Airworthiness Directives; Airplanes Originally Manufactured by Lockheed for the Military as P-3A and P3A Airplanes, 3341-3343 [2014-01010]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 13 / Tuesday, January 21, 2014 / Proposed Rules International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1622; fax 425–227–1149. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116AMOC-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 the Design Approval Holder with a State of Design Authority’s design organization approval, as applicable). 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) Special Flight Permits Special flight permits, as described in Section 21.197 and Section 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199), are not allowed. (k) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) Israel Airworthiness Directive 01–12–02–02–R1, dated April 23, 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 Docket No. FAA–2014–0003. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, P.O. Box 2206, Mail Station D– 25, Savannah, GA 31402–2206; telephone 800–810–4853; fax 912–965–3520; email pubs@gulfstream.com; Internet https:// www.gulfstream.com/product_support/ technical_pubs/pubs/index.htm. 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. Issued in Renton, Washington, on January 10, 2014. Jeffrey E. Duven, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS [FR Doc. 2014–01015 Filed 1–17–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:41 Jan 17, 2014 Jkt 232001 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2013–1073; Directorate Identifier 2012–NM–039–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airplanes Originally Manufactured by Lockheed for the Military as P–3A and P3A Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain airplanes, originally manufactured by Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company for the military as P–3A or P3A airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a determination that the existing maintenance program must be revised to address fatigue cracking of the airplane. This proposed AD would require revising the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate certain limitations. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane. SUMMARY: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by March 7, 2014. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Avenger Aircraft and Services, 103 N. Main Street, Suite 106, Greenville, SC 29601– 4833; telephone: (864) 232–8073; fax: (864) 232–8074; email: AAS@ AvengerAircraft.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. DATES: PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 3341 Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2013– 1073; 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 Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: George Garrido, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712–4137; phone: (562) 627–5357; fax: (562) 627–5210; email: george.garrido@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA– 2013–1073; Directorate Identifier 2012– NM–039–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 because of those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. Discussion We reviewed accident investigation reports involving other restricted category firefighting airplanes, specifically Model C–130 and P2V airplanes. Previous accident investigations for these other firefighting airplanes revealed that the existing maintenance programs for airplanes operating under restricted category type certificate data sheets (TCDS) are not adequate to maintain the aircraft for continued safe operation. Therefore, we have determined that it is necessary to incorporate an airworthiness limitation section based on damage tolerance into the Model P–3A airplane maintenance E:\FR\FM\21JAP1.SGM 21JAP1 3342 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 13 / Tuesday, January 21, 2014 / Proposed Rules program to ensure continue safe operation in a restricted category. The adverse loading spectrum for the restricted category firefighting airplanes could result in fatigue cracking, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane. The initial Model P–3A inspection program was based on the navy usage (or baseline usage) as defined by the U.S. Navy. The new airworthiness limitations addressed in this proposed AD are separated into baseline usage and usage that includes aerial dispensing of liquids. For airplanes with combined baseline and aerial dispersion usage accumulated, the operator must determine the total remaining life and the total remaining hours or flights until inspection is due for the principle structural element (PSE) inspection requirements by combining the fatigue damage accumulated during the baseline and the aerial dispersion of liquids usage. Relevant Service Information We reviewed Avenger Aircraft and Services P3A Airworthiness Limitations Section—FAA TCDS A32NM & TCDS T00006LA, Forest and Wildlife Conservation Usage (Includes Aerial Dispensing of Liquids), AAS–ALS–07– 001, Revision D, dated August 2, 2010, which describes airworthiness limitations that include structural inspection requirements. FAA’s Determination We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design. Proposed AD Requirements For Model P3A and P–3A airplanes, this proposed AD would require revising the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate airworthiness limitations of Avenger Aircraft and Services P3A Airworthiness Limitations Section— FAA TCDS A32NM & TCDS T00006LA, Forest and Wildlife Conservation Usage (Includes Aerial Dispensing of Liquids), AAS–ALS–07–001, Revision D, dated August 2, 2010. This proposed AD requires revisions to certain operator maintenance documents to include new actions (e.g., inspections). Compliance with these actions is required by 14 CFR 91.403(c). For airplanes that have been previously modified, altered, or repaired in the areas addressed by this proposed AD, the operator may not be able to accomplish the actions described in the revisions. In this situation, to comply with 14 CFR 91.403(c), the operator must request approval for an alternative method of compliance according to the requirements of paragraph (j) of this proposed AD. The request should include a description of changes to the required actions that will ensure the continued damage tolerance of the affected structure. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 8 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Revise the maintenance or inspection program. 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ......................................... tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS 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 under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:41 Jan 17, 2014 Jkt 232001 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. 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, PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4702 Cost per product Parts cost Sfmt 4702 $0 Cost on U.S. operators $85 $680 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): ■ Lockheed (Original Manufacturer): Docket No. FAA–2013–1073; Directorate Identifier 2012–NM–039–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by March 7, 2014. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to all P–3A or P3A airplanes, originally manufactured by Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company for the military, identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of this AD, certificated in any category: E:\FR\FM\21JAP1.SGM 21JAP1 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 13 / Tuesday, January 21, 2014 / Proposed Rules (1) Aero Union Corporation Model P3A airplanes; and (2) USDA Forest Service Model P–3A airplanes. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 55, Stabilizers; 57, Wings. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a determination that the existing maintenance or inspection program must be revised to address fatigue cracking of the airplane. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Maintenance Program Revision Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, revise the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, by incorporating airworthiness limitations specified in Avenger Aircraft and Services P3A Airworthiness Limitations Section— FAA TCDS A32NM & TCDS T00006LA, Forest and Wildlife Conservation Usage (Includes Aerial Dispensing of Liquids), AAS –ALS–07–001, Revision D, dated August 2, 2010. tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS (h) Compliance Times for Modifications, Replacements, and Inspections For the tasks specified in Part–I, Sections B. through E., of Procedure 01–00–005, of Avenger Aircraft and Services P3A Airworthiness Limitations Section—FAA TCDS A32NM & TCDS T00006LA, Forest and Wildlife Conservation Usage (Includes Aerial Dispensing of Liquids), AAS–ALS–07–001, Revision D, dated August 2, 2010, the compliance times are specified in paragraphs (h)(i) through (h)(iv) of this AD. For airplanes with combined baseline and aerial dispensing usage accumulated, the total remaining life and the total remaining hours or flights until inspection is due for the principle structural element (PSE) inspection requirements is determined by combining the fatigue damage accumulated during the baseline and the aerial dispensing of liquids usage. The usage must be combined in accordance with a method approved by the Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA. (i) For the baseline life limits, the compliance time is: At the applicable ‘‘flight hours’’ or ‘‘flights,’’ whichever occurs first, VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:41 Jan 17, 2014 Jkt 232001 specified in Part–I, Section B, ‘‘Life Limitations Baseline Usage,’’ of Procedure 01–00–005, of Avenger Aircraft and Services P3A Airworthiness Limitations Section— FAA TCDS A32NM & TCDS T00006LA, Forest and Wildlife Conservation Usage (Includes Aerial Dispensing of Liquids), AAS–ALS–07–001, Revision D, dated August 2, 2010; or within 12 months after the effective date of this AD; whichever occurs later. (ii) For the baseline principle structural limits (PSE) inspection requirements, the compliance time is: At the applicable ‘‘threshold interval hours’’ or ‘‘threshold interval flights’’ since new, whichever occurs first, as specified in Tables C.1, C.2, and C.3, of Part–I, Section C, ‘‘Principle Structural Element Inspection Requirements—Baseline Usage,’’ of Procedure 01–00–005, of Avenger Aircraft and Services P3A Airworthiness Limitations Section—FAA TCDS A32NM & TCDS T00006LA, Forest and Wildlife Conservation Usage (Includes Aerial Dispensing of Liquids), AAS–ALS–07–001, Revision D, dated August 2, 2010; or within 12 months after the effective date of this AD; whichever occurs later. Where compliance times are specified as ‘‘threshold interval hours,’’ those compliance times are total flight hours. Where the compliance times are specified as ‘‘threshold interval flights,’’ those compliance times are total flight cycles. (iii) For the aerial dispensing of liquids life limits, the compliance time is: At the applicable ‘‘flight hours’’ or ‘‘flights,’’ whichever occurs first, specified in Part–I, Section D, ‘‘Life Limitations—Aerial Dispensing of Liquids Usage’’ of Procedure 01–00–005, of Avenger Aircraft and Services P3A Airworthiness Limitations Section— FAA TCDS A32NM & TCDS T00006LA, Forest and Wildlife Conservation Usage (Includes Aerial Dispensing of Liquids), AAS–ALS–07–001, Revision D, dated August 2, 2010; or within 12 months after the effective date of this AD; whichever occurs later. (iv) For the aerial dispensing of liquids PSE inspection requirements, the compliance time is: At the applicable ‘‘threshold interval hours’’ or threshold interval flights,’’ whichever occurs first, as specified in Tables E.1, E2, and E.3, of Part–I, Section E, ‘‘Principle Structural Element Inspection Requirements—Aerial Dispensing of Liquids Usage,’’ of Procedure 01–00–005, of Avenger Aircraft and Services P3A Airworthiness Limitations Section—FAA TCDS A32NM & TCDS T00006LA, Forest and Wildlife Conservation Usage (Includes Aerial Dispensing of Liquids), AAS–ALS–07–001, PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 9990 3343 Revision D, dated August 2, 2010; or within 12 months after the effective date of this AD; whichever occurs later. (i) No Alternative Actions, Intervals, and/or Critical Design Configuration Control Limitations After accomplishing the revision required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no alternative actions (e.g., inspections), and/or intervals may be used unless the actions, and intervals are approved as an AMOC in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (j) of this AD. (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Los Angeles 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 (k) of this AD. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. (k) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact George Garrido, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712– 4137; phone: (562) 627–5357; fax: (562) 627– 5210; email: george.garrido@faa.gov. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Avenger Aircraft and Services, 103 N. Main Street, Suite 106, Greenville, SC 29601–4833; telephone: (864) 232–8073; fax: (864) 232–8074; email: AAS@ AvengerAircraft.com. You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. Issued in Renton, Washington, on January 9, 2014. Jeffrey E. Duven, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2014–01010 Filed 1–17–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P E:\FR\FM\21JAP1.SGM 21JAP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 13 (Tuesday, January 21, 2014)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 3341-3343]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-01010]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2013-1073; Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-039-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airplanes Originally Manufactured by 
Lockheed for the Military as P-3A and P3A 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 airplanes, originally manufactured by Lockheed Martin 
Aeronautics Company for the military as P-3A or P3A airplanes. This 
proposed AD was prompted by a determination that the existing 
maintenance program must be revised to address fatigue cracking of the 
airplane. This proposed AD would require revising the maintenance or 
inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate certain limitations. 
We are proposing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking, which 
could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by March 7, 2014.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact 
Avenger Aircraft and Services, 103 N. Main Street, Suite 106, 
Greenville, SC 29601-4833; telephone: (864) 232-8073; fax: (864) 232-
8074; email: AAS@AvengerAircraft.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 by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2013-
1073; 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 
Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will 
be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: George Garrido, Aerospace Engineer, 
Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification 
Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712-4137; phone: (562) 
627-5357; fax: (562) 627-5210; email: george.garrido@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed 
under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2013-1073; 
Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-039-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 because of those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    We reviewed accident investigation reports involving other 
restricted category firefighting airplanes, specifically Model C-130 
and P2V airplanes. Previous accident investigations for these other 
firefighting airplanes revealed that the existing maintenance programs 
for airplanes operating under restricted category type certificate data 
sheets (TCDS) are not adequate to maintain the aircraft for continued 
safe operation. Therefore, we have determined that it is necessary to 
incorporate an airworthiness limitation section based on damage 
tolerance into the Model P-3A airplane maintenance

[[Page 3342]]

program to ensure continue safe operation in a restricted category. The 
adverse loading spectrum for the restricted category firefighting 
airplanes could result in fatigue cracking, which could result in 
reduced structural integrity of the airplane.
    The initial Model P-3A inspection program was based on the navy 
usage (or baseline usage) as defined by the U.S. Navy. The new 
airworthiness limitations addressed in this proposed AD are separated 
into baseline usage and usage that includes aerial dispensing of 
liquids. For airplanes with combined baseline and aerial dispersion 
usage accumulated, the operator must determine the total remaining life 
and the total remaining hours or flights until inspection is due for 
the principle structural element (PSE) inspection requirements by 
combining the fatigue damage accumulated during the baseline and the 
aerial dispersion of liquids usage.

Relevant Service Information

    We reviewed Avenger Aircraft and Services P3A Airworthiness 
Limitations Section--FAA TCDS A32NM & TCDS T00006LA, Forest and 
Wildlife Conservation Usage (Includes Aerial Dispensing of Liquids), 
AAS-ALS-07-001, Revision D, dated August 2, 2010, which describes 
airworthiness limitations that include structural inspection 
requirements.

FAA's Determination

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

Proposed AD Requirements

    For Model P3A and P-3A airplanes, this proposed AD would require 
revising the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to 
incorporate airworthiness limitations of Avenger Aircraft and Services 
P3A Airworthiness Limitations Section--FAA TCDS A32NM & TCDS T00006LA, 
Forest and Wildlife Conservation Usage (Includes Aerial Dispensing of 
Liquids), AAS-ALS-07-001, Revision D, dated August 2, 2010.
    This proposed AD requires revisions to certain operator maintenance 
documents to include new actions (e.g., inspections). Compliance with 
these actions is required by 14 CFR 91.403(c). For airplanes that have 
been previously modified, altered, or repaired in the areas addressed 
by this proposed AD, the operator may not be able to accomplish the 
actions described in the revisions. In this situation, to comply with 
14 CFR 91.403(c), the operator must request approval for an alternative 
method of compliance according to the requirements of paragraph (j) of 
this proposed AD. The request should include a description of changes 
to the required actions that will ensure the continued damage tolerance 
of the affected structure.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 8 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     Cost per      Cost on U.S.
               Action                         Labor cost            Parts cost        product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revise the maintenance or            1 work-hour x $85 per hour               $0             $85            $680
 inspection program.                  = $85.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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 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.

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):
Lockheed (Original Manufacturer): Docket No. FAA-2013-1073; 
Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-039-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by March 7, 2014.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all P-3A or P3A airplanes, originally 
manufactured by Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company for the 
military, identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of this AD, 
certificated in any category:

[[Page 3343]]

    (1) Aero Union Corporation Model P3A airplanes; and
    (2) USDA Forest Service Model P-3A airplanes.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 55, Stabilizers; 
57, Wings.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by a determination that the existing 
maintenance or inspection program must be revised to address fatigue 
cracking of the airplane. We are issuing this AD to detect and 
correct fatigue cracking, which could result in reduced structural 
integrity of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Maintenance Program Revision

    Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, revise the 
maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, by incorporating 
airworthiness limitations specified in Avenger Aircraft and Services 
P3A Airworthiness Limitations Section--FAA TCDS A32NM & TCDS 
T00006LA, Forest and Wildlife Conservation Usage (Includes Aerial 
Dispensing of Liquids), AAS-ALS-07-001, Revision D, dated August 2, 
2010.

(h) Compliance Times for Modifications, Replacements, and Inspections

    For the tasks specified in Part-I, Sections B. through E., of 
Procedure 01-00-005, of Avenger Aircraft and Services P3A 
Airworthiness Limitations Section--FAA TCDS A32NM & TCDS T00006LA, 
Forest and Wildlife Conservation Usage (Includes Aerial Dispensing 
of Liquids), AAS-ALS-07-001, Revision D, dated August 2, 2010, the 
compliance times are specified in paragraphs (h)(i) through (h)(iv) 
of this AD. For airplanes with combined baseline and aerial 
dispensing usage accumulated, the total remaining life and the total 
remaining hours or flights until inspection is due for the principle 
structural element (PSE) inspection requirements is determined by 
combining the fatigue damage accumulated during the baseline and the 
aerial dispensing of liquids usage. The usage must be combined in 
accordance with a method approved by the Manager, Los Angeles 
Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA.
    (i) For the baseline life limits, the compliance time is: At the 
applicable ``flight hours'' or ``flights,'' whichever occurs first, 
specified in Part-I, Section B, ``Life Limitations Baseline Usage,'' 
of Procedure 01-00-005, of Avenger Aircraft and Services P3A 
Airworthiness Limitations Section--FAA TCDS A32NM & TCDS T00006LA, 
Forest and Wildlife Conservation Usage (Includes Aerial Dispensing 
of Liquids), AAS-ALS-07-001, Revision D, dated August 2, 2010; or 
within 12 months after the effective date of this AD; whichever 
occurs later.
    (ii) For the baseline principle structural limits (PSE) 
inspection requirements, the compliance time is: At the applicable 
``threshold interval hours'' or ``threshold interval flights'' since 
new, whichever occurs first, as specified in Tables C.1, C.2, and 
C.3, of Part-I, Section C, ``Principle Structural Element Inspection 
Requirements--Baseline Usage,'' of Procedure 01-00-005, of Avenger 
Aircraft and Services P3A Airworthiness Limitations Section--FAA 
TCDS A32NM & TCDS T00006LA, Forest and Wildlife Conservation Usage 
(Includes Aerial Dispensing of Liquids), AAS-ALS-07-001, Revision D, 
dated August 2, 2010; or within 12 months after the effective date 
of this AD; whichever occurs later. Where compliance times are 
specified as ``threshold interval hours,'' those compliance times 
are total flight hours. Where the compliance times are specified as 
``threshold interval flights,'' those compliance times are total 
flight cycles.
    (iii) For the aerial dispensing of liquids life limits, the 
compliance time is: At the applicable ``flight hours'' or 
``flights,'' whichever occurs first, specified in Part-I, Section D, 
``Life Limitations--Aerial Dispensing of Liquids Usage'' of 
Procedure 01-00-005, of Avenger Aircraft and Services P3A 
Airworthiness Limitations Section--FAA TCDS A32NM & TCDS T00006LA, 
Forest and Wildlife Conservation Usage (Includes Aerial Dispensing 
of Liquids), AAS-ALS-07-001, Revision D, dated August 2, 2010; or 
within 12 months after the effective date of this AD; whichever 
occurs later.
    (iv) For the aerial dispensing of liquids PSE inspection 
requirements, the compliance time is: At the applicable ``threshold 
interval hours'' or threshold interval flights,'' whichever occurs 
first, as specified in Tables E.1, E2, and E.3, of Part-I, Section 
E, ``Principle Structural Element Inspection Requirements--Aerial 
Dispensing of Liquids Usage,'' of Procedure 01-00-005, of Avenger 
Aircraft and Services P3A Airworthiness Limitations Section--FAA 
TCDS A32NM & TCDS T00006LA, Forest and Wildlife Conservation Usage 
(Includes Aerial Dispensing of Liquids), AAS-ALS-07-001, Revision D, 
dated August 2, 2010; or within 12 months after the effective date 
of this AD; whichever occurs later.

(i) No Alternative Actions, Intervals, and/or Critical Design 
Configuration Control Limitations

    After accomplishing the revision required by paragraph (g) of 
this AD, no alternative actions (e.g., inspections), and/or 
intervals may be used unless the actions, and intervals are approved 
as an AMOC in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph 
(j) of this AD.

(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Los Angeles 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 (k) of this AD.
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding 
district office.

(k) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact George Garrido, 
Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los Angeles 
Aircraft Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, 
CA 90712-4137; phone: (562) 627-5357; fax: (562) 627-5210; email: 
george.garrido@faa.gov.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Avenger Aircraft and Services, 103 N. Main Street, Suite 106, 
Greenville, SC 29601-4833; telephone: (864) 232-8073; fax: (864) 
232-8074; email: AAS@AvengerAircraft.com. You may view this 
referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane 
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
425-227-1221.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on January 9, 2014.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2014-01010 Filed 1-17-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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