrective actions and preventive modification if
necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue
cracking in the skin, which can result in rapid decompression of the
cabin.
DATES: This AD is effective November 4, 2013.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of November 4,
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, WA. 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: Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6450; fax:
425-917-6590; email: alan.pohl@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 July 25, 2012 (77 FR
43547). The NPRM proposed to require repetitive detailed and high
frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections for cracking of the skin
around the eight fasteners common to the ends of the STA 540 bulkhead
chords between stringers S-22 and S-23, left and right sides; and
corrective actions and preventive modification if necessary.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the proposal
(77 FR 43547, July 25, 2012) and the FAA's response to each comment.
Concurrence
The Boeing Company concurred with the content of the NPRM (77 FR
43547, July 25, 2012).
Support of Compliance Time
AirTran/Southwest Airlines stated that the inspection threshold and
intervals will fit within its planned scheduled maintenance checks. The
commenter also stated that the number of man-hours and elapsed time to
accomplish the NPRM (77 FR 43547, July 25, 2012) will not impact the
overall span-time of its planned scheduled maintenance check.
Request To Change the Compliance Time
American Airlines requested that all airplanes have the same
compliance time of 26,500 total flight cycles with a grace period of
6,500 flight cycles. The commenter explained that since the NPRM (77 FR
43547, July 25, 2012) is for the same type of airplanes with the same
condition, they should have the same compliance time regardless of the
amount of flight cycles at the time of the AD release date. The
commenter noted that the NPRM specifies a compliance time of 18,000
total flight cycles with a grace period of 4,000 flight cycles for
airplanes with less than 27,500 total flight cycles. The commenter also
stated that the 4,000 flight cycle grace period does not allow enough
time for operators to have two good opportunities to accomplish the
inspections during normal maintenance visits.
We disagree with changing the compliance times. In developing
appropriate compliance times for this action, we considered the urgency
associated with the subject unsafe condition and the practical aspect
of accomplishing the required actions within a period of time that
corresponds to the normal scheduled maintenance for most affected
operators. The shorter compliance time for airplanes with higher number
of total flight cycles addresses the increased likelihood of cracking
or larger cracks being present. Under the provisions of paragraph (l)
of this final rule, we will consider requests for approval of an
adjustment of the compliance time if sufficient data are submitted to
substantiate that the new compliance time would provide an acceptable
level of safety. No change has been made to this final rule in this
regard.
Request for Increased Repetitive Inspection Intervals
American Airlines requested that the repetitive inspection interval
of 4,000 flight cycles specified in the NPRM (77 FR 43547, July 25,
2012) be changed to at least 8,000 flight cycles to coordinate with
heavy maintenance visits to provide the least amount of impact during
the maintenance visit. The commenter stated that it does not believe
that we have provided sufficient evidence to warrant such a tight
repetitive inspection interval if no cracks are found after the initial
inspection. The commenter also noted that since this crack has only
been found on one airplane, it is not certain how susceptible the rest
of the fleet is to develop skin cracks at body station (BS)540.
We disagree with increasing the repetitive inspection interval. In
developing an appropriate repetitive inspection interval for this
action, we considered the urgency associated with the subject unsafe
condition and the practical aspect of accomplishing the required
actions within a period of time that corresponds to the normal
scheduled maintenance for most affected operators. The interval was
determined using the same methodology as for other cracks of primary
structure addressed in other airworthiness directives. No data has been
offered that would substantiate a change to this final rule. Under the
provisions of paragraph (l) of this final rule, we will consider
requests for approval of an adjustment of the repetitive inspection
interval if sufficient data are submitted to substantiate that the new
interval would provide an acceptable level of safety. No change has
been made to this final rule in this regard.
Request To Change Cost Estimate
American Airlines requested that we change the Cost of Compliance
table to account for the removal and installation of the ram air
transition duct and the
[[Page 59803]]
recirculation air filter housing. American Airlines stated the ram air
transition duct must be removed to accomplish the inspection of the
skin around the 8 fasteners and will add an additional 2 work-hours
(open and close) for each airplane. American Airlines requested that
the labor cost for the inspection be changed to 5 work-hours rather
than the estimated 3 work-hours specified in the NPRM (77 FR 43547,
July 25, 2012) to include the removal and installation of the ram air
transition duct. American Airlines also stated that the recirculation
air filter housing must be removed to accomplish the preventative
modification and will add an additional 6 work-hours (open and close)
for each airplane. American Airlines also noted that the current price
for the modification kit is $993, rather than $894 as referenced in the
NPRM (77 FR 43547, July 25, 2012).
We partially agree with the request to change the Cost of
Compliance table. We disagree with the figures used by the commenter.
The work-hours, however, have been revised in Boeing Special Attention
Service Bulletin 737-53-1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013. The Cost
of Compliance table has been revised accordingly.
Request To Allow the Use of Grip Length Adjustment Washers
AirTran/Southwest Airlines requested that we add Note 6 of the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 737-53-1294, dated March 31, 2011, to allow the use of grip
length adjustment washers to accomplish the NPRM (77 FR 43547, July 25,
2012).
We disagree. Note 5 of the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1294, Revision 1, dated June
14, 2013 (previously Note 6 of the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1294, dated March 31,
2011), states, ``If the length of any fastener specified in this
service bulletin does not meet the installation standards in SRM
[structural repair manual] Chapter 51, then a fastener of the same
specification, or an approved substitute, with a length which meets the
installation standards in SRM Chapter 51 may be used.'' Since the
installation standards of Section 51 of the SRM include the use of grip
length adjustment washers, no additional authorization is necessary. No
change has been made to this final rule in this regard.
Request To Remove or Modify Paragraph (i)(4) of the NPRM (77 FR 43547,
July 25, 2012)
AirTran/Southwest Airlines requested that paragraph (i)(4) of the
NPRM (77 FR 43547, July 25, 2012) be removed. AirTran/Southwest
Airlines requested that we allow the operator to determine the sequence
in which steps are to be accomplished for the inspections and
modifications, otherwise, the operators may inadvertently violate the
AD by performing unrelated tasks out of sequence.
American Airlines requested that we remove or modify paragraph
(i)(4) of the NPRM (77 FR 43547, July 25, 2012) stating that paragraph
(i)(4) is more restrictive than necessary to ensure safety of flight.
American Airlines stated that not being able to accomplish some steps
out of order will prevent accomplishment of the AD in a timely manner.
American Airlines suggested modifying paragraph (i)(4) of the NPRM (77
FR 43547, July 25, 2012) to allow the modifications and repairs to be
accomplished in any order as long as the steps within those actions are
accomplished in order.
We agree to remove paragraph (i)(4) of the NPRM (77 FR 43547, July
25, 2012). We have received Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
737-53-1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013, which removes
instructions regarding the sequencing of steps and changes certain part
numbers. We have revised paragraphs (c), (g), (h), (i), and (j) of this
final rule to refer to Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-
53-1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013. We have also added new
paragraph (k) to this final rule to allow credit for the actions
required by paragraphs (g), (h), (i), and (j) of this AD, if those
actions were performed before the effective date of this final rule
using Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1294, dated
March 31, 2011. Subsequent paragraphs have been redesignated
accordingly.
Request To Allow Removal of Additional or Fewer Parts, and Include
Jacking and Shoring Limitations
AirTran/Southwest Airlines requested that we include a statement
stating that it is acceptable to remove additional, or fewer, parts as
necessary; however, jacking and shoring limitations must be observed.
We partially agree with the request. We agree that clarification is
needed regarding removal of additional or fewer parts. We infer that
this comment concerns instructions in Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 737-53-1294, dated March 31, 2011, regarding access and
restoration, which are not required to address the unsafe condition.
However, we disagree with requiring jacking and shoring limitations in
this final rule because those actions are not required to address the
unsafe condition. Operators may perform those actions in accordance
with approved maintenance procedures. We have added new paragraph
(i)(4) to this final rule to state that access and close actions
identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1294,
Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013, are not required by this final rule.
We have also revised paragraphs (g) and (h) of this final rule to refer
to paragraph (i)(4) of this final rule.
STC Winglet Comment
Aviation Partners Boeing stated that the installation of winglets
per STC ST00830SE does not affect them.
We have redesignated paragraph (c) of the NPRM (77 FR 43547, July
25, 2012) as paragraph (c)(1) in this AD and added paragraph (c)(2) to
this AD to state that installation of STC ST00830SE (https://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/408E012E008616A7862578880060456C?OpenDocument&Highlight=st00830se) does
not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by this final
rule. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST00830SE 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. For all other AMOC requests, the operator must request approval
for an AMOC in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph
(l) of this final rule.
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 (77 FR 43547, July 25, 2012) for correcting the unsafe condition;
and
Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was
already proposed in the NPRM (77 FR 43547, July 25, 2012).
We also determined that these changes will not increase the
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this AD.
[[Page 59804]]
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 903 airplanes of U.S. registry. We
estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection (left and right sides)..... 14 work-hours x $85 per hour $0 $1,190 per inspection $1,074,570 per inspection cycle.
= $1,190 per inspection cycle.
cycle.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We estimate the following costs to do any necessary repairs and
inspections that would be required based on the results of the
inspection. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that
might need these repairs:
On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Preventive modification (each 7 work-hours x $85 per hour = $894.............. $1,489.
side). $595.
Skin repair (each side)......... 37 work-hours x $85 per hour = Up to $5,635...... Up to $8,780.
$3,145.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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):
2013-19-04 the Boeing Company: Amendment 39-17586; Docket No. FAA-
2012-0723; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-137-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective November 4, 2013.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
(1) This AD applies to the Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, -
700C, -800, and -900 series airplanes; certificated in any category;
as identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-
1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013.
(2) Installation of Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)
ST00830SE (https://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/408E012E008616A7862578880060456C?OpenDocument&Highlight=st00830se)
does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by
this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST00830SE 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. For all other AMOC requests, the
operator must request approval for an AMOC in accordance with the
procedures specified in paragraph (l) of this AD.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport Association
(ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a report of cracks found in the skin at
body station (STA) 540 just below stringer S-22L. We are issuing
this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking in the skin, which
can result in rapid decompression of the cabin.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Inspection and Corrective Action
(1) Except as required by paragraphs (g)(2), (i)(2), and (i)(3)
of this AD, at the applicable time specified in table 1 of paragraph
1.E.
[[Page 59805]]
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-
1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013: Do detailed and high
frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections of the skin for cracking
in the area around the eight fasteners securing the STA 540 bulkhead
chords between stringers S-22 and S-23, and do all applicable
corrective actions, in accordance with Parts 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 of
the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 737-53-1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013, except as
required by paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(4) of this AD. If no cracking
is found, repeat the detailed and HFEC inspections at the intervals
specified in table 1 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1294, Revision 1, dated
June 14, 2013, except as required by paragraph (g)(2) of this AD,
until the optional preventive modification specified in paragraph
(h) of this AD is done. Do all applicable corrective actions before
further flight.
(2) For airplanes that have incorporated Boeing Business Jet
Lower Cabin Altitude Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) ST01697SE
(https://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/0812969A86AF879B8625766400600105?OpenDocument&Highlight=st01697se)
(6,500 feet maximum cabin altitude in lieu of 8,000 feet), the
flight-cycle related compliance times are different from those
specified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1294,
Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013. All initial compliance times
specified in total flight cycles or flight cycles must be reduced to
half of those specified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
737-53-1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013. All repetitive
interval compliance times specified in flight cycles must be reduced
to one-quarter of those specified in Boeing Special Attention
Service Bulletin 737-53-1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013.
(h) Optional Preventive Modification
Accomplishing the preventive modification, including an HFEC
inspection for cracking of the skin and STA 540 bulkhead chords, and
all applicable repairs, in accordance with paragraph 3.B, Part 2 or
Part 4 (left side), and Part 3 or Part 5 (right side), of the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 737-53-1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013, terminates
the inspection requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD for the side
on which the modification is done, except as required by paragraphs
(i)(1) and (i)(4) of this AD.
(i) Exceptions to Service Bulletin Specifications
(1) If any cracking is found during any inspection required by
this AD, and Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1294,
Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013, specifies to contact Boeing for
appropriate action: Before further flight, repair using a method
approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph
(l) of this AD.
(2) Where Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1294,
Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013, specifies to do the action after
the original issue date of that service bulletin, this AD requires
the compliance time after the effective date of this AD.
(3) Where the Condition column of table 1 of paragraph 1.E.,
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-
1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013, specifies a condition as of
the original issue date of that service bulletin, this AD specifies
the condition as of the effective date of this AD.
(4) The access and restoration instructions identified in the
Work Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-
53-1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013, are not required by this
AD. Operators may perform those actions in accordance with approved
maintenance procedures.
(j) Post-Repair Inspections
The post-repair inspections, specified in table 2 of paragraph
1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
737-53-1294, Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013, are not required by
this AD.
Note 1 to paragraph (j) of this AD: The damage tolerance
inspections specified in table 2 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,''
of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1294, Revision
1, dated June 14, 2013, may be used in support of compliance with
Section 121.1109(c)(2) or 129.109(b)(2) of the Federal Aviation
Regulations (14 CFR 121.1109(c)(2) or 14 CFR 129.109(b)(2)). The
corresponding actions specified in the Accomplishment Instructions
of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1294, Revision
1, dated June 14, 2013, are not required by this AD.
(k) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by
paragraphs (g), (h), and (j) of this AD, if those actions were
performed before the effective date of this AD using Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1294, dated March 31, 2011, which
is not incorporated by reference in this AD.
(l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Seattle 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, it 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 Aircraft
Certification Office (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.
(m) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact Alan Pohl,
Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft
Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356;
phone: 425-917-6450; fax: 425-917-6590; email: alan.pohl@faa.gov.
(2) Service information referenced in this AD that is not
incorporated by reference in this AD may be obtained at the
addresses identified in paragraphs (n)(3) and (n)(4) of this AD.
(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.
(i) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1294,
Revision 1, dated June 14, 2013.
(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 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 September 9, 2013.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-22676 Filed 9-27-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P