Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes, 28033-28035 [2016-10633]
Download as PDF
<![CDATA[
28033
Proposed Rules
Federal Register
Vol. 81, No. 89
Monday, May 9, 2016
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER
contains notices to the public of the proposed
issuance of rules and regulations. The
purpose of these notices is to give interested
persons an opportunity to participate in the
rule making prior to the adoption of the final
rules.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2016–6418; Directorate
Identifier 2015–NM–158–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 A330–200 Freighter,
–200, and –300 series airplanes; and
Airbus Model A340–200, –300, –500,
and –600 series airplanes. This
proposed AD was prompted by reports
of fuel leaking through fuel pump
electrical connectors and fuel pump
electrical connector damage caused by
the build-up of moisture behind the
electrical connector. Electrical
connectors that become damaged by
moisture can create an ignition source
and a fuel leak. This proposed AD
would require an inspection of the fuel
pumps to identify their part numbers
and replacement of affected pumps. We
are proposing this AD to prevent a
potential ignition source and a fuel leak
due to damaged fuel pump electrical
connectors. This condition creates a
flammability risk in an area adjacent to
the fuel tank.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by June 23, 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,
mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with PROPOSALS
SUMMARY:
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:16 May 06, 2016
Jkt 238001
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 SAS,
Airworthiness Office—EAL, 1 Rond
Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac
Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93
36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; email:
airworthiness.A330-A340@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–
6418; 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:
Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA
98057–3356; telephone: 425–227–1138;
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–2016–6418; Directorate Identifier
2015–NM–158–AD’’ at the beginning of
your comments. We specifically invite
comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy
aspects of this proposed AD. We will
PO 00000
Frm 00001
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
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 AD 2015–0194,
dated September 22, 2015, to correct an
unsafe condition for all Airbus Model
A330–200 Freighter, –200, and –300
series airplanes; and Airbus Model
A340–200, –300, –500, and –600 series
airplanes. The MCAI states:
Operators reported cases of fuel leak
through fuel pump electrical connectors.
Subsequent investigation revealed fuel pump
electrical connector damage caused by
moisture build up behind the electrical
connector.
This condition, if not detected and
corrected, could create concurrently an
ignition source and fuel leak as a result of a
single failure, resulting in exposure to a
flammability risk in an adjacent area to the
fuel tank.
To address this unsafe condition, Airbus
published Service Bulletins (SB) A330–28–
3127, SB A340–28–4138 and SB A340–28–
5060, providing inspection/identification
instructions, and instructions for
replacement of the fuel pumps.
For the reasons described above, this
[EASA] AD requires identification and
replacement of the affected fuel pumps.
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–
6418.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
Airbus has issued the following
service information:
• Airbus Service Bulletin A330–28–
3127, Revision 01, dated September 24,
2015.
• Airbus Service Bulletin A340–28–
4138, Revision 01, dated September 24,
2015.
• Airbus Service Bulletin A340–28–
5060, Revision 01, dated September 24,
2015.
The service information describes
procedures to identify and replace
E:\FR\FM\09MYP1.SGM
09MYP1
28034
Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 89 / Monday, May 9, 2016 / Proposed Rules
affected fuel pumps with serviceable
fuel pumps. 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 these same
type designs.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD
affects 99 airplanes of U.S. registry.
We also estimate that it will take
about 4 work-hours 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 $33,660, or $340 per product.
In addition, we estimate that any
necessary follow-on actions would take
about 17 work-hours and require parts
costing $10,400, for a cost of $11,845
per product. We have no way of
determining the number of aircraft that
might need these actions.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this proposed AD
would not have federalism implications
under Executive Order 13132. This
proposed AD would not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on
the relationship between the national
Government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify this proposed regulation:
1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
Alaska; and
4. Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part
39 as follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with PROPOSALS
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.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:16 May 06, 2016
Jkt 238001
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
■
Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2016–6418;
Directorate Identifier 2015–NM–158–AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by June 23,
2016.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Model A330–
223F and –243F airplanes; A330–201, –202,
–203, –223, and –243 airplanes; A330–301,
–302, –303, –321, –322, –323, –341, –342,
and –343 airplanes; and Airbus Model A340–
211, –212, and –213 airplanes; A340–311,
–312, and –313 airplanes; A340–541
airplanes; and A340–642 airplanes,
certificated in any category, all manufacturer
serial numbers.
PO 00000
Frm 00002
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 28, Fuel.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by reports of fuel
leaking through fuel pump electrical
connectors and fuel pump electrical
connector damage caused by the build-up of
moisture behind the electrical connector.
Electrical connectors that become damaged
by moisture can create an ignition source and
a fuel leak. We are issuing this AD to prevent
a potential ignition source and a fuel leak
due to damaged fuel pump electrical
connectors. This condition creates a
flammability risk in an area adjacent to the
fuel tank.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Identify Part Numbers
Within 48 months after the effective date
of this AD, inspect each fuel pump to
identify the part number (P/N) in accordance
with the Accomplishment Instructions of
Airbus Service Bulletin A330–28–3127,
Revision 01, dated September 24, 2015;
Airbus Service Bulletin A340–28–4138,
Revision 01, dated September 24, 2015; or
Airbus Service Bulletin A340–28–5060,
Revision 01, dated September 24, 2015; as
applicable to airplane type. A review of
airplane delivery or maintenance records is
acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the
part number of the fuel pump can be
conclusively determined from that review.
(h) Modification
If, during the inspection required by
paragraph (g) of this AD, it is determined that
an affected fuel pump is installed: Within the
compliance time specified in paragraph (h)(1)
or (h)(2) of this AD, depending on the
configuration of the affected fuel pumps
installed, replace each affected fuel pump
with a serviceable fuel pump in accordance
with the Accomplishment Instructions of
Airbus Service Bulletin A330–28–3127,
Revision 01, dated September 24, 2015;
Airbus Service Bulletin A340–28–4138,
Revision 01, dated September 24, 2015; or
Airbus Service Bulletin A340–28–5060,
Revision 01, dated September 24, 2015; as
applicable to airplane type.
(1) For affected fuel pumps that have a part
number or combination of part numbers that
are specified in paragraphs (h)(1)(i) through
(h)(1)(vi) of this AD: Do the replacement
within 72 months after the effective date of
this AD.
(i) All of the affected fuel pumps have
P/N 568–1–28300–001.
(ii) All of the affected fuel pumps have
P/N 568–1–28300–002.
(iii) The affected fuel pumps have a
combination of P/Ns 568–1–28300–001 and
568–1–28300–002.
(iv) The affected fuel pumps have a
combination of P/Ns 568–1–28300–001 and
568–1–28300–101.
(v) The affected fuel pumps have a
combination of P/Ns 568–1–28300–002 and
568–1–28300–101.
E:\FR\FM\09MYP1.SGM
09MYP1
Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 89 / Monday, May 9, 2016 / Proposed Rules
(vi) The affected fuel pumps have a
combination of P/Ns 568–1–28300–001, 568–
1–28300–002, and 568–1–28300–101.
(2) For affected fuel pumps that have a part
number or combination of part numbers that
are specified in paragraphs (h)(2)(i) through
(h)(2)(iii) of this AD: Do the replacement
within 96 months after the effective date of
this AD.
(i) All of the affected fuel pumps have P/
N 568–1–28300–100.
(ii) All of the affected fuel pumps have P/
N 568–1–28300–101.
(iii) The affected fuel pumps have a
combination of P/Ns 568–1–28300–100 and
568–1–28300–101.
(i) Definitions
(1) For the purpose of this AD, an ‘‘affected
fuel pump’’ is defined as any pump having
P/N 568–1–28300–001, 568–1–28300–002,
568–1–28300–100, or 568–1–28300–101.
(2) For the purpose of this AD, a
‘‘serviceable fuel pump’’ is a pump having a
part number not listed in paragraph (i)(1) of
this AD.
(j) No Reporting Requirement
Although Airbus Service Bulletin A330–
28–3127, Revision 01, dated September 24,
2015; Airbus Service Bulletin A340–28–4138,
Revision 01, dated September 24, 2015; or
Airbus Service Bulletin A340–28–5060,
Revision 01, dated September 24, 2015,
specifies to submit certain information to the
manufacturer, and specifies that action as
‘‘RC’’ (Required for Compliance), this AD
does not include that requirement.
mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with PROPOSALS
(k) Parts Installation Prohibition
After the identification of the fuel pump
part numbers as required by paragraph (g) of
this AD, comply with the prohibition
required by paragraph (k)(1) or (k)(2) of this
AD, as applicable.
(1) For an airplane that does not have an
affected fuel pump installed: After the
identification of the fuel pump part numbers
as required by paragraph (g) of this AD, do
not install an affected fuel pump.
(2) For an airplane that has an affected fuel
pump installed: After modification of an
airplane as required by paragraph (h) of this
AD, no person may install an affected fuel
pump on any airplane.
(l) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for actions
required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD,
if those actions were performed before the
effective date of this AD using service
information included in paragraphs (l)(1),
(l)(2), and (l)(3) of this AD, which are not
incorporated by reference in this AD.
(1) Airbus Service Bulletin A330–28–3127
dated July 14, 2015.
(2) Airbus Service Bulletin A340–28–4138
dated July 14, 2015.
(3) Airbus Service Bulletin A340–28–5060
dated July 14, 2015.
(m) 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
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:16 May 06, 2016
Jkt 238001
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:
Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356;
telephone: 425–227–1138; fax: 425–227–
1149. Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-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.
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except
as provide by paragraph (j) of this AD, if any
service information contains procedures or
tests that are identified as RC, those
procedures and tests must be done to comply
with this AD; any procedures or tests that are
not identified as RC are recommended. Those
procedures and tests that are not identified
as RC may be deviated from using accepted
methods in accordance with the operator’s
maintenance or inspection program without
obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided
the procedures and tests identified as RC can
be done and the airplane can be put back in
an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or
changes to procedures or tests identified as
RC require approval of an AMOC.
(n) Related Information
(1) Refer to Continuing Airworthiness
Information (MCAI) EASA AD 2015–0194,
dated September 22, 2015, for related
information. You may examine the MCAI on
the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–
2016–6418.
(2) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness
Office—EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte,
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33
5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; email:
airworthiness.A330-A340@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.
PO 00000
Frm 00003
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
28035
Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 28,
2016.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2016–10633 Filed 5–6–16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND
HUMAN SERVICES
Food and Drug Administration
21 CFR Parts 1, 11, 16, and 111
[Docket No. FDA–2015–N–0797]
The Food and Drug Administration
Food Safety Modernization Act: Focus
on Strategic Implementation of
Prevention-Oriented Import Safety
Programs; Public Meetings
AGENCY:
Food and Drug Administration,
HHS.
ACTION:
Notification of public meetings.
The Food and Drug
Administration (FDA or we) is
announcing three one-day public
meetings in different regions throughout
the United States to provide importers
and other interested persons an
opportunity to have an in-depth
discussion on the implementation of the
FDA Food Safety Modernization Act
(FSMA) import safety programs (i.e.,
foreign supplier verification programs
(FSVPs) for importers of food for
humans and animals, accreditation of
third-party certification bodies, and
FDA’s Voluntary Qualified Importer
Program (VQIP)). During these meetings,
participants and key FDA subject matter
experts will discuss the next phase of
FSMA implementation related to import
safety programs, which includes
establishing the operational framework
for these programs and plans for
guidance documents, training,
education, and technical assistance. The
purpose of the regional outreach public
meetings is to continue the dialogue
with the importer community on FSMA
and elicit ideas that will help to inform
FDA and our stakeholders on how to
continue to work together to
successfully comply with FSMA
mandates and regulations.
DATES: See section III for dates and
times of the regional outreach meetings,
closing dates for advance registration,
and requests for special
accommodations due to disability.
ADDRESSES: See section III for meeting
locations.
SUMMARY:
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
E:\FR\FM\09MYP1.SGM
09MYP1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 89 (Monday, May 9, 2016)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 28033-28035]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-10633]
========================================================================
Proposed Rules
Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.
========================================================================
Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 89 / Monday, May 9, 2016 / Proposed
Rules
[[Page 28033]]
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2016-6418; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-158-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 A330-200 Freighter, -200, and -300 series airplanes; and
Airbus Model A340-200, -300, -500, and -600 series airplanes. This
proposed AD was prompted by reports of fuel leaking through fuel pump
electrical connectors and fuel pump electrical connector damage caused
by the build-up of moisture behind the electrical connector. Electrical
connectors that become damaged by moisture can create an ignition
source and a fuel leak. This proposed AD would require an inspection of
the fuel pumps to identify their part numbers and replacement of
affected pumps. We are proposing this AD to prevent a potential
ignition source and a fuel leak due to damaged fuel pump electrical
connectors. This condition creates a flammability risk in an area
adjacent to the fuel tank.
DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 23, 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
SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707
Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93
45 80; email: airworthiness.A330-A340@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-
6418; 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: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone: 425-227-1138;
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-2016-6418;
Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-158-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 AD
2015-0194, dated September 22, 2015, to correct an unsafe condition for
all Airbus Model A330-200 Freighter, -200, and -300 series airplanes;
and Airbus Model A340-200, -300, -500, and -600 series airplanes. The
MCAI states:
Operators reported cases of fuel leak through fuel pump
electrical connectors. Subsequent investigation revealed fuel pump
electrical connector damage caused by moisture build up behind the
electrical connector.
This condition, if not detected and corrected, could create
concurrently an ignition source and fuel leak as a result of a
single failure, resulting in exposure to a flammability risk in an
adjacent area to the fuel tank.
To address this unsafe condition, Airbus published Service
Bulletins (SB) A330-28-3127, SB A340-28-4138 and SB A340-28-5060,
providing inspection/identification instructions, and instructions
for replacement of the fuel pumps.
For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires
identification and replacement of the affected fuel pumps.
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-
6418.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
Airbus has issued the following service information:
Airbus Service Bulletin A330-28-3127, Revision 01, dated
September 24, 2015.
Airbus Service Bulletin A340-28-4138, Revision 01, dated
September 24, 2015.
Airbus Service Bulletin A340-28-5060, Revision 01, dated
September 24, 2015.
The service information describes procedures to identify and
replace
[[Page 28034]]
affected fuel pumps with serviceable fuel pumps. 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 these
same type designs.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD affects 99 airplanes of U.S.
registry.
We also estimate that it will take about 4 work-hours 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 $33,660, or $340
per product.
In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would
take about 17 work-hours and require parts costing $10,400, for a cost
of $11,845 per product. We have no way of determining the number of
aircraft that might need these actions.
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-2016-6418; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-
158-AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by June 23, 2016.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Model A330-223F and -243F airplanes;
A330-201, -202, -203, -223, and -243 airplanes; A330-301, -302, -
303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes; and Airbus
Model A340-211, -212, and -213 airplanes; A340-311, -312, and -313
airplanes; A340-541 airplanes; and A340-642 airplanes, certificated
in any category, all manufacturer serial numbers.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 28, Fuel.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by reports of fuel leaking through fuel
pump electrical connectors and fuel pump electrical connector damage
caused by the build-up of moisture behind the electrical connector.
Electrical connectors that become damaged by moisture can create an
ignition source and a fuel leak. We are issuing this AD to prevent a
potential ignition source and a fuel leak due to damaged fuel pump
electrical connectors. This condition creates a flammability risk in
an area adjacent to the fuel tank.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Identify Part Numbers
Within 48 months after the effective date of this AD, inspect
each fuel pump to identify the part number (P/N) in accordance with
the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330-28-
3127, Revision 01, dated September 24, 2015; Airbus Service Bulletin
A340-28-4138, Revision 01, dated September 24, 2015; or Airbus
Service Bulletin A340-28-5060, Revision 01, dated September 24,
2015; as applicable to airplane type. A review of airplane delivery
or maintenance records is acceptable in lieu of this inspection if
the part number of the fuel pump can be conclusively determined from
that review.
(h) Modification
If, during the inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD,
it is determined that an affected fuel pump is installed: Within the
compliance time specified in paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of this AD,
depending on the configuration of the affected fuel pumps installed,
replace each affected fuel pump with a serviceable fuel pump in
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service
Bulletin A330-28-3127, Revision 01, dated September 24, 2015; Airbus
Service Bulletin A340-28-4138, Revision 01, dated September 24,
2015; or Airbus Service Bulletin A340-28-5060, Revision 01, dated
September 24, 2015; as applicable to airplane type.
(1) For affected fuel pumps that have a part number or
combination of part numbers that are specified in paragraphs
(h)(1)(i) through (h)(1)(vi) of this AD: Do the replacement within
72 months after the effective date of this AD.
(i) All of the affected fuel pumps have P/N 568-1-28300-001.
(ii) All of the affected fuel pumps have P/N 568-1-28300-002.
(iii) The affected fuel pumps have a combination of P/Ns 568-1-
28300-001 and 568-1-28300-002.
(iv) The affected fuel pumps have a combination of P/Ns 568-1-
28300-001 and 568-1-28300-101.
(v) The affected fuel pumps have a combination of P/Ns 568-1-
28300-002 and 568-1-28300-101.
[[Page 28035]]
(vi) The affected fuel pumps have a combination of P/Ns 568-1-
28300-001, 568-1-28300-002, and 568-1-28300-101.
(2) For affected fuel pumps that have a part number or
combination of part numbers that are specified in paragraphs
(h)(2)(i) through (h)(2)(iii) of this AD: Do the replacement within
96 months after the effective date of this AD.
(i) All of the affected fuel pumps have P/N 568-1-28300-100.
(ii) All of the affected fuel pumps have P/N 568-1-28300-101.
(iii) The affected fuel pumps have a combination of P/Ns 568-1-
28300-100 and 568-1-28300-101.
(i) Definitions
(1) For the purpose of this AD, an ``affected fuel pump'' is
defined as any pump having P/N 568-1-28300-001, 568-1-28300-002,
568-1-28300-100, or 568-1-28300-101.
(2) For the purpose of this AD, a ``serviceable fuel pump'' is a
pump having a part number not listed in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD.
(j) No Reporting Requirement
Although Airbus Service Bulletin A330-28-3127, Revision 01,
dated September 24, 2015; Airbus Service Bulletin A340-28-4138,
Revision 01, dated September 24, 2015; or Airbus Service Bulletin
A340-28-5060, Revision 01, dated September 24, 2015, specifies to
submit certain information to the manufacturer, and specifies that
action as ``RC'' (Required for Compliance), this AD does not include
that requirement.
(k) Parts Installation Prohibition
After the identification of the fuel pump part numbers as
required by paragraph (g) of this AD, comply with the prohibition
required by paragraph (k)(1) or (k)(2) of this AD, as applicable.
(1) For an airplane that does not have an affected fuel pump
installed: After the identification of the fuel pump part numbers as
required by paragraph (g) of this AD, do not install an affected
fuel pump.
(2) For an airplane that has an affected fuel pump installed:
After modification of an airplane as required by paragraph (h) of
this AD, no person may install an affected fuel pump on any
airplane.
(l) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for actions required by
paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD, if those actions were performed
before the effective date of this AD using service information
included in paragraphs (l)(1), (l)(2), and (l)(3) of this AD, which
are not incorporated by reference in this AD.
(1) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-28-3127 dated July 14, 2015.
(2) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-28-4138 dated July 14, 2015.
(3) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-28-5060 dated July 14, 2015.
(m) 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: Vladimir
Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton,
WA 98057-3356; telephone: 425-227-1138; 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.
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except as provide by paragraph
(j) of this AD, if any service information contains procedures or
tests that are identified as RC, those procedures and tests must be
done to comply with this AD; any procedures or tests that are not
identified as RC are recommended. Those procedures and tests that
are not identified as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods
in accordance with the operator's maintenance or inspection program
without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and
tests identified as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back
in an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or changes to
procedures or tests identified as RC require approval of an AMOC.
(n) Related Information
(1) Refer to Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD
2015-0194, dated September 22, 2015, for related information. You
may examine the MCAI on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov
by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-6418.
(2) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96;
fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; email: airworthiness.A330-A340@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 April 28, 2016.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-10633 Filed 5-6-16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
