Airworthiness Directives; Weatherly Aircraft Company Airplanes, 18461-18464 [2016-07228]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 62 / Thursday, March 31, 2016 / Rules and Regulations Authority for This Rulemaking § 39.13 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 (d) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a report of certain ITT ducts failing to meet containment capability requirements. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the ITT duct, which could lead to an uncontained part release, damage to the engine, and damage to the airplane. 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 DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska to the extent that it justifies making a regulatory distinction, 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. jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. 15:13 Mar 30, 2016 Jkt 238001 2016–07–02 Honeywell International Inc. (Type Certificate previously held by AlliedSignal Inc., Garrett Turbine Engine Company): Amendment 39– 18447; Docket No. FAA–2015–2208; Directorate Identifier 2015–NE–19–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective May 5, 2016. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to all Honeywell International Inc. (Honeywell) TFE731–4, –4R, –5AR, –5BR, and –5R turbofan engines with an interstage turbine transition (ITT) duct, part number (P/N) 3075292–4, installed, with a serial number (S/N) listed in Table 2 of Honeywell Service Bulletin (SB) TFE731–72–3789, Revision 0, dated March 23, 2015. (e) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (1) At the next removal of the ITT duct from the engine not to exceed 2,600 hours time-in-service after the effective date of this AD, remove the affected ITT duct and replace with a part eligible for installation. (2) Reserved. (f) Definition For the purpose of this AD, a part eligible for installation is an ITT duct with an S/N that is not listed in Table 2 of Honeywell SB TFE731–72–3789, Revision 0, dated March 23, 2015 or, if listed in Table 2 of this SB, was reworked using Honeywell SB TFE731– 72–3789. (g) Installation Prohibition After the effective date of this AD, do not install any ITT duct with an S/N listed in Table 2 of Honeywell SB TFE731–72–3789, Revision 0, dated March 23, 2015, onto any engine, unless the ITT duct is marked with the overhaul/repair instructions number ‘‘P35864’’ near the ITT duct P/N and S/N markings. (h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) The Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Use the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19 to make your request. PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES VerDate Sep<11>2014 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): (i) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Joseph Costa, Aerospace Engineer, PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 18461 Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, CA 90712– 4137; phone: 562–627–5246; fax: 562–627– 5210; email: joseph.costa@faa.gov. (j) 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 the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Honeywell Service Bulletin TFE731–72– 3789, Revision 0, dated March 23, 2015. (ii) Reserved. (3) For Honeywell service information identified in this AD, contact Honeywell International Inc., 111 S 34th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85034–2802; phone: 800–601–3099; Internet: https:// myaerospace.honeywell.com/wps/portal/!ut/. (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 781–238–7125. (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 Burlington, Massachusetts, on March 21, 2016. Colleen M. D’Alessandro, Manager, Engine & Propeller Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2016–07231 Filed 3–30–16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2016–5422; Directorate Identifier 2016–CE–011–AD; Amendment 39–18456; AD 2016–07–11] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Weatherly Aircraft Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Weatherly Aircraft Company Models 201, 201A, 201B, 201C, 620, 620A, 620B, 620B–TG, and 620TP airplanes. This AD requires visually inspecting the center and outer wing front spar lower hinge fittings for cracks and corrosion SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\31MRR1.SGM 31MRR1 18462 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 62 / Thursday, March 31, 2016 / Rules and Regulations and taking all necessary corrective actions. This AD also requires sending the inspection results to the FAA. This AD was prompted by a report of cracks found on the center wing front spar lower hinge fitting. We are issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective April 15, 2016. We must receive comments on this AD by May 16, 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 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. 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– 5422; 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 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: Mike Lee, Aerospace Engineer, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Suite 100, Lakewood, California, 90712; phone: (562) 627–5325; fax: (562) 627–5210; email: mike.s.lee@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: address the unsafe condition identified in this AD. Discussion An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of this AD. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public justifies waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule because failure of the wing front spar lower hinge fitting could cause the wing to separate from the airplane and cause loss of control. Therefore, we find that notice and opportunity for prior public comment are impracticable and that good cause exists for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days. Recently, a Weatherly Aircraft Company Model 620B airplane crashed while conducting agricultural operations. Preliminary investigation indicates presence of fatigue cracks in the center wing front spar lower hinge fitting of the accident aircraft. As a result of voluntary operator inspections, an additional cracked fitting in the center wing joint was recently reported. Investigation reveals that the cracks resulted from fatigue damage on the hinge fitting and that routine maintenance practices are not finding this damage. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could result in failure of the wing front spar lower hinge fittings, which could cause the wing to separate and cause loss of control. We are issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these products. FAA’s Determination We are issuing 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. AD Requirements This AD requires visually inspecting the center and outer wing front spar lower hinge fittings for cracks and corrosion and taking all necessary corrective actions. This AD also requires sending the inspection results to the FAA. Based on the reports received from the AD requirements, we will work with the type certificate holder to evaluate that information to determine whether repetitive inspections are necessary and/or a possible terminating action. Based on this evaluation, we may initiate further rulemaking action to FAA’s Justification and Determination of the Effective Date Comments Invited This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for public comment. However, we invite you to send any written data, views, or arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number FAA–2016–5422 and Directorate Identifier 2016–CE–011–AD at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this 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 AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 95 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES Visually inspect the center and outer wing front spar lower hinge fitting. We estimate the following costs to do any necessary repair or replacement that VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:13 Mar 30, 2016 Jkt 238001 Parts cost Labor cost 2 work-hours × $85 per hour = $170. will be required based on the results of the inspection. We have no way of PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators N/A $170 $16,150 determining the number of aircraft that might need this corrective action: E:\FR\FM\31MRR1.SGM 31MRR1 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 62 / Thursday, March 31, 2016 / Rules and Regulations 18463 ON-CONDITION COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Replace wing front spar lower hinge fitting ........... Remove corrosion on wing front spar lower hinge fitting. 6 work-hours × $85 per hour = $510 per fitting .... 2 work-hours × $85 per hour = $170 .................... $800 per fitting ..... N/A ....................... Paperwork Reduction Act A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information displays a current valid OMB control number. The control number for the collection of information required by this AD is 2120–0056. The paperwork cost associated with this AD has been detailed in the Costs of Compliance section of this document and includes time for reviewing instructions, as well as completing and reviewing the collection of information. Therefore, all reporting associated with this AD is mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to the FAA at 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591. ATTN: Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES–200. jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES 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 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:13 Mar 30, 2016 Jkt 238001 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 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 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): ■ 2016–07–11 Weatherly Aircraft Company: Amendment 39–18456; Docket No. FAA–2016–5422; Directorate Identifier 2016–CE–011–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective April 15, 2016. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Weatherly Aircraft Company Models 201, 201A, 201B, 201C, 620, 620A, 620B, 620B–TG, and 620TP airplanes, all serial numbers, that: (1) have center and outer wing front spar lower hinge fittings, part number 40223 (any dash number configuration), installed; and (2) are certificated in any category. PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Cost per product $1,310 per fitting. $170. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/ Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 57, Wing Attach Fittings. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a report of cracks found on the center wing front spar lower hinge fitting. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks and corrosion in the center and outer wing front spar lower hinge fitting, which could cause the fittings to fail. Failure of the wing front spar lower hinge fitting could result in the wing separating from the airplane and loss of control. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Inspection Within the next 30 days after April 15, 2016 (the effective date of this AD), do a close visual inspection of the center and outer wing front spar lower hinge fittings for cracks and corrosion. Prior to the inspection do the following: (1) Remove the left and right center wing to outer wing joint covers from the airplane. (2) Remove the lower forward wing hinge pin bolt caps. (h) Replacement If any cracks are found during the inspection required in paragraph (g) of this AD, before further flight, replace the cracked wing front spar lower hinge fitting with an airworthy part. (i) Repair If any corrosion is found during the inspection required in paragraph (g) of this AD, before further flight, remove up to .020 inches of the wing front spar lower hinge fitting material in any direction to repair corrosion. Replace any parts requiring removal of more than .020-inch of wing front spar lower hinge fitting. Any operator may request an alternative to the replacement requirement using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19 and paragraph (m) of this AD. (j) Reporting Requirement Within the next 10 days after the inspection required in paragraph (g) of this AD or within 10 days after April 15, 2016 (the effective date of this AD), whichever occurs later, report the result of the inspection to the FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), Attn: Mike Lee, Aerospace Engineer, 3960 Paramount Blvd. Suite 100, Lakewood, California, 90712; fax: (562) 627–5210; email: mike.s.lee@faa.gov. Include the following information. Please E:\FR\FM\31MRR1.SGM 31MRR1 18464 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 62 / Thursday, March 31, 2016 / Rules and Regulations identify AD 2016–07–11 in the subject line if submitted through email. (1) Airplane serial number. (2) Hours time-in-service at time of inspection. (3) A description of any cracks found. (4) A description of any corrosion found. Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on March 25, 2016. Pat Mullen, Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2016–07228 Filed 3–30–16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P (k) Special Flight Permit Special flight permits are allowed for this AD per 14 CFR 39.23 for the requirement to remove up to .020 inches of corrosion as required in paragraph (i) of this AD. Special flight permits are prohibited for all other requirements of this AD. (l) Paperwork Reduction Act Burden Statement A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 2120–0056. Public reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 5 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the collection of information. All responses to this collection of information are mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES–200. (m) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Los Angeles 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 (n) 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. jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES (n) Related Information For information on the subject matter of this AD, contact either: (1) Weatherly Aircraft Company at phone: (316) 361–0101; email: weatherlyaircraft@ cox.net; or (2) Mike Lee, Aerospace Engineer, Aerospace Engineer, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd. Suite 100, Lakewood, California, 90712; phone: (562) 627–5325; fax: (562) 627–5210; email: mike.s.lee@faa.gov. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:13 Mar 30, 2016 Jkt 238001 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2016–5033; Directorate Identifier 2015–NM–118–AD; Amendment 39–18450; AD 2016–07–05] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: Examining the AD Docket We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 747–8 series airplanes. This AD requires an inspection to determine if all oxygen components in the passenger oxygen system are installed, installation of new o-rings, and corrective actions if necessary. This AD was prompted by a report that oxygen tube couplings in the passenger oxygen system could be missing or incorrectly installed. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct oxygen leaks from oxygen tube couplings in the passenger oxygen system, which could result in depletion of emergency oxygen at a faster rate than expected, reduce the passengers’ and crews’ protection from hypoxia at elevated cabin altitudes, and increase the risk of a fire. DATES: This AD is effective April 15, 2016. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of April 15, 2016. We must receive comments on this AD by May 16, 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. SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 • 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 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this final rule, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–5680; Internet https:// www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 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–2016– 5033. You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– 5033; 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 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: Susan Monroe, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Branch, ANM–150S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA; phone: 425–917–6457; fax: 425– 917–6590; email: susan.l.monroe@ faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We have determined that some Model 747–8 series airplanes could have oxygen components missing or incorrectly installed at oxygen tube couplings attached to the outboard stowage bin support assemblies. The manufacturer believes that these airplanes were delivered with the correct configuration of oxygen components. However, because of an error in an engineering drawing and related parts list, which omitted part number call-outs for some oxygen components, we want to be certain E:\FR\FM\31MRR1.SGM 31MRR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 62 (Thursday, March 31, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 18461-18464]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-07228]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2016-5422; Directorate Identifier 2016-CE-011-AD; 
Amendment 39-18456; AD 2016-07-11]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Weatherly Aircraft Company Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
Weatherly Aircraft Company Models 201, 201A, 201B, 201C, 620, 620A, 
620B, 620B-TG, and 620TP airplanes. This AD requires visually 
inspecting the center and outer wing front spar lower hinge fittings 
for cracks and corrosion

[[Page 18462]]

and taking all necessary corrective actions. This AD also requires 
sending the inspection results to the FAA. This AD was prompted by a 
report of cracks found on the center wing front spar lower hinge 
fitting. We are issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on 
these products.

DATES: This AD is effective April 15, 2016.
    We must receive comments on this AD by May 16, 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 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

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-
5422; 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 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: Mike Lee, Aerospace Engineer, Los 
Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Suite 
100, Lakewood, California, 90712; phone: (562) 627-5325; fax: (562) 
627-5210; email: mike.s.lee@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    Recently, a Weatherly Aircraft Company Model 620B airplane crashed 
while conducting agricultural operations. Preliminary investigation 
indicates presence of fatigue cracks in the center wing front spar 
lower hinge fitting of the accident aircraft. As a result of voluntary 
operator inspections, an additional cracked fitting in the center wing 
joint was recently reported.
    Investigation reveals that the cracks resulted from fatigue damage 
on the hinge fitting and that routine maintenance practices are not 
finding this damage. This condition, if not detected and corrected, 
could result in failure of the wing front spar lower hinge fittings, 
which could cause the wing to separate and cause loss of control. We 
are issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these products.

FAA's Determination

    We are issuing 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.

AD Requirements

    This AD requires visually inspecting the center and outer wing 
front spar lower hinge fittings for cracks and corrosion and taking all 
necessary corrective actions. This AD also requires sending the 
inspection results to the FAA.
    Based on the reports received from the AD requirements, we will 
work with the type certificate holder to evaluate that information to 
determine whether repetitive inspections are necessary and/or a 
possible terminating action. Based on this evaluation, we may initiate 
further rulemaking action to address the unsafe condition identified in 
this AD.

FAA's Justification and Determination of the Effective Date

    An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of 
this AD. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public justifies 
waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule because 
failure of the wing front spar lower hinge fitting could cause the wing 
to separate from the airplane and cause loss of control. Therefore, we 
find that notice and opportunity for prior public comment are 
impracticable and that good cause exists for making this amendment 
effective in less than 30 days.

Comments Invited

    This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight 
safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for public 
comment. However, we invite you to send any written data, views, or 
arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under 
the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number FAA-2016-5422 and 
Directorate Identifier 2016-CE-011-AD at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will 
consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this 
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 AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 95 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                    Cost per       Cost on U.S.
               Action                        Labor cost           Parts cost        product         operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Visually inspect the center and       2 work-hours x $85 per              N/A             $170          $16,150
 outer wing front spar lower hinge     hour = $170.
 fitting.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We estimate the following costs to do any necessary repair or 
replacement that will be required based on the results of the 
inspection. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that 
might need this corrective action:

[[Page 18463]]



                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Action                    Labor cost                Parts cost               Cost per product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replace wing front spar lower      6 work-hours x $85    $800 per fitting...........  $1,310 per fitting.
 hinge fitting.                     per hour = $510 per
                                    fitting.
Remove corrosion on wing front     2 work-hours x $85    N/A........................  $170.
 spar lower hinge fitting.          per hour = $170.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Paperwork Reduction Act

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

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

Regulatory Findings

    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 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):

2016-07-11 Weatherly Aircraft Company: Amendment 39-18456; Docket 
No. FAA-2016-5422; Directorate Identifier 2016-CE-011-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective April 15, 2016.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Weatherly Aircraft Company Models 201, 201A, 
201B, 201C, 620, 620A, 620B, 620B-TG, and 620TP airplanes, all 
serial numbers, that:
    (1) have center and outer wing front spar lower hinge fittings, 
part number 40223 (any dash number configuration), installed; and
    (2) are certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport Association 
(ATA) of America Code 57, Wing Attach Fittings.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by a report of cracks found on the center 
wing front spar lower hinge fitting. We are issuing this AD to 
detect and correct cracks and corrosion in the center and outer wing 
front spar lower hinge fitting, which could cause the fittings to 
fail. Failure of the wing front spar lower hinge fitting could 
result in the wing separating from the airplane and loss of control.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Inspection

    Within the next 30 days after April 15, 2016 (the effective date 
of this AD), do a close visual inspection of the center and outer 
wing front spar lower hinge fittings for cracks and corrosion. Prior 
to the inspection do the following:
    (1) Remove the left and right center wing to outer wing joint 
covers from the airplane.
    (2) Remove the lower forward wing hinge pin bolt caps.

(h) Replacement

    If any cracks are found during the inspection required in 
paragraph (g) of this AD, before further flight, replace the cracked 
wing front spar lower hinge fitting with an airworthy part.

(i) Repair

    If any corrosion is found during the inspection required in 
paragraph (g) of this AD, before further flight, remove up to .020 
inches of the wing front spar lower hinge fitting material in any 
direction to repair corrosion. Replace any parts requiring removal 
of more than .020-inch of wing front spar lower hinge fitting. Any 
operator may request an alternative to the replacement requirement 
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19 and paragraph (m) of this 
AD.

(j) Reporting Requirement

    Within the next 10 days after the inspection required in 
paragraph (g) of this AD or within 10 days after April 15, 2016 (the 
effective date of this AD), whichever occurs later, report the 
result of the inspection to the FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft 
Certification Office (ACO), Attn: Mike Lee, Aerospace Engineer, 3960 
Paramount Blvd. Suite 100, Lakewood, California, 90712; fax: (562) 
627-5210; email: mike.s.lee@faa.gov. Include the following 
information. Please

[[Page 18464]]

identify AD 2016-07-11 in the subject line if submitted through 
email.
    (1) Airplane serial number.
    (2) Hours time-in-service at time of inspection.
    (3) A description of any cracks found.
    (4) A description of any corrosion found.

(k) Special Flight Permit

    Special flight permits are allowed for this AD per 14 CFR 39.23 
for the requirement to remove up to .020 inches of corrosion as 
required in paragraph (i) of this AD. Special flight permits are 
prohibited for all other requirements of this AD.

(l) Paperwork Reduction Act Burden Statement

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

(m) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Los Angeles 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 (n) 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.

(n) Related Information

    For information on the subject matter of this AD, contact 
either:
    (1) Weatherly Aircraft Company at phone: (316) 361-0101; email: 
weatherlyaircraft@cox.net; or
    (2) Mike Lee, Aerospace Engineer, Aerospace Engineer, Los 
Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd. 
Suite 100, Lakewood, California, 90712; phone: (562) 627-5325; fax: 
(562) 627-5210; email: mike.s.lee@faa.gov.

    Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on March 25, 2016.
Pat Mullen,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-07228 Filed 3-30-16; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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