Airworthiness Directives; Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics (Type Certificate Previously Held by Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems) Airplanes, 29807-29809 [2016-11171]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 93 / Friday, May 13, 2016 / Proposed Rules airplane had accumulated 53,000 total flight cycles or more. (o) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Wade Sullivan, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle ACO, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6430; fax: 425– 917–6590; email: wade.sullivan@faa.gov. (2) For service information identified in this AD, 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. Issued in Renton, Washington, on May 4, 2016. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2016–11170 Filed 5–12–16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2016–6668; Directorate Identifier 2014–NM–149–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics (Type Certificate Previously Held by Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems) Airplanes We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model SAAB 2000 airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a report that on some airplanes, during the paint removal process for repainting the airplane, the basic corrosion protection (anodizing and primer) coating was sanded down to bare metal on the aluminum skin panels and the bare metal might not have been treated correctly for corrosion prevention. This proposed AD would require an inspection of structural components of the airplane for any damaged protective coating; inspections of those areas for pitting corrosion, if necessary; a thickness measurement to determine if there is reduced skin thickness, if ehiers on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:43 May 12, 2016 Jkt 238001 We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 27, 2016. DATES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Saab AB, Saab ¨ Aeronautics, SE–581 88, Linkoping, Sweden; telephone +46 13 18 5591; fax +46 13 18 4874; email saab2000.techsupport@saabgroup.com; Internet https://www.saabgroup.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. ADDRESSES: Examining the AD Docket Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: SUMMARY: necessary; and repair, if necessary. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct damaged protective coatings. This condition could result in pitting corrosion damage; and reduced metal thickness, which could result in reduced static and fatigue strength of the airplane’s structural parts. You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– 6668; 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: Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM– 116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone 425–227– 1112; fax 425–227–1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 29807 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–2016–6668; Directorate Identifier 2014–NM–149–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed AD based on those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. Discussion The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014–0160, dated July 9, 2014 (Correction: July 9, 2014) (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model SAAB 2000 airplanes. The MCAI states: SAAB received evidence that on a number of SAAB 2000 aeroplanes, during paint removal before repainting, the basic corrosion protection anodizing and primer were removed. In these cases, the basic corrosion protection coating was sanded down to bare metal on the aluminium [aluminum] skin panel in spite of existing instruction(s) contained in the Structural Repair Manual (SRM) which prohibit(s) exposing the aluminium bare metal. Due to the fact that the skin panels are manufactured from aluminium without a protective covering (unclad), the anodizing and primer is the corner stone of the aeroplane corrosion protection system. If the anodizing and primer is removed and the aluminium surface is not correctly treated, pitting corrosion may occur. In addition, sanding to bare metal can inadvertently lead to metal removal and subsequently reduce the static and fatigue strength of the aeroplane structural parts. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could result in corrosion damage and/or reduced structural strength of the aeroplane structure. To address this potential unsafe condition, SAAB issued SB 2000–51–002 to provide inspection instructions. For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires a one-time [detailed] inspection [for damage] * * * of required anticorrosion protective coating [e.g., bonding primer], [detailed] inspection for E:\FR\FM\13MYP1.SGM 13MYP1 29808 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 93 / Friday, May 13, 2016 / Proposed Rules pitting corrosion (if necessary) [, a dye penetrant inspection for pitting corrosion (if necessary)] and measure the skin thickness (if necessary) [to determine if there is reduced skin thickness] and, depending on findings, corrective action(s) [e.g., repair]. This [EASA] AD is re-issued to correct typographical error of the effective date. 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– 6668. Relevant Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Saab has issued Service Bulletin 2000–51–002, Revision 01, dated May 23, 2014. This service information describes procedures for an inspection of structural components of the airplane for any damaged protective coating; inspections of those areas for pitting corrosion; a thickness measurement to determine if there is reduced skin thickness; and repair. 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. ehiers on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS FAA’s Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 8 airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would take about 20 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 $13,600, or $1,700 per product. In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would take about 45 work-hours, for a cost of $3,825 per product. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need these actions. We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide cost estimates for the parts cost of the follow-on actions specified in this proposed AD. VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:43 May 12, 2016 Jkt 238001 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 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. PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics (Type Certificate previously held by Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems): Docket No. FAA–2016– 6668; Directorate Identifier 2014–NM– 149–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by June 27, 2016. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics (Type Certificate previously held by Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems) Model SAAB 2000 airplanes, certificated in any category, all manufacturer serial numbers, except as specified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of this AD. (1) Those airplanes identified in Table 1 of Saab Service Bulletin 2000–51–002, Revision 01, dated May 23, 2014, on which an applicable ‘‘Related Statement’’ identified in Table 1 was accomplished. (2) Those airplanes that either have retained the original paint or have been repainted by Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 51, Standard Practices/ Structures. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by a report that on some airplanes, during the paint removal process for repainting the airplane, the basic corrosion protection (anodizing and primer) coating was sanded down to bare metal on the aluminum skin panels and the bare metal might not have been treated correctly for corrosion prevention. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct damaged protective coatings. This condition could result in pitting corrosion damage; and reduced metal thickness, which could result in reduced static and fatigue strength of the airplane’s structural parts. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Inspection, Related Investigative Actions, and Corrective Action (1) Within 2,000 flight hours or 12 months, whichever occurs first after the effective date of this AD, do a detailed inspection of the airplane structural parts to detect damaged protective coating (e.g., bonding primer), in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 2000– 51–002, Revision 01, dated May 23, 2014. If any damaged protective coating is found, before further flight, do a detailed inspection of the airplane structural parts to detect pitting corrosion and, if no pitting corrosion is found, do a dye penetrant inspection of the airplane structural parts to detect pitting E:\FR\FM\13MYP1.SGM 13MYP1 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 93 / Friday, May 13, 2016 / Proposed Rules corrosion and a thickness measurement to determine if there is reduced skin thickness, as applicable, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 2000–51–002, Revision 01, dated May 23, 2014. (2) If, during any inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, any damage (such as pitting corrosion or damaged primer) or reduced skin thickness is detected, as defined in Saab Service Bulletin 2000–51– 002, Revision 01, dated May 23, 2014, before further flight, contact the Manager, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics’ EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA) for a repair method, and do the repair within the compliance time indicated in those instructions. (h) Credit for Previous Actions This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using Saab Service Bulletin 2000–51–002, dated April 9, 2014, which is not incorporated by reference in this AD. ehiers on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS (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: Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1112; 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 Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics’ EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (j) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014–0160, dated July 9, 2014 (Correction: July 9, 2014), for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–6668. VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:43 May 12, 2016 Jkt 238001 (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics, ¨ SE–581 88, Linkoping, Sweden; telephone +46 13 18 5591; fax +46 13 18 4874; email saab2000.techsupport@saabgroup.com; Internet https://www.saabgroup.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 May 4, 2016. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2016–11171 Filed 5–12–16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2016–6666; Directorate Identifier 2015–NM–124–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Boeing Model 737–400 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by an evaluation by the design approval holder (DAH) which indicates that the aft fuselage skin is subject to widespread fatigue damage (WFD) and reports of aft fuselage skin cracking. This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections to detect cracking of the aft fuselage skin, inspections to detect missing or loose fasteners and any disbonding or cracking of bonded doublers, permanent repairs of timelimited repairs, related investigative and corrective actions if necessary, and skin panel replacement. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct cracking in the aft fuselage skin along the longitudinal edges of the bonded skin doubler, which could result in possible rapid decompression and reduced structural integrity of the airplane. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 27, 2016. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 29809 • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact 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– 6666. 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– 6666; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Wade Sullivan, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6430; fax: 425–917–6590; email: wade.sullivan@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA– 2016–6666; Directorate Identifier 2015– NM–124–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite E:\FR\FM\13MYP1.SGM 13MYP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 93 (Friday, May 13, 2016)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 29807-29809]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-11171]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2016-6668; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-149-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics (Type 
Certificate Previously Held by Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems) Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
certain Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model SAAB 2000 airplanes. This 
proposed AD was prompted by a report that on some airplanes, during the 
paint removal process for repainting the airplane, the basic corrosion 
protection (anodizing and primer) coating was sanded down to bare metal 
on the aluminum skin panels and the bare metal might not have been 
treated correctly for corrosion prevention. This proposed AD would 
require an inspection of structural components of the airplane for any 
damaged protective coating; inspections of those areas for pitting 
corrosion, if necessary; a thickness measurement to determine if there 
is reduced skin thickness, if necessary; and repair, if necessary. We 
are proposing this AD to detect and correct damaged protective 
coatings. This condition could result in pitting corrosion damage; and 
reduced metal thickness, which could result in reduced static and 
fatigue strength of the airplane's structural parts.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 27, 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: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Saab AB, 
Saab Aeronautics, SE-581 88, Link[ouml]ping, Sweden; telephone +46 13 
18 5591; fax +46 13 18 4874; email saab2000.techsupport@saabgroup.com; 
Internet https://www.saabgroup.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-
6668; 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: Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace 
Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane 
Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; 
telephone 425-227-1112; 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-2016-6668; 
Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-149-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed AD based on those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA 
Airworthiness Directive 2014-0160, dated July 9, 2014 (Correction: July 
9, 2014) (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing 
Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe 
condition for certain Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model SAAB 2000 
airplanes. The MCAI states:

    SAAB received evidence that on a number of SAAB 2000 aeroplanes, 
during paint removal before repainting, the basic corrosion 
protection anodizing and primer were removed. In these cases, the 
basic corrosion protection coating was sanded down to bare metal on 
the aluminium [aluminum] skin panel in spite of existing 
instruction(s) contained in the Structural Repair Manual (SRM) which 
prohibit(s) exposing the aluminium bare metal. Due to the fact that 
the skin panels are manufactured from aluminium without a protective 
covering (unclad), the anodizing and primer is the corner stone of 
the aeroplane corrosion protection system. If the anodizing and 
primer is removed and the aluminium surface is not correctly 
treated, pitting corrosion may occur. In addition, sanding to bare 
metal can inadvertently lead to metal removal and subsequently 
reduce the static and fatigue strength of the aeroplane structural 
parts.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could result in 
corrosion damage and/or reduced structural strength of the aeroplane 
structure.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, SAAB issued SB 2000-
51-002 to provide inspection instructions.
    For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires a one-
time [detailed] inspection [for damage] * * * of required 
anticorrosion protective coating [e.g., bonding primer], [detailed] 
inspection for

[[Page 29808]]

pitting corrosion (if necessary) [, a dye penetrant inspection for 
pitting corrosion (if necessary)] and measure the skin thickness (if 
necessary) [to determine if there is reduced skin thickness] and, 
depending on findings, corrective action(s) [e.g., repair].
    This [EASA] AD is re-issued to correct typographical error of 
the effective date.

    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-
6668.

Relevant Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Saab has issued Service Bulletin 2000-51-002, Revision 01, dated 
May 23, 2014. This service information describes procedures for an 
inspection of structural components of the airplane for any damaged 
protective coating; inspections of those areas for pitting corrosion; a 
thickness measurement to determine if there is reduced skin thickness; 
and repair. This service information is reasonably available because 
the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of 
business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD

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

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 8 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.
    We also estimate that it would take about 20 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 $13,600, or $1,700 
per product.
    In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would 
take about 45 work-hours, for a cost of $3,825 per product. We have no 
way of determining the number of aircraft that might need these 
actions. We have received no definitive data that would enable us to 
provide cost estimates for the parts cost of the follow-on actions 
specified in this proposed AD.

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):

Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics (Type Certificate previously held by Saab 
AB, Saab Aerosystems): Docket No. FAA-2016-6668; Directorate 
Identifier 2014-NM-149-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by June 27, 2016.

 (b) Affected ADs

    None.

 (c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics (Type Certificate 
previously held by Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems) Model SAAB 2000 
airplanes, certificated in any category, all manufacturer serial 
numbers, except as specified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of this 
AD.
    (1) Those airplanes identified in Table 1 of Saab Service 
Bulletin 2000-51-002, Revision 01, dated May 23, 2014, on which an 
applicable ``Related Statement'' identified in Table 1 was 
accomplished.
    (2) Those airplanes that either have retained the original paint 
or have been repainted by Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics.

 (d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 51, Standard 
Practices/Structures.

 (e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by a report that on some airplanes, during 
the paint removal process for repainting the airplane, the basic 
corrosion protection (anodizing and primer) coating was sanded down 
to bare metal on the aluminum skin panels and the bare metal might 
not have been treated correctly for corrosion prevention. We are 
issuing this AD to detect and correct damaged protective coatings. 
This condition could result in pitting corrosion damage; and reduced 
metal thickness, which could result in reduced static and fatigue 
strength of the airplane's structural parts.

 (f) Compliance

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

 (g) Inspection, Related Investigative Actions, and Corrective Action

    (1) Within 2,000 flight hours or 12 months, whichever occurs 
first after the effective date of this AD, do a detailed inspection 
of the airplane structural parts to detect damaged protective 
coating (e.g., bonding primer), in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 2000-51-002, 
Revision 01, dated May 23, 2014. If any damaged protective coating 
is found, before further flight, do a detailed inspection of the 
airplane structural parts to detect pitting corrosion and, if no 
pitting corrosion is found, do a dye penetrant inspection of the 
airplane structural parts to detect pitting

[[Page 29809]]

corrosion and a thickness measurement to determine if there is 
reduced skin thickness, as applicable, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 2000-51-002, 
Revision 01, dated May 23, 2014.
    (2) If, during any inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of 
this AD, any damage (such as pitting corrosion or damaged primer) or 
reduced skin thickness is detected, as defined in Saab Service 
Bulletin 2000-51-002, Revision 01, dated May 23, 2014, before 
further flight, contact the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety 
Agency (EASA); or Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics' EASA Design 
Organization Approval (DOA) for a repair method, and do the repair 
within the compliance time indicated in those instructions.

 (h) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraph 
(g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective 
date of this AD using Saab Service Bulletin 2000-51-002, dated April 
9, 2014, which is not incorporated by reference in 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: Shahram 
Daneshmandi, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1112; 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 Saab AB, Saab 
Aeronautics' EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by 
the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature.

 (j) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014-0160, dated July 9, 2014 
(Correction: July 9, 2014), for related information. This MCAI may 
be found in the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-
2016-6668.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Saab 
AB, Saab Aeronautics, SE-581 88, Link[ouml]ping, Sweden; telephone 
+46 13 18 5591; fax +46 13 18 4874; email 
saab2000.techsupport@saabgroup.com; Internet https://www.saabgroup.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 May 4, 2016.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-11171 Filed 5-12-16; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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