Airworthiness Directives; BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Airplanes, 18469-18471 [2016-07020]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 62 / Thursday, March 31, 2016 / Rules and Regulations DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2015–4212; Directorate Identifier 2015–NM–010–AD; Amendment 39–18451; AD 2016–07–06] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Model BAe 146 series airplanes and Model Avro 146–RJ series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of cracking of the main fitting of the nose landing gear (NLG) and a determination that a new safe-life limitation for affected NLG main fittings has not been mandated. This AD requires replacing affected NLG main fittings that have exceeded the safe-life limitation with a new or serviceable fitting. We are issuing this AD to prevent collapse of the NLG, which if not corrected, could lead to degradation of direction control on the ground or an un-commanded turn to the left, and a consequent loss of control of the airplane on the ground, possibly resulting in damage to the airplane and injury to occupants. DATES: This AD becomes effective May 5, 2016. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of May 5, 2016. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact BAE Systems (Operations) Limited, Customer Information Department, Prestwick International Airport, Ayrshire, KA9 2RW, Scotland, United Kingdom; telephone +44 1292 675207; fax +44 1292 675704; email RApublications@ baesystems.com; Internet https:// www.baesystems.com/Businesses/ RegionalAircraft/index.htm. 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. It is also available on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2015– 4212. jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:13 Mar 30, 2016 Jkt 238001 18469 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– 4212; 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 AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations office (telephone 800–647–5527) is Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Todd Thompson, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1175; fax 425–227–1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Prompted by these findings, BAE Systems (Operations) Ltd issued Inspection Service Bulletin (ISB) 32–186 (hereafter referred to as the ISB) to introduce a new safe life of 16,000 flight cycles (FC) for certain NLG main fittings, having a Part Number (P/N) as identified in Paragraph 1A, tables 1, 2 and 3 of the ISB. To correct this unsafe condition, EASA issued [EASA] AD 2012–0191 to require implementation of the new safe-life limitation for the affected NLG main fittings and replacement of fittings that have already exceeded the new limit. Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Model BAe 146 series airplanes and Model Avro 146–RJ series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on November 12, 2015 (80 FR 69903) (‘‘the NPRM’’). The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2012–0191R1, dated November 6, 2012 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for all BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Model BAe 146 series airplanes and Model Avro 146–RJ series airplanes. The MCAI states: We reviewed the available data and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this AD as proposed, except for minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes: • Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and • Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM. Several occurrences of the aeroplane‘s Nose Landing Gear (NLG) Main Fitting cracking have been reported. Subsequently in different cases, NLG Main Fitting crack lead to collapsed NLG, locked NLG steering and an aeroplane‘s un-commanded steering to the left. Cracks in the NLG Bell Housing are not detectable with the NLG fitted to the aeroplane and are difficult to detect during overhaul without substantial disassembly of the gear. This condition, if not corrected, could lead to degradation of directional control on the ground or an un-commanded turn to the left and a consequent loss of control of the aeroplane on the ground, possibly resulting in damage to the aeroplane and injury to occupants. PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 * * * * * 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– 4212. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. We received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of the cost to the public. Conclusion Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 BAE Systems (Operations) Limited has issued Inspection Service Bulletin ISB.32–186, dated April 12, 2012. This service information describes procedures for reviewing airplane records to determine the part number for the NLG main fittings, and determining the compliance times for replacing the NLG main fittings, and replacing the fitting with a new or serviceable fitting. 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. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 4 airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it takes about 36 work-hours per product to comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Required parts will cost $81,000 per product. Based on these figures, we E:\FR\FM\31MRR1.SGM 31MRR1 18470 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 62 / Thursday, March 31, 2016 / Rules and Regulations estimate the cost of this AD on U.S. operators to be $336,240, or $84,060 per product. 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 AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will 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 that this AD: 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. jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 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 15:13 Mar 30, 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): ■ 2016–07–06 BAE Systems (Operations) Limited: Amendment 39–18451. Docket No. FAA–2015–4212; Directorate Identifier 2015–NM–010–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD becomes effective May 5, 2016. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Model BAe 146–100A, –200A, and –300A airplanes; and Model Avro 146–RJ70A, 146–RJ85A, and 146– RJ100A airplanes; certificated in any category; all models, all serial numbers. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 05, Time Limits/Maintenance Checks. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by reports of cracking of the main fitting of the nose landing gear (NLG) and a determination that a new safe-life limitation for affected NLG main fittings has not been mandated. We are issuing this AD to prevent collapse of the NLG, which if not corrected, could lead to degradation of direction control on the ground or an uncommanded turn to the left, and a consequent loss of control of the airplane on the ground, possibly resulting in damage to the airplane and injury to occupants. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Repetitive Replacement of NLG Main Fitting At the applicable compliance time specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(4) of this AD: Replace each affected NLG main fitting, having a part number (P/N) as identified in paragraph 1.A, tables 1., 2., and 3. of BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Inspection Service Bulletin ISB.32–186, dated April 12, 2012, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of that BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Inspection Service Bulletin ISB.32–186, dated April 12, 2012. Thereafter, before the accumulation of 16,000 flight cycles on any affected NLG main fitting having a part number as identified in paragraph 1.A, tables 1., 2., and 3. of BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Inspection Service Bulletin ISB.32–186, dated April 12, 2012, replace each affected NLG main fitting, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of that BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Inspection Service Bulletin ISB.32–186, dated April 12, 2012. (1) For NLG main fittings that have accumulated 29,000 flight cycles or more PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 since first installation on an airplane: Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD. (2) For NLG main fittings that have accumulated 20,000 flight cycles or more but less than 29,000 flight cycles since first installation on an airplane: Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD. (3) For NLG main fittings that have accumulated 16,000 flight cycles or more but less than 20,000 flight cycles since first installation on an airplane: Within 36 months after the effective date of this AD. (4) For NLG main fittings that have accumulated less than 16,000 flight cycles since first installation on an airplane: Before accumulating 16,000 flight cycles since first installation on an airplane, or within 36 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later. (h) Parts Installation Limitation As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install an NLG main fitting having a part number identified in paragraph 1.A., tables 1., 2., and 3., of BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Inspection Service Bulletin ISB.32–186, dated April 12, 2012, unless that fitting is in compliance with the requirements of this AD. (i) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Todd Thompson, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1175; 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 BAE Systems (Operations) Limited’s EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOAauthorized signature. (j) Related Information Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2012–0191R1, dated November 6, 2012, for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov E:\FR\FM\31MRR1.SGM 31MRR1 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 62 / Thursday, March 31, 2016 / Rules and Regulations by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–4212. (k) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. (i) BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Inspection Service Bulletin ISB.32–186, dated April 12, 2012. (ii) Reserved. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact BAE Systems (Operations) Limited, Customer Information Department, Prestwick International Airport, Ayrshire, KA9 2RW, Scotland, United Kingdom; telephone +44 1292 675207; fax +44 1292 675704; email RApublications@ baesystems.com; Internet https:// www.baesystems.com/Businesses/ RegionalAircraft/index.htm. (4) 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. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 20, 2016. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2016–07020 Filed 3–30–16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 RIN 2120–AA66 Removal of Class A Airspace Area Exclusion Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES AGENCY: This action removes a provision in part 71 that excludes from Class A airspace, that portion of U.S. domestic airspace that overlies the Santa Barbara and Farallon Islands and the airspace south of latitude 25°04′00″ North (overlying and in the vicinity of the Florida Keys). The effect of this SUMMARY: 15:13 Mar 30, 2016 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 the 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 removes from 14 CFR 71.33(a) a provision that excludes the airspace in the vicinity of the Santa Barbara and Farallon Islands and the Florida Keys from U.S. Class A airspace in order to maintain the safe and efficient flow of air traffic. Background [Docket No. FAA–2016–5391; Airspace Docket No. 16–AWA–3] VerDate Sep<11>2014 provision is that the airspace from 18,000 feet MSL up to and including Flight Level (FL) 600 (within the excluded areas) is classified as Class G (uncontrolled) airspace which limits the flexibility for air traffic control operations. DATES: Effective date 0901 UTC March 31, 2016. ADDRESSES: For information on where to obtain copies of rulemaking documents and other information related to this final rule, see ‘‘How To Obtain Additional Information’’ in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section of this document. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Paul Gallant, Airspace Policy Group, Office of Airspace Services, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591; telephone: (202) 267–8783. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Jkt 238001 Positive Control Areas In 1958, the Civil Aeronautics Board delegated to the Administrator the authority to designate positive control route segments in any portion of the airspace between 17,000 to 35,000 feet, within which certain operational requirements would be applicable. That same year the Administrator designated in 14 CFR part 601 specific airways as positive control airspace, noting that ‘‘with experience and the acquisition of more and better equipment, the positive control area will undoubtedly, from time to time, be expanded.’’ 23 FR 3917 (June 5, 1958). In 1962, the FAA redesignated part 601 as part 71. 27 FR 10353 (Oct. 24, PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 18471 1962). Section 71.15 addressed positive control areas, and § 71.193 (published separately) contained those areas designated as positive control areas. Over several years, the airspace designated as positive control areas continued to expand as anticipated with the FAA’s increased capability to control air traffic. In 1965, the FAA established an expansive area of positive control airspace designated the ‘‘continental positive control area.’’ 30 FR 1836 (February 10, 1965). The FAA excluded from that positive control area the airspace over Santa Barbara Island and the Farallon Islands, and the airspace south of the latitude 25°04′00″ North. Class A Airspace In 1991, the FAA issued a final rule reclassifying ‘‘positive control areas’’ as Class A airspace.1 56 FR 65638, 65639 (Dec. 17, 1991).2 In that final rule, new § 71.33 defined Class A airspace and continued to exclude from Class A airspace that airspace over Santa Barbara Island, the Farallon Islands, and south of latitude 25°04′00″ North that was originally established in 1965. Unless otherwise specified, Class A airspace in the United States consists of that airspace from 18,000 feet MSL up to and including flight level (FL) 600. Unless otherwise authorized, all persons must operate their aircraft under instrument flight rules in airspace designated as Class A and comply with the applicable requirements of 14 CFR part 91. ‘‘Class A airspace’’ includes, in part, ‘‘that airspace overlying the waters within 12 nautical miles of the coast of the 48 contiguous States, from 18,000 feet MSL to and including FL600 excluding the states of Alaska and Hawaii, Santa Barbara Island, Farallon Island, and the airspace south of latitude 25°04′00″ North.’’ The airspace excluded from Class A airspace over the Santa Barbara and Farallon Islands and the airspace south of 25°04′00″ North renders those portions of U.S. domestic airspace (i.e., within 12 nautical miles (NM) of the baseline of the United States) as Class G (uncontrolled) airspace, which limits the provision of air traffic control services in those areas. As these excluded areas lie within the 12 NM territorial limits of the United States, the airspace would ordinarily be classified as Class A airspace. When the exclusions were implemented decades ago, air traffic control services in the 1 The reclassification adopted the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) letter classifications. (56 FR 65638; December 17, 1991). 2 The effective date for the reclassification was September 16, 1993. E:\FR\FM\31MRR1.SGM 31MRR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 62 (Thursday, March 31, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 18469-18471]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-07020]



[[Page 18469]]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2015-4212; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-010-AD; 
Amendment 39-18451; AD 2016-07-06]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; BAE Systems (Operations) Limited 
Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all BAE 
Systems (Operations) Limited Model BAe 146 series airplanes and Model 
Avro 146-RJ series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of 
cracking of the main fitting of the nose landing gear (NLG) and a 
determination that a new safe-life limitation for affected NLG main 
fittings has not been mandated. This AD requires replacing affected NLG 
main fittings that have exceeded the safe-life limitation with a new or 
serviceable fitting. We are issuing this AD to prevent collapse of the 
NLG, which if not corrected, could lead to degradation of direction 
control on the ground or an un-commanded turn to the left, and a 
consequent loss of control of the airplane on the ground, possibly 
resulting in damage to the airplane and injury to occupants.

DATES: This AD becomes effective May 5, 2016.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of May 5, 2016.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact BAE Systems (Operations) Limited, Customer Information 
Department, Prestwick International Airport, Ayrshire, KA9 2RW, 
Scotland, United Kingdom; telephone +44 1292 675207; fax +44 1292 
675704; email RApublications@baesystems.com; Internet https://www.baesystems.com/Businesses/RegionalAircraft/index.htm. 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. It is also 
available on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching 
for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-4212.

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-
4212; 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 AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and 
other information. The street address for the Docket Operations office 
(telephone 800-647-5527) is Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department 
of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Todd Thompson, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1175; 
fax 425-227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all BAE Systems 
(Operations) Limited Model BAe 146 series airplanes and Model Avro 146-
RJ series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on 
November 12, 2015 (80 FR 69903) (``the NPRM'').
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA 
Airworthiness Directive 2012-0191R1, dated November 6, 2012 (referred 
to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or 
``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for all BAE Systems 
(Operations) Limited Model BAe 146 series airplanes and Model Avro 146-
RJ series airplanes. The MCAI states:

    Several occurrences of the aeroplane`s Nose Landing Gear (NLG) 
Main Fitting cracking have been reported. Subsequently in different 
cases, NLG Main Fitting crack lead to collapsed NLG, locked NLG 
steering and an aeroplane`s un-commanded steering to the left.
    Cracks in the NLG Bell Housing are not detectable with the NLG 
fitted to the aeroplane and are difficult to detect during overhaul 
without substantial disassembly of the gear.
    This condition, if not corrected, could lead to degradation of 
directional control on the ground or an un-commanded turn to the 
left and a consequent loss of control of the aeroplane on the 
ground, possibly resulting in damage to the aeroplane and injury to 
occupants.
    Prompted by these findings, BAE Systems (Operations) Ltd issued 
Inspection Service Bulletin (ISB) 32-186 (hereafter referred to as 
the ISB) to introduce a new safe life of 16,000 flight cycles (FC) 
for certain NLG main fittings, having a Part Number (P/N) as 
identified in Paragraph 1A, tables 1, 2 and 3 of the ISB.
    To correct this unsafe condition, EASA issued [EASA] AD 2012-
0191 to require implementation of the new safe-life limitation for 
the affected NLG main fittings and replacement of fittings that have 
already exceeded the new limit.
* * * * *
    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-
4212.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. We received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of 
the cost to the public.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the available data and determined that air safety and 
the public interest require adopting this AD as proposed, except for 
minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    BAE Systems (Operations) Limited has issued Inspection Service 
Bulletin ISB.32-186, dated April 12, 2012. This service information 
describes procedures for reviewing airplane records to determine the 
part number for the NLG main fittings, and determining the compliance 
times for replacing the NLG main fittings, and replacing the fitting 
with a new or serviceable fitting. 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.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 4 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We also estimate that it takes about 36 work-hours per product to 
comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average labor rate 
is $85 per work-hour. Required parts will cost $81,000 per product. 
Based on these figures, we

[[Page 18470]]

estimate the cost of this AD on U.S. operators to be $336,240, or 
$84,060 per product.

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 AD will not have federalism implications 
under Executive Order 13132. This AD will 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 that this AD:
    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.

Adoption of the Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA amends 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):

2016-07-06 BAE Systems (Operations) Limited: Amendment 39-18451. 
Docket No. FAA-2015-4212; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-010-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective May 5, 2016.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Model BAe 
146-100A, -200A, and -300A airplanes; and Model Avro 146-RJ70A, 146-
RJ85A, and 146-RJ100A airplanes; certificated in any category; all 
models, all serial numbers.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 05, Time Limits/
Maintenance Checks.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by reports of cracking of the main fitting 
of the nose landing gear (NLG) and a determination that a new safe-
life limitation for affected NLG main fittings has not been 
mandated. We are issuing this AD to prevent collapse of the NLG, 
which if not corrected, could lead to degradation of direction 
control on the ground or an uncommanded turn to the left, and a 
consequent loss of control of the airplane on the ground, possibly 
resulting in damage to the airplane and injury to occupants.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Repetitive Replacement of NLG Main Fitting

    At the applicable compliance time specified in paragraphs (g)(1) 
through (g)(4) of this AD: Replace each affected NLG main fitting, 
having a part number (P/N) as identified in paragraph 1.A, tables 
1., 2., and 3. of BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Inspection 
Service Bulletin ISB.32-186, dated April 12, 2012, in accordance 
with the Accomplishment Instructions of that BAE Systems 
(Operations) Limited Inspection Service Bulletin ISB.32-186, dated 
April 12, 2012. Thereafter, before the accumulation of 16,000 flight 
cycles on any affected NLG main fitting having a part number as 
identified in paragraph 1.A, tables 1., 2., and 3. of BAE Systems 
(Operations) Limited Inspection Service Bulletin ISB.32-186, dated 
April 12, 2012, replace each affected NLG main fitting, in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of that BAE Systems 
(Operations) Limited Inspection Service Bulletin ISB.32-186, dated 
April 12, 2012.
    (1) For NLG main fittings that have accumulated 29,000 flight 
cycles or more since first installation on an airplane: Within 12 
months after the effective date of this AD.
    (2) For NLG main fittings that have accumulated 20,000 flight 
cycles or more but less than 29,000 flight cycles since first 
installation on an airplane: Within 24 months after the effective 
date of this AD.
    (3) For NLG main fittings that have accumulated 16,000 flight 
cycles or more but less than 20,000 flight cycles since first 
installation on an airplane: Within 36 months after the effective 
date of this AD.
    (4) For NLG main fittings that have accumulated less than 16,000 
flight cycles since first installation on an airplane: Before 
accumulating 16,000 flight cycles since first installation on an 
airplane, or within 36 months after the effective date of this AD, 
whichever occurs later.

(h) Parts Installation Limitation

    As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install an 
NLG main fitting having a part number identified in paragraph 1.A., 
tables 1., 2., and 3., of BAE Systems (Operations) Limited 
Inspection Service Bulletin ISB.32-186, dated April 12, 2012, unless 
that fitting is in compliance with the requirements of this AD.

(i) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using 
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 
39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Todd 
Thompson, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1175; 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 BAE Systems (Operations) 
Limited's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by 
the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature.

(j) Related Information

    Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) 
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2012-0191R1, dated November 6, 2012, 
for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on 
the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov

[[Page 18471]]

by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-4212.

(k) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Inspection Service Bulletin 
ISB.32-186, dated April 12, 2012.
    (ii) Reserved.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact BAE 
Systems (Operations) Limited, Customer Information Department, 
Prestwick International Airport, Ayrshire, KA9 2RW, Scotland, United 
Kingdom; telephone +44 1292 675207; fax +44 1292 675704; email 
RApublications@baesystems.com; Internet https://www.baesystems.com/Businesses/RegionalAircraft/index.htm.
    (4) 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.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 20, 2016.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-07020 Filed 3-30-16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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