Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Defense and Space S.A. (Formerly Known as Construcciones Aeronauticas, S.A.) Airplanes, 718-720 [2016-30842]
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 2 / Wednesday, January 4, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110.
(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 Fort Worth, Texas, on December
15, 2016.
Stephen Barbini,
Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2016–30832 Filed 1–3–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2016–9109; Directorate
Identifier 2016–NM–011–AD; Amendment
39–18761; AD 2016–26–03]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Defense and Space S.A. (Formerly
Known as Construcciones
Aeronauticas, S.A.) Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
We are superseding
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2013–23–
02 for all Airbus Defense and Space S.A.
Model CN–235, CN–235–100, CN–235–
200, CN–235–300, and C–295 airplanes.
AD 2013–23–02 required an inspection
of the feeder cables of certain fuel
booster pumps for damage (including,
but not limited to, signs of electrical
arcing and fuel leaks), and replacement
if necessary. This new AD retains those
requirements and also requires
modification of the electrical
installation of the fuel booster pumps.
This AD was prompted by a report of an
in-flight problem with the fuel transfer
system. We are issuing this AD to
address the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD is effective February 8,
2017.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of February 8, 2017.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain other publications listed in
this AD as of December 2, 2013 (78 FR
68688, November 15, 2013).
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES
SUMMARY:
VerDate Sep<11>2014
15:22 Jan 03, 2017
Jkt 241001
For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
EADS CASA (Airbus Defense and
Space), Services/Engineering Support,
´
Avenida de Aragon 404, 28022 Madrid,
Spain; telephone: +34 91 585 55 84; fax:
+34 91 585 31 27; email:
MTA.TechnicalService@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. It is also
available on the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
9109.
ADDRESSES:
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–
9109; 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 address for the
Docket Office (telephone: 800–647–
5527) is Docket Management Facility,
U.S. Department of Transportation,
Docket Operations, M–30, West
Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140,
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
Washington, DC 20590.
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:
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to supersede AD 2013–23–02,
Amendment 39–17657 (78 FR 68688,
November 15, 2013) (‘‘AD 2013–23–
02’’). AD 2013–23–02 applied to all
Airbus Defense and Space S.A. Model
CN–235, CN–235–100, CN–235–200,
CN–235–300, and C–295 airplanes. The
NPRM published in the Federal
Register on September 19, 2016 (81 FR
64080). The NPRM was prompted by a
report of an in-flight problem with the
fuel transfer system. The NPRM
proposed to continue to require an
inspection of the feeder cables of certain
fuel booster pumps for damage
(including, but not limited to, signs of
electrical arcing and fuel leaks), and
replacement if necessary. The NPRM
PO 00000
Frm 00008
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Sfmt 4700
also proposed to require modification of
the electrical installation of the fuel
booster pumps. We are issuing this AD
to prevent damage to certain fuel
booster pumps, which could create an
ignition source in the fuel tank vapor
space, and result in a fuel tank
explosion and consequent loss of the
airplane.
The European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Union, has issued EASA AD 2016–0014,
dated January 14, 2016 (referred to after
this as the Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the
MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition
for all Airbus Defense and Space S.A.
Model CN–235, CN–235–100, CN–235–
200, CN–235–300, and C–295 airplanes.
The MCAI states:
An occurrence with a CN–235 aeroplane
was reported, involving an in-flight problem
with the fuel transfer system. The results of
the subsequent investigation revealed
damage on the fuel booster pump electrical
feeding cable and some burn marks on the
pump body and plate (fairing) at the external
side of the fuel tank; confirmed electrical
arcing between the wire and pump body; and
revealed fuel leakage onto the affected wire.
This condition, if not detected and
corrected, could create an ignition source in
the fuel tank vapour space, possibly resulting
in a fuel tank explosion and loss of the
aeroplane.
To address this potential unsafe condition,
EADS CASA (Airbus Military) issued All
Operators Letter (AOL) 235–025 and AOL
295–025, providing inspection instructions
for the affected fuel booster pumps, Part
Number (P/N) 1C12–34 and P/N 1C12–46.
Consequently, EASA issued AD 2013–0186
[which corresponds to FAA AD 2013–23–02]
to require a one-time [detailed visual]
inspection of the affected fuel booster pumps
to detect damage and, depending on findings,
replacement of the fuel booster pump. That
[EASA] AD also required reporting of all
findings to EADS CASA for evaluation.
Since that [EASA] AD was issued, Airbus
Defence and Space (D&S) developed [a]
modification of the fuel boost pump
electrical installation, available for in-service
application through Airbus D&S Service
Bulletin (SB) 235–28–0023. That
modification involves improved protection of
the output of affected fuel pump harness
avoiding undesired electrical contacts and
preventing potential arcing between the
affected harness and metallic parts of the fuel
boost cover.
For the reasons described above this
[EASA] AD partially retains the requirements
of EASA AD 2013–0186, which is
superseded, and requires modification of the
fuel pump electrical installation.
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–
9109.
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 2 / Wednesday, January 4, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to
participate in developing this AD. We
received no comments on the NPRM or
on the determination of the cost to the
public.
Conclusion
We reviewed the available data and
determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting this AD
as proposed except for minor editorial
changes. We have determined that these
minor changes:
• Are consistent with the intent that
was proposed in the NPRM for
correcting the unsafe condition; and
• Do not add any additional burden
upon the public than was already
proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR part 51
Airbus Defense and Space has issued
Service Bulletin SB–235–28–0023C,
Revision 01, dated October 27, 2015.
The service information describes
procedures for modification of the fuel
booster 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.
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 35
airplanes of U.S. registry.
The actions required by AD 2013–23–
02, and retained in this AD take about
4 work-hours per product, at an average
labor rate of $85 per work-hour. Based
on these figures, the estimated cost of
the actions that are required by AD
2013–23–02 is $340 per product.
We also estimate that it will take
about 8 work-hours per product to
comply with the basic requirements of
this AD. The average labor rate is $85
per work-hour. Required parts will cost
about $1,802 per product. Based on
these figures, we estimate the cost of
this AD on U.S. operators to be $86,870,
or $2,482 per product.
In addition, we estimate that any
necessary follow-on actions will take
about 3 work-hours and require parts
costing $16,080, for a cost of $16,335
per product. We have no way of
determining the number of aircraft that
might need this action.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more
VerDate Sep<11>2014
15:22 Jan 03, 2017
Jkt 241001
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under
the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
General requirements.’’ Under that
section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
air commerce by prescribing regulations
for practices, methods, and procedures
the Administrator finds necessary for
safety in air commerce. This regulation
is within the scope of that authority
because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on
products identified in this rulemaking
action.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this AD will not
have federalism implications under
Executive Order 13132. This AD will
not have a substantial direct effect on
the States, on the relationship between
the national government and the States,
or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
Alaska; and
4. Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
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
removing Airworthiness Directive (AD)
2013–23–02, Amendment 39–17657 (78
FR 68688, November 15, 2013), and
adding the following new AD:
■
2016–26–03 Airbus Defense and Space S.A.
(formerly known as Construcciones
PO 00000
Frm 00009
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
719
Aeronauticas, S.A.): Amendment 39–
18761; Docket No. FAA–2016–9109;
Directorate Identifier 2016–NM–011–AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective February 8, 2017.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD replaces AD 2013–23–02,
Amendment 39–17657 (78 FR 68688,
November 15, 2013) (‘‘AD 2013–23–02’’).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Defense and
Space S.A. (formerly known as
Construcciones Aeronauticas, S.A.) Model
CN–235, CN–235–100, CN–235–200, CN–
235–300, and C–295 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 a report of an
in-flight problem with the fuel transfer
system. We are issuing this AD to prevent
damage to certain fuel booster pumps, which
could create an ignition source in the fuel
tank vapor space, and result in a fuel tank
explosion and consequent loss of the
airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Retained Inspection of the Feeder Cables
of Certain Fuel Booster Pumps, With No
Changes
This paragraph restates the requirements of
paragraph (g) of AD 2013–23–02, with no
changes. Within the times specified in
paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD, as
applicable: Perform a detailed visual
inspection for damage (including, but not
limited to, signs of electrical arcing and fuel
leaks) of the electrical feeder cables of each
fuel booster pump having part number (P/N)
1C12–34 or 1C12–46, in accordance with the
instructions of Airbus Military All Operator
Letter 235–025, dated July 29, 2013 (for
Model CN–235 airplanes); or Airbus Military
All Operator Letter 295–025, Revision 01,
dated August 1, 2013 (for Model C–295
airplanes).
(1) For each fuel booster pump that has not
been replaced as of December 2, 2013 (the
effective date of AD 2013–23–02): Prior to the
accumulation of 300 total flight hours or
within 5 flight cycles after December 2, 2013,
whichever occurs later.
(2) For each fuel booster pump that has
been replaced as of December 2, 2013 (the
effective date of AD 2013–23–02): Within 300
flight hours since the most recent fuel booster
pump replacement, or within 5 flight cycles
after December 2, 2013, whichever occurs
later.
(h) Retained Replacement of Affected Fuel
Boost Pumps, With No Changes
This paragraph restates the requirements of
paragraph (h) of AD 2013–23–02, with no
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 2 / Wednesday, January 4, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
changes. If any damage (including, but not
limited to, signs of electrical arcing and fuel
leaks) is found during the inspection
required by paragraph (g) of this AD: Within
the time specified in paragraph (h)(1) or
(h)(2) of this AD, replace the affected fuel
booster pump with a serviceable pump, in
accordance with Airbus Military All Operator
Letter 235–025, dated July 29, 2013 (for
Model CN–235 airplanes); or Airbus Military
All Operator Letter 295–025, Revision 01,
dated August 1, 2013 (for Model C–295
airplanes).
(1) Before further flight.
(2) Within 10 days following the
inspection, provided that the airplane is
operated under the conditions specified in
Airbus Military All Operator Letter 235–025,
dated July 29, 2013 (for Model CN–235
airplanes); or Airbus Military All Operator
Letter 295–025, Revision 01, dated August 1,
2013 (for Model C–295 airplanes).
(i) New Requirement of This AD:
Modification of the Fuel Booster Pumps
For Airbus Defense and Space S.A. Model
CN–235, CN–235–100, CN–235–200, and
CN–235–300 airplanes: Within 12 months
after the effective date of this AD, modify the
electrical installation of the fuel booster
pumps, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Defense and Space Service Bulletin SB–235–
28–0023C, Revision 01, dated October 27,
2015. Accomplishing the modification
terminates the requirements of paragraphs (g)
and (h) of this AD for that airplane.
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES
(j) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for actions
required by paragraph (i) of this AD, if those
actions were performed before the effective
date of this AD using Airbus EADS CASA
Service Bulletin SB–235–28–0023, dated
March 14, 2014.
(k) 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: 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.
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: As of the
effective date of this AD, for any requirement
in this AD to obtain corrective actions from
a manufacturer, the action must be
accomplished using a method approved by
VerDate Sep<11>2014
15:22 Jan 03, 2017
Jkt 241001
the Manager, International Branch, ANM–
116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or
the European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA); or EADS CASA’s EASA Design
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by
the DOA, the approval must include the
DOA-authorized signature.
(l) Related Information
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD
2016–0014, dated January 14, 2016, 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–2016–9109.
(2) Service information identified in this
AD that is not incorporated by reference is
available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (m)(5) and (m)(6) of this AD.
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(3) The following service information was
approved for IBR on February 8, 2017.
(i) Airbus Defense and Space Service
Bulletin SB–235–28–0023C, Revision 01,
dated October 27, 2015.
(ii) Reserved.
(4) The following service information was
approved for IBR on December 2, 2013 (78 FR
68688, November 15, 2013).
(i) Airbus Military All Operator Letter 235–
025, dated July 29, 2013.
(ii) Airbus Military All Operator Letter
295–025, Revision 01, dated August 1, 2013.
(5) For service information identified in
this AD, contact EADS CASA (Airbus
Defense and Space), Services/Engineering
´
Support, Avenida de Aragon 404, 28022
Madrid, Spain; telephone: +34 91 585 55 84;
fax: +34 91 585 31 27; email:
MTA.TechnicalService@Airbus.com.
(6) 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.
(7) You may view this service information
that is incorporated by reference at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call
202–741–6030, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on
December 8, 2016.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2016–30842 Filed 1–3–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
PO 00000
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 71
[Docket No. FAA–2016–9263; Airspace
Docket No. 15–AWA–6]
RIN 2120–AA66
Revocation of Offshore Airspace
Areas; Control 1154H, Control 1173H,
Control 1154L, and Control 1173L,
California
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
This action removes offshore
airspace areas Control 1154H and
Control 1154L located offshore of Ukiah,
California, and removes offshore
airspace areas Control 1173H and
Control 1173L located offshore of San
Francisco, California. The FAA has
determined these offshore airspace areas
are no longer required.
DATES: Effective date 0901 UTC, March
2, 2017. The Director of the FEDERAL
REGISTER approves this incorporation
by reference action under Title 1, Code
of Federal Regulations, part 51, subject
to the annual revision of FAA Order
7400.11 and publication of conforming
amendments.
ADDRESSES: FAA Order 7400.11A,
Airspace Designations and Reporting
Points, and subsequent amendments can
be viewed online at https://www.faa.gov/
air_traffic/publications/. For further
information, you can contact the
Airspace Policy Group, Federal Aviation
Administration, 800 Independence
Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20591;
telephone: (202) 267–8783. The Order is
also available for inspection at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For
information on the availability of FAA
Order 7400.11A at NARA, call (202)
741–6030, or go to https://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/
code_of_federal-regulations/ibr_
locations.html.
FAA Order 7400.11, Airspace
Designations and Reporting Points, is
published yearly and effective on
September 15.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Colby Abbott, Airspace Policy Group,
Office of Airspace Services, Federal
Aviation Administration, 800
Independence Avenue SW.,
Washington, DC 20591; telephone: (202)
267–8783.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
SUMMARY:
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Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 2 (Wednesday, January 4, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 718-720]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-30842]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2016-9109; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-011-AD;
Amendment 39-18761; AD 2016-26-03]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Defense and Space S.A. (Formerly
Known as Construcciones Aeronauticas, S.A.) Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2013-23-02 for
all Airbus Defense and Space S.A. Model CN-235, CN-235-100, CN-235-200,
CN-235-300, and C-295 airplanes. AD 2013-23-02 required an inspection
of the feeder cables of certain fuel booster pumps for damage
(including, but not limited to, signs of electrical arcing and fuel
leaks), and replacement if necessary. This new AD retains those
requirements and also requires modification of the electrical
installation of the fuel booster pumps. This AD was prompted by a
report of an in-flight problem with the fuel transfer system. We are
issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective February 8, 2017.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of February 8,
2017.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain other publications listed in this AD as of
December 2, 2013 (78 FR 68688, November 15, 2013).
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule,
contact EADS CASA (Airbus Defense and Space), Services/Engineering
Support, Avenida de Arag[oacute]n 404, 28022 Madrid, Spain; telephone:
+34 91 585 55 84; fax: +34 91 585 31 27; email:
MTA.TechnicalService@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. It is also available on the
Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating
Docket No. FAA-2016-9109.
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-
9109; 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 address for the Docket Office (telephone: 800-
647-5527) is Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor,
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
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:
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to supersede AD 2013-23-02, Amendment 39-17657 (78 FR 68688,
November 15, 2013) (``AD 2013-23-02''). AD 2013-23-02 applied to all
Airbus Defense and Space S.A. Model CN-235, CN-235-100, CN-235-200, CN-
235-300, and C-295 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal
Register on September 19, 2016 (81 FR 64080). The NPRM was prompted by
a report of an in-flight problem with the fuel transfer system. The
NPRM proposed to continue to require an inspection of the feeder cables
of certain fuel booster pumps for damage (including, but not limited
to, signs of electrical arcing and fuel leaks), and replacement if
necessary. The NPRM also proposed to require modification of the
electrical installation of the fuel booster pumps. We are issuing this
AD to prevent damage to certain fuel booster pumps, which could create
an ignition source in the fuel tank vapor space, and result in a fuel
tank explosion and consequent loss of the airplane.
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD
2016-0014, dated January 14, 2016 (referred to after this as the
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to
correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Defense and Space S.A. Model
CN-235, CN-235-100, CN-235-200, CN-235-300, and C-295 airplanes. The
MCAI states:
An occurrence with a CN-235 aeroplane was reported, involving an
in-flight problem with the fuel transfer system. The results of the
subsequent investigation revealed damage on the fuel booster pump
electrical feeding cable and some burn marks on the pump body and
plate (fairing) at the external side of the fuel tank; confirmed
electrical arcing between the wire and pump body; and revealed fuel
leakage onto the affected wire.
This condition, if not detected and corrected, could create an
ignition source in the fuel tank vapour space, possibly resulting in
a fuel tank explosion and loss of the aeroplane.
To address this potential unsafe condition, EADS CASA (Airbus
Military) issued All Operators Letter (AOL) 235-025 and AOL 295-025,
providing inspection instructions for the affected fuel booster
pumps, Part Number (P/N) 1C12-34 and P/N 1C12-46.
Consequently, EASA issued AD 2013-0186 [which corresponds to FAA
AD 2013-23-02] to require a one-time [detailed visual] inspection of
the affected fuel booster pumps to detect damage and, depending on
findings, replacement of the fuel booster pump. That [EASA] AD also
required reporting of all findings to EADS CASA for evaluation.
Since that [EASA] AD was issued, Airbus Defence and Space (D&S)
developed [a] modification of the fuel boost pump electrical
installation, available for in-service application through Airbus
D&S Service Bulletin (SB) 235-28-0023. That modification involves
improved protection of the output of affected fuel pump harness
avoiding undesired electrical contacts and preventing potential
arcing between the affected harness and metallic parts of the fuel
boost cover.
For the reasons described above this [EASA] AD partially retains
the requirements of EASA AD 2013-0186, which is superseded, and
requires modification of the fuel pump electrical installation.
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-
9109.
[[Page 719]]
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing
this AD. We received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of
the cost to the public.
Conclusion
We reviewed the available data and determined that air safety and
the public interest require adopting this AD as proposed except for
minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:
Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the
NPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and
Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was
already proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR part 51
Airbus Defense and Space has issued Service Bulletin SB-235-28-
0023C, Revision 01, dated October 27, 2015. The service information
describes procedures for modification of the fuel booster 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.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 35 airplanes of U.S. registry.
The actions required by AD 2013-23-02, and retained in this AD take
about 4 work-hours per product, at an average labor rate of $85 per
work-hour. Based on these figures, the estimated cost of the actions
that are required by AD 2013-23-02 is $340 per product.
We also estimate that it will take about 8 work-hours per product
to comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average labor
rate is $85 per work-hour. Required parts will cost about $1,802 per
product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD on
U.S. operators to be $86,870, or $2,482 per product.
In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions will
take about 3 work-hours and require parts costing $16,080, for a cost
of $16,335 per product. We have no way of determining the number of
aircraft that might need this action.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications
under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct
effect on the States, on the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order
12866;
2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and
4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by removing Airworthiness Directive (AD)
2013-23-02, Amendment 39-17657 (78 FR 68688, November 15, 2013), and
adding the following new AD:
2016-26-03 Airbus Defense and Space S.A. (formerly known as
Construcciones Aeronauticas, S.A.): Amendment 39-18761; Docket No.
FAA-2016-9109; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-011-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective February 8, 2017.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD replaces AD 2013-23-02, Amendment 39-17657 (78 FR 68688,
November 15, 2013) (``AD 2013-23-02'').
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Defense and Space S.A. (formerly known
as Construcciones Aeronauticas, S.A.) Model CN-235, CN-235-100, CN-
235-200, CN-235-300, and C-295 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 a report of an in-flight problem with
the fuel transfer system. We are issuing this AD to prevent damage
to certain fuel booster pumps, which could create an ignition source
in the fuel tank vapor space, and result in a fuel tank explosion
and consequent loss of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Retained Inspection of the Feeder Cables of Certain Fuel Booster
Pumps, With No Changes
This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD
2013-23-02, with no changes. Within the times specified in paragraph
(g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD, as applicable: Perform a detailed
visual inspection for damage (including, but not limited to, signs
of electrical arcing and fuel leaks) of the electrical feeder cables
of each fuel booster pump having part number (P/N) 1C12-34 or 1C12-
46, in accordance with the instructions of Airbus Military All
Operator Letter 235-025, dated July 29, 2013 (for Model CN-235
airplanes); or Airbus Military All Operator Letter 295-025, Revision
01, dated August 1, 2013 (for Model C-295 airplanes).
(1) For each fuel booster pump that has not been replaced as of
December 2, 2013 (the effective date of AD 2013-23-02): Prior to the
accumulation of 300 total flight hours or within 5 flight cycles
after December 2, 2013, whichever occurs later.
(2) For each fuel booster pump that has been replaced as of
December 2, 2013 (the effective date of AD 2013-23-02): Within 300
flight hours since the most recent fuel booster pump replacement, or
within 5 flight cycles after December 2, 2013, whichever occurs
later.
(h) Retained Replacement of Affected Fuel Boost Pumps, With No Changes
This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD
2013-23-02, with no
[[Page 720]]
changes. If any damage (including, but not limited to, signs of
electrical arcing and fuel leaks) is found during the inspection
required by paragraph (g) of this AD: Within the time specified in
paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of this AD, replace the affected fuel
booster pump with a serviceable pump, in accordance with Airbus
Military All Operator Letter 235-025, dated July 29, 2013 (for Model
CN-235 airplanes); or Airbus Military All Operator Letter 295-025,
Revision 01, dated August 1, 2013 (for Model C-295 airplanes).
(1) Before further flight.
(2) Within 10 days following the inspection, provided that the
airplane is operated under the conditions specified in Airbus
Military All Operator Letter 235-025, dated July 29, 2013 (for Model
CN-235 airplanes); or Airbus Military All Operator Letter 295-025,
Revision 01, dated August 1, 2013 (for Model C-295 airplanes).
(i) New Requirement of This AD: Modification of the Fuel Booster Pumps
For Airbus Defense and Space S.A. Model CN-235, CN-235-100, CN-
235-200, and CN-235-300 airplanes: Within 12 months after the
effective date of this AD, modify the electrical installation of the
fuel booster pumps, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Defense and Space Service Bulletin SB-235-28-
0023C, Revision 01, dated October 27, 2015. Accomplishing the
modification terminates the requirements of paragraphs (g) and (h)
of this AD for that airplane.
(j) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraph
(i) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective
date of this AD using Airbus EADS CASA Service Bulletin SB-235-28-
0023, dated March 14, 2014.
(k) 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.
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: As of the effective date of
this AD, 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 EADS CASA's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If
approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized
signature.
(l) Related Information
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information
(MCAI) EASA AD 2016-0014, dated January 14, 2016, 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-2016-9109.
(2) Service information identified in this AD that is not
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (m)(5) and (m)(6) of this AD.
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(3) The following service information was approved for IBR on
February 8, 2017.
(i) Airbus Defense and Space Service Bulletin SB-235-28-0023C,
Revision 01, dated October 27, 2015.
(ii) Reserved.
(4) The following service information was approved for IBR on
December 2, 2013 (78 FR 68688, November 15, 2013).
(i) Airbus Military All Operator Letter 235-025, dated July 29,
2013.
(ii) Airbus Military All Operator Letter 295-025, Revision 01,
dated August 1, 2013.
(5) For service information identified in this AD, contact EADS
CASA (Airbus Defense and Space), Services/Engineering Support,
Avenida de Arag[oacute]n 404, 28022 Madrid, Spain; telephone: +34 91
585 55 84; fax: +34 91 585 31 27; email:
MTA.TechnicalService@Airbus.com.
(6) 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.
(7) You may view this service information that is incorporated
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on December 8, 2016.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-30842 Filed 1-3-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P