Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 22596-22599 [2014-09243]

Download as PDF 22596 Proposed Rules Federal Register Vol. 79, No. 78 Wednesday, April 23, 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. DEFENSE NUCLEAR FACILITIES SAFETY BOARD 10 CFR Part 1703 Proposed FOIA Fee Schedule Update Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. AGENCY: ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking. Pursuant to the Board’s regulations, the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board is publishing its proposed Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Fee Schedule Update and solicits comments from interested SUMMARY: organizations and individual members of the public. DATES: To be considered, comments must be mailed or delivered to the address listed below by 5:00 p.m. on or before May 23, 2014. ADDRESSES: Comments on the proposed fee schedule should be mailed or delivered to the Office of the General Counsel, Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board, 625 Indiana Avenue NW., Suite 700, Washington, DC 20004–2901. All comments will be placed in the Board’s public files and will be available for inspection between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday (except on federal holidays), in the Board’s Public Reading Room at the same address. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mark T. Welch, General Manager, Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board, 625 Indiana Avenue NW., Suite 700, Washington, DC 20004–2901, (202) 694– 7060. The FOIA requires each Federal agency covered by the Act to specify a schedule of fees applicable to processing of requests for agency records. 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(4)(A)(i). Pursuant to 10 CFR 1703.107(b)(6) of the Board’s regulations, the Board’s General Manager will update the FOIA Fee Schedule once every 12 months. Previous Fee Schedule Updates were published in the Federal Register and went into effect, most recently, on July 23, 2012, 77 FR 41258. The Board’s proposed fee schedule is consistent with the guidance. The components of the proposed fees (hourly charges for search and review and charges for copies of requested documents) are based upon the Board’s specific cost. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Board Action Accordingly, the Board proposes to establish the following schedule of updated fees for services performed in response to FOIA requests: DEFENSE NUCLEAR FACILITIES SAFETY BOARD SCHEDULE OF FEES FOR FOIA SERVICES [Implementing 10 CFR 1703.107(b)(6)] Search or Review Charge ........................................................................ Copy Charge (paper) ................................................................................ Electronic Media ....................................................................................... Copy Charge (audio and video cassette) ................................................ Duplication of DVD ................................................................................... Copy Charge for large documents (e.g., maps, diagrams) ..................... Dated: April 17, 2014. Mark T. Welch, General Manager. BILLING CODE 3670–01–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS [Docket No. FAA–2014–0253; Directorate Identifier 2013–NM–257–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: 15:33 Apr 22, 2014 We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 747–100B SUD, 747–200B, 747–300, 747–400, 747–400D series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by an evaluation by the design approval holder (DAH) indicating that the upper deck tension ties are subject to widespread fatigue damage (WFD). This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections for cracking in the upper deck tension ties, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary; tension tie replacement; and post-replacement repetitive inspections for cracking in the upper deck tension ties, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking of the upper deck tension ties. Severed or disconnected tension ties at multiple locations could SUMMARY: [FR Doc. 2014–09199 Filed 4–22–14; 8:45 am] VerDate Mar<15>2010 $83.00 per hour. $.05 per page, if done in-house, or generally available commercial rate (approximately $.10 per page). $5.00 per electronic media. Actual commercial rates. $25.00 for each individual DVD; $16.50 for each duplicate DVD. Actual commercial rates. Jkt 232001 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 result in rapid decompression and loss of structural integrity of the airplane. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 9, 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 Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data E:\FR\FM\23APP1.SGM 23APP1 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 78 / Wednesday, April 23, 2014 / Proposed Rules & Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–5680; Internet https:// www.myboeingfleet.com. You may 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. wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS 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– 0253; 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: Nathan Weigand, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6428; fax: 425–917–6590; email: nathan.p.weigand@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– 2014–0253; Directorate Identifier 2013– NM–257–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 Structural fatigue damage is progressive. It begins as minute cracks, and those cracks grow under the action of repeated stresses. This can happen because of normal operational VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:33 Apr 22, 2014 Jkt 232001 conditions and design attributes, or because of isolated situations or incidents such as material defects, poor fabrication quality, or corrosion pits, dings, or scratches. Fatigue damage can occur locally, in small areas or structural design details, or globally. Global fatigue damage is general degradation of large areas of structure with similar structural details and stress levels. Multiple-site damage is global damage that occurs in a large structural element such as a single rivet line of a lap splice joining two large skin panels. Global damage can also occur in multiple elements such as adjacent frames or stringers. Multiple-sitedamage and multiple-element-damage cracks are typically too small initially to be reliably detected with normal inspection methods. Without intervention, these cracks will grow, and eventually compromise the structural integrity of the airplane, in a condition known as WFD. As an airplane ages, WFD will likely occur, and will certainly occur if the airplane is operated long enough without any intervention. The FAA’s WFD final rule (75 FR 69746, November 15, 2010) became effective on January 14, 2011. The WFD rule requires certain actions to prevent catastrophic failure due to WFD throughout the operational life of certain existing transport category airplanes and all of these airplanes that will be certificated in the future. For existing and future airplanes subject to the WFD rule, the rule requires that design approval holders (DAHs) establish a limit of validity (LOV) of the engineering data that support the structural maintenance program. Operators affected by the WFD rule may not fly an airplane beyond its LOV, unless an extended LOV is approved. The WFD rule (75 FR 69746, November 15, 2010) does not require identifying and developing maintenance actions if the DAHs can show that such actions are not necessary to prevent WFD before the airplane reaches the LOV. Many LOVs, however, do depend on accomplishment of future maintenance actions. As stated in the WFD rule, any maintenance actions necessary to reach the LOV will be mandated by airworthiness directives through separate rulemaking actions. In the context of WFD, this approach is necessary to enable DAHs to propose LOVs that allow operators the longest operational lives for their airplanes, and still ensure that WFD will not occur. This approach allows for an implementation strategy that provides flexibility to DAHs in determining the timing of service information PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 22597 development (with FAA approval), while providing operators with certainty regarding the LOV applicable to their airplanes. The identified unsafe condition is at airplane body station locations 880 to 1100 where the floor beams were replaced with tension ties during airplane conversion to special freighter or Boeing converted freighter. Tension ties have been determined to be structure that is susceptible to WFD. WFD could cause multiple adjacent tension ties to become severed or disconnected from the frames, which could result in rapid decompression and loss of structural integrity of the airplane. Relevant Service Information We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2866, dated December 4, 2013. For information on the procedures and compliance times, see this service information at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for Docket No. FAA–2014–0253. 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 This proposed AD applies to current and future Model 747–100B SUD, 747– 200B, 747–300, 747–400, 747–400D series airplanes converted to special freighter or Boeing converted freighter configuration. This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections for cracking in the upper deck tension ties, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary; tension tie replacement; and post-replacement repetitive inspections for cracking in the upper deck tension ties, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary; as specified in the service information identified previously, except as discussed under ‘‘Difference Between this Proposed AD and the Service Information.’’ The phrase ‘‘related investigative actions’’ is used in this proposed AD. ‘‘Related investigative actions’’ are follow-on actions that (1) are related to the primary actions, and (2) further investigate the nature of any condition found. Related investigative actions in an AD could include, for example, inspections. The phrase ‘‘corrective actions’’ is used in this proposed AD. ‘‘Corrective actions’’ correct or address any E:\FR\FM\23APP1.SGM 23APP1 22598 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 78 / Wednesday, April 23, 2014 / Proposed Rules condition found. Corrective actions in an AD could include, for example, repairs. The FAA worked in conjunction with industry, under the Airworthiness Directives Implementation Aviation Rulemaking Committee, to enhance the AD system. One enhancement was a new process for annotating which steps in the service information are required for compliance with an AD. Differentiating these steps from other tasks in the service information is expected to improve an owner’s/ operator’s understanding of crucial AD requirements and help provide consistent judgment in AD compliance. The actions specified in the service information described previously include steps that are labeled as RC (required for compliance) because these steps have a direct effect on detecting, preventing, resolving, or eliminating an identified unsafe condition. As noted in the specified service information, steps labeled as RC must be done to comply with the proposed AD. However, steps that are not labeled as RC are recommended. Those steps that are not labeled as RC may be deviated from, done as part of other actions, or done using accepted methods different from those identified in the service information without obtaining approval of an alternative method of compliance (AMOC), provided the steps labeled as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in a serviceable condition. Any substitutions or changes to steps labeled as RC will require approval of an AMOC. Difference Between This Proposed AD and the Service Information Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747– 53A2866, dated December 4, 2013, specifies to contact the manufacturer for instructions on how to repair certain conditions, but this proposed AD would require repairing those conditions in one of the following ways: • In accordance with a method that we approve; or • Using data that meet the certification basis of the airplane, and that have been approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) whom we have authorized to make those findings. Explanation of Compliance Time The compliance time for the modification specified in this proposed AD for addressing WFD was established to ensure that discrepant structure is modified before WFD develops in airplanes. Standard inspection techniques cannot be relied on to detect WFD before it becomes a hazard to flight. We will not grant any extensions of the compliance time to complete any AD-mandated service bulletin related to WFD without extensive new data that would substantiate and clearly warrant such an extension. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 76 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Inspections (pre-modification post-modification). Labor cost and Modification ....................................... Up to 164 work-hours × $85 per hour = $13,940 per inspection cycle. 366 work-hours × $85 per hour = $31,110. wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide cost 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. VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:33 Apr 22, 2014 Jkt 232001 Cost per product Parts cost Cost on U.S. operators $0 Up to $13,940 per inspection cycle. Up to 1,059,440 per inspection cycle. $0 $31,110 ......................... $2,364,360. Regulatory Findings List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 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. Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA– 2014–0253; Directorate Identifier 2013– NM–257–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by June 9, 2014. E:\FR\FM\23APP1.SGM 23APP1 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 78 / Wednesday, April 23, 2014 / Proposed Rules (b) Affected ADs None. in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (k) of this AD. (c) Applicability This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 747–100B SUD, 747–200B, 747–300, 747–400, and 747–400D series airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2866, dated December 4, 2013. (i) Tension Tie Replacement After the accumulation of 13,000 total flight cycles; but before the accumulation of 22,000 flight cycles after conversion to special freighter or Boeing converted freighter configuration, or within 2,000 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later: Do the tension tie replacement, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2866, dated December 4, 2013, except as provided by paragraph (h) of this AD. Accomplishment of the actions required by this paragraph terminates the inspection requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by an evaluation by the design approval holder (DAH) indicating that the upper deck tension ties are subject to widespread fatigue damage (WFD). We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking of the upper deck tension ties. Severed or disconnected tension ties at multiple locations could result in rapid decompression and loss of structural integrity of the airplane. wreier-aviles on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Inspections, Related Investigative Actions, and Corrective Actions For airplanes identified as Group 1, Configuration 2; and Group 2; in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2866, dated December 4, 2013: Before the accumulation of 10,000 flight cycles after conversion to special freighter or Boeing converted freighter configuration, or within 2,000 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later, do the actions specified in paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD, and do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2866, dated December 4, 2013, except as provided by paragraph (h) of this AD. Do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions before further flight. Repeat the inspection of the forward and aft tension tie channels thereafter at the applicable time and intervals specified in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2866, dated December 4, 2013. (1) At each tension tie station from 880 to 1100: Do a detailed inspection for cracks in the forward and aft tension tie channels. (2) At each tension tie station from 880 to 1100: Do a detailed inspection for cracks in the forward and aft tension tie channels, and do a surface high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection for cracks around fasteners in the tension tie channels. (h) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications If, during accomplishment of the related investigative action or inspections required by this AD, any cracking is found, and Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2866, dated December 4, 2013, specifies to contact Boeing for repair instructions: Before further flight, do the repair using a method approved VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:33 Apr 22, 2014 Jkt 232001 (j) Post-tension Tie Replacement Inspections, Related Investigative Actions, and Corrective Actions After accomplishing the actions required by paragraph (i) of this AD: At the applicable time specified in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2866, dated December 4, 2013, do the actions specified in paragraph (j)(1) or (j)(2) of this AD; and do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions; in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2866, dated December 4, 2013, except as provided by paragraph (h) of this AD. Do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions before further flight. Repeat the applicable inspection of the forward and aft tension tie channels thereafter at the applicable time and intervals specified in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2866, dated December 4, 2013. (1) At each tension tie station from 880 to 1100: Do a detailed inspection for cracks in the forward and aft tension tie channels. (2) At each tension tie station from 880 to 1100: Do a detailed inspection for cracks in the forward and aft tension tie channels, and do a surface HFEC inspection for cracks around fasteners in the tension tie channels. (k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the attention of the person identified in the paragraph (l)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOCRequests@faa.gov. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair required by this AD if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 22599 been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO to make those findings. For a repair method to be approved, the repair must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. (4) If the service information contains steps that are labeled as RC (Required for Compliance), those steps must be done to comply with this AD; any steps that are not labeled as RC are recommended. Those steps that are not labeled as RC may be deviated from, done as part of other actions, or done using accepted methods different from those identified in the specified service information without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the steps labeled as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in a serviceable condition. Any substitutions or changes to steps labeled as RC require approval of an AMOC. (l) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Nathan Weigand, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057– 3356; phone: 425–917–6428; fax: 425–917– 6590; email: nathan.p.weigand@faa.gov. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone 206– 544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may 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 April 14, 2014. Jeffrey E. Duven, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2014–09243 Filed 4–22–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2014–0252; Directorate Identifier 2013–NM–213–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for The Boeing Company Model 707 airplanes, Model 720 and 720B series airplanes, Model 727 airplanes, and Model 737– SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\23APP1.SGM 23APP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 78 (Wednesday, April 23, 2014)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 22596-22599]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-09243]


=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2014-0253; Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-257-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company 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 The Boeing Company Model 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-300, 747-
400, 747-400D series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by an 
evaluation by the design approval holder (DAH) indicating that the 
upper deck tension ties are subject to widespread fatigue damage (WFD). 
This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections for cracking in 
the upper deck tension ties, and related investigative and corrective 
actions if necessary; tension tie replacement; and post-replacement 
repetitive inspections for cracking in the upper deck tension ties, and 
related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. We are 
proposing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking of the upper 
deck tension ties. Severed or disconnected tension ties at multiple 
locations could result in rapid decompression and loss of structural 
integrity of the airplane.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 9, 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 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data

[[Page 22597]]

& Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; 
telephone 206-544-5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may 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.

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-
0253; 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: Nathan Weigand, Aerospace Engineer, 
Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6428; fax: 
425-917-6590; email: nathan.p.weigand@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-2014-0253; 
Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-257-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

    Structural fatigue damage is progressive. It begins as minute 
cracks, and those cracks grow under the action of repeated stresses. 
This can happen because of normal operational conditions and design 
attributes, or because of isolated situations or incidents such as 
material defects, poor fabrication quality, or corrosion pits, dings, 
or scratches. Fatigue damage can occur locally, in small areas or 
structural design details, or globally. Global fatigue damage is 
general degradation of large areas of structure with similar structural 
details and stress levels. Multiple-site damage is global damage that 
occurs in a large structural element such as a single rivet line of a 
lap splice joining two large skin panels. Global damage can also occur 
in multiple elements such as adjacent frames or stringers. Multiple-
site-damage and multiple-element-damage cracks are typically too small 
initially to be reliably detected with normal inspection methods. 
Without intervention, these cracks will grow, and eventually compromise 
the structural integrity of the airplane, in a condition known as WFD. 
As an airplane ages, WFD will likely occur, and will certainly occur if 
the airplane is operated long enough without any intervention.
    The FAA's WFD final rule (75 FR 69746, November 15, 2010) became 
effective on January 14, 2011. The WFD rule requires certain actions to 
prevent catastrophic failure due to WFD throughout the operational life 
of certain existing transport category airplanes and all of these 
airplanes that will be certificated in the future. For existing and 
future airplanes subject to the WFD rule, the rule requires that design 
approval holders (DAHs) establish a limit of validity (LOV) of the 
engineering data that support the structural maintenance program. 
Operators affected by the WFD rule may not fly an airplane beyond its 
LOV, unless an extended LOV is approved.
    The WFD rule (75 FR 69746, November 15, 2010) does not require 
identifying and developing maintenance actions if the DAHs can show 
that such actions are not necessary to prevent WFD before the airplane 
reaches the LOV. Many LOVs, however, do depend on accomplishment of 
future maintenance actions. As stated in the WFD rule, any maintenance 
actions necessary to reach the LOV will be mandated by airworthiness 
directives through separate rulemaking actions.
    In the context of WFD, this approach is necessary to enable DAHs to 
propose LOVs that allow operators the longest operational lives for 
their airplanes, and still ensure that WFD will not occur. This 
approach allows for an implementation strategy that provides 
flexibility to DAHs in determining the timing of service information 
development (with FAA approval), while providing operators with 
certainty regarding the LOV applicable to their airplanes.
    The identified unsafe condition is at airplane body station 
locations 880 to 1100 where the floor beams were replaced with tension 
ties during airplane conversion to special freighter or Boeing 
converted freighter. Tension ties have been determined to be structure 
that is susceptible to WFD. WFD could cause multiple adjacent tension 
ties to become severed or disconnected from the frames, which could 
result in rapid decompression and loss of structural integrity of the 
airplane.

Relevant Service Information

    We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2866, dated 
December 4, 2013. For information on the procedures and compliance 
times, see this service information at https://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for Docket No. FAA-2014-0253.

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

    This proposed AD applies to current and future Model 747-100B SUD, 
747-200B, 747-300, 747-400, 747-400D series airplanes converted to 
special freighter or Boeing converted freighter configuration.
    This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections for cracking 
in the upper deck tension ties, and related investigative and 
corrective actions if necessary; tension tie replacement; and post-
replacement repetitive inspections for cracking in the upper deck 
tension ties, and related investigative and corrective actions if 
necessary; as specified in the service information identified 
previously, except as discussed under ``Difference Between this 
Proposed AD and the Service Information.''
    The phrase ``related investigative actions'' is used in this 
proposed AD. ``Related investigative actions'' are follow-on actions 
that (1) are related to the primary actions, and (2) further 
investigate the nature of any condition found. Related investigative 
actions in an AD could include, for example, inspections.
    The phrase ``corrective actions'' is used in this proposed AD. 
``Corrective actions'' correct or address any

[[Page 22598]]

condition found. Corrective actions in an AD could include, for 
example, repairs.
    The FAA worked in conjunction with industry, under the 
Airworthiness Directives Implementation Aviation Rulemaking Committee, 
to enhance the AD system. One enhancement was a new process for 
annotating which steps in the service information are required for 
compliance with an AD. Differentiating these steps from other tasks in 
the service information is expected to improve an owner's/operator's 
understanding of crucial AD requirements and help provide consistent 
judgment in AD compliance. The actions specified in the service 
information described previously include steps that are labeled as RC 
(required for compliance) because these steps have a direct effect on 
detecting, preventing, resolving, or eliminating an identified unsafe 
condition.
    As noted in the specified service information, steps labeled as RC 
must be done to comply with the proposed AD. However, steps that are 
not labeled as RC are recommended. Those steps that are not labeled as 
RC may be deviated from, done as part of other actions, or done using 
accepted methods different from those identified in the service 
information without obtaining approval of an alternative method of 
compliance (AMOC), provided the steps labeled as RC can be done and the 
airplane can be put back in a serviceable condition. Any substitutions 
or changes to steps labeled as RC will require approval of an AMOC.

Difference Between This Proposed AD and the Service Information

    Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2866, dated December 4, 2013, 
specifies to contact the manufacturer for instructions on how to repair 
certain conditions, but this proposed AD would require repairing those 
conditions in one of the following ways:
     In accordance with a method that we approve; or
     Using data that meet the certification basis of the 
airplane, and that have been approved by the Boeing Commercial 
Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) whom we have 
authorized to make those findings.

Explanation of Compliance Time

    The compliance time for the modification specified in this proposed 
AD for addressing WFD was established to ensure that discrepant 
structure is modified before WFD develops in airplanes. Standard 
inspection techniques cannot be relied on to detect WFD before it 
becomes a hazard to flight. We will not grant any extensions of the 
compliance time to complete any AD-mandated service bulletin related to 
WFD without extensive new data that would substantiate and clearly 
warrant such an extension.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 76 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                Cost on U.S.
              Action                    Labor cost        Parts cost    Cost per product          operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspections                        Up to 164 work-hours           $0  Up to $13,940 per     Up to 1,059,440 per
 (pre[dash]modification and         x $85 per hour =                   inspection cycle.     inspection cycle.
 post[dash]modification).           $13,940 per
                                    inspection cycle.
Modification.....................  366 work-hours x $85           $0  $31,110.............  $2,364,360.
                                    per hour = $31,110.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide 
cost 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):

The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA-2014-0253; Directorate Identifier 
2013-NM-257-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by June 9, 2014.

[[Page 22599]]

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 747-100B SUD, 747-
200B, 747-300, 747-400, and 747-400D series airplanes, certificated 
in any category, as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-
53A2866, dated December 4, 2013.

(d) Subject

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

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by an evaluation by the design approval 
holder (DAH) indicating that the upper deck tension ties are subject 
to widespread fatigue damage (WFD). We are issuing this AD to detect 
and correct fatigue cracking of the upper deck tension ties. Severed 
or disconnected tension ties at multiple locations could result in 
rapid decompression and loss of structural integrity of the 
airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Inspections, Related Investigative Actions, and Corrective Actions

    For airplanes identified as Group 1, Configuration 2; and Group 
2; in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2866, dated December 4, 
2013: Before the accumulation of 10,000 flight cycles after 
conversion to special freighter or Boeing converted freighter 
configuration, or within 2,000 flight cycles after the effective 
date of this AD, whichever occurs later, do the actions specified in 
paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD, and do all applicable related 
investigative and corrective actions, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-
53A2866, dated December 4, 2013, except as provided by paragraph (h) 
of this AD. Do all applicable related investigative and corrective 
actions before further flight. Repeat the inspection of the forward 
and aft tension tie channels thereafter at the applicable time and 
intervals specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2866, dated December 4, 2013.
    (1) At each tension tie station from 880 to 1100: Do a detailed 
inspection for cracks in the forward and aft tension tie channels.
    (2) At each tension tie station from 880 to 1100: Do a detailed 
inspection for cracks in the forward and aft tension tie channels, 
and do a surface high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection for 
cracks around fasteners in the tension tie channels.

(h) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications

    If, during accomplishment of the related investigative action or 
inspections required by this AD, any cracking is found, and Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2866, dated December 4, 2013, 
specifies to contact Boeing for repair instructions: Before further 
flight, do the repair using a method approved in accordance with the 
procedures specified in paragraph (k) of this AD.

(i) Tension Tie Replacement

    After the accumulation of 13,000 total flight cycles; but before 
the accumulation of 22,000 flight cycles after conversion to special 
freighter or Boeing converted freighter configuration, or within 
2,000 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD, whichever 
occurs later: Do the tension tie replacement, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-
53A2866, dated December 4, 2013, except as provided by paragraph (h) 
of this AD. Accomplishment of the actions required by this paragraph 
terminates the inspection requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD.

(j) Post-tension Tie Replacement Inspections, Related Investigative 
Actions, and Corrective Actions

    After accomplishing the actions required by paragraph (i) of 
this AD: At the applicable time specified in paragraph 1.E., 
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2866, dated 
December 4, 2013, do the actions specified in paragraph (j)(1) or 
(j)(2) of this AD; and do all applicable related investigative and 
corrective actions; in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2866, dated 
December 4, 2013, except as provided by paragraph (h) of this AD. Do 
all applicable related investigative and corrective actions before 
further flight. Repeat the applicable inspection of the forward and 
aft tension tie channels thereafter at the applicable time and 
intervals specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2866, dated December 4, 2013.
    (1) At each tension tie station from 880 to 1100: Do a detailed 
inspection for cracks in the forward and aft tension tie channels.
    (2) At each tension tie station from 880 to 1100: Do a detailed 
inspection for cracks in the forward and aft tension tie channels, 
and do a surface HFEC inspection for cracks around fasteners in the 
tension tie channels.

(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested 
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 
CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local 
Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending 
information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the 
attention of the person identified in the paragraph (l)(1) of this 
AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding 
district office.
    (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be 
used for any repair required by this AD if it is approved by the 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization 
(ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO to make 
those findings. For a repair method to be approved, the repair must 
meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must 
specifically refer to this AD.
    (4) If the service information contains steps that are labeled 
as RC (Required for Compliance), those steps must be done to comply 
with this AD; any steps that are not labeled as RC are recommended. 
Those steps that are not labeled as RC may be deviated from, done as 
part of other actions, or done using accepted methods different from 
those identified in the specified service information without 
obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the steps labeled as RC can 
be done and the airplane can be put back in a serviceable condition. 
Any substitutions or changes to steps labeled as RC require approval 
of an AMOC.

(l) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Nathan Weigand, 
Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft 
Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; 
phone: 425-917-6428; fax: 425-917-6590; email: 
nathan.p.weigand@faa.gov.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 
P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-
5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may 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 April 14, 2014.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2014-09243 Filed 4-22-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.