Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes, 28596-28599 [2017-13129]

Download as PDF 28596 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 120 / Friday, June 23, 2017 / Proposed Rules General requirements.’’ Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed regulation: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new AD: asabaliauskas on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with PROPOSALS ■ Diamond Aircraft Industries GmbH: Docket No. FAA–2017–0638; Directorate Identifier 2017–CE–018–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by August 7, 2017. (b) Affected ADs None. VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:12 Jun 22, 2017 Jkt 241001 (c) Applicability This AD applies to Diamond Aircraft Industries GmbH Model DA 42, DA 42 M– NG, and DA 42 NG airplanes, serial numbers 42.004 through 42.427, 42.AC001 through 42.AC151, 42.M001 through 42.M026, 42.N001 through 42.N067, 42.N100 through 42.N129, 42.NC001 through 42.NC008, and 42.MN001 through 42.MN033, certificated in any category. (d) Subject Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 27: Flight Controls. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as crack formation on the flap bell crank. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the flap bell crank, which could result in reduced control. (f) Actions and Compliance Unless already done, do the following actions: (1) Inspect the flap bell crank, part number (P/N) D60–2757–11–00, and modify the flap control system by installing two spacers, P/ N DS BU2–10–06–0065–C, where the flap actuator rod end bearing is connected to the flap bell crank, following the Instructions section in Diamond Aircraft Industries GmbH (DAI) Work Instruction WI–MSB 42–126/WI– MSB 42NG–066, dated March 27, 2017 (single document), as specified in DAI Mandatory Service Bulletin MSB 42–126/ MSB 42NG–066, dated March 27, 2017 (single document), at whichever of the following compliance times occurs later: (i) Before exceeding 600 hours time-inservice (TIS), and repetitively thereafter at intervals not to exceed 200 hours TIS. (ii) Within the next 100 hours TIS after the effective date of this AD or within the next 6 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first, and repetitively thereafter at intervals not to exceed 200 hours TIS. (2) If any discrepancies are found during any inspection required in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, before further flight, replace the flap bell crank with an improved part, P/N D60– 2757–11–00_01, following the Instructions section in DAI Work Instruction WI–MSB 42–126/WI–MSB 42NG–066, dated March 27, 2017 (single document), as specified in DAI Mandatory Service Bulletin MSB 42–126/ MSB 42NG–066, dated March 27, 2017 (single document). Installing P/N D60–2757– 11–00_01 terminates the repetitive inspections required in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD. This installation as terminating action may be done in lieu of the inspections required in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD. (g) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Standards Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to ATTN: Mike Kiesov, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–4144; fax: (816) 329– 4090; email: mike.kiesov@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO. (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority (or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product is airworthy before it is returned to service. (h) Related Information Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2017–0074, dated April 28, 2017. You may examine the MCAI on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2017–0638. For service information related to this AD, contact Diamond Aircraft Industries GmbH, N.A. Otto-Stra+e 5, A–2700 Wiener Neustadt, Austria, telephone: +43 2622 26700; fax: +43 2622 26780; email: office@diamond-air.at; Internet: https:// www.diamondaircraft.com. You may review this referenced service information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on June 19, 2017. Pat Mullen, Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2017–13139 Filed 6–22–17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2017–0622; Directorate Identifier 2016–NM–192–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A318 and A319 series airplanes; Model A320–211, –212, –214, –231, –232, and –233 airplanes; and Model A321–111, –112, –131, –211, SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\23JNP1.SGM 23JNP1 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 120 / Friday, June 23, 2017 / Proposed Rules asabaliauskas on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with PROPOSALS –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of a vertical strut penetrating through the cabin floor during an emergency water landing and on airframe ground contact at certain speeds/accelerations. This proposed AD would require modification of the fuselage structure at frame (FR) 65. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 7, 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. For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office–EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com. You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2017– 0622; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations office (telephone 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:12 Jun 22, 2017 Jkt 241001 28597 International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1405; fax 425–227–1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: allocations and configuration definitions were identified in it. Consequently Airbus revised that SB, and in addition issued SB A320–53–1333 and SB A320–53–1334. For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD requires modification of the fuselage structure at FR65. Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2017–0622; Directorate Identifier 2016–NM–192–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed AD based on those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. 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–2017– 0622. Discussion The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2016–0212, dated October 25, 2016 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus Model A318 and A319 series airplanes; Model A320–211, –212, –214, –231, –232, and –233 airplanes; and Model A321–111, –112, –131, –211, –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes. The MCAI states: In service occurrences were reported where, as a consequence [during an emergency water landing and] of an airframe ground contact above certified vertical speed/ vertical acceleration, the vertical strut at Frame (FR) 65 penetrated through the cabin floor. This condition, if not corrected, could lead to injury of occupants and/or delays during emergency evacuation. To address this potential unsafe condition, Airbus developed mod 153724, a structural change which prevents the central vertical strut at FR65 to pass through the cabin floor, and issued Service Bulletin (SB) A320–53– 1262 to provide instructions for installation of this modification on aeroplanes in service. After SB A320–53–1262 was issued, incorrect MSN [manufacturer serial number] PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Airbus has issued the following Airbus service information: • Airbus Service Bulletin A320–53– 1262, excluding Appendix 01 and including Appendix 02, Revision 01, dated July 29, 2016; • Airbus Service Bulletin A320–53– 1333, excluding Appendix 01 and including Appendix 02, dated July 29, 2016; and • Airbus Service Bulletin A320–53– 1334, excluding Appendix 01 and including Appendixes 02 and 03, dated July 29, 2016. The service information describes procedures for modifying the fuselage structure at FR 65. These documents are distinct since they apply to different airplane configurations. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of these same type designs. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 1,123 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: E:\FR\FM\23JNP1.SGM 23JNP1 28598 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 120 / Friday, June 23, 2017 / Proposed Rules ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Modification ...................................... 18 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,530 ....................... 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. asabaliauskas on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with PROPOSALS 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: VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:12 Jun 22, 2017 Jkt 241001 Parts cost 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 adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2017–0622; Directorate Identifier 2016–NM–192–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by August 7, 2017. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to the airplanes identified in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), and (c)(4) of this AD, certificated in any category, all manufacturer serial numbers, except those on which Airbus Modification 153724 was embodied in production. (1) Airbus Model A318–111, –112, –121, and –122 airplanes. (2) Airbus Model A319–111, –112, –113, –114, –115, –131, –132, and –133 airplanes. (3) Airbus Model A320–211, –212, –214, –231, –232, and –233 airplanes. (4) Airbus Model A321–111, –112, –131, –211, –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Reason This proposed AD was prompted by reports of a vertical strut penetrating through the cabin floor during an emergency water landing and on airframe ground contact at certain speeds/accelerations. We are issuing this AD to prevent the central vertical strut at frame (FR) 65 from penetrating through the cabin floor in certain conditions, which could lead to injury of occupants and delays during an emergency evacuation. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Modification Within 72 months after the effective date of this AD, modify the fuselage structure at FR 65, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable service bulletin specified in paragraph (g)(1), (g)(2), or (g)(3) of this AD. (1) For Model A318 and A319 series airplanes; Model A320–211, –212, –214, PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 $16,600 Cost per product $18,130 Cost on U.S. operators $20,359,990 –231, –232, and –233 airplanes; and Model A321–111, –112, –131, –211, –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes, as identified in Airbus Service Bulletin A320–53–1262, Revision 01, dated July 29, 2016: Airbus Service Bulletin A320–53–1262, excluding Appendix 01 and including Appendix 02, Revision 01, dated July 29, 2016. (2) For Model A320–211, –212, –214, –232, and –233 airplanes, as identified in Airbus Service Bulletin A320–53–1333, dated July 29, 2016: Airbus Service Bulletin A320–53– 1333, excluding Appendix 01 and including Appendix 02, dated July 29, 2016. (3) For Model A321–211, –213, and –231 airplanes as identified in Airbus Service Bulletin A320–53–1334, dated July 29, 2016: Airbus Service Bulletin A320–53–1334, excluding Appendix 01 and including Appendixes 02 and 03, dated July 29, 2016. (h) 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 manager of the International Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (i)(2) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding district office. (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM– 116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus’s EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any service information contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended. Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the operator’s maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in E:\FR\FM\23JNP1.SGM 23JNP1 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 120 / Friday, June 23, 2017 / Proposed Rules an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests identified as RC require approval of an AMOC. (i) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2016–0212, dated October 25, 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–2017–0622. (2) For more information about this AD, contact Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1405; fax 425–227–1149. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@ airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com. Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 2, 2017. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2017–13129 Filed 6–22–17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2017–0556; Directorate Identifier 2016–NM–098–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2012–23– 10, which applies to all Airbus Model A318 series airplanes; Model A319 series airplanes; Model A320–211, –212, –214, –231, –232, and –233 airplanes; and Model A321–111, –112, –131, –211, –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes. AD 2012–23–10 requires modifying the affected slide rafts. Since we issued AD 2012–23–10, we received a report that Air Cruisers developed a modification of the slide and slide/raft, which is part of the escape slide pack assembly, to improve its deployment. This proposed AD would retain the requirements of AD 2012–23–10. This proposed AD would asabaliauskas on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with PROPOSALS SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:12 Jun 22, 2017 Jkt 241001 also require replacing each escape slide pack assembly having a certain part number with a new escape slide pack assembly. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. We must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 7, 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: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For Airbus service information identified in this NPRM, contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com. For Zodiac Aerospace service information identified in this NPRM, contact Air Cruisers, Cage Code 70167, 1747 State Route 34, Wall Township, NJ 07727– 3935; telephone: (732) 681–3527; Internet: https://www. zodiacaerospace.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. DATES: 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– 0556; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations office (telephone 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 28599 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1405; fax 425–227–1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2017–0556; Directorate Identifier 2016–NM–098–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed AD based on those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. Discussion On November 13, 2012, we issued AD 2012–23–10, Amendment 39–17266 (77 FR 70369, November 26, 2012) (‘‘AD 2012–23–10’’). AD 2012–23–10 requires actions intended to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. Since we issued AD 2012–23–10, we have determined that it may no longer address the unsafe condition, and that it is necessary to replace each escape slide pack assembly having a certain part number with a new escape slide pack assembly having a certain part number, or modify the escape slide pack. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 2016–0043, dated March 4, 2016 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. The MCAI states: Two occurrences were reported on Airbus A320 family aeroplanes where the escape slide raft inflation system did not deploy when activated. This was due to the rotation of the cable guide in a direction, which resulted in jamming of the inflation control cable. Additionally, one case was reported where the system did not deploy properly due to a cracked inflation hose fitting. Investigation conducted by Air Cruisers E:\FR\FM\23JNP1.SGM 23JNP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 120 (Friday, June 23, 2017)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 28596-28599]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-13129]

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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2017-0622; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-192-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64

Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Airbus Model A318 and A319 series airplanes; Model A320-211, -
212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -
131, -211,

[[Page 28597]]

-212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by
reports of a vertical strut penetrating through the cabin floor during
an emergency water landing and on airframe ground contact at certain
speeds/accelerations. This proposed AD would require modification of
the fuselage structure at frame (FR) 65. We are proposing this AD to
address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 7, 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.
For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Airbus,
Airworthiness Office-EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac
Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51;
email account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com.
You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Transport
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information
on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.

Examining the AD Docket

You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2017-
0622; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments
received, and other information. The street address for the Docket
Operations office (telephone 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section.
Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1405;
fax 425-227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2017-0622;
Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-192-AD'' at the beginning of your
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend
this proposed AD based on those comments.
We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA
Airworthiness Directive 2016-0212, dated October 25, 2016 (referred to
after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or
``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus Model
A318 and A319 series airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232,
and -233 airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -
231, and -232 airplanes. The MCAI states:

In service occurrences were reported where, as a consequence
[during an emergency water landing and] of an airframe ground
contact above certified vertical speed/vertical acceleration, the
vertical strut at Frame (FR) 65 penetrated through the cabin floor.
This condition, if not corrected, could lead to injury of
occupants and/or delays during emergency evacuation.
To address this potential unsafe condition, Airbus developed mod
153724, a structural change which prevents the central vertical
strut at FR65 to pass through the cabin floor, and issued Service
Bulletin (SB) A320-53-1262 to provide instructions for installation
of this modification on aeroplanes in service. After SB A320-53-1262
was issued, incorrect MSN [manufacturer serial number] allocations
and configuration definitions were identified in it. Consequently
Airbus revised that SB, and in addition issued SB A320-53-1333 and
SB A320-53-1334.
For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD requires
modification of the fuselage structure at FR65.

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-2017-
0622.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

Airbus has issued the following Airbus service information:
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1262, excluding Appendix
01 and including Appendix 02, Revision 01, dated July 29, 2016;
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1333, excluding Appendix
01 and including Appendix 02, dated July 29, 2016; and
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1334, excluding Appendix
01 and including Appendixes 02 and 03, dated July 29, 2016.
The service information describes procedures for modifying the
fuselage structure at FR 65. These documents are distinct since they
apply to different airplane configurations. This service information is
reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it
through their normal course of business or by the means identified in
the ADDRESSES section.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD

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

Costs of Compliance

We estimate that this proposed AD affects 1,123 airplanes of U.S.
registry.
We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD:

[[Page 28598]]

Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Modification.......................... 18 work-hours x $85 per $16,600 $18,130 $20,359,990
hour = $1,530.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Authority for This Rulemaking

Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed
regulation:
1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order
12866;
2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and
4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.

The Proposed Amendment

Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.

Sec. 39.13 [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):

Airbus: Docket No. FAA-2017-0622; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-
192-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

We must receive comments by August 7, 2017.

(b) Affected ADs

None.

This AD applies to the airplanes identified in paragraphs
(c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), and (c)(4) of this AD, certificated in any
category, all manufacturer serial numbers, except those on which
Airbus Modification 153724 was embodied in production.
(1) Airbus Model A318-111, -112, -121, and -122 airplanes.
(2) Airbus Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132,
and -133 airplanes.
(3) Airbus Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233
airplanes.
(4) Airbus Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231,
and -232 airplanes.

(d) Subject

Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage.

(e) Reason

This proposed AD was prompted by reports of a vertical strut
penetrating through the cabin floor during an emergency water
landing and on airframe ground contact at certain speeds/
accelerations. We are issuing this AD to prevent the central
vertical strut at frame (FR) 65 from penetrating through the cabin
floor in certain conditions, which could lead to injury of occupants
and delays during an emergency evacuation.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Modification

Within 72 months after the effective date of this AD, modify the
fuselage structure at FR 65, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of the applicable service bulletin specified in
paragraph (g)(1), (g)(2), or (g)(3) of this AD.
(1) For Model A318 and A319 series airplanes; Model A320-211, -
212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112,
-131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes, as identified in
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1262, Revision 01, dated July 29,
2016: Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1262, excluding Appendix 01
and including Appendix 02, Revision 01, dated July 29, 2016.
(2) For Model A320-211, -212, -214, -232, and -233 airplanes, as
identified in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1333, dated July 29,
2016: Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1333, excluding Appendix 01
and including Appendix 02, dated July 29, 2016.
(3) For Model A321-211, -213, and -231 airplanes as identified
in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1334, dated July 29, 2016: Airbus
Service Bulletin A320-53-1334, excluding Appendix 01 and including
Appendixes 02 and 03, dated July 29, 2016.

(h) 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 manager of the International Branch, send it to the
attention of the person identified in paragraph (i)(2) of this AD.
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: For any requirement in this AD
to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International
Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval
must include the DOA-authorized signature.
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any service information
contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those
procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any
procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended.
Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be
deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the
operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining
approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as
RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in

[[Page 28599]]

an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures
or tests identified as RC require approval of an AMOC.

(i) Related Information

(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information
(MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2016-0212, dated October 25,
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-2017-0622.
(2) For more information about this AD, contact Sanjay Ralhan,
Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-
3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149. Information may be
emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov.
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte,
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5
61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com.

Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 2, 2017.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-13129 Filed 6-22-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.