Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 28393-28395 [2017-12631]
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28393
Rules and Regulations
Federal Register
Vol. 82, No. 119
Thursday, June 22, 2017
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER
contains regulatory documents having general
applicability and legal effect, most of which
are keyed to and codified in the Code of
Federal Regulations, which is published under
50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.
The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by
the Superintendent of Documents.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2016–9391; Directorate
Identifier 2016–NM–129–AD; Amendment
39–18931; AD 2017–13–01]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
Company Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all The
Boeing Company Model 737–300, –400,
and –500 series airplanes. This AD was
prompted by a report of a crack in a
certain body station (BS) frame inboard
chord during supplemental structural
inspection document (SSID)
inspections. This AD requires repetitive
detailed and high frequency eddy
current (HFEC) inspections for any
crack at the frame inboard chords, and
repair if necessary. We are issuing this
AD to address the unsafe condition on
these products.
DATES: This AD is effective July 27,
2017.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of July 27, 2017.
ADDRESSES: For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes,
Attention: Contractual & Data Services
(C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC
110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740;
telephone: 562–797–1717; Internet:
https://www.myboeingfleet.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. It is also available on the Internet
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES
SUMMARY:
VerDate Sep<11>2014
15:41 Jun 21, 2017
Jkt 241001
at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2016–9391.
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–
9391; 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 final rule, the regulatory
evaluation, any comments received, and
other information. The address for the
Docket Office (phone: 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:
Galib Abumeri, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe Branch, ANM–120L, FAA, Los
Angeles Aircraft Certification Office
(ACO), 3960 Paramount Boulevard,
Lakewood, CA 90712–4137; phone:
562–627–5324; fax: 562–627–5210;
email: galib.abumeri@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to all The Boeing Company Model
737–300, –400, and –500 series
airplanes. The NPRM published in the
Federal Register on November 18, 2016
(81 FR 81707) (‘‘the NPRM’’). The
NPRM was prompted by a report of a
crack in a certain BS frame inboard
chord during SSID inspections. The
NPRM proposed to require repetitive
detailed and HFEC inspections for any
crack at the frame inboard chords, and
repair if necessary. We are issuing this
AD to detect and correct any crack in
the inboard chord of the BS 578 (737–
400 series airplanes) and BS 616 (737–
300 and –500 series airplanes) frame
below stringers S–11L or S–11R, which
could result in structural failure of the
frame and possible rapid
decompression.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to
participate in developing this AD. The
following presents the comments
PO 00000
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Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
received on the NPRM and the FAA’s
response to each comment.
Support for the NPRM
United Airlines expressed support for
the NPRM.
Effect of Winglets on Accomplishment
of the Proposed Actions
Aviation Partners Boeing stated that
accomplishing the supplemental type
certificate (STC) ST01219SE does not
affect the actions specified in the
NPRM.
We concur with the commenter. We
have redesignated paragraph (c) of the
NPRM as paragraph (c)(1) of this AD
and added paragraph (c)(2) to this AD to
state that installation of STC ST01219SE
does not affect the ability to accomplish
the actions required by this AD.
Therefore, for airplanes on which STC
ST01219SE is installed, a ‘‘change in
product’’ alternative method of
compliance (AMOC) approval request is
not necessary to comply with the
requirements of 14 CFR 39.17.
Request for Clarification of Location
Boeing requested that we clarify the
location of the body station for the
inspection of the frame inboard chords.
Boeing pointed out that the NPRM
stated: ‘‘in the inboard chord of the BS
616 frame.’’ Boeing also pointed out that
the service information specifies that for
737–300 and –500 airplanes the
corresponding body station is BS 616,
but for 737–400 airplanes, with two
overwing exit doors, the corresponding
body station is BS 578.
We agree that clarification of the body
station for the corresponding airplane
configuration is necessary. We have
revised the Discussion section of this
final rule and paragraph (e) of this AD
to specify ‘‘the inboard chord of the BS
578 (737–400 series airplanes) and BS
616 (737–300 and –500 series airplanes)
frame.’’
Request for Additional AMOC
Delegation Authority
Boeing requested that we include
‘‘Authorized Representative’’ (AR) and
‘‘Seattle ACO’’ in paragraph (j)(3) of the
proposed AD. Specifically, the
commenter requested that ‘‘Boeing
Commercial Airplanes Organization
Designation Authorization (ODA) that
has been authorized by the Manager,
Los Angeles ACO’’ be revised to
‘‘Authorized Representative for the
E:\FR\FM\22JNR1.SGM
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28394
Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 119 / Thursday, June 22, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
Boeing Commercial Airplanes ODA that
has been authorized by the Manager,
Los Angeles ACO or by the Manager,
Seattle ACO.’’ The commenter
mentioned that AMOCs are approved by
individual ARs of the Boeing
Commercial Airplanes ODA but not all
unit members of the ODA have the
authority to provide AMOC approvals to
the AD. The commenter also pointed
out that Los Angeles ACO and Seattle
ACO have both authorized specific ARs
to make findings.
We disagree with including ARs and
the Seattle ACO in paragraph (j)(3) of
this final rule. The Los Angeles ACO is
now responsible for the Continued
Operational Safety of the affected Model
737 airplanes, and delegates AMOC
authority to the Boeing Commercial
Airplanes ODA based on individual
ADs. As a result, AMOC delegation
authority is limited to the Manager of
the Los Angeles ACO and does not
include the Manager of the Seattle ACO.
Additionally, including ARs is
unnecessary because both the Los
Angeles ACO and Seattle ACO authorize
only specific ARs to approve AMOCs.
We have not changed this AD in this
regard.
Conclusion
We reviewed the relevant data,
considered the comments received, and
determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting this AD
with the changes described previously
and 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.
We also determined that these
changes will not increase the economic
burden on any operator or increase the
scope of this final rule.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
We reviewed Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 737–53A1366, dated May 17,
2016. The service information describes
procedures for repetitive detailed and
HFEC inspections for cracking at certain
BS frame inboard chords, 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.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 400
airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate
the following costs to comply with this
AD:
ESTIMATED COSTS
Action
Detailed and HFEC Inspections.
Labor cost
8 work-hours × $85 per hour = $680 per inspection cycle.
We have received no definitive data
that would enable us to provide cost
estimates for the on-condition actions
specified in this AD.
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs, describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under
the authority described in Subtitle VII,
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that
section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
air commerce by prescribing regulations
for practices, methods, and procedures
the Administrator finds necessary for
safety in air commerce. This regulation
is within the scope of that authority
because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on
products identified in this rulemaking
action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism
implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on
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Jkt 241001
Cost per
product
Parts cost
$0
$680 per inspection
cycle.
the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
(2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska, and
(4) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
PO 00000
Frm 00002
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Cost on U.S.
operators
$272,000 per inspection
cycle.
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
■
2017–13–01 The Boeing Company:
Amendment 39–18931; Docket No.
FAA–2016–9391; Directorate Identifier
2016–NM–129–AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective July 27, 2017.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
(1) This AD applies to all The Boeing
Company Model 737–300, –400, and –500
series airplanes, certificated in any category.
(2) Installation of Supplemental Type
Certificate (STC) ST01219SE (https://
rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_
Library/rgstc.nsf/0/EBD1CEC7B
301293E86257CB30045557A?
OpenDocument&Highlight=st01219se) does
not affect the ability to accomplish the
actions required by this AD. Therefore, for
airplanes on which STC ST01219SE is
installed, a ‘‘change in product’’ alternative
method of compliance (AMOC) approval
request is not necessary to comply with the
requirements of 14 CFR 39.17.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 53, Fuselage.
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 119 / Thursday, June 22, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a report of a
crack in the body station (BS) 616 frame
inboard chord during supplemental
structural inspection document (SSID)
inspections; the crack was located at the
lowest fastener hole of the inboard chord
inboard strap below stringer S–11R. We are
issuing this AD to detect and correct any
crack in the inboard chord of the BS 578
(737–400 series airplanes) and BS 616 (737–
300 and –500 series airplanes) frame below
stringers S–11L or S–11R, which could result
in structural failure of the frame and possible
rapid decompression.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Repetitive Detailed and High Frequency
Eddy Current (HFEC) Inspections
Except as required by paragraph (i) of this
AD, at the applicable times specified in table
1 of paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing
Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1366, dated
May 17, 2016: Do detailed and HFEC
inspections for any crack at the frame
inboard chords, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 737–53A1366, dated May
17, 2016. Repeat the inspections thereafter at
the time specified in table 1 of paragraph
1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 737–53A1366, dated May 17, 2016.
(h) Repair
If any crack is found during any inspection
required by paragraph (g) of this AD, repair
before further flight using a method approved
in accordance with the procedures specified
in paragraph (j) of this AD. Although Boeing
Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1366, dated
May 17, 2016, specifies to contact Boeing for
repair instructions, and specifies that action
as ‘‘RC’’ (Required for Compliance), this AD
requires repair as specified in this paragraph.
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES
(i) Service Information Exceptions
Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–
53A1366, dated May 17, 2016, specifies a
compliance time ‘‘after the original issue date
of this service bulletin,’’ this AD requires
compliance within the specified compliance
time after the effective date of this AD.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Los Angeles 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 (k) of this AD. Information may be
emailed to 9-ANM-LAACO-AMOC-Requests@
faa.gov.
(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.
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15:41 Jun 21, 2017
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28395
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable
level of safety may be used for any repair,
modification, or alteration required by this
AD if it is approved by the Boeing
Commercial Airplanes Organization
Designation Authorization (ODA) that has
been authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles
ACO, to make those findings. To be
approved, the repair method, modification
deviation, or alteration deviation must meet
the certification basis of the airplane, and the
approval must specifically refer to this AD.
(4) Except as required by paragraph (h) of
this AD: For service information that
contains steps that are labeled as RC, the
provisions of paragraphs (j)(4)(i) and (j)(4)(ii)
of this AD apply.
(i) The steps labeled as RC, including
substeps under an RC step and any figures
identified in an RC step, must be done to
comply with the AD. If a step or sub-step is
labeled ‘‘RC Exempt,’’ then the RC
requirement is removed from that step or
sub-step. An AMOC is required for any
deviations to RC steps, including substeps
and identified figures.
(ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be
deviated from using accepted methods in
accordance with the operator’s maintenance
or inspection program without obtaining
approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps,
including substeps and identified figures, can
still be done as specified, and the airplane
can be put back in an airworthy condition.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 9,
2017.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
the availability of this material at NARA, call
202–741–6030, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Examining the AD Docket
[FR Doc. 2017–12631 Filed 6–21–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2016–9504; Directorate
Identifier 2016–NM–107–AD; Amendment
39–18932; AD 2017–13–02]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Dassault
Aviation Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Dassault Aviation Model FALCON 7X
airplanes. This AD was prompted by
reports that during the assembly of
(k) Related Information
structural elements on some airplanes,
For more information about this AD,
lack of established procedures and tools
contact Galib Abumeri, Aerospace Engineer,
caused boring and torqueing defects to
Airframe Branch, ANM–120L, FAA, Los
Angeles ACO, 3960 Paramount Boulevard,
be present at some locations. This AD
Lakewood, CA 90712–4137; phone: 562–627– requires a detailed visual inspection of
5324; fax: 562–627–5210; email:
bore holes for defects, replacement of
galib.abumeri@faa.gov.
bolts, and repair if necessary. We are
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
(l) Material Incorporated by Reference
condition on these products.
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
DATES: This AD is effective July 27,
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
2017.
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
The Director of the Federal Register
part 51.
approved the incorporation by reference
(2) You must use this service information
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as applicable to do the actions required by
as of July 27, 2017.
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
ADDRESSES: For service information
(i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–
53A1366, dated May 17, 2016.
identified in this final rule, contact
(ii) Reserved.
Dassault Falcon Jet Corporation,
(3) For Boeing service information
Teterboro Airport, P.O. Box 2000, South
identified in this AD, contact Boeing
Hackensack, NJ 07606; telephone 201–
Commercial Airplanes, Attention:
440–6700; Internet https://
Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600
www.dassaultfalcon.com. You may
Westminster Blvd., MC 110–SK57, Seal
view this referenced service information
Beach, CA 90740; telephone: 562–797–1717;
at the FAA, Transport Airplane
Internet: https://www.myboeingfleet.com.
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,
(4) You may view this service information
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Renton, WA. For information on the
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For
availability of this material at the FAA,
information on the availability of this
call 425–227–1221. It is also available
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
on the Internet at https://
(5) You may view this service information
www.regulations.gov by searching for
that is incorporated by reference at the
and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
National Archives and Records
9504.
Administration (NARA). For information on
PO 00000
Frm 00003
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
SUMMARY:
You may examine the AD docket on
the Internet at https://
E:\FR\FM\22JNR1.SGM
22JNR1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 119 (Thursday, June 22, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 28393-28395]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-12631]
========================================================================
Rules and Regulations
Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents
having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed
to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published
under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.
The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents.
========================================================================
Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 119 / Thursday, June 22, 2017 / Rules
and Regulations
[[Page 28393]]
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2016-9391; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-129-AD;
Amendment 39-18931; AD 2017-13-01]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all The
Boeing Company Model 737-300, -400, and -500 series airplanes. This AD
was prompted by a report of a crack in a certain body station (BS)
frame inboard chord during supplemental structural inspection document
(SSID) inspections. This AD requires repetitive detailed and high
frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections for any crack at the frame
inboard chords, and repair if necessary. We are issuing this AD to
address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective July 27, 2017.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of July 27,
2017.
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule,
contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA
90740; telephone: 562-797-1717; Internet: https://www.myboeingfleet.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. It is also available on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-
9391.
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-
9391; 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 final rule, the regulatory evaluation, any comments
received, and other information. The address for the Docket Office
(phone: 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: Galib Abumeri, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification
Office (ACO), 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712-4137; phone:
562-627-5324; fax: 562-627-5210; email: galib.abumeri@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all The Boeing Company
Model 737-300, -400, and -500 series airplanes. The NPRM published in
the Federal Register on November 18, 2016 (81 FR 81707) (``the NPRM'').
The NPRM was prompted by a report of a crack in a certain BS frame
inboard chord during SSID inspections. The NPRM proposed to require
repetitive detailed and HFEC inspections for any crack at the frame
inboard chords, and repair if necessary. We are issuing this AD to
detect and correct any crack in the inboard chord of the BS 578 (737-
400 series airplanes) and BS 616 (737-300 and -500 series airplanes)
frame below stringers S-11L or S-11R, which could result in structural
failure of the frame and possible rapid decompression.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and
the FAA's response to each comment.
Support for the NPRM
United Airlines expressed support for the NPRM.
Effect of Winglets on Accomplishment of the Proposed Actions
Aviation Partners Boeing stated that accomplishing the supplemental
type certificate (STC) ST01219SE does not affect the actions specified
in the NPRM.
We concur with the commenter. We have redesignated paragraph (c) of
the NPRM as paragraph (c)(1) of this AD and added paragraph (c)(2) to
this AD to state that installation of STC ST01219SE does not affect the
ability to accomplish the actions required by this AD. Therefore, for
airplanes on which STC ST01219SE is installed, a ``change in product''
alternative method of compliance (AMOC) approval request is not
necessary to comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 39.17.
Request for Clarification of Location
Boeing requested that we clarify the location of the body station
for the inspection of the frame inboard chords. Boeing pointed out that
the NPRM stated: ``in the inboard chord of the BS 616 frame.'' Boeing
also pointed out that the service information specifies that for 737-
300 and -500 airplanes the corresponding body station is BS 616, but
for 737-400 airplanes, with two overwing exit doors, the corresponding
body station is BS 578.
We agree that clarification of the body station for the
corresponding airplane configuration is necessary. We have revised the
Discussion section of this final rule and paragraph (e) of this AD to
specify ``the inboard chord of the BS 578 (737-400 series airplanes)
and BS 616 (737-300 and -500 series airplanes) frame.''
Request for Additional AMOC Delegation Authority
Boeing requested that we include ``Authorized Representative'' (AR)
and ``Seattle ACO'' in paragraph (j)(3) of the proposed AD.
Specifically, the commenter requested that ``Boeing Commercial
Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been
authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles ACO'' be revised to ``Authorized
Representative for the
[[Page 28394]]
Boeing Commercial Airplanes ODA that has been authorized by the
Manager, Los Angeles ACO or by the Manager, Seattle ACO.'' The
commenter mentioned that AMOCs are approved by individual ARs of the
Boeing Commercial Airplanes ODA but not all unit members of the ODA
have the authority to provide AMOC approvals to the AD. The commenter
also pointed out that Los Angeles ACO and Seattle ACO have both
authorized specific ARs to make findings.
We disagree with including ARs and the Seattle ACO in paragraph
(j)(3) of this final rule. The Los Angeles ACO is now responsible for
the Continued Operational Safety of the affected Model 737 airplanes,
and delegates AMOC authority to the Boeing Commercial Airplanes ODA
based on individual ADs. As a result, AMOC delegation authority is
limited to the Manager of the Los Angeles ACO and does not include the
Manager of the Seattle ACO. Additionally, including ARs is unnecessary
because both the Los Angeles ACO and Seattle ACO authorize only
specific ARs to approve AMOCs. We have not changed this AD in this
regard.
Conclusion
We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received,
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting
this AD with the changes described previously and 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.
We also determined that these changes will not increase the
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this final
rule.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1366, dated May
17, 2016. The service information describes procedures for repetitive
detailed and HFEC inspections for cracking at certain BS frame inboard
chords, 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.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 400 airplanes of U.S. registry. We
estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Detailed and HFEC Inspections... 8 work-hours x $85 per $0 $680 per inspection $272,000 per
hour = $680 per cycle. inspection cycle.
inspection cycle.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide
cost estimates for the on-condition actions specified in this 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
This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States,
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
2017-13-01 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-18931; Docket No. FAA-
2016-9391; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-129-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective July 27, 2017.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
(1) This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 737-300, -
400, and -500 series airplanes, certificated in any category.
(2) Installation of Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)
ST01219SE (https://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/EBD1CEC7B301293E86257CB30045557A?OpenDocument&Highlight=st01219se)
does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by
this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST01219SE is
installed, a ``change in product'' alternative method of compliance
(AMOC) approval request is not necessary to comply with the
requirements of 14 CFR 39.17.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage.
[[Page 28395]]
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a report of a crack in the body station
(BS) 616 frame inboard chord during supplemental structural
inspection document (SSID) inspections; the crack was located at the
lowest fastener hole of the inboard chord inboard strap below
stringer S-11R. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct any
crack in the inboard chord of the BS 578 (737-400 series airplanes)
and BS 616 (737-300 and -500 series airplanes) frame below stringers
S-11L or S-11R, which could result in structural failure of the
frame and possible rapid decompression.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Repetitive Detailed and High Frequency Eddy Current (HFEC)
Inspections
Except as required by paragraph (i) of this AD, at the
applicable times specified in table 1 of paragraph 1.E.,
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1366, dated
May 17, 2016: Do detailed and HFEC inspections for any crack at the
frame inboard chords, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1366, dated May
17, 2016. Repeat the inspections thereafter at the time specified in
table 1 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 737-53A1366, dated May 17, 2016.
(h) Repair
If any crack is found during any inspection required by
paragraph (g) of this AD, repair before further flight using a
method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in
paragraph (j) of this AD. Although Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
737-53A1366, dated May 17, 2016, specifies to contact Boeing for
repair instructions, and specifies that action as ``RC'' (Required
for Compliance), this AD requires repair as specified in this
paragraph.
(i) Service Information Exceptions
Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1366, dated May 17,
2016, specifies a compliance time ``after the original issue date of
this service bulletin,'' this AD requires compliance within the
specified compliance time after the effective date of this AD.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Los Angeles 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 (k) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to 9-ANM-LAACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
(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.
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be
used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD
if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization
Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the
Manager, Los Angeles ACO, to make those findings. To be approved,
the repair method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation
must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval
must specifically refer to this AD.
(4) Except as required by paragraph (h) of this AD: For service
information that contains steps that are labeled as RC, the
provisions of paragraphs (j)(4)(i) and (j)(4)(ii) of this AD apply.
(i) The steps labeled as RC, including substeps under an RC step
and any figures identified in an RC step, must be done to comply
with the AD. If a step or sub-step is labeled ``RC Exempt,'' then
the RC requirement is removed from that step or sub-step. An AMOC is
required for any deviations to RC steps, including substeps and
identified figures.
(ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be deviated from using accepted
methods in accordance with the operator's maintenance or inspection
program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the RC
steps, including substeps and identified figures, can still be done
as specified, and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy
condition.
(k) Related Information
For more information about this AD, contact Galib Abumeri,
Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los Angeles ACO,
3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712-4137; phone: 562-627-
5324; fax: 562-627-5210; email: galib.abumeri@faa.gov.
(l) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1366, dated May 17,
2016.
(ii) Reserved.
(3) For Boeing service information identified in this AD,
contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA
90740; telephone: 562-797-1717; Internet: https://www.myboeingfleet.com.
(4) 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.
(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/ibr-locations.html.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 9, 2017.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-12631 Filed 6-21-17; 8:45 am]
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