Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes, 20175-20178 [2015-08465]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 72 / Wednesday, April 15, 2015 / Proposed Rules eliminate unnecessary regulations to the extent that such action is appropriate. Finally, section 2222 requires the Council, of which the Agencies are members, to submit a report to Congress that summarizes any significant issues raised in the public comments and the relative merits of such issues. The report also must include an analysis of whether the Agencies are able to address the regulatory burdens associated with such issues by regulation or whether these burdens must be addressed by legislative action. For purposes of this review, the Agencies have grouped our regulations into 12 categories: Applications and Reporting; Banking Operations; Capital; Community Reinvestment Act; Consumer Protection; Directors, Officers and Employees; International Operations; Money Laundering; Powers and Activities; Rules of Procedure; Safety and Soundness; and Securities. On June 4, 2014, we published a Federal Register notice announcing the start of the EGRPRA review process and also asking for public comment on three of these categories—Applications and Reporting; Powers and Activities; and International Operations regulations.3 In that notice we published a chart, listing the Agencies’ regulations in the 12 categories included in the EGRPRA review. On February 13, 2015, we published a Federal Register notice asking for public comment on three additional categories—Banking Operations; Capital; and the Community Reinvestment Act.4 The comment period for the current Federal Register notice closes on May 14, 2015. Recently, the Agencies have decided to expand the scope of the EGRPRA review in order to be as inclusive as possible. Accordingly, the Agencies will take comment on all of our regulations issued in final form up to the date that we publish our last EGRPRA notice for public comment and report back to the Congress on all such regulations. Dated: April 8, 2015. Thomas J. Curry, Comptroller of the Currency. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS By order of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, April 7, 2015. Robert deV. Frierson, Secretary of the Board. Dated: April 6, 2015. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation by Robert E. Feldman, Executive Secretary. [FR Doc. 2015–08619 Filed 4–14–15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6210–01P; 6714–01–P; 4810–33–P 3 79 4 80 FR 32172. FR 7980. VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:16 Apr 14, 2015 Jkt 235001 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2015–0826; Directorate Identifier 2014–NM–221–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A318, A319, and A320 series airplanes modified by a particular supplemental type certificate (STC). This proposed AD was prompted by reports of cracks found during inspections of the in-flight entertainment system radome assembly. This proposed AD would require repetitive detailed inspections for cracks in the radome assembly, and replacement of the radome if necessary. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct cracks in the radome assembly, which could result in the radome (or pieces) separating from the airplane and striking the tail, consequently reducing the controllability of the airplane. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 1, 2015. 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 Live TV, 7415 Emerald Dunes Drive, Orlando, FL 32822; telephone 407–812–2643; email: CertificationEngineering@livetv.net; Internet: https://www.LiveTV.net. 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. SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 20175 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–2015– 0826; 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: Barry Culler, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ACE–117A, FAA, Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1701 Columbia Avenue, College Park, GA 30337; phone: 404–474–5546; fax: 404–474–5605; email: william.culler@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– 2015–0826; Directorate Identifier 2014– NM–221–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed AD because of those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. Discussion We received reports of cracks in the in-flight entertainment system radomes of certain Airbus airplanes. The cracks were found during inspections of the radome assembly on various Airbus Model A318, A319, and A320 series airplanes that had in-flight entertainment systems installed using a certain STC issued to Live TV (STC number STC ST00788SE, https://rgl.faa. gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/ rgstc.nsf/0/6df40775b10ef09a86257 ae200613cfe/$FILE/ST00788SE.pdf). Investigation of the cause of the cracks revealed that radome manufacturing variation, due to a lack of dimensional E:\FR\FM\15APP1.SGM 15APP1 20176 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 72 / Wednesday, April 15, 2015 / Proposed Rules controls on the radome manufacturing drawings, can result in the introduction of preload stress on the radome during its assembly with the skirt fairing. Preload stress combined with flight or handling stress, such as maintenance personnel stepping on the radome fairing assembly, might initiate a crack. The radome manufacturing drawings were revised on September 13, 2010, to add a control dimension, which was incorporated into production at radome serial number 498. Cracks in the radome, if not corrected, could result in the radome (or pieces) separating from the airplane and striking the tail, consequently reducing the controllability of the airplane. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Live TV Service Bulletin A320–53–006, Rev 01, dated September 10, 2014. The service information describes procedures for repetitive detailed inspections for cracks in the outer ply of the radome, and replacement of the radome with a new or serviceable radome, if any crack is found. This service information is reasonably available; see ADDRESSES for ways to access this service information. 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. In addition, if any crack is found in a radome during an inspection, this proposed AD would require sending the inspection results to Live TV. Explanation of ‘‘RC’’ Steps in Service Information The FAA worked in conjunction with industry, under the Airworthiness Directive Implementation Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC), 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 steps identified as RC (required for compliance) in any service information identified previously have a direct effect on detecting, preventing, resolving, or eliminating an identified unsafe condition. Steps that are identified as RC in any service information must be done to comply with the proposed AD. However, steps that are not identified as RC are recommended. Those steps that are not identified as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the operator’s maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval of an alternative method of compliance (AMOC), provided the steps identified as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in a serviceable condition. Any substitutions or changes to steps identified as RC will require approval of an AMOC. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 120 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Inspections ......... 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85, per inspection cycle. N/A $85, per inspection cycle ............... We estimate the following costs to do any necessary replacements that would be required based on the results of the proposed inspections. We have no way Cost on U.S. operators $10,200, per inspection cycle. of determining the number of aircraft that might need this replacement: ON-CONDITION COSTS Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Replacement .................................... mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS Action 8 work-hours × $85 per hour = $680 ........................................................ $0 $680 Paperwork Reduction Act A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information displays a current valid OMB control number. The control number for the collection of information required by this AD is 2120–0056. The paperwork cost associated with this AD has been detailed in the Costs of Compliance section of this document and includes time for reviewing instructions, as well as completing and VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:16 Apr 14, 2015 Jkt 235001 reviewing the collection of information. Therefore, all reporting associated with this AD is mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to the FAA at 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, ATTN: Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES–200. 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 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 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. E:\FR\FM\15APP1.SGM 15APP1 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 72 / Wednesday, April 15, 2015 / Proposed Rules 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 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2015–0826; Directorate Identifier 2014–NM–221–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by June 1, 2015. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to the airplane models identified in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), and (c)(3) of this AD, certificated in any category, with Live TV radomes having part number (P/N) 5063–100–XX (XX designates the color option) and a serial number in the range of 001 through 497 inclusive, and modified by supplemental type certificate (STC) STC ST00788SE, https://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_ and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/6df407 75b10ef09a86257ae200613cfe/$FILE/ ST00788SE.pdf. VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:16 Apr 14, 2015 Jkt 235001 (1) Airbus Model A318–111 and –112 airplanes. (2) Airbus Model A319–111, –112, –113, –114, –115, –131, –132, and –133 airplanes. (3) Airbus Model A320–111, 211, –212, –214, –231, –232, and –233 airplanes. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of cracks found during inspections of the radome assembly. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks in the in-flight entertainment system radome assembly, which could result in the radome (or pieces) separating from the airplane and striking the tail, consequently reducing the controllability of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Repetitive Inspections and Corrective Actions Within 3,900 flight hours after the effective date of this AD: Perform a detailed inspection for cracks of the radome assembly, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Live TV Service Bulletin A320–53–006, Rev 01, dated September 10, 2014. Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 3,900 flight hours. If any crack is found during any inspection required by this paragraph, before further flight, replace the radome with a new or serviceable radome, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Live TV Service Bulletin A320–53–006, Rev 01, dated September 10, 2014. (h) Reporting Requirement If any crack is found during any inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD, submit a report of the findings to Live TV, Attn: Oscar Hernandez, email: CertificationEngineering@livetv.net; at the applicable time specified in paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of this AD. The report must include the information specified in the service bulletin reporting form provided in Live TV Service Bulletin A320–53–006, Rev 01, dated September 10, 2014. (1) If the inspection was accomplished on or after the effective date of this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the inspection. (2) If the inspection was accomplished before the effective date of this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the effective date of this AD. (i) Special Flight Permit Special flight permits, as described in Section 21.197 and Section 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199), are not allowed. (j) Paperwork Reduction Act Burden Statement A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 20177 a penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 2120–0056. Public reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 5 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the collection of information. All responses to this collection of information are mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES–200. (k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Atlanta 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 Related Information section of this AD. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. (3) If any service information contains steps that are identified as RC (Required for Compliance), those steps must be done to comply with this AD; any steps that are not identified as RC are recommended. Those steps that are not identified as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the operator’s maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the steps identified as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in a serviceable condition. Any substitutions or changes to steps identified as RC require approval of an AMOC. (l) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Barry Culler, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ACE–117A, FAA, Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1701 Columbia Avenue, College Park, GA 30337; phone: 404–474–5546; fax: 404–474–5605; email: william.culler@faa.gov. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Live TV, 7415 Emerald Dunes Drive, Orlando, FL 32822; telephone 407–812–2643; email: CertificationEngineering@livetv.net; Internet: https://www.LiveTV.net. 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. E:\FR\FM\15APP1.SGM 15APP1 20178 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 72 / Wednesday, April 15, 2015 / Proposed Rules Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 6, 2015. John P. Piccola, Jr., Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2015–08465 Filed 4–14–15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2015–0828; Directorate Identifier 2014–NM–146–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 supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2013–23– 03, which applies to certain The Boeing Company Model 747–100, 747–100B, 747–100B SUD, 747–200B, 747–200C, 747–200F, 747–300, 747–400, 747– 400D, 747–400F, and 747SR series airplanes. AD 2013–23–03 currently requires doing a detailed inspection of certain attach fittings for a cylindrical defect and replacing if necessary. Since we issued AD 2013–23–03, we received a report that a machining defect was also found on some of the actuator assemblies inspected during manufacture. This defect could lead to fatigue cracking and subsequent fracture. For certain airplanes, this proposed AD would mandate new inspections of the inboard actuator attach fittings for machining defects, and overhaul or replacement, if necessary. This proposed AD would also limit the compliance time for doing the replacement for certain other airplanes. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct defective inboard actuator attach fittings which, combined with loss of the outboard actuator load path, could result in uncontrolled retraction of the outboard flap, damage to flight control systems, and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 1, 2015. 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. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:16 Apr 14, 2015 Jkt 235001 • 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 & 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. It is also available on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2015– 0828. 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–2015– 0828; 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 proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2015–0828; Directorate Identifier 2014–NM–146–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 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 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 On October 31, 2013, we issued AD 2013–23–03, Amendment 39–17658 (78 FR 68345, November 14, 2013), for certain The Boeing Company Model 747–100, 747–100B, 747–100B SUD, 747–200B, 747–200C, 747–200F, 747– 300, 747–400, 747–400D, 747–400F, and 747SR series airplanes. AD 2013–23–03 requires inspecting to determine the part number of the inboard actuator attach fittings of the outboard flap. For affected attach fittings, AD 2013–23–03 requires doing a detailed inspection of the attach fittings for a cylindrical defect and replacing if necessary. As an option to the detailed inspection, AD 2013–23– 03 allows replacement of affected attach fittings. AD 2013–23–03 resulted from a report of the fracture of an inboard actuator attach fitting of the outboard flap. An inspection of the attach fitting revealed that it was incorrectly machined with a cylindrical profile instead of a conical profile, resulting in reduced wall thickness. We issued AD 2013–23–03 to detect and correct defective inboard actuator attach fittings which, combined with loss of the outboard actuator load path, could result in uncontrolled retraction of the outboard flap, damage to flight control systems, and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane. Actions Since AD 2013–23–03, Amendment 39–17658 (78 FR 68345, November 14, 2013) Was Issued The preamble to AD 2013–23–03, Amendment 39–17658 (78 FR 68345, November 14, 2013), specified that we considered the requirements ‘‘interim action.’’ AD 2013–23–03 explained that we might consider further rulemaking to require a minimum thickness inspection of inboard actuator attach fittings that are conically machined. Since we issued AD 2013–23–03, we received a report that a machining defect was also found on some of the actuator assemblies inspected during manufacture at the point where the tapered machining transitioned to the hemispherical machining at the top of the inner surface. Revised service information has been issued and, for certain airplanes, this proposed AD would mandate new E:\FR\FM\15APP1.SGM 15APP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 15, 2015)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 20175-20178]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-08465]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2015-0826; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-221-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
certain Airbus Model A318, A319, and A320 series airplanes modified by 
a particular supplemental type certificate (STC). This proposed AD was 
prompted by reports of cracks found during inspections of the in-flight 
entertainment system radome assembly. This proposed AD would require 
repetitive detailed inspections for cracks in the radome assembly, and 
replacement of the radome if necessary. We are proposing this AD to 
detect and correct cracks in the radome assembly, which could result in 
the radome (or pieces) separating from the airplane and striking the 
tail, consequently reducing the controllability of the airplane.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 1, 2015.

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 
Live TV, 7415 Emerald Dunes Drive, Orlando, FL 32822; telephone 407-
812-2643; email: CertificationEngineering@livetv.net; Internet: https://www.LiveTV.net. 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-2015-
0826; 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: Barry Culler, Aerospace Engineer, 
Airframe Branch, ACE-117A, FAA, Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office 
(ACO), 1701 Columbia Avenue, College Park, GA 30337; phone: 404-474-
5546; fax: 404-474-5605; email: william.culler@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-2015-0826; 
Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-221-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed AD because of those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    We received reports of cracks in the in-flight entertainment system 
radomes of certain Airbus airplanes. The cracks were found during 
inspections of the radome assembly on various Airbus Model A318, A319, 
and A320 series airplanes that had in-flight entertainment systems 
installed using a certain STC issued to Live TV (STC number STC 
ST00788SE, https://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/
rgstc.nsf/0/6df40775b10ef09a86257ae200613cfe/$FILE/ST00788SE.pdf). 
Investigation of the cause of the cracks revealed that radome 
manufacturing variation, due to a lack of dimensional

[[Page 20176]]

controls on the radome manufacturing drawings, can result in the 
introduction of preload stress on the radome during its assembly with 
the skirt fairing. Preload stress combined with flight or handling 
stress, such as maintenance personnel stepping on the radome fairing 
assembly, might initiate a crack. The radome manufacturing drawings 
were revised on September 13, 2010, to add a control dimension, which 
was incorporated into production at radome serial number 498. Cracks in 
the radome, if not corrected, could result in the radome (or pieces) 
separating from the airplane and striking the tail, consequently 
reducing the controllability of the airplane.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    We reviewed Live TV Service Bulletin A320-53-006, Rev 01, dated 
September 10, 2014. The service information describes procedures for 
repetitive detailed inspections for cracks in the outer ply of the 
radome, and replacement of the radome with a new or serviceable radome, 
if any crack is found. This service information is reasonably 
available; see ADDRESSES for ways to access this service information.

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. In addition, if any 
crack is found in a radome during an inspection, this proposed AD would 
require sending the inspection results to Live TV.

Explanation of ``RC'' Steps in Service Information

    The FAA worked in conjunction with industry, under the 
Airworthiness Directive Implementation Aviation Rulemaking Committee 
(ARC), 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 steps identified as RC (required for 
compliance) in any service information identified previously have a 
direct effect on detecting, preventing, resolving, or eliminating an 
identified unsafe condition.
    Steps that are identified as RC in any service information must be 
done to comply with the proposed AD. However, steps that are not 
identified as RC are recommended. Those steps that are not identified 
as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with 
the operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining 
approval of an alternative method of compliance (AMOC), provided the 
steps identified as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in 
a serviceable condition. Any substitutions or changes to steps 
identified as RC will require approval of an AMOC.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 120 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......................  1 work-hour x $85             N/A   $85, per inspection   $10,200, per
                                    per hour = $85, per                 cycle.                inspection cycle.
                                    inspection cycle.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We estimate the following costs to do any necessary replacements 
that would be required based on the results of the proposed 
inspections. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that 
might need this replacement:

                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Cost per
                    Action                                Labor cost               Parts cost        product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacement..................................  8 work-hours x $85 per hour =                $0             $680
                                                $680.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Paperwork Reduction Act

    A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not 
required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to penalty for 
failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the 
requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of 
information displays a current valid OMB control number. The control 
number for the collection of information required by this AD is 2120-
0056. The paperwork cost associated with this AD has been detailed in 
the Costs of Compliance section of this document and includes time for 
reviewing instructions, as well as completing and reviewing the 
collection of information. Therefore, all reporting associated with 
this AD is mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden 
and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to the FAA 
at 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, ATTN: Information 
Collection Clearance Officer, AES-200.

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.

[[Page 20177]]

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-2015-0826; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-
221-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by June 1, 2015.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to the airplane models identified in paragraphs 
(c)(1), (c)(2), and (c)(3) of this AD, certificated in any category, 
with Live TV radomes having part number (P/N) 5063-100-XX (XX 
designates the color option) and a serial number in the range of 001 
through 497 inclusive, and modified by supplemental type certificate 
(STC) STC ST00788SE, https://rgl.faa.gov/
Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/
6df40775b10ef09a86257ae200613cfe/$FILE/ST00788SE.pdf.
    (1) Airbus Model A318-111 and -112 airplanes.
    (2) Airbus Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, 
and -133 airplanes.
    (3) Airbus Model A320-111, 211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 
airplanes.

(d) Subject

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

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports of cracks found during 
inspections of the radome assembly. We are issuing this AD to detect 
and correct cracks in the in-flight entertainment system radome 
assembly, which could result in the radome (or pieces) separating 
from the airplane and striking the tail, consequently reducing the 
controllability of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Repetitive Inspections and Corrective Actions

    Within 3,900 flight hours after the effective date of this AD: 
Perform a detailed inspection for cracks of the radome assembly, in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Live TV Service 
Bulletin A320-53-006, Rev 01, dated September 10, 2014. Repeat the 
inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 3,900 flight hours. 
If any crack is found during any inspection required by this 
paragraph, before further flight, replace the radome with a new or 
serviceable radome, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Live TV Service Bulletin A320-53-006, Rev 01, dated 
September 10, 2014.

(h) Reporting Requirement

    If any crack is found during any inspection required by 
paragraph (g) of this AD, submit a report of the findings to Live 
TV, Attn: Oscar Hernandez, email: 
CertificationEngineering@livetv.net; at the applicable time 
specified in paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of this AD. The report must 
include the information specified in the service bulletin reporting 
form provided in Live TV Service Bulletin A320-53-006, Rev 01, dated 
September 10, 2014.
    (1) If the inspection was accomplished on or after the effective 
date of this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the 
inspection.
    (2) If the inspection was accomplished before the effective date 
of this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the effective 
date of this AD.

(i) Special Flight Permit

    Special flight permits, as described in Section 21.197 and 
Section 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.197 
and 21.199), are not allowed.

(j) Paperwork Reduction Act Burden Statement

    A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not 
required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty 
for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to 
the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that 
collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control 
Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 
2120-0056. Public reporting for this collection of information is 
estimated to be approximately 5 minutes per response, including the 
time for reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the 
collection of information. All responses to this collection of 
information are mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this 
burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to 
the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: 
Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES-200.

(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Atlanta 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 Related Information 
section of this AD.
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding 
district office.
    (3) If any service information contains steps that are 
identified as RC (Required for Compliance), those steps must be done 
to comply with this AD; any steps that are not identified as RC are 
recommended. Those steps that are not identified as RC may be 
deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the 
operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining 
approval of an AMOC, provided the steps identified as RC can be done 
and the airplane can be put back in a serviceable condition. Any 
substitutions or changes to steps identified as RC require approval 
of an AMOC.

(l) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Barry Culler, 
Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ACE-117A, FAA, Atlanta Aircraft 
Certification Office (ACO), 1701 Columbia Avenue, College Park, GA 
30337; phone: 404-474-5546; fax: 404-474-5605; email: 
william.culler@faa.gov.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Live 
TV, 7415 Emerald Dunes Drive, Orlando, FL 32822; telephone 407-812-
2643; email: CertificationEngineering@livetv.net; Internet: https://www.LiveTV.net. 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.


[[Page 20178]]


    Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 6, 2015.
John P. Piccola, Jr.,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2015-08465 Filed 4-14-15; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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