Airworthiness Directives; Textron Aviation Inc. Airplanes, 17594-17597 [2017-07343]
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17594
Proposed Rules
Federal Register
Vol. 82, No. 69
Wednesday, April 12, 2017
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 AGRICULTURE
Grain Inspection, Packers and
Stockyards Administration
9 CFR Part 201
RIN 0580–AB28
Scope of Sections 202(a) and (b) of the
Packers and Stockyards Act
Grain Inspection, Packers and
Stockyards Administration, USDA.
ACTION: Proposed rule.
AGENCY:
This proposed rule sets forth
the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s
(USDA) intention to pursue one of
several actions on the above titled
Interim Final Rule (IFR) published in
the Federal Register on December 20,
2016, by USDA’s Grain Inspection,
Packers and Stockyards Administration
(GIPSA). USDA is asking the public to
comment as to the possible actions
USDA should take in regards to the
disposition of the IFR. The IFR
addresses the scope of sections 202(a)
and (b) of the Packers and Stockyards
Act, 1921, as amended and
supplemented (P&S Act) in order to
clarify that conduct or action may
violate sections 202(a) and (b) of the
P&S Act without adversely affecting, or
having a likelihood of adversely
affecting, competition. The IFR was
originally set to take effect on February
21, 2017, and is now being extended to
October 19, 2017.
DATES: Interested persons are invited to
submit written comments on this
proposed rule on or before June 12,
2017.
SUMMARY:
We invite you to submit
comments on the proposed rule by any
of the following methods:
• Mail: M. Irene Omade, GIPSA,
USDA, 1400 Independence Avenue
SW., Room 2542A–S, Washington, DC
20250–3613.
• Hand Delivery or Courier: M. Irene
Omade, GIPSA, USDA, 1400
Independence Avenue SW., Room
2530–S, Washington, DC 20250–3613.
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ADDRESSES:
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• Internet: https://
www.regulations.gov. Follow the on-line
instructions for submitting comments.
Instructions: All comments should
make reference to the date and page
number of this issue of the Federal
Register. All comments received will be
included in the public docket without
change, including any personal
information provided. Regulatory
analyses and other documents relating
to this rulemaking will be available for
public inspection in Room 2542A–S,
1400 Independence Avenue SW.,
Washington, DC 20250–3613 during
regular business hours. All comments
will be available for public inspection in
the above office during regular business
hours (7 CFR 1.27(b)). Please call the
Management and Budget Services staff
of GIPSA at (202) 720–8479 to arrange
a public inspection of comments or
other documents related to this
rulemaking.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: S.
Brett Offutt, Director, Litigation and
Economic Analysis Division, P&SP,
GIPSA, 1400 Independence Ave. SW.,
Washington, DC 20250, (202) 720–7051,
s.brett.offutt@usda.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
Consistent with the memorandum of
January 20, 2017, to the heads of
executive departments and agencies
from the Assistant to the President and
Chief of Staff entitled ‘‘Regulatory
Freeze Pending Review,’’ GIPSA
published in the Federal Register [81
FR 92566] a notice that extended the
public comment period of the IFR until
March 24, 2017, and delayed its
effective date until April 22, 2017.
Along with this proposed rule, GIPSA is
also publishing a Notice in the Federal
Register that further delays the effective
date of the IFR until October 19, 2017.
The IFR establishes by regulation the
USDA’s long held interpretation that not
all violations of the P&S Act require a
showing of harm or likely harm to
competition. Codified at 9 CFR 201.3(a),
the IFR specifically provides that the
scope of Sections 202(a) and (b) of the
P&S Act encompass conduct or action
that, depending on their nature and the
circumstances, can be found to violate
the P&S Act without a finding of harm
or likely harm to competition. This IFR
finalizes a proposed § 201.3(c) that
GIPSA published in the Federal
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Register on June 22, 2010, 75 FR 35338,
with slight modifications in order to
allow additional public comment on the
proposed provisions.
Actions Being Considered
Because there are significant policy
and legal issues addressed within the
IFR that warrant further review by
USDA, the public is being asked to
comment on which of the following four
actions they believe would be best for
USDA to take with regard to the
disposition of the IFR. Specifically, the
public should submit their comments as
to whether USDA should:
(1) Allow the IFR to become effective,
(2) Suspend the IFR indefinitely,
(3) Delay the effective date of the IFR
further, or
(4) Withdraw the IFR.
Notice Delaying IFR Effective Date
Concurrent with this proposed rule,
GIPSA is publishing in the Rules and
Regulations section of this issue of the
Federal Register a document extending
the effective date of the IFR by 180 days
until October 19, 2017.
Randall D. Jones,
Acting Administrator, Grain Inspection,
Packers and Stockyards Administration.
[FR Doc. 2017–07361 Filed 4–11–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410–KD–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2017–0288; Directorate
Identifier 2017–CE–007–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Textron
Aviation Inc. Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
We propose to adopt a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Textron Aviation Inc. Models A36TC
and B36TC airplanes. This proposed AD
was prompted by a fatal accident where
the exhaust tailpipe fell off during
takeoff. This proposed AD would add a
life limit to the exhaust tailpipe v-band
coupling (clamp) that attaches the
SUMMARY:
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 69 / Wednesday, April 12, 2017 / Proposed Rules
exhaust tailpipe to the turbocharger and,
if the coupling is removed for any
reason before the life limit is reached,
this proposed AD would require an
inspection of the coupling before
reinstalling. We are proposing this AD
to correct the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by May 30, 2017.
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.
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–2017–
0288; 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:
Thomas Teplik, Aerospace Engineer,
Wichita Aircraft Certification Office,
FAA, 1801 Airport Road, Room 100,
Wichita, Kansas 67209; phone: (316)
946–4196; fax: (316) 946–4107; email:
thomas.teplik@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–
2017–0288; Directorate Identifier 2017–
CE–007–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 because of those
comments.
We will post all comments we
receive, without change, to https://
www.regulations.gov, including any
personal information you provide. We
will also post a report summarizing each
substantive verbal contact we receive
about this proposed AD.
Discussion
We were notified of a fatal accident
involving a Textron Aviation Inc.
(Beech Bonanza) Model A36TC
airplane. The National Transportation
Safety Board preliminary report stated
17595
that shortly after takeoff the pilot
advised the control tower that there was
smoke in the cockpit and they needed
to return to the airport. Witnesses
reported seeing smoke and flames
coming from the airplane before it
impacted terrain. The exhaust tailpipe,
a fractured v-band coupling (clamp) that
attached the exhaust tailpipe to the
turbocharger, and small fragments of
fabric insulation were recovered from
the runway. Failure of the exhaust
tailpipe v-band coupling may lead to
detachment of the exhaust tailpipe from
the turbocharger and allow hightemperature exhaust gases to enter the
engine compartment, which could result
in an inflight fire.
FAA’s Determination
We are proposing this AD because we
evaluated all the relevant information
and determined the unsafe condition
described previously is likely to exist or
develop in other products of the same
type design.
Proposed AD Requirements
This proposed AD would add a life
limit to the exhaust tailpipe v-band
coupling and, if the coupling is removed
for any reason before the life limit is
reached, this AD would require an
inspection of the v-band coupling before
reinstalling.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD
affects 499 airplanes of U.S. registry.
We estimate the following costs to
comply with this proposed AD:
ESTIMATED COSTS
Action
Labor cost
Parts cost
Replacement of the exhaust tailpipe v-band
coupling (clamp).
2 work-hours × $85 per hour = $170 .............
We estimate the following costs to do
any necessary inspection that would be
required based on removal and
reinstallation of the exhaust tailpipe vband coupling. We have no way of
$300
Cost per
product
$470
Cost on U.S.
operators
$234,530
determining the number of airplanes
that might need this inspection:
ON-CONDITION COSTS
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Action
Labor cost
Parts cost
Inspection of the exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling
(clamp).
1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ...............................
Not applicable
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
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section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs, describes in more
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Cost per
product
$85
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under
the authority described in Subtitle VII,
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 69 / Wednesday, April 12, 2017 / Proposed Rules
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:
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■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
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Jkt 241001
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
■
Textron Aviation Inc.: Docket No. FAA–
2017–0288; Directorate Identifier 2017–
CE–007–AD
(a) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by May 30,
2017.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Textron Aviation Inc.
Models A36TC and B36TC airplanes; all
serial numbers, that are certificated in any
category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America
Code 81, Turbocharging.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a fatal accident
where the exhaust tailpipe fell off during
takeoff. We are issuing this AD to prevent
failure of the exhaust tailpipe v-band
coupling that may lead to detachment of the
exhaust tailpipe from the turbocharger and
allow high-temperature exhaust gases to
enter the engine compartment, which could
result in an inflight fire.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Replacement of the V-Band Coupling
(Clamp)
Replace the exhaust tailpipe v-band
coupling part number (P/N) N4211–375–M or
P/N 5322C–375–Z (P/Ns are also known as P/
N N4211–375M and P/N 5322C3752) with a
new exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling. When
installing the new part, tighten the v-band
coupling to 40 in-lbs., tap the periphery of
the band to distribute tension, and torque
again to 40 in-lbs. Do the replacement at the
compliance times in paragraphs (g)(1) and (2)
of this AD. For the purposes of this AD, the
exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling may also be
referred to as the exhaust tailpipe v-band
clamp.
Note 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD: The
engineering drawing lists the applicable part
number v-band couplings as P/N N4211–
375–M and P/N 5322C–375–Z; however, the
parts catalog lists the applicable v-band
couplings as P/N N4211–375M and P/N
5322C3752.
Note 2 to paragraphs (g) and (h)(2) of this
AD: We recommend after installation of the
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Fmt 4702
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exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling, you do an
engine run and recheck the torque of the vband coupling.
(1) If from a review of the maintenance
records you can positively identify that the
hours time-in-service (TIS) for the exhaust
tailpipe v-band coupling is less than 500
hours TIS: Do the initial replacement within
500 hours TIS for the exhaust tailpipe v-band
coupling or within the next 50 hours TIS
after the effective date of this AD, whichever
occurs later, and replace repetitively
thereafter at intervals not to exceed 500 hours
TIS on the exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling.
(2) If from a review of the maintenance
records you can positively identify that the
hours TIS for the exhaust tailpipe v-band
coupling is 500 hours TIS or more or you
cannot positively identify the hours TIS for
the exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling: Do the
initial replacement within 50 hours TIS after
the effective date of this AD and replace
repetitively thereafter at intervals not to
exceed 500 hours TIS on the exhaust tailpipe
v-band coupling.
(h) Removal of the Exhaust Tailpipe V-Band
Coupling Before Reaching the 500-Hour Life
Limit
(1) If the exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling
is removed for any reason before any
replacement required by this AD, before reinstalling the same (existing) v-band
coupling, you must do the inspection steps
listed in paragraphs (h)(1)(i) through (vi) of
this AD. During the removal, inspection, and
reinstallation do not open the coupling more
than necessary because excessive flexing of
the coupling can lead to damage.
(i) Use crocus cloth and mineral spirits/
Stoddard solvent, to clean the outer band of
the v-band coupling. Pay particular attention
to the spot weld areas on the coupling.
(ii) Use a 10X magnifier to visually inspect
the outer band for cracks, paying particular
attention to the spot weld areas. If cracks are
found during this inspection, do not reinstall the v-band coupling. Before further
flight, you must install a new v-band
coupling and restart the hours TIS for the
repetitive replacement of the v-band
coupling.
(iii) Visually inspect the flatness of the
outer band using a straight edge. Lay the
straight edge across the width of the outer
band. The gap must be less than 0.062
inches. See figure 1 to paragraphs (h)(1)(iii)
and (v) of this AD. If the gap exceeds 0.062
inches between the outer band and the
straight edge, do not re-install the v-band
coupling. Before further flight, you must
install a new v-band coupling and restart the
hours TIS for the repetitive replacement of
the v-band coupling.
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 69 / Wednesday, April 12, 2017 / Proposed Rules
(iv) With the t-bolt in the 12 o’clock
position, visually inspect the coupling for the
attachment of the outer band to the v-retainer
coupling segments by inspecting for gaps
between the outer band and the v-retainer
coupling segments between approximately
the 1 o’clock through 11 o’clock position. It
is recommended to use backlighting to see
gaps. If gaps between the outer band and the
v-retainer coupling segments are found, do
not re-install the v-band coupling. Before
further flight, you must install a new v-band
coupling and restart the hours TIS for the
repetitive replacement of the v-band
coupling.
(v) Visually inspect the bend radii of the
coupling v-retainer coupling segments for
cracks. Inspect the radii throughout the
length of the segment. See figure 1 to
paragraphs (h)(1)(iii) and (v) of this AD. If
any cracks are found, do not re-install the vband coupling. Before further flight, you
must install a new v-band coupling and
restart the hours TIS for the repetitive
replacement of the v-band coupling.
(vi) Visually inspect the outer band
opposite the t-bolt for damage (distortion,
creases, bulging, or cracks), which may be
caused from excessive spreading of the
coupling during installation and/or removal.
If any damage is found, do not re-install the
v-band coupling. Before further flight, you
must install a new v-band coupling and
restart the hours TIS for the repetitive
replacement of the v-band coupling.
(2) If the removed exhaust tailpipe v-band
coupling passes all of the inspection steps
listed in paragraphs (h)(1)(i) through (vi) of
this AD, you may re-install the same v-band
coupling. After the coupling is re-installed
and torqued as specified in paragraph (g) of
this AD, verify there is space between each
v-retainer coupling segment below the t-bolt.
If there is no space between each v-retainer
coupling segment below the t-bolt, before
further flight, you must install a new v-band
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Jkt 241001
coupling and restart the hours TIS for the
repetitive replacement of the v-band
coupling.
(3) The inspections required in paragraphs
(h)(1) and (2) of this AD only apply to reinstalling the same exhaust tailpipe v-band
coupling that was removed for any reason as
specified in paragraph (h)(1) of this AD. It
does not apply to installation of a new vband coupling. These inspections do not
terminate the 500-hour TIS repetitive
replacement of the v-band coupling and do
not restart the hours TIS for the repetitive
replacement of the v-band coupling.
(4) After the effective date of this AD, do
not install a used exhaust tailpipe v-band
coupling on the airplane except for the
reinstallation of the inspected exhaust
tailpipe v-band coupling that was removed
for any reason as specified in paragraph
(h)(1) of this AD.
(316) 946–4196; fax: (316) 946–4107; email:
thomas.teplik@faa.gov.
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Wichita Aircraft
Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if
requested using the procedures found in 14
CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,
send your request to your principal inspector
or local Flight Standards District Office, as
appropriate. If sending information directly
to the manager of the ACO, send it to the
attention of the person identified in
paragraph (j) of this AD.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office.
Relaxation of the Federal Reid Vapor
Pressure Gasoline Volatility Standard
for Davidson, Rutherford, Sumner,
Williamson, and Wilson Counties,
Tennessee
(j) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Thomas Teplik, Aerospace Engineer,
Wichita ACO, FAA, 1801 Airport Road,
Room 100, Wichita, Kansas 67209; phone:
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Fmt 4702
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Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on April
3, 2017.
Pat Mullen,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2017–07343 Filed 4–11–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
AGENCY
40 CFR Part 80
[EPA–HQ–OAR–2016–0631; FRL 9961–45–
OAR]
RIN 2060–AT32
Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Proposed rule.
AGENCY:
The Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) is proposing to approve a
request from the state of Tennessee for
EPA to relax the federal Reid Vapor
Pressure (RVP) standard applicable to
gasoline introduced into commerce from
June 1 to September 15 of each year for
Davidson, Rutherford, Sumner,
Williamson, and Wilson Counties
(hereinafter referred to as the Middle
Tennessee Area or Area). Specifically,
EPA is proposing to amend the
SUMMARY:
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12APP1
EP12AP17.000
mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with PROPOSALS
BILLING CODE 4910–13–C
17597
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 69 (Wednesday, April 12, 2017)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 17594-17597]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-07343]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2017-0288; Directorate Identifier 2017-CE-007-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Textron Aviation Inc. 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
Textron Aviation Inc. Models A36TC and B36TC airplanes. This proposed
AD was prompted by a fatal accident where the exhaust tailpipe fell off
during takeoff. This proposed AD would add a life limit to the exhaust
tailpipe v-band coupling (clamp) that attaches the
[[Page 17595]]
exhaust tailpipe to the turbocharger and, if the coupling is removed
for any reason before the life limit is reached, this proposed AD would
require an inspection of the coupling before reinstalling. We are
proposing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 30, 2017.
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.
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-2017-
0288; 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: Thomas Teplik, Aerospace Engineer,
Wichita Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, 1801 Airport Road, Room
100, Wichita, Kansas 67209; phone: (316) 946-4196; fax: (316) 946-4107;
email: thomas.teplik@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-2017-0288;
Directorate Identifier 2017-CE-007-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 because of those comments.
We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we
receive about this proposed AD.
Discussion
We were notified of a fatal accident involving a Textron Aviation
Inc. (Beech Bonanza) Model A36TC airplane. The National Transportation
Safety Board preliminary report stated that shortly after takeoff the
pilot advised the control tower that there was smoke in the cockpit and
they needed to return to the airport. Witnesses reported seeing smoke
and flames coming from the airplane before it impacted terrain. The
exhaust tailpipe, a fractured v-band coupling (clamp) that attached the
exhaust tailpipe to the turbocharger, and small fragments of fabric
insulation were recovered from the runway. Failure of the exhaust
tailpipe v-band coupling may lead to detachment of the exhaust tailpipe
from the turbocharger and allow high-temperature exhaust gases to enter
the engine compartment, which could result in an inflight fire.
FAA's Determination
We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant
information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is
likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design.
Proposed AD Requirements
This proposed AD would add a life limit to the exhaust tailpipe v-
band coupling and, if the coupling is removed for any reason before the
life limit is reached, this AD would require an inspection of the v-
band coupling before reinstalling.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD affects 499 airplanes of U.S.
registry.
We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD:
Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacement of the exhaust tailpipe v- 2 work-hours x $85 per $300 $470 $234,530
band coupling (clamp). hour = $170.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We estimate the following costs to do any necessary inspection that
would be required based on removal and reinstallation of the exhaust
tailpipe v-band coupling. We have no way of determining the number of
airplanes that might need this inspection:
On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per
Action Labor cost Parts cost product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection of the exhaust tailpipe v-band 1 work-hour x $85 per hour = $85 Not applicable $85
coupling (clamp).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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,
[[Page 17596]]
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):
Textron Aviation Inc.: Docket No. FAA-2017-0288; Directorate
Identifier 2017-CE-007-AD
(a) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by May 30, 2017.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Textron Aviation Inc. Models A36TC and B36TC
airplanes; all serial numbers, that are certificated in any
category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport Association
(ATA) of America Code 81, Turbocharging.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a fatal accident where the exhaust
tailpipe fell off during takeoff. We are issuing this AD to prevent
failure of the exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling that may lead to
detachment of the exhaust tailpipe from the turbocharger and allow
high-temperature exhaust gases to enter the engine compartment,
which could result in an inflight fire.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Replacement of the V-Band Coupling (Clamp)
Replace the exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling part number (P/N)
N4211-375-M or P/N 5322C-375-Z (P/Ns are also known as P/N N4211-
375M and P/N 5322C3752) with a new exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling.
When installing the new part, tighten the v-band coupling to 40 in-
lbs., tap the periphery of the band to distribute tension, and
torque again to 40 in-lbs. Do the replacement at the compliance
times in paragraphs (g)(1) and (2) of this AD. For the purposes of
this AD, the exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling may also be referred
to as the exhaust tailpipe v-band clamp.
Note 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD: The engineering drawing
lists the applicable part number v-band couplings as P/N N4211-375-M
and P/N 5322C-375-Z; however, the parts catalog lists the applicable
v-band couplings as P/N N4211-375M and P/N 5322C3752.
Note 2 to paragraphs (g) and (h)(2) of this AD: We recommend
after installation of the exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling, you do
an engine run and recheck the torque of the v-band coupling.
(1) If from a review of the maintenance records you can
positively identify that the hours time-in-service (TIS) for the
exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling is less than 500 hours TIS: Do the
initial replacement within 500 hours TIS for the exhaust tailpipe v-
band coupling or within the next 50 hours TIS after the effective
date of this AD, whichever occurs later, and replace repetitively
thereafter at intervals not to exceed 500 hours TIS on the exhaust
tailpipe v-band coupling.
(2) If from a review of the maintenance records you can
positively identify that the hours TIS for the exhaust tailpipe v-
band coupling is 500 hours TIS or more or you cannot positively
identify the hours TIS for the exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling: Do
the initial replacement within 50 hours TIS after the effective date
of this AD and replace repetitively thereafter at intervals not to
exceed 500 hours TIS on the exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling.
(h) Removal of the Exhaust Tailpipe V-Band Coupling Before Reaching the
500-Hour Life Limit
(1) If the exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling is removed for any
reason before any replacement required by this AD, before re-
installing the same (existing) v-band coupling, you must do the
inspection steps listed in paragraphs (h)(1)(i) through (vi) of this
AD. During the removal, inspection, and reinstallation do not open
the coupling more than necessary because excessive flexing of the
coupling can lead to damage.
(i) Use crocus cloth and mineral spirits/Stoddard solvent, to
clean the outer band of the v-band coupling. Pay particular
attention to the spot weld areas on the coupling.
(ii) Use a 10X magnifier to visually inspect the outer band for
cracks, paying particular attention to the spot weld areas. If
cracks are found during this inspection, do not re-install the v-
band coupling. Before further flight, you must install a new v-band
coupling and restart the hours TIS for the repetitive replacement of
the v-band coupling.
(iii) Visually inspect the flatness of the outer band using a
straight edge. Lay the straight edge across the width of the outer
band. The gap must be less than 0.062 inches. See figure 1 to
paragraphs (h)(1)(iii) and (v) of this AD. If the gap exceeds 0.062
inches between the outer band and the straight edge, do not re-
install the v-band coupling. Before further flight, you must install
a new v-band coupling and restart the hours TIS for the repetitive
replacement of the v-band coupling.
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(iv) With the t-bolt in the 12 o'clock position, visually
inspect the coupling for the attachment of the outer band to the v-
retainer coupling segments by inspecting for gaps between the outer
band and the v-retainer coupling segments between approximately the
1 o'clock through 11 o'clock position. It is recommended to use
backlighting to see gaps. If gaps between the outer band and the v-
retainer coupling segments are found, do not re-install the v-band
coupling. Before further flight, you must install a new v-band
coupling and restart the hours TIS for the repetitive replacement of
the v-band coupling.
(v) Visually inspect the bend radii of the coupling v-retainer
coupling segments for cracks. Inspect the radii throughout the
length of the segment. See figure 1 to paragraphs (h)(1)(iii) and
(v) of this AD. If any cracks are found, do not re-install the v-
band coupling. Before further flight, you must install a new v-band
coupling and restart the hours TIS for the repetitive replacement of
the v-band coupling.
(vi) Visually inspect the outer band opposite the t-bolt for
damage (distortion, creases, bulging, or cracks), which may be
caused from excessive spreading of the coupling during installation
and/or removal. If any damage is found, do not re-install the v-band
coupling. Before further flight, you must install a new v-band
coupling and restart the hours TIS for the repetitive replacement of
the v-band coupling.
(2) If the removed exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling passes all
of the inspection steps listed in paragraphs (h)(1)(i) through (vi)
of this AD, you may re-install the same v-band coupling. After the
coupling is re-installed and torqued as specified in paragraph (g)
of this AD, verify there is space between each v-retainer coupling
segment below the t-bolt. If there is no space between each v-
retainer coupling segment below the t-bolt, before further flight,
you must install a new v-band coupling and restart the hours TIS for
the repetitive replacement of the v-band coupling.
(3) The inspections required in paragraphs (h)(1) and (2) of
this AD only apply to re-installing the same exhaust tailpipe v-band
coupling that was removed for any reason as specified in paragraph
(h)(1) of this AD. It does not apply to installation of a new v-band
coupling. These inspections do not terminate the 500-hour TIS
repetitive replacement of the v-band coupling and do not restart the
hours TIS for the repetitive replacement of the v-band coupling.
(4) After the effective date of this AD, do not install a used
exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling on the airplane except for the
reinstallation of the inspected exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling
that was removed for any reason as specified in paragraph (h)(1) of
this AD.
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Wichita Aircraft Certification Office (ACO),
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14
CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local
Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending
information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the
attention of the person identified in paragraph (j) of this AD.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding
district office.
(j) Related Information
For more information about this AD, contact Thomas Teplik,
Aerospace Engineer, Wichita ACO, FAA, 1801 Airport Road, Room 100,
Wichita, Kansas 67209; phone: (316) 946-4196; fax: (316) 946-4107;
email: thomas.teplik@faa.gov.
Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on April 3, 2017.
Pat Mullen,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-07343 Filed 4-11-17; 8:45 am]
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