Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes, 8023-8026 [2016-03133]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 31 / Wednesday, February 17, 2016 / Proposed Rules Lhorne on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS ashley.armstrong@ee.doe.gov; or Mr. Steven Goering, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General Counsel, Forrestal Building, GC–32, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585–0121. Telephone: 202–286–5691. Email: steven.goering@hq.doe.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On December 29, 2015, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NOPR) in the Federal Register proposing that a person importing into the United States any covered product or equipment subject to an applicable energy conservation standard provide, prior to importation, a certification of admissibility to the DOE. (80 FR 81199) The comment period ended February 12, 2016. After receiving several requests for additional time to prepare and submit comments, DOE has decided to extend the period for submitting comments. In addition, DOE announces a public meeting and webinar regarding its proposal. DOE will host a public meeting and webinar on February 19, 2016, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at DOE’s Forrestal Building, Room 8E–089. DOE will accept comments, data, and information in response to the NOPR received no later than February 29, 2016. DOE will consider any comments in response to the NOPR received by midnight of February 29, 2016, and deems any comments received by that time to be timely submitted. completed. Anyone attending the meeting will be required to present a government photo identification, such as a passport, driver’s license, or government identification. Due to the required security screening upon entry, individuals attending should arrive early to allow for the extra time needed. Due to the REAL ID Act implemented by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recent changes have been made regarding ID requirements for individuals wishing to enter Federal buildings from specific states and U.S. territories. Driver’s licenses from the following states or territory will not be accepted for building entry and one of the alternate forms of ID listed below will be required. DHS has determined that regular driver’s licenses (and ID cards) from the following jurisdictions are not acceptable for entry into DOE facilities: Alaska, Louisiana, New York, American Samoa, Maine, Oklahoma, Arizona, Massachusetts, Washington, and Minnesota. Acceptable alternate forms of PhotoID include: U.S. Passport or Passport Card; an Enhanced Driver’s License or Enhanced ID-Card issued by the states of Minnesota, New York or Washington (Enhanced licenses issued by these states are clearly marked Enhanced or Enhanced Driver’s License); A military ID or other Federal government issued Photo-ID card. Meeting Address U.S. Department of Energy, Forrestal Building, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585, Room 8E– 089. Individuals will also have the opportunity to participate by webinar. To register for the webinar and receive call-in information, please register at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/ register/8895993921663587586. To attend the meeting and/or to make oral statements regarding any of the items on the agenda, email Ms. Brenda Edwards brenda.edwards@ee.doe.gov. In the email, please indicate your name, organization (if appropriate), citizenship, and contact information. Please note that foreign nationals participating in the public meeting are subject to advance security screening procedures which require advance notice prior to attendance at the public meeting. If a foreign national wishes to participate in the public meeting, please inform DOE as soon as possible by contacting Ms. Regina Washington at (202) 586–1214 or by email: Regina.Washington@ee.doe.gov so that the necessary procedures can be Any comments submitted must identify the NOPR for Import Data Collection, and provide docket number EERE–2015–BT–CE–0019 and/or regulatory information number (RIN) number 1990–AA44. Comments may be submitted using any of the following methods: 1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. 2. Email: ImportData2015CE0019@ ee.doe.gov. Include the docket number and/or RIN in the subject line of the message. 3. Mail: Ms. Brenda Edwards, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Program, Mailstop EE–5B, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585–0121. If possible, please submit all items on a CD. It is not necessary to include printed copies. 4. Hand Delivery/Courier: Ms. Brenda Edwards, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Program, 950 L’Enfant Plaza SW., Suite 600, Washington, DC 20024. Telephone: (202) 586–2945. If possible, please VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:40 Feb 16, 2016 Jkt 238001 Frm 00016 Fmt 4702 submit all items on a CD. It is not necessary to include printed copies. Docket: The docket, which includes Federal Register notices, public meeting attendee lists and transcripts, comments, and other supporting documents/materials, is available for review at regulations.gov. All documents in the docket are listed in the regulations.gov index. However, some documents listed in the index, such as those containing information that is exempt from public disclosure, may not be publicly available. A link to the docket Web page can be found at: https://www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=EERE-2015-BT-CE0019. This Web page will contain a link to the docket for this notice on the regulations.gov site. The regulations.gov Web page will contain simple instructions on how to access all documents, including public comments, in the docket. For further information on how to submit a comment, review other public comments and the docket, or to request a public meeting, contact Ms. Brenda Edwards at (202) 586–2945 or by email: Brenda.Edwards@ee.doe.gov. Issued in Washington, DC, on February 8, 2016. Kathleen B. Hogan, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. [FR Doc. 2016–03092 Filed 2–16–16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6450–01–P Public Participation PO 00000 8023 Sfmt 4702 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2016–3696; Directorate Identifier 2015–NM–113–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, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a report of a partial loss of the no-back brake (NBB) efficiency during endurance qualification tests on the trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA). This proposed AD would require inspecting certain THSAs to determine SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\17FEP1.SGM 17FEP1 8024 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 31 / Wednesday, February 17, 2016 / Proposed Rules the number of total flight cycles the THSA has accumulated, and replacing the THSA if necessary. We are proposing this AD to prevent premature wear of the carbon friction disks on the NBB of the THSA, which could lead to reduced braking efficiency in certain load conditions, and, in conjunction with the inability of the power gear train to keep the ball screw in its last commanded position, could result in uncommanded movements of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer and loss of control of the airplane. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by April 4, 2016. 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 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this NPRM, 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.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com. You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. Lhorne on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– 3696; 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. VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:40 Feb 16, 2016 Jkt 238001 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–2016–3696; Directorate Identifier 2015–NM–113–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed AD based on those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. Discussion The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2015–0080, dated May 7, 2015 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. The MCAI states: During endurance qualification tests on A380 Trimmable Horizontal Stabilizer Actuator (THSA), a partial loss of the no-back brake (NBB) efficiency was experienced. Investigation results concluded that this particular malfunction was due to an ageing/ endurance issue of the surfaces of the NBB carbon friction disks, leading to a partial loss of braking efficiency in some specific aerodynamic load conditions. Due to design similarity on A320 family fleet, the same tests were initiated by the THSA manufacturer on certain SA type THSA, sampled from the field. Subject tests confirmed that THSA Part Number (P/N) 47145 series, as installed on A320 family aeroplanes, are also affected by this partial loss of NBB efficiency. This condition, if not detected and corrected, and in conjunction with the power gear train not able to keep the ball screw in its last commanded position, could lead to an uncommanded movement of the THS, possibly resulting in loss of control of the aeroplane. For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires [inspecting certain PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 THSAs to determine the number of total flight cycles the THSA has accumulated and replacing THSAs having certain total flight cycles.] * * * . 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–2016– 3696. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Airbus has issued Service Bulletin A320–27–1242, dated February 9, 2015. The service information describes procedures for replacing the THSA with a serviceable THSA. 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. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Explanation of Compliance Times The MCAI requires operators to replace certain THSAs by certain dates. The replacements are done for THSAs exceeding a certain flight cycle limit corresponding to each date. EASA determined that accomplishing the replacements by these dates is necessary in order to address the identified unsafe condition. Therefore, we are also specifying compliance dates in this proposed AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 959 airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would take about 1 work-hour per product to comply with the basic requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $81,515, or $85 per product. In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would take about 21 work-hours and require parts costing $26,500, for a cost of $28,285 per product. We have no way of E:\FR\FM\17FEP1.SGM 17FEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 31 / Wednesday, February 17, 2016 / Proposed Rules determining the number of aircraft that might need this action. Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA’s authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more detail the scope of the Agency’s authority. We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.’’ Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed regulation: 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and 4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. Lhorne on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:40 Feb 16, 2016 Jkt 238001 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–2016–3696; Directorate Identifier 2015–NM–113–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by April 4, 2016. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus airplanes, certificated in any category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), and (c)(4) of this AD, all manufacturer serial numbers. (1) Model A318–111, –112, –121, and –122 airplanes. (2) Model A319–111, –112, –113, –114, –115, –131, –132, and –133 airplanes. (3) Model A320–211, –212, –214, –231, –232, and –233 airplanes. (4) Model A321–111, –112, –131, –211, –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 27, Flight Controls. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by a report of a partial loss of the no-back brake (NBB) efficiency during endurance qualification tests on the trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA). We are issuing this AD to prevent premature wear of the carbon friction disks on the NBB of the THSA, which could lead to reduced braking efficiency in certain load conditions, and, in conjunction with the inability of the power gear train to keep the ball screw in its last commanded position, could result in uncommanded movements of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer and loss of control of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Inspection To Determine THSA Part Number and Accumulated Total Flight Cycles Not later than each date specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD: Inspect the THSA to determine if it has a part number (P/N) 47145–(XXX), and, if any THSA P/N 47145–(XXX) is found, determine the total number of flight cycles accumulated since the THSA’s first installation on an airplane, or since the most recent NBB replacement, whichever is later. A review of airplane delivery or maintenance records is acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the part number of the THSA can be conclusively determined from that review. In case maintenance records concerning the most recent NBB disk replacement are unavailable or incomplete, the total flight cycles accumulated since first installation of the THSA on an airplane apply. PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 8025 (1) As of the effective date of this AD: The THSA flight-cycle limit (since first installation on an airplane, or since the most recent NBB replacement, whichever is later) is 40,000 total flight cycles. (2) As of December 31, 2016: The THSA flight-cycle limit (since first installation on an airplane, or since the most recent NBB replacement, whichever is later) is 36,000 total flight cycles. (3) As of December 31, 2017: The THSA flight-cycle limit (since first installation on an airplane, or since the most recent NBB replacement, whichever is later) is 33,600 total flight cycles. (4) As of December 31, 2018: The THSA flight-cycle limit (since first installation on an airplane, or since the most recent NBB replacement, whichever is later) is 31,600 total flight cycles. (5) As of December 31, 2019: The THSA flight-cycle limit (since first installation on an airplane, or since the most recent NBB replacement, whichever is later) is 30,000 total flight cycles. (h) Replacements For airplanes with any THSA P/N 47145– (XXX): Do the replacements required by paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD. (1) Not later than each date specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD, replace all THSA that have reached or exceeded on each date the corresponding number of flight cycles specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD. Do the replacement in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320–27–1242, dated February 9, 2015. Affected THSAs must be replaced with serviceable THSAs. (2) As of each date specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD, and before exceeding the flight cycle limit corresponding to each date, as applicable: Replace each THSA with a serviceable THSA, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320–27–1242, dated February 9, 2015. (i) Definition of Serviceable THSA For the purposes of this AD: A serviceable THSA is a THSA that has not exceeded the applicable flight-cycle-limits, as specified paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD, since first installation of the THSA on an airplane or since last NBB replacement, whichever is later. Note 1 to paragraph (i) of this AD: Guidance for NBB disc replacement can be found in UTC Aerospace Systems Service Bulletin 47145–27–17, Revision 1, dated July 21, 2015. (j) Parts Installation Limitation As of each date specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD, as applicable, installation of a THSA P/N 47145–(XXX) is allowed on an airplane, provided the THSA is a serviceable THSA. (k) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, International E:\FR\FM\17FEP1.SGM 17FEP1 8026 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 31 / Wednesday, February 17, 2016 / Proposed Rules Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: 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. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding district office. The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD. (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM– 116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus’s EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (l) Special Flight Permits 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. (m) Related Information Lhorne on DSK5TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2015–0080, dated May 7, 2015, for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA– 2016–3696. (2) For service information identified in this AD, 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.airworth-eas@ airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. Issued in Renton, Washington, on February 8, 2016. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2016–03133 Filed 2–16–16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:40 Feb 16, 2016 Jkt 238001 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2015–5800; Airspace Docket No. 15–AGL–21] Proposed Establishment of Class E Airspace; Lisbon, ND Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: This action proposes to establish Class E airspace at Lisbon, ND. Controlled airspace is necessary to accommodate new Standard Instrument Approach Procedures developed at Lisbon Municipal Airport, for the safety and management of Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) operations at the airport. DATES: Comments must be received on or before April 4, 2016. ADDRESSES: Send comments on this proposal to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590; telephone (202) 366–9826. You must identify FAA Docket No. FAA–2015–5800; Docket No.15–AGL–21, at the beginning of your comments. You may also submit comments through the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov. You may review the public docket containing the proposal, any comments received, and any final disposition in person in the Dockets Office between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The Docket Office (telephone 1–800–647–5527), is on the ground floor of the building at the above address. FAA Order 7400.9Z, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, and subsequent amendments can be viewed online at https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/ publications/. For further information, you can contact the Airspace Policy Group, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 29591; telephone: 202–267–8783. The Order is also available for inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of FAA order 7400.9Z at NARA, call 202–741– 6030, or go to https://www.archives.gov/ federal_register/code_of_federalregulations/ibr_locations.html. FAA Order 7400.9, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, is published yearly and effective on September 15. SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Raul Garza, Jr., Central Service Center, Operations Support Group, Federal Aviation Administration, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone: 817–222– 5874. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Authority for This Rulemaking The FAA’s authority to issue rules regarding aviation safety is found in Title 49 of the United States Code. 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. This rulemaking is promulgated under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part, A, Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that section, the FAA is charged with prescribing regulations to assign the use of airspace necessary to ensure the safety of aircraft and the efficient use of airspace. This regulation is within the scope of that authority as it would establish Class E airspace at Lisbon Municipal Airport, Lisbon, ND. Comments Invited Interested parties are invited to participate in this proposed rulemaking by submitting such written data, views, or arguments, as they may desire. Comments that provide the factual basis supporting the views and suggestions presented are particularly helpful in developing reasoned regulatory decisions on the proposal. Comments are specifically invited on the overall regulatory, aeronautical, economic, environmental, and energy-related aspects of the proposal. Communications should identify both docket numbers and be submitted in triplicate to the address listed above. Commenters wishing the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments on this notice must submit with those comments a self-addressed, stamped postcard on which the following statement is made: ‘‘Comments to Docket No. FAA–2015–5800/Airspace Docket No. 15–AGL–21.’’ The postcard will be date/time stamped and returned to the commenter. Availability of NPRMs An electronic copy of this document may be downloaded through the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov. Recently published rulemaking documents can also be accessed through the FAA’s Web page at https:// www.faa.gov/airports_airtraffic/air_ traffic/publications/airspace_ amendments/. E:\FR\FM\17FEP1.SGM 17FEP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 31 (Wednesday, February 17, 2016)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 8023-8026]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-03133]


=======================================================================
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2016-3696; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-113-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. This proposed 
AD was prompted by a report of a partial loss of the no-back brake 
(NBB) efficiency during endurance qualification tests on the trimmable 
horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA). This proposed AD would require 
inspecting certain THSAs to determine

[[Page 8024]]

the number of total flight cycles the THSA has accumulated, and 
replacing the THSA if necessary. We are proposing this AD to prevent 
premature wear of the carbon friction disks on the NBB of the THSA, 
which could lead to reduced braking efficiency in certain load 
conditions, and, in conjunction with the inability of the power gear 
train to keep the ball screw in its last commanded position, could 
result in uncommanded movements of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer 
and loss of control of the airplane.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by April 4, 2016.

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 p.m., Monday 
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this NPRM, 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.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com. You may view this referenced service information at the 
FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. 
For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
425-227-1221.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-
3696; 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-2016-3696; 
Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-113-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed AD based on those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA 
Airworthiness Directive 2015-0080, dated May 7, 2015 (referred to after 
this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the 
MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A318, 
A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. The MCAI states:

    During endurance qualification tests on A380 Trimmable 
Horizontal Stabilizer Actuator (THSA), a partial loss of the no-back 
brake (NBB) efficiency was experienced. Investigation results 
concluded that this particular malfunction was due to an ageing/
endurance issue of the surfaces of the NBB carbon friction disks, 
leading to a partial loss of braking efficiency in some specific 
aerodynamic load conditions.
    Due to design similarity on A320 family fleet, the same tests 
were initiated by the THSA manufacturer on certain SA type THSA, 
sampled from the field. Subject tests confirmed that THSA Part 
Number (P/N) 47145 series, as installed on A320 family aeroplanes, 
are also affected by this partial loss of NBB efficiency.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, and in 
conjunction with the power gear train not able to keep the ball 
screw in its last commanded position, could lead to an uncommanded 
movement of the THS, possibly resulting in loss of control of the 
aeroplane.
    For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires 
[inspecting certain THSAs to determine the number of total flight 
cycles the THSA has accumulated and replacing THSAs having certain 
total flight cycles.] * * * .

    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-2016-
3696.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus has issued Service Bulletin A320-27-1242, dated February 9, 
2015. The service information describes procedures for replacing the 
THSA with a serviceable THSA. 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.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have 
been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service 
information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we 
evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition 
exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same 
type design.

Explanation of Compliance Times

    The MCAI requires operators to replace certain THSAs by certain 
dates. The replacements are done for THSAs exceeding a certain flight 
cycle limit corresponding to each date. EASA determined that 
accomplishing the replacements by these dates is necessary in order to 
address the identified unsafe condition. Therefore, we are also 
specifying compliance dates in this proposed AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 959 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.
    We also estimate that it would take about 1 work-hour per product 
to comply with the basic requirements of this proposed AD. The average 
labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate 
the cost of this proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $81,515, or $85 
per product.
    In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would 
take about 21 work-hours and require parts costing $26,500, for a cost 
of $28,285 per product. We have no way of

[[Page 8025]]

determining the number of aircraft that might need this action.

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed 
regulation:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
    3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and
    4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

Airbus: Docket No. FAA-2016-3696; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-
113-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by April 4, 2016.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus airplanes, certificated in any 
category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), and 
(c)(4) of this AD, all manufacturer serial numbers.
    (1) Model A318-111, -112, -121, and -122 airplanes.
    (2) Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, and -133 
airplanes.
    (3) Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes.
    (4) Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 
airplanes.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 27, Flight 
Controls.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by a report of a partial loss of the no-
back brake (NBB) efficiency during endurance qualification tests on 
the trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA). We are issuing 
this AD to prevent premature wear of the carbon friction disks on 
the NBB of the THSA, which could lead to reduced braking efficiency 
in certain load conditions, and, in conjunction with the inability 
of the power gear train to keep the ball screw in its last commanded 
position, could result in uncommanded movements of the trimmable 
horizontal stabilizer and loss of control of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Inspection To Determine THSA Part Number and Accumulated Total 
Flight Cycles

    Not later than each date specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through 
(g)(5) of this AD: Inspect the THSA to determine if it has a part 
number (P/N) 47145-(XXX), and, if any THSA P/N 47145-(XXX) is found, 
determine the total number of flight cycles accumulated since the 
THSA's first installation on an airplane, or since the most recent 
NBB replacement, whichever is later. A review of airplane delivery 
or maintenance records is acceptable in lieu of this inspection if 
the part number of the THSA can be conclusively determined from that 
review. In case maintenance records concerning the most recent NBB 
disk replacement are unavailable or incomplete, the total flight 
cycles accumulated since first installation of the THSA on an 
airplane apply.
    (1) As of the effective date of this AD: The THSA flight-cycle 
limit (since first installation on an airplane, or since the most 
recent NBB replacement, whichever is later) is 40,000 total flight 
cycles.
    (2) As of December 31, 2016: The THSA flight-cycle limit (since 
first installation on an airplane, or since the most recent NBB 
replacement, whichever is later) is 36,000 total flight cycles.
    (3) As of December 31, 2017: The THSA flight-cycle limit (since 
first installation on an airplane, or since the most recent NBB 
replacement, whichever is later) is 33,600 total flight cycles.
    (4) As of December 31, 2018: The THSA flight-cycle limit (since 
first installation on an airplane, or since the most recent NBB 
replacement, whichever is later) is 31,600 total flight cycles.
    (5) As of December 31, 2019: The THSA flight-cycle limit (since 
first installation on an airplane, or since the most recent NBB 
replacement, whichever is later) is 30,000 total flight cycles.

(h) Replacements

    For airplanes with any THSA P/N 47145-(XXX): Do the replacements 
required by paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD.
    (1) Not later than each date specified in paragraphs (g)(1) 
through (g)(5) of this AD, replace all THSA that have reached or 
exceeded on each date the corresponding number of flight cycles 
specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD. Do the 
replacement in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1242, dated February 9, 2015. 
Affected THSAs must be replaced with serviceable THSAs.
    (2) As of each date specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through 
(g)(5) of this AD, and before exceeding the flight cycle limit 
corresponding to each date, as applicable: Replace each THSA with a 
serviceable THSA, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions 
of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-27-1242, dated February 9, 2015.

(i) Definition of Serviceable THSA

    For the purposes of this AD: A serviceable THSA is a THSA that 
has not exceeded the applicable flight-cycle-limits, as specified 
paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD, since first 
installation of the THSA on an airplane or since last NBB 
replacement, whichever is later.

    Note 1 to paragraph (i) of this AD: Guidance for NBB disc 
replacement can be found in UTC Aerospace Systems Service Bulletin 
47145-27-17, Revision 1, dated July 21, 2015.

(j) Parts Installation Limitation

    As of each date specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of 
this AD, as applicable, installation of a THSA P/N 47145-(XXX) is 
allowed on an airplane, provided the THSA is a serviceable THSA.

(k) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International

[[Page 8026]]

Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, has the 
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the 
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, 
send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: 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. Information may be 
emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any 
approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or 
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight 
standards district office/certificate holding district office. The 
AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD.
    (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD 
to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be 
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International 
Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the 
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design 
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval 
must include the DOA-authorized signature.

(l) Special Flight Permits

    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.

(m) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2015-0080, dated May 7, 2015, 
for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on 
the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and 
locating Docket No. FAA-2016-3696.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, 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.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. 
For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, 
call 425-227-1221.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on February 8, 2016.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-03133 Filed 2-16-16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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