Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes, 21413-21416 [2014-08598]

Download as PDF 21413 Proposed Rules Federal Register Vol. 79, No. 73 Wednesday, April 16, 2014 This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 25 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0109; Notice No. 13– 03 and Docket No. FAA–2013–0142; Notice No. 13–04] RIN 2120–AK13, 2120–AK12 Harmonization of Airworthiness Standards—Miscellaneous Structures Requirements and Harmonization of Airworthiness Standards—Gust and Maneuver Load Requirements; Corrections Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Proposed rules; corrections. AGENCY: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is correcting notice numbers that appear in the heading of two notices of proposed rulemakings published in the Federal Register. The publications are ‘‘Harmonization of Airworthiness Standards—Miscellaneous Structures Requirements’’ (78 FR 13835, March 1, 2013) and ‘‘Harmonization of Airworthiness Standards—Gust and Maneuver Load Requirements’’ (78 FR 31851, May 28, 2013). These actions address regulatory differences between the airworthiness standards of the FAA and the European Aviation Safety Agency, without affecting current industry design practices. DATES: Effective on April 16, 2014. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ralen Gao, Office of Rulemaking, ARM– 209, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591; telephone (202) 267–3168; fax (202) 267–5075; email ralen.gao@faa.gov. pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 SUMMARY: The FAA published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) in the Federal Register on March 1, 2013 (78 FR 13835) regarding certain airworthiness standards for transport category SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:44 Apr 15, 2014 Jkt 232001 airplanes that would eliminate regulatory differences between the airworthiness standards of the FAA and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This document corrects an inadvertent notice number that appears in the heading of the publication of that NPRM. The FAA published an NPRM in the Federal Register on May 28, 2013 (78 FR 31851), regarding certain airworthiness standards that would eliminate regulatory differences between the airworthiness standards of the FAA and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This document corrects an inadvertent notice number that appears in the heading of the publication of that NPRM. This incorrect notice number also appeared in the heading of two related correction documents published on June 24, 2013 and July 16, 2013. Corrections In FR Doc. 2013–04812, beginning on page 13835 in the Federal Register of March 1, 2013, make the following correction: On page 13835, in the first column heading, change the notice number from ‘‘25–137’’ to ‘‘13–03’’. In FR Doc. 2013–12445, beginning on page 31851 in the Federal Register of May 28, 2013, make the following correction: On page 31851, in the first column heading, change the notice number from ‘‘25–139’’ to ‘‘13–04’’. In FR Doc. C1–2013–12445, beginning on page 37722 in the Federal Register of June 24, 2013, make the following correction: On page 37722, in the third column heading, change the notice number from ‘‘25–139’’ to ‘‘13–04’’. Finally, in FR Doc. C2–2013–12445, beginning on page 42480 in the Federal Register of July 16, 2013, make the following correction: On page 42480, in the first column second heading, change the notice number from ‘‘25–139’’ to ‘‘13–04’’. Issued in Washington, DC, on April 10, 2014. Lirio Liu Director, Office of Rulemaking. [FR Doc. 2014–08564 Filed 4–15–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2014–0229; Directorate Identifier 2013–NM–186–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 all Airbus Model A300 and A310 series airplanes, and certain Model A300–600 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a review of certain repairs, which revealed that the structural integrity of the airplane could be affected if those repairs are not reworked. This proposed AD would require an inspection to identify certain repairs, and corrective action if necessary. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct certain repairs on the floor cross beams flange. If those repairs are not reworked, the structural integrity of the airplane could be negatively affected. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 2, 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—EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\16APP1.SGM 16APP1 21414 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 73 / Wednesday, April 16, 2014 / Proposed Rules 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– 0229; 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: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, ANM–116, International Branch, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98507–3356; telephone (425) 227–2125; fax (425) 227–1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 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–2014–0229; Directorate Identifier 2013–NM–186–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 Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2013–0220, dated September 18, 2013 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A300 and A310 series airplanes, and certain Model VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:44 Apr 15, 2014 Jkt 232001 A300 B4–600, B4–600R, and F4–600R series airplanes, and Model A300 C4– 605R Variant F airplanes (collectively called Model A300–600 series airplanes). The MCAI states: In the frame of the Extended Service Goal (ESG) activity, all existing Structural Repair Manual (SRM) repairs were reviewed. This analysis, which consisted in new static and fatigue calculations, revealed that some repairs were no longer applicable to some specific areas. These repairs, if not reworked, could affect the structural integrity of the aeroplane. To address the repairs on the floor cross beams flange, Airbus issued Alert Operator Transmission (AOT) A300–53A0392, AOT A300–53A6171 and AOT A310–53A2135. To address this unsafe condition, and further to the implementation of the Aging Aircraft Safety Rule (AASR), this [EASA] Airworthiness Directive requires a [general visual] inspection of the floor cross beams flange at frame (FR)11 and FR12A to identify SRM repairs and, depending on findings, accomplishment of corrective action [reworking the SRM repairs]. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2014– 0229. Relevant Service Information Airbus has issued the following service information. The actions described in this service information are intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI. • All Operator Telex A300–53A0392, dated March 14, 2012 (for Model A300 series airplanes). • All Operator Telex A300–53A6171, dated March 14, 2012 (for Model A300 B4–601, B4–603, B4–620, and B4–622; A300 B4–605R and B4–622R; A300 F4– 605R and F4–622R airplanes; and A300 C4–605R Variant F airplanes). • All Operator Telex A310–53A2135, dated March 14, 2012 (for Model A310 series airplanes). 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 these same type designs. PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Repair Approvals In many FAA transport ADs, when the service information specifies to contact the manufacturer for further instructions if certain discrepancies are found, we typically include in the AD a requirement to accomplish the action using a method approved by either the FAA or the State of Design Authority (or its delegated agent). We have recently been notified that certain laws in other countries do not allow such delegation of authority, but some countries do recognize design approval organizations. In addition, we have become aware that some U.S. operators have used repair instructions that were previously approved by a State of Design Authority or a Design Approval Holder (DAH) as a method of compliance with this provision in FAA ADs. Frequently, in these cases, the previously approved repair instructions come from the airplane structural repair manual or the DAH repair approval statements that were not specifically developed to address the unsafe condition corrected by the AD. Using repair instructions that were not specifically approved for a particular AD creates the potential for doing repairs that were not developed to address the unsafe condition identified by the MCAI AD, the FAA AD, or the applicable service information, which could result in the unsafe condition not being fully corrected. To prevent the use of repairs that were not specifically developed to correct the unsafe condition, certain requirements of this proposed AD would require that the repair approval specifically refer to the FAA AD. This change is intended to clarify the method of compliance and to provide operators with better visibility of repairs that are specifically developed and approved to correct the unsafe condition. In addition, we use the phrase ‘‘its delegated agent, or the DAH with State of Design Authority design organization approval, as applicable’’ in this proposed AD to refer to a DAH authorized to approve certain required repairs for this proposed AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 177 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. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $15,045, or $85 per product. We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide cost E:\FR\FM\16APP1.SGM 16APP1 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 73 / Wednesday, April 16, 2014 / Proposed Rules Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. estimates for the on-condition actions specified in this proposed AD. § 39.13 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. pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 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: ■ VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:44 Apr 15, 2014 Jkt 232001 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2014–0229; Directorate Identifier 2013–NM–186–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by June 2, 2014. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes identified in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), and (c)(3) of this AD, certificated in any category. (1) Model A300 B2–1A, B2–1C, B2K–3C, B2–203, B4–2C, B4–103, and B4–203 airplanes, all manufacturer serial numbers (MSNs). (2) Model A300 B4–601, B4–603, B4–620, and B4–622; A300 B4–605R and B4–622R; A300 F4–605R and F4–622R airplanes; and A300 C4–605R Variant F airplanes; all MSNs, except those on which Airbus Modification 12699 has been embodied in production. (3) Model A310–203, –204, –221, –222, –304, –322, –324, and –325 airplanes, all MSNs. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by a review of repairs done using the structural repair manual (SRM), which revealed that the structural integrity of the airplane could be affected if certain SRM repairs are not reworked. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct SRM repairs on the floor cross beams flange at frame (FR)11 and FR12A. If these SRM repairs are not reworked, the structural integrity of the airplane could be negatively affected. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Inspection (1) Within 30 months after the effective date of this AD: Do a general visual inspection of the floor cross beams flange at FR11 and FR12A to determine which SRM repairs have been done, in accordance with the instructions of the service information specified in paragraph (g)(1)(a), (g)(1)(b), or (g)(1)(c) of this AD, as applicable. (a) For Model A300 series airplanes: Airbus All Operator Telex (AOT) A300–53A0392, dated March 14, 2012. (b) For Model A300 B4–601, B4–603, B4– 620, and B4–622; A300 B4–605R and B4– 622R; A300 F4–605R and F4–622R airplanes; and A300 C4–605R Variant F airplanes: Airbus AOT A300–53A6171, dated March 14, 2012. (c) For Model A310 series airplanes: Airbus AOT A310–53A2135, dated March 14, 2012. PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 21415 (2) A review of airplane maintenance records is acceptable in lieu of the general visual inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD if the SRM repairs can be positively identified from that review. (h) Repair If, during the inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD, it is determined that any SRM repair specified in paragraph 2 of the service information identified in paragraph (g)(1)(a), (g)(1)(b), or (g)(1)(c) of this AD, as applicable, has been done: Within 30 months after the effective date of this AD, rework the repair using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM– 116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or EASA (or its delegated agent, or the Design Approval Holder (DAH) with EASA design organization approval). For a repair method to be approved, the repair approval must specifically refer to this AD. (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: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98507–3356; telephone (425) 227–2125; fax (425) 427– 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 the DAH 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) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) Airworthiness Directive 2013–0220, dated September 18, 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–2014–0229. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office—EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice E:\FR\FM\16APP1.SGM 16APP1 21416 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 73 / Wednesday, April 16, 2014 / Proposed Rules Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airwortheas@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 April 7, 2014. John P. Piccola, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2014–08598 Filed 4–15–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2014–0249; Directorate Identifier 2012–NM–211–AD] Examining the AD Docket RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Learjet Inc. Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Learjet Inc. Model 45 airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of non-conforming windshield supports (coupe rails). This proposed AD would require a general visual inspection to detect gouging and scratches and to determine if a radius has been removed; an ultrasound inspection to measure the dimensions of the lower coupe rails; an eddy current inspection to detect cracks of the lower coupe rails; replacement of the lower coupe rails if necessary; and revision of the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct non-conforming windshield supports, which could result in uncontrolled cabin depressurization. Non-conforming windshield supports could also compromise the capability of the windshield to withstand a bird strike. pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 SUMMARY: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 2, 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. DATES: VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:44 Apr 15, 2014 Jkt 232001 • 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 Learjet, Inc., One Learjet Way, Wichita, KS 67209– 2942; telephone 316–946–2000; fax 316–946–2220; email ac.ict@aero.bombardier.com; Internet https://www.bombardier.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. You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2014– 0249; 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: Paul Chapman, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, FAA, Wichita Aircraft Certification Office, 1801 Airport Road, Room 100, Wichita, KS, 67209; phone: 316–946–4152; fax: 316–946–4152; email: paul.chapman@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– 2014–0249; Directorate Identifier 2012– NM–211–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:// PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 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 received reports of nonconforming windshield supports (coupe rails). Learjet Inc. identified windshield primary supports that do not meet their type design. The non-conforming windshield supports (coupe rails) might have been compromised during fuselage build or windshield installation. This condition, if not corrected, could result in uncontrolled cabin depressurization. Non-conforming windshield supports could also compromise the capability of the windshield to withstand a bird strike. Relevant Service Information We reviewed the following service information. The service information describe procedures for a detailed visual inspection to detect gouging and scratches and to determine if a radius has been removed; an ultrasound inspection to measure the dimensions of the lower coupe rails; an eddy current inspection to detect cracks of the lower coupe rails, replacement of the lower coupe rails if necessary; and revision of the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable. • Chapter 4, Airworthiness Limitations, of the Bombardier Learjet 45 Maintenance Manual MM–104, Revision 57, dated June 11, 2012. • Chapter 4, Airworthiness Limitations, of the Bombardier Learjet 40 Maintenance Manual MM–105, Revision 25, dated June 11, 2012. • Bombardier Recommended Service Bulletin 40–56–03, Revision 1, dated October 15, 2012. • Bombardier Recommended Service Bulletin 45–56–3, Revision 1, dated October 15, 2012. 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 these same type designs. Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions specified in the service information described previously. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 351 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: E:\FR\FM\16APP1.SGM 16APP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 73 (Wednesday, April 16, 2014)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 21413-21416]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-08598]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2014-0229; Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-186-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 all 
Airbus Model A300 and A310 series airplanes, and certain Model A300-600 
series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a review of certain 
repairs, which revealed that the structural integrity of the airplane 
could be affected if those repairs are not re-worked. This proposed AD 
would require an inspection to identify certain repairs, and corrective 
action if necessary. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct 
certain repairs on the floor cross beams flange. If those repairs are 
not reworked, the structural integrity of the airplane could be 
negatively affected.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 2, 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--EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 
93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@airbus.com;

[[Page 21414]]

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-
0229; 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: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, ANM-
116, International Branch, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 
Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98507-3356; telephone (425) 227-2125; 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-2014-0229; 
Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-186-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 Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA 
Airworthiness Directive 2013-0220, dated September 18, 2013 (referred 
to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or 
``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A300 
and A310 series airplanes, and certain Model A300 B4-600, B4-600R, and 
F4-600R series airplanes, and Model A300 C4-605R Variant F airplanes 
(collectively called Model A300-600 series airplanes). The MCAI states:

In the frame of the Extended Service Goal (ESG) activity, all 
existing Structural Repair Manual (SRM) repairs were reviewed.
This analysis, which consisted in new static and fatigue 
calculations, revealed that some repairs were no longer applicable 
to some specific areas.

These repairs, if not reworked, could affect the structural 
integrity of the aeroplane. To address the repairs on the floor 
cross beams flange, Airbus issued Alert Operator Transmission (AOT) 
A300-53A0392, AOT A300-53A6171 and AOT A310-53A2135.
To address this unsafe condition, and further to the implementation 
of the Aging Aircraft Safety Rule (AASR), this [EASA] Airworthiness 
Directive requires a [general visual] inspection of the floor cross 
beams flange at frame (FR)11 and FR12A to identify SRM repairs and, 
depending on findings, accomplishment of corrective action 
[reworking the SRM repairs].

    You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2014-
0229.

Relevant Service Information

    Airbus has issued the following service information. The actions 
described in this service information are intended to correct the 
unsafe condition identified in the MCAI.
     All Operator Telex A300-53A0392, dated March 14, 2012 (for 
Model A300 series airplanes).
     All Operator Telex A300-53A6171, dated March 14, 2012 (for 
Model A300 B4-601, B4-603, B4-620, and B4-622; A300 B4-605R and B4-
622R; A300 F4-605R and F4-622R airplanes; and A300 C4-605R Variant F 
airplanes).
     All Operator Telex A310-53A2135, dated March 14, 2012 (for 
Model A310 series airplanes).

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 these 
same type designs.

Repair Approvals

    In many FAA transport ADs, when the service information specifies 
to contact the manufacturer for further instructions if certain 
discrepancies are found, we typically include in the AD a requirement 
to accomplish the action using a method approved by either the FAA or 
the State of Design Authority (or its delegated agent).
    We have recently been notified that certain laws in other countries 
do not allow such delegation of authority, but some countries do 
recognize design approval organizations. In addition, we have become 
aware that some U.S. operators have used repair instructions that were 
previously approved by a State of Design Authority or a Design Approval 
Holder (DAH) as a method of compliance with this provision in FAA ADs. 
Frequently, in these cases, the previously approved repair instructions 
come from the airplane structural repair manual or the DAH repair 
approval statements that were not specifically developed to address the 
unsafe condition corrected by the AD. Using repair instructions that 
were not specifically approved for a particular AD creates the 
potential for doing repairs that were not developed to address the 
unsafe condition identified by the MCAI AD, the FAA AD, or the 
applicable service information, which could result in the unsafe 
condition not being fully corrected.
    To prevent the use of repairs that were not specifically developed 
to correct the unsafe condition, certain requirements of this proposed 
AD would require that the repair approval specifically refer to the FAA 
AD. This change is intended to clarify the method of compliance and to 
provide operators with better visibility of repairs that are 
specifically developed and approved to correct the unsafe condition. In 
addition, we use the phrase ``its delegated agent, or the DAH with 
State of Design Authority design organization approval, as applicable'' 
in this proposed AD to refer to a DAH authorized to approve certain 
required repairs for this proposed AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 177 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. Based on these figures, we estimate 
the cost of this proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $15,045, or $85 
per product.
    We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide 
cost

[[Page 21415]]

estimates for the on-condition actions specified in this proposed AD.

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

Regulatory Findings

    We 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):

Airbus: Docket No. FAA-2014-0229; Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-
186-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by June 2, 2014.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes identified in paragraphs 
(c)(1), (c)(2), and (c)(3) of this AD, certificated in any category.
    (1) Model A300 B2-1A, B2-1C, B2K-3C, B2-203, B4-2C, B4-103, and 
B4-203 airplanes, all manufacturer serial numbers (MSNs).
    (2) Model A300 B4-601, B4-603, B4-620, and B4-622; A300 B4-605R 
and B4-622R; A300 F4-605R and F4-622R airplanes; and A300 C4-605R 
Variant F airplanes; all MSNs, except those on which Airbus 
Modification 12699 has been embodied in production.
    (3) Model A310-203, -204, -221, -222, -304, -322, -324, and -325 
airplanes, all MSNs.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by a review of repairs done using the 
structural repair manual (SRM), which revealed that the structural 
integrity of the airplane could be affected if certain SRM repairs 
are not re-worked. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct SRM 
repairs on the floor cross beams flange at frame (FR)11 and FR12A. 
If these SRM repairs are not reworked, the structural integrity of 
the airplane could be negatively affected.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Inspection

    (1) Within 30 months after the effective date of this AD: Do a 
general visual inspection of the floor cross beams flange at FR11 
and FR12A to determine which SRM repairs have been done, in 
accordance with the instructions of the service information 
specified in paragraph (g)(1)(a), (g)(1)(b), or (g)(1)(c) of this 
AD, as applicable.
    (a) For Model A300 series airplanes: Airbus All Operator Telex 
(AOT) A300-53A0392, dated March 14, 2012.
    (b) For Model A300 B4-601, B4-603, B4-620, and B4-622; A300 B4-
605R and B4-622R; A300 F4-605R and F4-622R airplanes; and A300 C4-
605R Variant F airplanes: Airbus AOT A300-53A6171, dated March 14, 
2012.
    (c) For Model A310 series airplanes: Airbus AOT A310-53A2135, 
dated March 14, 2012.
    (2) A review of airplane maintenance records is acceptable in 
lieu of the general visual inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) 
of this AD if the SRM repairs can be positively identified from that 
review.

(h) Repair

    If, during the inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD, 
it is determined that any SRM repair specified in paragraph 2 of the 
service information identified in paragraph (g)(1)(a), (g)(1)(b), or 
(g)(1)(c) of this AD, as applicable, has been done: Within 30 months 
after the effective date of this AD, rework the repair using a 
method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or EASA (or its delegated 
agent, or the Design Approval Holder (DAH) with EASA design 
organization approval). For a repair method to be approved, the 
repair approval must specifically refer to this AD.

(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: Dan Rodina, 
Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98507-
3356; telephone (425) 227-2125; fax (425) 427-1149. 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 the DAH 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) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) Airworthiness Directive 2013-0220, dated September 18, 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-2014-0229.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice

[[Page 21416]]

Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; 
fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@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 April 7, 2014.
John P. Piccola,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2014-08598 Filed 4-15-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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