Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes, 11717-11719 [2014-04501]
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Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 41 / Monday, March 3, 2014 / Proposed Rules
the Federal credit union’s assets may be
made to its members from cash funds
available on authorization by the board
of directors or liquidating agent.
Payment of a partial distribution may
exclude member accounts of less than
$25.00 and must not exceed the insured
amount of any account, as determined
under part 745 of this chapter.
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credit union have been converted to
cash or found to be worthless and all
loans and debts owing to it have been
collected or found to be uncollectible
and all obligations of the Federal credit
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computed. The computation shall be
based on the total amount in each share
account as of the liquidation date or the
date on which all share drafts have
cleared, whichever is later.
(c) Payments must be made to
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*
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[FR Doc. 2014–04231 Filed 2–28–14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7535–01–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2014–0121; Directorate
Identifier 2013–NM–151–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: We propose to supersede
airworthiness directive (AD) 2008–14–
17, for certain Airbus Model A330–200
and A340–300 series airplanes. AD
2008–14–17 currently requires a high
frequency eddy current (HFEC)
inspection, corrective actions if
necessary, and modifications. Since we
issued AD 2008–14–17, it has been
determined from a fatigue and damage
tolerance evaluation that the
compliance time needs to be revised.
This proposed AD would require the
VerDate Mar<15>2010
16:22 Feb 28, 2014
Jkt 232001
same actions as those required by AD
2008–14–17, but with a reduced
compliance time. We are proposing this
AD to detect and correct damage of the
upper shell structure at the skin and
frame interface, which could result in
reduced structural integrity of the
airframe.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by April 17, 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–
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 by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2014–
0121; 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 MCAI,
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, WA
98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–1138;
fax (425) 227–1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
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Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
11717
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–2014–0121; Directorate Identifier
2013–NM–151–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
On June 27, 2008, we issued AD
2008–14–17, Amendment 39–15612 (73
FR 40958, July 17, 2008). AD 2008–14–
17 requires actions intended to address
an unsafe condition on certain Airbus
Model A330–200 and A340–300 series
airplanes.
Since we issued AD 2008–14–17,
Amendment 39–15612 (73 FR 40958,
July 17, 2008), it has been determined
from a fatigue and damage tolerance
evaluation that the compliance time of
the HFEC inspection for cracking, and
modification of the upper shell structure
of the fuselage needs to be revised.
The European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Community, has issued EASA
Airworthiness Directive 2013–0158,
dated July 22, 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 fatigue tests (EF3) on an A340–600
aeroplane, multiple damage was found in the
upper side shell structure at skin and frame
(FR) 84 and 85 interface, from stringer 6 to
15 Left-Hand (LH) and Right Hand (RH). This
damage occurred between 58 341 and 72 891
simulated flight cycles (FC).
Due to the higher Design Service Goal and
different design (e.g. skin thickness) for
A330–200 and A340–300 aeroplanes, the
damage assessment concluded that these
aeroplanes can potentially be impacted.
This condition, if not detected and
corrected, could result in reduced structural
integrity of the airframe.
Prompted by these findings, EASA issued
[an] AD * * * to require a one-time
inspection and a modification to improve the
upper shell structure.
E:\FR\FM\03MRP1.SGM
03MRP1
11718
Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 41 / Monday, March 3, 2014 / Proposed Rules
EASA AD 2007–0269R1 [(https://
ad.easa.europa.eu/blob/easa_ad_2007_
0269R1_superseded.pdf/AD_2007–0269R1_
2)], which corresponds to FAA AD 2008–14–
17, Amendment 39–15612 (73 FR 40958) was
issued to clarify the fact that the [EASA] AD
was not applicable to A340–300 aeroplanes
on which both Airbus Mod 44205 and Mod
45012 have been embodied in production.
Since that [EASA] AD was issued, in the
frame of a new fatigue and damage tolerance
evaluation, taking into account the aeroplane
utilization, the threshold and intervals were
reassessed. This reassessment concluded
that, in that specific case, the threshold for
modifying the aeroplane must be reduced.
For the reasons described above, this
[EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA
AD 2007–0269R1, which is superseded, but
requires these actions within the new
thresholds.
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–
2014–0121.
Relevant Service Information
Airbus has issued Mandatory Service
Bulletin A330–53–3152, Revision 03,
dated December 22, 2011. 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 7 airplanes of U.S. registry.
We estimate the following costs to
comply with this proposed AD:
ESTIMATED COSTS
Action
Labor cost
Parts cost
Cost per
product
Cost on U.S.
operators
Inspection and Modification [retained actions from AD
2008–14–17, Amendment 39–15612 (73 FR 40958,
July 17, 2008)].
300 work-hours × $85 per hour =
$25,500.
$72,730
$98,230
$687,610
This proposed AD adds no additional
economic burden.
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.
mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
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.
VerDate Mar<15>2010
16:22 Feb 28, 2014
Jkt 232001
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
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. Amend § 39.13 by removing
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2008–14–
17, Amendment 39–15612 (73 FR
40958, July 17, 2008), and adding the
following new AD:
■
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Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2014–0121;
Directorate Identifier 2013–NM–151–AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by April 17,
2014.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD supersedes AD 2008–14–17,
Amendment 39–15612 (73 FR 40958, July 17,
2008).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to the airplanes,
certificated in any category, identified in
paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of this AD.
(1) Airbus Model A330–201, –202, –203,
–223, and –243 airplanes, all manufacturer
serial numbers (MSN), on which Airbus
modification 44205 has been embodied in
production, except those on which Airbus
modification 52974 or modification 53223
has been embodied in production.
(2) Airbus Model A340–311, –312, and
–313 airplanes, all MSN on which Airbus
modification 44205 has been embodied in
production, except those on which Airbus
modification 52974 or modification 53223 or
modification 45012 has been embodied in
production.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 53, Fuselage.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by a determination
from a fatigue and damage tolerance
evaluation that the compliance time of the
high frequency eddy current (HFEC)
inspection for cracking, and modification of
the upper shell structure of the fuselage
needs to be revised. We are issuing this AD
to detect and correct damage of the of the
upper shell structure at the skin and frame
E:\FR\FM\03MRP1.SGM
03MRP1
Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 41 / Monday, March 3, 2014 / Proposed Rules
interface, which could result in reduced
structural integrity of the airframe.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
(g) Retained Inspection With Reduced
Compliance Times and Revised Service
Information
This paragraph restates the requirements of
paragraph (f)(1) of AD 2008–14–17,
Amendment 39–15612 (73 FR 40958, July 17,
2008), with reduced compliance times and
revised service information. For Airbus
Model A330–200 series airplanes, as
identified in paragraph (c) of this AD, on
which Modification 45012 has been
embodied in production: Within the
applicable compliance times specified in
paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), (g)(3), and (g)(4) of
this AD, do the HFEC inspection for cracking,
and corrective actions as applicable; and
modify the upper shell structure of the
fuselage; in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Mandatory Service Bulletin A330–53–3152,
Revision 3, dated December 22, 2011. Do all
applicable corrective actions before further
flight.
(1) For airplanes pre-modification 48827
with short range utilization: At the later of
the times specified in paragraph (g)(1)(i) or
(g)(1)(ii) of this AD.
(i) Prior to 24,400 total flight cycles or
85,400 total flight hours, whichever occurs
first.
(ii) Within 12 months after the effective
date of this AD without exceeding 25,400
total flight cycles.
(2) For airplanes pre-modification 48827
with long range utilization: At the later of the
times specified in paragraph (g)(2)(i) or
(g)(2)(ii) of this AD.
(i) Prior to 18,900 total flight cycles or
122,900 total flight hours, whichever occurs
first.
(ii) Within 12 months after the effective
date of this AD without exceeding 25,400
total flight cycles.
(3) For airplanes post-modification 48827
with short range utilization: At the later of
the times specified in paragraph (g)(3)(i) or
(g)(3)(ii) of this AD.
(i) Prior to 16,400 total flight cycles or
57,400 total flight hours, whichever occurs
first.
(ii) Within 12 months after the effective
date of this AD without exceeding 17,100
total flight cycles or 94,700 total flight hours,
whichever occurs first.
(4) For airplanes post-modification 48827
with long range utilization: At the later of the
times specified in paragraph (g)(4)(i) or
(g)(4)(ii) of this AD.
(i) Prior to 12,700 total flight cycles or
82,700 total flight hours, whichever occurs
first.
(ii) Within 12 months after the effective
date of this AD without exceeding 17,100
total flight cycles or 94,700 total flight hours,
whichever occurs first.
VerDate Mar<15>2010
16:22 Feb 28, 2014
Jkt 232001
(h) Retained Modification With Revised
Formatting
This paragraph restates the requirements of
paragraph (f)(2) of AD 2008–14–17,
Amendment 39–15612 (73 FR 40958, July 17,
2008). For Airbus Model A330–200 and
A340–300 series airplanes as identified in
paragraph (c) of this AD, on which
Modification 45012 has not been embodied
in production: At the later of the compliance
times specified in paragraphs (h)(1) and
(h)(2) of this AD, modify the upper shell
structure of the fuselage, in accordance with
the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A330–53–3157 or Airbus
Service Bulletin A340–53–4163, both dated
July 5, 2006, as applicable.
(1) For the airplanes identified in
paragraphs (h)(1)(i) and (h)(1)(ii) of this AD.
(i) For Model A330–200 series airplanes,
prior to 6,600 total flight cycles.
(ii) For Model A340–300 series airplanes,
prior to 14,000 total flight cycles.
(2) Within 90 days after August 21, 2008
(the effective date of AD 2008–14–17,
Amendment 39–15612 (73 FR 40958, July 17,
2008)).
(i) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for actions
required by paragraph (g) of this AD, if those
actions were performed before the effective
date of this AD using the service information
specified in paragraph (i)(1), (i)(2), or (i)(3) of
this AD.
(1) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin
A330–53–3152, dated April 10, 2007.
(2) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin
A330–53–3152, Revision 1, dated May 5,
2009.
(3) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin
A330–53–3152, Revision 2, dated July 27,
2011.
(j) 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, WA 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
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Frm 00006
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
11719
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, as applicable). You
are required to ensure the product is
airworthy before it is returned to service.
(k) Related Information
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) European
Aviation Safety Agency Airworthiness
Directive 2013–0158, dated July 22, 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–2014–0121.
(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 February
14, 2014.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2014–04501 Filed 2–28–14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2013–0953; Directorate
Identifier 2013–NE–32–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce
plc Turbofan Engines
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Rolls-Royce plc (RR) RB211 Trent 875–
17, 877–17, 884–17, 884B–17, 892–17,
892B–17, and 895–17 turbofan engines.
The proposed AD was prompted by
thin-walled low pressure (LP) turbine
bearing support and exhaust case
assemblies having been delivered into
service. This proposed AD would
require inspection of the affected LP
turbine bearing support and exhaust
case assembly and, if necessary, its
replacement with a part eligible for
installation. We are proposing this AD
to prevent failure of the LP turbine
E:\FR\FM\03MRP1.SGM
03MRP1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 41 (Monday, March 3, 2014)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 11717-11719]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-04501]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2014-0121; Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-151-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We propose to supersede airworthiness directive (AD) 2008-14-
17, for certain Airbus Model A330-200 and A340-300 series airplanes. AD
2008-14-17 currently requires a high frequency eddy current (HFEC)
inspection, corrective actions if necessary, and modifications. Since
we issued AD 2008-14-17, it has been determined from a fatigue and
damage tolerance evaluation that the compliance time needs to be
revised. This proposed AD would require the same actions as those
required by AD 2008-14-17, but with a reduced compliance time. We are
proposing this AD to detect and correct damage of the upper shell
structure at the skin and frame interface, which could result in
reduced structural integrity of the airframe.
DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by April 17, 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-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 by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2014-
0121; 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 MCAI, 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, WA 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-2014-0121;
Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-151-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
On June 27, 2008, we issued AD 2008-14-17, Amendment 39-15612 (73
FR 40958, July 17, 2008). AD 2008-14-17 requires actions intended to
address an unsafe condition on certain Airbus Model A330-200 and A340-
300 series airplanes.
Since we issued AD 2008-14-17, Amendment 39-15612 (73 FR 40958,
July 17, 2008), it has been determined from a fatigue and damage
tolerance evaluation that the compliance time of the HFEC inspection
for cracking, and modification of the upper shell structure of the
fuselage needs to be revised.
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA
Airworthiness Directive 2013-0158, dated July 22, 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 fatigue tests (EF3) on an A340-600 aeroplane, multiple
damage was found in the upper side shell structure at skin and frame
(FR) 84 and 85 interface, from stringer 6 to 15 Left-Hand (LH) and
Right Hand (RH). This damage occurred between 58 341 and 72 891
simulated flight cycles (FC).
Due to the higher Design Service Goal and different design (e.g.
skin thickness) for A330-200 and A340-300 aeroplanes, the damage
assessment concluded that these aeroplanes can potentially be
impacted.
This condition, if not detected and corrected, could result in
reduced structural integrity of the airframe.
Prompted by these findings, EASA issued [an] AD * * * to require
a one-time inspection and a modification to improve the upper shell
structure.
[[Page 11718]]
EASA AD 2007-0269R1 [(https://ad.easa.europa.eu/blob/easa_ad_2007_0269R1_superseded.pdf/AD_2007-0269R1_2)], which corresponds
to FAA AD 2008-14-17, Amendment 39-15612 (73 FR 40958) was issued to
clarify the fact that the [EASA] AD was not applicable to A340-300
aeroplanes on which both Airbus Mod 44205 and Mod 45012 have been
embodied in production.
Since that [EASA] AD was issued, in the frame of a new fatigue
and damage tolerance evaluation, taking into account the aeroplane
utilization, the threshold and intervals were reassessed. This
reassessment concluded that, in that specific case, the threshold
for modifying the aeroplane must be reduced.
For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD retains the
requirements of EASA AD 2007-0269R1, which is superseded, but
requires these actions within the new thresholds.
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-2014-0121.
Relevant Service Information
Airbus has issued Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3152, Revision
03, dated December 22, 2011. 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 7 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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection and Modification 300 work-hours x $85 $72,730 $98,230 $687,610
[retained actions from AD 2008-14- per hour = $25,500.
17, Amendment 39-15612 (73 FR
40958, July 17, 2008)].
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This proposed AD adds no additional economic burden.
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. Amend Sec. 39.13 by removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2008-14-
17, Amendment 39-15612 (73 FR 40958, July 17, 2008), and adding the
following new AD:
Airbus: Docket No. FAA-2014-0121; Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-
151-AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by April 17, 2014.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD supersedes AD 2008-14-17, Amendment 39-15612 (73 FR
40958, July 17, 2008).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to the airplanes, certificated in any category,
identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of this AD.
(1) Airbus Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, and -243 airplanes,
all manufacturer serial numbers (MSN), on which Airbus modification
44205 has been embodied in production, except those on which Airbus
modification 52974 or modification 53223 has been embodied in
production.
(2) Airbus Model A340-311, -312, and -313 airplanes, all MSN on
which Airbus modification 44205 has been embodied in production,
except those on which Airbus modification 52974 or modification
53223 or modification 45012 has been embodied in production.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by a determination from a fatigue and
damage tolerance evaluation that the compliance time of the high
frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection for cracking, and
modification of the upper shell structure of the fuselage needs to
be revised. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct damage of
the of the upper shell structure at the skin and frame
[[Page 11719]]
interface, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the
airframe.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Retained Inspection With Reduced Compliance Times and Revised
Service Information
This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (f)(1) of
AD 2008-14-17, Amendment 39-15612 (73 FR 40958, July 17, 2008), with
reduced compliance times and revised service information. For Airbus
Model A330-200 series airplanes, as identified in paragraph (c) of
this AD, on which Modification 45012 has been embodied in
production: Within the applicable compliance times specified in
paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), (g)(3), and (g)(4) of this AD, do the
HFEC inspection for cracking, and corrective actions as applicable;
and modify the upper shell structure of the fuselage; in accordance
with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service
Bulletin A330-53-3152, Revision 3, dated December 22, 2011. Do all
applicable corrective actions before further flight.
(1) For airplanes pre-modification 48827 with short range
utilization: At the later of the times specified in paragraph
(g)(1)(i) or (g)(1)(ii) of this AD.
(i) Prior to 24,400 total flight cycles or 85,400 total flight
hours, whichever occurs first.
(ii) Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD
without exceeding 25,400 total flight cycles.
(2) For airplanes pre-modification 48827 with long range
utilization: At the later of the times specified in paragraph
(g)(2)(i) or (g)(2)(ii) of this AD.
(i) Prior to 18,900 total flight cycles or 122,900 total flight
hours, whichever occurs first.
(ii) Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD
without exceeding 25,400 total flight cycles.
(3) For airplanes post-modification 48827 with short range
utilization: At the later of the times specified in paragraph
(g)(3)(i) or (g)(3)(ii) of this AD.
(i) Prior to 16,400 total flight cycles or 57,400 total flight
hours, whichever occurs first.
(ii) Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD
without exceeding 17,100 total flight cycles or 94,700 total flight
hours, whichever occurs first.
(4) For airplanes post-modification 48827 with long range
utilization: At the later of the times specified in paragraph
(g)(4)(i) or (g)(4)(ii) of this AD.
(i) Prior to 12,700 total flight cycles or 82,700 total flight
hours, whichever occurs first.
(ii) Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD
without exceeding 17,100 total flight cycles or 94,700 total flight
hours, whichever occurs first.
(h) Retained Modification With Revised Formatting
This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (f)(2) of
AD 2008-14-17, Amendment 39-15612 (73 FR 40958, July 17, 2008). For
Airbus Model A330-200 and A340-300 series airplanes as identified in
paragraph (c) of this AD, on which Modification 45012 has not been
embodied in production: At the later of the compliance times
specified in paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD, modify the
upper shell structure of the fuselage, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330-53-3157
or Airbus Service Bulletin A340-53-4163, both dated July 5, 2006, as
applicable.
(1) For the airplanes identified in paragraphs (h)(1)(i) and
(h)(1)(ii) of this AD.
(i) For Model A330-200 series airplanes, prior to 6,600 total
flight cycles.
(ii) For Model A340-300 series airplanes, prior to 14,000 total
flight cycles.
(2) Within 90 days after August 21, 2008 (the effective date of
AD 2008-14-17, Amendment 39-15612 (73 FR 40958, July 17, 2008)).
(i) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraph
(g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective
date of this AD using the service information specified in paragraph
(i)(1), (i)(2), or (i)(3) of this AD.
(1) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3152, dated April
10, 2007.
(2) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3152, Revision 1,
dated May 5, 2009.
(3) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3152, Revision 2,
dated July 27, 2011.
(j) 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,
WA 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 DAH with a State of Design Authority's
design organization approval, as applicable). You are required to
ensure the product is airworthy before it is returned to service.
(k) Related Information
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information
(MCAI) European Aviation Safety Agency Airworthiness Directive 2013-
0158, dated July 22, 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-2014-0121.
(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 February 14, 2014.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2014-04501 Filed 2-28-14; 8:45 am]
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