Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes, 78294-78296 [2013-30897]

Download as PDF 78294 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 248 / Thursday, December 26, 2013 / Proposed Rules (f) Compliance You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the actions have already been done. (g) Retained Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) Revision This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD 2011–13–07, Amendment 39–16730 (76 FR 36283, June 22, 2011), with editorial changes. For airplanes on which M0566 or Dassault Service Bulletin Falcon 7X–100 has been accomplished: Within 14 days after July 27, 2011 (the effective date of AD 2011–13–07), revise the Limitations Section of the Dassault Falcon 7X AFM to include the statement in figure 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD. This may be done by inserting a copy of this AD in the AFM. When a statement identical to that in figure 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD has been included in the general revisions of the AFM, the general revisions may be inserted into the AFM, and the copy of this AD may be removed from the AFM. Accomplishing the revision required by paragraph (h) of this AD terminates the requirements of this paragraph, and after the revision required by paragraph (h) of this AD has been done, before further flight, remove the revision required by this paragraph. FIGURE 1 TO PARAGRAPH (g) OF THIS AD If radio-altimeter #1 lock-up conditions occur in flight, revert to the correct radioaltimeter output, in accordance with the instructions of Falcon 7X AFM procedure 3–140–65B and 3–140–70A. Dispatch of the airplane with any radio-altimeter inoperative is prohibited. tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS (h) New Requirement of This AD: Revision of Airplane Flight Manual For airplanes on which M0566 or Dassault Service Bulletin Falcon 7X–100 has been accomplished: Within 30 days after the effective date of this AD, do the action specified in paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD. (1) Revise the Limitations Section of the Dassault Falcon 7X AFM to include the statement in figure 2 to paragraph (h) of this AD. This may be done by inserting a copy of this AD in the AFM. Doing this revision terminates the requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD and the revision required by paragraph (g) of this AD must be removed. When a statement identical to that in figure 2 to paragraph (h) of this AD has been included in the general revisions of the AFM, the general revisions may be inserted into the AFM, and the copy of this AD may be removed from the AFM. VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:18 Dec 24, 2013 Jkt 232001 FIGURE 2 TO PARAGRAPH (h) OF THIS AD If radio-altimeter miscompare indication occurs in flight, revert to the correct radioaltimeter output, in accordance with the instructions of Falcon 7X AFM procedure 3–140–70A. Dispatch of the airplane with any radio-altimeter inoperative is prohibited. (2) Revise the Abnormal Procedures section to include procedure 3–140–70A of the Dassault Falcon 7X Airplane Flight Manual, DGT105608, Revision 15, dated January 30, 2012, into the AFM. (i) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Tom Rodriguez, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–1137; fax (425) 227– 1149. Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD. AMOCs approved previously in accordance with AD 2011–13–07, Amendment 39–16730 (76 FR 36283, June 22, 2011), are approved as alternative methods of compliance with this AD. (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, use these actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered FAA-approved if they were approved by the State of Design Authority (or its delegated agent, or by the DAH with a State of Design Authority’s design organization approval). For a repair method to be approved, the repair approval must specifically refer to this AD. You are required to ensure the product is airworthy before it is returned to service. (j) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) European Aviation Safety Agency Airworthiness Directive 2009–0208R2, dated May 22, 2012, for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Dassault Falcon Jet, P.O. Box 2000, South Hackensack, New Jersey 07606; telephone 201–440–6700; Internet https:// www.dassaultfalcon.com. You may view this PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 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. Issued in Renton, Washington, on December 12, 2013. John P. Piccola, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–30853 Filed 12–24–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2013–1031; Directorate Identifier 2013–NM–155–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A330–200, A330–200 Freighter, and A330–300 series airplanes; and Model A340–200, A340– 300, A340–500, and A340–600 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by the failure of the generator control unit-constant speed motor/ generator (GCU–CSM/G) during a final assembly operational test. This proposed AD would require a detailed inspection of the connector wires for GCU–CSM/G connector 1XE–A for discrepancies (evidence of arcing or overheating damage), and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct incorrect locking of contacts into connector 1XE–A of the GCU–CSM/G, which could result in a loss of contact continuity and lead to the CSM/G not operating, which, in conjunction with an emergency electrical configuration loss of the main electrical system or total engine flame out, could adversely affect the airplane’s safe flight. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by February 10, 2014. ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\26DEP1.SGM 26DEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 248 / Thursday, December 26, 2013 / Proposed Rules 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office—EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 45 80; email airworthiness.A330–A340@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com. You may view this 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 proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–1138; fax (425) 227–1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2013–1031; Directorate Identifier 2013–NM–155–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed AD based on those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:18 Dec 24, 2013 Jkt 232001 will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. Discussion The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Members of the European Community, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2013–0175, dated August 2, 2013 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: During Final Assembly Line tests on an A330 aeroplane, the Generator Control Unit—Constant Speed Motor/Generator (GCU–CSM/G) failed the operational test. Investigations revealed that it is due to incorrect locking of some contacts (pins) into the GCU–CSM/G connector 1XE–A. An inspection of other aeroplanes confirmed this production quality issue. Among the 26 pins used in GCU–CSM/G connector 1XE–A, 6 pins have been identified as potentially affected by this issue. A badly locked contact could result in a loss of continuity and lead to the nonoperation of the CSM/G. This condition, if not detected and corrected, and in conjunction with either an emergency electrical configuration loss of main electrical system or total engine flame out, could jeopardize the aeroplane’s safe flight. To address this condition, Airbus developed Alert Operator Transmission (AOT) A24L001–13, to provide instructions for a one-time inspection. For the reasons described above, this AD requires a one-time [detailed] inspection of the potentially affected connector wires of GCU–CSM/G connector 1XE–A and, depending on [the] finding, accomplishment of [a related investigative action] and applicable corrective actions. The related investigative action is a detailed inspection of the receptacle contacts of the GCU–CSM/G for proper engagement and evidence of arcing or overheating damage. The corrective actions include replacing damaged (evidence of arcing or overheating) contacts, and if necessary the electrical connector; and replacement of the GCU– CSM/G if the receptacle contacts show evidence of arcing or overheating damage. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA– 2013–1031. Relevant Service Information Airbus has issued Alert Operators Transmission A24L001–13, dated July 25, 2013. The actions described in this service information are intended to PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 78295 correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 76 airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would take about 1 work-hour per product to comply with the basic requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Required parts would cost about $0 per product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $6,460, or $85 per product. In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would take about 1 work-hour and require parts costing up to $17,314, for a cost of up to $17,399 per product. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need these actions. Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA’s authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more detail the scope of the Agency’s authority. We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.’’ Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications E:\FR\FM\26DEP1.SGM 26DEP1 78296 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 248 / Thursday, December 26, 2013 / Proposed Rules under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would 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 this proposed regulation: 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and 4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 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): ■ Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2013–1031; Directorate Identifier 2013–NM–155–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by February 10, 2014. tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus Model A330– 201, –202, –203, –223, –223F, –243, –243F, –301, –302, –303, –321, –322, –323, –341, –342, –343 airplanes; and A340–211, –212, –213, –311, –312, –313, –541, and –642 airplanes; certificated in any category; manufacturer serial numbers (MSNs) 1 through 1391 inclusive, except MSNs 0925 and 1382. VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:18 Dec 24, 2013 Jkt 232001 (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 24, Electrical Power. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by the failure of the generator control unit-constant speed motor/ generator (GCU–CSM/G) during a final assembly operational test. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct incorrect locking of contacts into connector 1XE–A of the GCU– CSM/G, which could result in a loss of contact continuity and lead to the CSM/G not operating, which, in conjunction with an emergency electrical configuration loss of the main electrical system or total engine flame out, could adversely affect the airplane’s safe flight. (f) Compliance You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the actions have already been done. (g) Inspections and Corrective Actions (1) Within 1,000 flight hours after the effective date of this AD: Do a detailed inspection for discrepancies (proper engagement and evidence of arcing or overheating) of the affected connector wires of GCU–CSM/G connector 1XE–A, in accordance with Airbus Alert Operators Transmission A24L001–13, dated July 25, 2013. (2) If, during the inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, any discrepancy is detected, before further flight, do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions, in accordance with Airbus Alert Operators Transmission A24L001–13, dated July 25, 2013. (h) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057– 3356; telephone (425) 227–1138; fax (425) 227–1149. Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD. (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, use these actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered FAA-approved if they were PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 approved by the State of Design Authority (or its delegated agent, or by the Design Approval Holder with a State of Design Authority’s design organization approval). For a repair method to be approved, the repair approval must specifically refer to this AD. You are required to ensure the product is airworthy before it is returned to service. (i) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) European Aviation Safety Agency Airworthiness Directive 2013–0175, dated August 2, 2013, for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA–2013– 1031. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office—EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 45 80; email airworthiness.A330–A340@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. Issued in Renton, Washington, on December 17, 2013. Jeffrey E. Duven, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–30897 Filed 12–24–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0987; Airspace Docket No. 13–AWP–19] Proposed Establishment of Class E Airspace; Needles, CA Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: This action proposes to establish Class E airspace at the Needles VHF Omni-Directional Radio Range Tactical Air Navigation Aid (VORTAC), Needles, CA, to facilitate vectoring of Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) aircraft under control of Los Angeles Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC). The FAA is proposing this action to enhance the safety and management of aircraft operations within the National Airspace System. DATES: Comments must be received on or before February 10, 2014. SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\26DEP1.SGM 26DEP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 248 (Thursday, December 26, 2013)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 78294-78296]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-30897]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2013-1031; Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-155-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
certain Airbus Model A330-200, A330-200 Freighter, and A330-300 series 
airplanes; and Model A340-200, A340-300, A340-500, and A340-600 series 
airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by the failure of the 
generator control unit-constant speed motor/generator (GCU-CSM/G) 
during a final assembly operational test. This proposed AD would 
require a detailed inspection of the connector wires for GCU-CSM/G 
connector 1XE-A for discrepancies (evidence of arcing or overheating 
damage), and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. 
We are proposing this AD to detect and correct incorrect locking of 
contacts into connector 1XE-A of the GCU-CSM/G, which could result in a 
loss of contact continuity and lead to the CSM/G not operating, which, 
in conjunction with an emergency electrical configuration loss of the 
main electrical system or total engine flame out, could adversely 
affect the airplane's safe flight.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by February 10, 
2014.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: (202) 493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-

[[Page 78295]]

30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue 
SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday 
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact 
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 
93 45 80; email airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com. You may view this 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 proposed AD, the regulatory 
evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street 
address for the Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is 
in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket 
shortly after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 
227-1138; fax (425) 227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2013-1031; 
Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-155-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed AD based on those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Members of the European Community, has issued EASA 
Airworthiness Directive 2013-0175, dated August 2, 2013 (referred to 
after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or 
``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified 
products. The MCAI states:

    During Final Assembly Line tests on an A330 aeroplane, the 
Generator Control Unit--Constant Speed Motor/Generator (GCU-CSM/G) 
failed the operational test.
    Investigations revealed that it is due to incorrect locking of 
some contacts (pins) into the GCU-CSM/G connector 1XE-A. An 
inspection of other aeroplanes confirmed this production quality 
issue. Among the 26 pins used in GCU-CSM/G connector 1XE-A, 6 pins 
have been identified as potentially affected by this issue.
    A badly locked contact could result in a loss of continuity and 
lead to the non-operation of the CSM/G.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, and in 
conjunction with either an emergency electrical configuration loss 
of main electrical system or total engine flame out, could 
jeopardize the aeroplane's safe flight.
    To address this condition, Airbus developed Alert Operator 
Transmission (AOT) A24L001-13, to provide instructions for a one-
time inspection.
    For the reasons described above, this AD requires a one-time 
[detailed] inspection of the potentially affected connector wires of 
GCU-CSM/G connector 1XE-A and, depending on [the] finding, 
accomplishment of [a related investigative action] and applicable 
corrective actions.

    The related investigative action is a detailed inspection of the 
receptacle contacts of the GCU-CSM/G for proper engagement and evidence 
of arcing or overheating damage. The corrective actions include 
replacing damaged (evidence of arcing or overheating) contacts, and if 
necessary the electrical connector; and replacement of the GCU-CSM/G if 
the receptacle contacts show evidence of arcing or overheating damage.
    You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating it in Docket No. 
FAA-2013-1031.

Relevant Service Information

    Airbus has issued Alert Operators Transmission A24L001-13, dated 
July 25, 2013. The actions described in this service information are 
intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have 
been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service 
information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we 
evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition 
exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same 
type design.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 76 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.
    We also estimate that it would take about 1 work-hour per product 
to comply with the basic requirements of this proposed AD. The average 
labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Required parts would cost about $0 per 
product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this proposed 
AD on U.S. operators to be $6,460, or $85 per product.
    In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would 
take about 1 work-hour and require parts costing up to $17,314, for a 
cost of up to $17,399 per product. We have no way of determining the 
number of aircraft that might need these actions.

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications

[[Page 78296]]

under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would 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 this proposed 
regulation:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
    3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and
    4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to 
comply with this proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 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):

Airbus: Docket No. FAA-2013-1031; Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-
155-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by February 10, 2014.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, -
223F, -243, -243F, -301, -302, -303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342, -
343 airplanes; and A340-211, -212, -213, -311, -312, -313, -541, and 
-642 airplanes; certificated in any category; manufacturer serial 
numbers (MSNs) 1 through 1391 inclusive, except MSNs 0925 and 1382.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 24, Electrical 
Power.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by the failure of the generator control 
unit-constant speed motor/generator (GCU-CSM/G) during a final 
assembly operational test. We are issuing this AD to detect and 
correct incorrect locking of contacts into connector 1XE-A of the 
GCU-CSM/G, which could result in a loss of contact continuity and 
lead to the CSM/G not operating, which, in conjunction with an 
emergency electrical configuration loss of the main electrical 
system or total engine flame out, could adversely affect the 
airplane's safe flight.

(f) Compliance

    You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD 
performed within the compliance times specified, unless the actions 
have already been done.

(g) Inspections and Corrective Actions

    (1) Within 1,000 flight hours after the effective date of this 
AD: Do a detailed inspection for discrepancies (proper engagement 
and evidence of arcing or overheating) of the affected connector 
wires of GCU-CSM/G connector 1XE-A, in accordance with Airbus Alert 
Operators Transmission A24L001-13, dated July 25, 2013.
    (2) If, during the inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of 
this AD, any discrepancy is detected, before further flight, do all 
applicable related investigative and corrective actions, in 
accordance with Airbus Alert Operators Transmission A24L001-13, 
dated July 25, 2013.

(h) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using 
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 
39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Vladimir 
Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 227-1138; fax (425) 227-1149. 
Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. 
Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal 
inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the 
local flight standards district office/certificate holding district 
office. The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this 
AD.
    (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain 
corrective actions from a manufacturer, use these actions if they 
are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered FAA-approved if 
they were approved by the State of Design Authority (or its 
delegated agent, or by the Design Approval Holder with a State of 
Design Authority's design organization approval). For a repair 
method to be approved, the repair approval must specifically refer 
to this AD. You are required to ensure the product is airworthy 
before it is returned to service.

(i) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) European Aviation Safety Agency Airworthiness Directive 2013-
0175, dated August 2, 2013, for related information. This MCAI may 
be found in the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating it in Docket No. 
FAA-2013-1031.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice 
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; 
fax +33 5 61 93 45 80; email airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com; 
Internet https://www.airbus.com. You may view this service 
information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind 
Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this 
material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on December 17, 2013.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-30897 Filed 12-24-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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