Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 38033-38036 [2015-16155]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 127 / Thursday, July 2, 2015 / Proposed Rules Telephone: (202) 586–8145. Email: michael.kido@hq.doe.gov. For information on how to submit or review public comments and the docket, contact Ms. Brenda Edwards at (202) 586–2945 or by email: Brenda.Edwards@ee.doe.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: DOE published an RFI in the Federal Register to solicit information to help DOE determine the feasibility of developing energy conservation standards and an appropriate test procedure for this equipment. The RFI also solicited the public for information to help inform DOE’s efforts in evaluating the prospect of regulating this equipment. The comment deadline had been set for June 22, 2015. The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals requested a 90-day extension of the comment period to sufficiently prepare and submit comments. After careful consideration of the request, DOE has determined that reopening the comment period to allow additional time for interested parties to submit comments is appropriate based on the foregoing reason. Specifically, DOE believes that reopening the comment period by 45 days will provide the public with sufficient time to submit comments responding to DOE’s RFI. Accordingly, DOE is reopening the comment period and will deem any comments received (or postmarked) to be timely submitted. Issued in Washington, DC, on June 25, 2015. Kathleen B. Hogan, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. [FR Doc. 2015–16344 Filed 7–1–15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6450–01–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2015–1990; Directorate Identifier 2015–NM–027–AD] asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS 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 certain The Boeing Company Model 737–400 series airplanes, as modified by a certain SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 21:02 Jul 01, 2015 Jkt 235001 supplemental type certificate. This proposed AD was prompted by the discovery of a design drawing error regarding placards that identified incorrect squibs and pressure switches for certain fire extinguisher bottles. This proposed AD would require a detailed inspection of certain cargo placards to determine if they are the correct placards and in the correct location, a detailed inspection of the harnesses to verify that they are marked and installed correctly, and corrective action if necessary. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct incorrectly installed harnesses for the cargo fire suppression system bottles, which could result in an incorrect activation sequence of the bottles, the inability to suppress a cargo fire quickly, and a possible uncontrollable fire. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 17, 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 Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers, 1052 SW Luttrell, Blue Springs, MO 64015; telephone: 816–228–3322; Internet www.aae-ltd.com. You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227– 1221. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2015– 1990; 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 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 38033 available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Paul DeVore, Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Propulsion Branch, ACE–116W, FAA, Wichita ACO, 1801 Airport Road, Room 100, Mid-Continent Airport, Wichita, KS 67209; phone: 316–946– 4142; fax: 316–946–4107; email: paul.devore@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– 2015–1990; Directorate Identifier 2015– NM–027–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 have received a report of a design drawing error regarding the placement of placards that identify the squibs and pressure switches for halon fire extinguisher bottles Number 1 and Number 2. Electrical harnesses for the cargo fire suppression system bottles may consequently be reversed, which would cause an incorrect activation sequence of the bottles, i.e., the initial high-rate ‘‘knockdown’’ agent discharge will not be released until after a 5minute time delay rather than immediately as intended. This condition, if not corrected, could result in an incorrect activation sequence of the bottles, the inability to suppress a cargo fire quickly, and a possible uncontrollable fire. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers Service Bulletin TFA10– 26–0020, Revision IR, dated January 12, 2015. The service information describes procedures for a detailed inspection of Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers (AAE) cargo fire protection system (FPS) placards to determine if they are the correct placards and in the correct location, and a detailed inspection of E:\FR\FM\02JYP1.SGM 02JYP1 38034 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 127 / Thursday, July 2, 2015 / Proposed Rules ‘‘Differences Between this Proposed AD and the Service Information.’’ the harnesses to verify that they are marked and installed correctly. The service information also describes corrective actions such as removing the existing AAE cargo FPS placards, destroying/discarding them, and installing AAE-provided cargo FPS placards on the mounting plate. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section of this NPRM. Differences Between This Proposed AD and the Service Information Clarification of Service Information Procedures Step C.(3) of the ‘‘SERVICE BULLETIN INSTRUCTIONS’’ of Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers Service Bulletin TFA10–26–0020, Revision IR, dated January 12, 2015, does not clearly state the corrective action for the inspection of the harnesses. Therefore, paragraph (h) of this proposed AD specifies the steps in the service information that would be required if any harness is not marked correctly or not installed correctly. 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 would require accomplishing the actions specified in the service information described previously, except as discussed under While Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers Service Bulletin TFA10– 26–0020, Revision IR, dated January 12, 2015, specifies a compliance time of 30 days, this proposed AD would require a compliance time of 6 months. In developing an appropriate compliance time for this AD, we considered the degree of urgency associated with the subject unsafe condition, the average utilization of the affected fleet, and the time necessary to perform the inspection. In light of all of these factors, we find that 6 months represents an appropriate interval of time for affected airplanes to continue to operate without compromising safety. This difference has been coordinated with Boeing and AAE. The ‘‘EFFECTIVITY’’ section of Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers Service Bulletin TFA10–26–0020, Revision IR, dated January 12, 2015, lists serial number (S/N) 24132 in the ‘‘Purchased for Installation on Aircraft Serial Number’’ column. This is a typographical error in the service information. The Applicability section of this proposed AD correctly identifies S/N 24231. 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. For service information that contains steps that are labeled as Required for Compliance (RC), the following provisions apply: (1) The steps labeled as RC, including substeps under an RC step and any figures identified in an RC step, must be done to comply with the AD, and an AMOC is required for any deviations to RC steps, including substeps and identified figures; and (2) steps not labeled 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 RC steps, including substeps and identified figures, can still be done as specified, and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 3 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Detailed inspection ...................................... 2 work-hours × $85 per hour = $170 ........................... Cost per product N/A .............. We estimate the following costs to do any necessary corrective actions that would be required based on the results of the proposed inspection. We have no way of determining the number of Cost on U.S. operators $170 $510 aircraft that might need these corrective actions: ON-CONDITION COSTS Parts cost asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS Action Labor cost Corrective actions ...................................................... 2 work-hours × $85 per hour = $170 .............................................. According to the manufacturer, some of the costs of this proposed AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected individuals. We do not control warranty VerDate Sep<11>2014 21:02 Jul 01, 2015 Jkt 235001 coverage for affected individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost estimate. PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 $900 Cost per product $1,070 Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA’s authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, E:\FR\FM\02JYP1.SGM 02JYP1 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 127 / Thursday, July 2, 2015 / Proposed Rules 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. The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA– 2015–1990; Directorate Identifier 2015– NM–027–AD. 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. (d) Subject List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS 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): ■ VerDate Sep<11>2014 21:02 Jul 01, 2015 Jkt 235001 (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by August 17, 2015. (b) Affected ADs None. 38035 (i) Exception to the Service Information Specification Where Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers Service Bulletin TFA10–26–0020, Revision IR, dated January 12, 2015, specifies contacting the manufacturer for appropriate action: Before further flight, repair in accordance with a method approved by the Manager, Wichita Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA. (c) Applicability This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 737–400 series airplanes, certificated in any category, having serial numbers 23865, 24231, 24706, 24474, 25417, 27003, 27149, 25375, 26281, 28661, and 28881, as modified by Supplemental Type Certificate ST01114WI (https://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_ and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/ f9490633c04cbc8286257301006ed621/$FILE/ ST01114WI.pdf). (j) Special Flight Permit Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with sections 21.197 and 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199) to operate the airplane, provided the airplane does not carry cargo in the lower cargo bay. Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 26, Fire Protection. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by the discovery of a design drawing error regarding placards that identified incorrect squibs and pressure switches for certain fire extinguisher bottles. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct incorrectly installed harnesses for the cargo fire suppression system bottles, which could result in an incorrect activation sequence of the bottles, the inability to suppress a cargo fire quickly, and a possible uncontrollable fire. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Placard Inspection Within 6 months after effective date of this AD, do a detailed inspection of Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers cargo fire protection system (FPS) placards to determine if they are the correct placards and in the correct location, and do all applicable corrective actions, in accordance with the ‘‘SERVICE BULLETIN INSTRUCTIONS’’ of Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers Service Bulletin TFA10–26–0020, Revision IR, dated January 12, 2015. Do all applicable corrective actions before further flight. (h) Harness Inspection Within 6 months after the effective date of this AD, do a detailed inspection of the harnesses to verify that they are correctly marked and installed, in accordance with the ‘‘SERVICE BULLETIN INSTRUCTIONS’’ of Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers Service Bulletin TFA10–26–0020, Revision IR, dated January 12, 2015. If any harness is not marked or installed correctly, before further flight, do steps C.(5) through C.(11) specified in and in accordance with the ‘‘SERVICE BULLETIN INSTRUCTIONS’’ of Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers Service Bulletin TFA10–26–0020, Revision IR, dated January 12, 2015, except as required by paragraph (i) of this AD. PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 (k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Wichita 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 paragraph (l)(1) 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) Except as required by paragraph (i) of this AD: For service information that contains steps that are labeled as Required for Compliance (RC), the provisions of paragraphs (k)(3)(i) and (k)(3)(ii) apply. (i) The steps labeled as RC, including substeps under an RC step and any figures identified in an RC step, must be done to comply with the AD. An AMOC is required for any deviations to RC steps, including substeps and identified figures. (ii) Steps not labeled 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 RC steps, including substeps and identified figures, can still be done as specified, and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. (l) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Paul C. DeVore, Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Propulsion Branch, ACE–116W, FAA, Wichita ACO, 1801 Airport Road, Room 100, Mid-Continent Airport, Wichita, KS 67209; phone: 316–946–4142; fax: 316– 946–4107; email: paul.devore@faa.gov. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers, 1052 SW Luttrell, Blue Springs, MO 64015; telephone: 816–228– 3322; Internet www.aae-ltd.com. You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. E:\FR\FM\02JYP1.SGM 02JYP1 38036 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 127 / Thursday, July 2, 2015 / Proposed Rules Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 24, 2015. Dionne Palermo, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2015–16155 Filed 7–1–15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2015–1991; Directorate Identifier 2014–NM–251–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A318–111 and –112 airplanes; Model A319–111, –112, and –115 airplanes; Model A320–214 airplanes; and Model A321–111, –112, –211, –212, and –213 airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of cracked cadmium-plated lock nuts that attach the hinge to the fan cowl door. This proposed AD would require inspecting to determine the serial number of each engine fan cowl door, inspecting for cracking of the hinge lock nuts of any affected door, and replacing the lock nuts if necessary. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct cracking of the hinge lock nuts, which could result in separation of the hinge from the fan cowl door, in-flight loss of the door, and consequent damage to the airplane. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 17, 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: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 21:02 Jul 01, 2015 Jkt 235001 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact the following: For Airbus service information contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office— EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93 44 51; email: account.airwortheas@airbus.com; Internet https:// www.airbus.com. For Goodrich service information contact Goodrich Aerostructures, 850 Lagoon Drive, Chula Vista, California, 91910–2098; telephone: 619–691–2719; email: jan.lewis@goodrich.com; Internet: https://www.goodrich.com/TechPubs. 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– 1991; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations office (telephone 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone: 425–227–1405; fax: 425–227–1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2015–1991; Directorate Identifier 2014–NM–251–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed AD based on those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. Discussion The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014–0276, dated December 19, 2014 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A318–111 and –112 airplanes; Model A319–111, –112, and –115 airplanes; Model A320–214 airplanes; and Model A321–111, –112, –211, –212, and –213 airplanes. The MCAI states: In-service findings have been reported of cracked cadmium plated lock nuts. This cracking occurs shortly after installation. Investigation results attribute the cause to an improper manufacturing procedure of the nuts. It was determined that the affected batch of lock nuts was used on the fan cowl to attach hinges to the cowl doors on CFM56–5B engines only. This condition, if not corrected, could lead to separation of the hinge from the fan cowl door, possibly resulting in in-flight loss of a fan cowl door, with consequent damage to the aeroplane and/or injury to persons on the ground. For the reasons describes above, this [EASA] AD required identification of the affected fan cowl doors, a one-time inspection of the fan cowl door hinge nuts and, depending on findings, replacement of the affected nuts. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2015– 1991. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Airbus has issued Service Bulletin A320–71–1062, including Appendix 01, dated July 28, 2014. Goodrich Aerostructures has issued Service Bulletin RA32071–151, dated June 11, 2014. The service information describes procedures for inspection of the hinge nuts of the fan cowl door, and replacement if necessary. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section of this NPRM. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation E:\FR\FM\02JYP1.SGM 02JYP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 127 (Thursday, July 2, 2015)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 38033-38036]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-16155]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2015-1990; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-027-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 737-400 series airplanes, as modified 
by a certain supplemental type certificate. This proposed AD was 
prompted by the discovery of a design drawing error regarding placards 
that identified incorrect squibs and pressure switches for certain fire 
extinguisher bottles. This proposed AD would require a detailed 
inspection of certain cargo placards to determine if they are the 
correct placards and in the correct location, a detailed inspection of 
the harnesses to verify that they are marked and installed correctly, 
and corrective action if necessary. We are proposing this AD to detect 
and correct incorrectly installed harnesses for the cargo fire 
suppression system bottles, which could result in an incorrect 
activation sequence of the bottles, the inability to suppress a cargo 
fire quickly, and a possible uncontrollable fire.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 17, 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 
Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers, 1052 SW Luttrell, Blue Springs, MO 
64015; telephone: 816-228-3322; Internet www.aae-ltd.com. You may view 
this referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane 
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the 
availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-
1990; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket 
contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments 
received, and other information. The street address for the Docket 
Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will 
be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Paul DeVore, Aerospace Engineer, 
Systems and Propulsion Branch, ACE-116W, FAA, Wichita ACO, 1801 Airport 
Road, Room 100, Mid-Continent Airport, Wichita, KS 67209; phone: 316-
946-4142; fax: 316-946-4107; email: paul.devore@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-2015-1990; 
Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-027-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 have received a report of a design drawing error regarding the 
placement of placards that identify the squibs and pressure switches 
for halon fire extinguisher bottles Number 1 and Number 2. Electrical 
harnesses for the cargo fire suppression system bottles may 
consequently be reversed, which would cause an incorrect activation 
sequence of the bottles, i.e., the initial high-rate ``knockdown'' 
agent discharge will not be released until after a 5-minute time delay 
rather than immediately as intended. This condition, if not corrected, 
could result in an incorrect activation sequence of the bottles, the 
inability to suppress a cargo fire quickly, and a possible 
uncontrollable fire.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    We reviewed Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers Service Bulletin TFA10-
26-0020, Revision IR, dated January 12, 2015. The service information 
describes procedures for a detailed inspection of Advanced Aircraft 
Extinguishers (AAE) cargo fire protection system (FPS) placards to 
determine if they are the correct placards and in the correct location, 
and a detailed inspection of

[[Page 38034]]

the harnesses to verify that they are marked and installed correctly. 
The service information also describes corrective actions such as 
removing the existing AAE cargo FPS placards, destroying/discarding 
them, and installing AAE-provided cargo FPS placards on the mounting 
plate. This service information is reasonably available because the 
interested parties have access to it through their normal course of 
business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section of this 
NPRM.

Clarification of Service Information Procedures

    Step C.(3) of the ``SERVICE BULLETIN INSTRUCTIONS'' of Advanced 
Aircraft Extinguishers Service Bulletin TFA10-26-0020, Revision IR, 
dated January 12, 2015, does not clearly state the corrective action 
for the inspection of the harnesses. Therefore, paragraph (h) of this 
proposed AD specifies the steps in the service information that would 
be required if any harness is not marked correctly or not installed 
correctly.

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 would require accomplishing the actions specified 
in the service information described previously, except as discussed 
under ``Differences Between this Proposed AD and the Service 
Information.''

Differences Between This Proposed AD and the Service Information

    While Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers Service Bulletin TFA10-26-
0020, Revision IR, dated January 12, 2015, specifies a compliance time 
of 30 days, this proposed AD would require a compliance time of 6 
months. In developing an appropriate compliance time for this AD, we 
considered the degree of urgency associated with the subject unsafe 
condition, the average utilization of the affected fleet, and the time 
necessary to perform the inspection. In light of all of these factors, 
we find that 6 months represents an appropriate interval of time for 
affected airplanes to continue to operate without compromising safety. 
This difference has been coordinated with Boeing and AAE.
    The ``EFFECTIVITY'' section of Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers 
Service Bulletin TFA10-26-0020, Revision IR, dated January 12, 2015, 
lists serial number (S/N) 24132 in the ``Purchased for Installation on 
Aircraft Serial Number'' column. This is a typographical error in the 
service information. The Applicability section of this proposed AD 
correctly identifies S/N 24231.

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.
    For service information that contains steps that are labeled as 
Required for Compliance (RC), the following provisions apply: (1) The 
steps labeled as RC, including substeps under an RC step and any 
figures identified in an RC step, must be done to comply with the AD, 
and an AMOC is required for any deviations to RC steps, including 
substeps and identified figures; and (2) steps not labeled 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 RC steps, including substeps and identified figures, 
can still be done as specified, and the airplane can be put back in an 
airworthy condition.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 3 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                       Cost on
               Action                        Labor cost               Parts cost          Cost per       U.S.
                                                                                          product     operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Detailed inspection.................  2 work-hours x $85 per   N/A....................         $170         $510
                                       hour = $170.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We estimate the following costs to do any necessary corrective 
actions that would be required based on the results of the proposed 
inspection. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that 
might need these corrective actions:

                           On-Condition Costs
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     Parts     Cost per
             Action                  Labor cost       cost     product
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Corrective actions.............  2 work-hours x        $900       $1,070
                                  $85 per hour =
                                  $170.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    According to the manufacturer, some of the costs of this proposed 
AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on 
affected individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected 
individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost 
estimate.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,

[[Page 38035]]

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-2015-1990; Directorate Identifier 
2015-NM-027-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by August 17, 2015.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 737-400 series 
airplanes, certificated in any category, having serial numbers 
23865, 24231, 24706, 24474, 25417, 27003, 27149, 25375, 26281, 
28661, and 28881, as modified by Supplemental Type Certificate 
ST01114WI (https://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/
rgstc.nsf/0/f9490633c04cbc8286257301006ed621/$FILE/ST01114WI.pdf).

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 26, Fire 
Protection.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by the discovery of a design drawing error 
regarding placards that identified incorrect squibs and pressure 
switches for certain fire extinguisher bottles. We are issuing this 
AD to detect and correct incorrectly installed harnesses for the 
cargo fire suppression system bottles, which could result in an 
incorrect activation sequence of the bottles, the inability to 
suppress a cargo fire quickly, and a possible uncontrollable fire.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Placard Inspection

    Within 6 months after effective date of this AD, do a detailed 
inspection of Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers cargo fire protection 
system (FPS) placards to determine if they are the correct placards 
and in the correct location, and do all applicable corrective 
actions, in accordance with the ``SERVICE BULLETIN INSTRUCTIONS'' of 
Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers Service Bulletin TFA10-26-0020, 
Revision IR, dated January 12, 2015. Do all applicable corrective 
actions before further flight.

(h) Harness Inspection

    Within 6 months after the effective date of this AD, do a 
detailed inspection of the harnesses to verify that they are 
correctly marked and installed, in accordance with the ``SERVICE 
BULLETIN INSTRUCTIONS'' of Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers Service 
Bulletin TFA10-26-0020, Revision IR, dated January 12, 2015. If any 
harness is not marked or installed correctly, before further flight, 
do steps C.(5) through C.(11) specified in and in accordance with 
the ``SERVICE BULLETIN INSTRUCTIONS'' of Advanced Aircraft 
Extinguishers Service Bulletin TFA10-26-0020, Revision IR, dated 
January 12, 2015, except as required by paragraph (i) of this AD.

(i) Exception to the Service Information Specification

    Where Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers Service Bulletin TFA10-26-
0020, Revision IR, dated January 12, 2015, specifies contacting the 
manufacturer for appropriate action: Before further flight, repair 
in accordance with a method approved by the Manager, Wichita 
Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA.

(j) Special Flight Permit

    Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with sections 
21.197 and 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.197 
and 21.199) to operate the airplane, provided the airplane does not 
carry cargo in the lower cargo bay.

(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Wichita 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 paragraph (l)(1) 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) Except as required by paragraph (i) of this AD: For service 
information that contains steps that are labeled as Required for 
Compliance (RC), the provisions of paragraphs (k)(3)(i) and 
(k)(3)(ii) apply.
    (i) The steps labeled as RC, including substeps under an RC step 
and any figures identified in an RC step, must be done to comply 
with the AD. An AMOC is required for any deviations to RC steps, 
including substeps and identified figures.
    (ii) Steps not labeled 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 RC 
steps, including substeps and identified figures, can still be done 
as specified, and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy 
condition.

(l) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Paul C. DeVore, 
Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Propulsion Branch, ACE-116W, FAA, 
Wichita ACO, 1801 Airport Road, Room 100, Mid-Continent Airport, 
Wichita, KS 67209; phone: 316-946-4142; fax: 316-946-4107; email: 
paul.devore@faa.gov.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers, 1052 SW Luttrell, Blue Springs, MO 
64015; telephone: 816-228-3322; Internet www.aae-ltd.com. You may 
view this referenced service information at the FAA, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
425-227-1221.


[[Page 38036]]


    Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 24, 2015.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2015-16155 Filed 7-1-15; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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