Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes, 29789-29792 [2017-13755]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 125 / Friday, June 30, 2017 / Proposed Rules inspection of the jet pump outlet, connection part, and fuel lines for chafing marks; and for parts with chafing marks, before further flight, measure the depth of the chafing marks; in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the service information specified in paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD, as applicable. Repeat the inspections thereafter at intervals not to exceed 2,500 flight hours. (1) 328 Support Services GmbH Alert Service Bulletin ASB–328–28–041, Revision 2, dated December 12, 2016 (for Model 328– 100 airplanes). (2) 328 Support Services GmbH Alert Service Bulletin ASB–328J–28–018, Revision 2, dated December 12, 2016 (for Model 328– 300 airplanes). (h) Replacement of Parts (1) If any worn or missing bonding wires are found during any inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD, before further flight, replace all affected clamps, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the service information specified in paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD, as applicable. (2) If, during any inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD, any chafing depth is found that is more than the replacement limits specified in the Accomplishment Instructions of the service information specified in paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD, as applicable, before further flight, replace all affected parts, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the service information specified in paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD, as applicable. (i) Reporting At the applicable time specified in paragraph (i)(1) or (i)(2) of this AD, report the inspection results, positive or negative, to 328 Support Services, GmbH, Global Support Center, P.O. Box 1252, D–82231 Wessling, Federal Republic of Germany; fax +49 8153 88111 6565; email gsc.op@328support.de. The report must include findings on fuel line clamps, aircraft serial number, total flight hours, and total landings. (1) If the inspection was done on or after the effective date of this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the inspection. (2) If the inspection was done before the effective date of this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the effective date of this AD. mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with PROPOSALS (j) Credit for Previous Actions This paragraph provides credit for the initial inspection, parts replacement, and initial report required by paragraphs (g), (h), and (i) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using the service information specified in paragraphs (j)(1) through (j)(4) of this AD. (1) 328 Support Services GmbH Alert Service Bulletin ASB–328–28–041, dated June 14, 2016. (2) 328 Support Services GmbH Alert Service Bulletin ASB–328–041, Revision 1, dated October 13, 2016. (3) 328 Support Services GmbH Alert Service Bulletin ASB–328J–28–018, dated June 3, 2016. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:56 Jun 29, 2017 Jkt 241001 (4) 328 Support Services GmbH Alert Service Bulletin ASB–328J–28–018, Revision 1, dated October 13, 2016. (k) No Terminating Action Replacement of clamps as required by paragraph (h) of this AD does not constitute terminating action for the repetitive inspections required by paragraph (g) of this AD for that airplane. (l) 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 (m)(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 328 Support Services GmbH’s EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (3) Reporting Requirements: A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 2120–0056. Public reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 5 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the collection of information. All responses to this collection of information are mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES–200. (m) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2017–0016, dated January 31, 2017, for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 29789 by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–9568. (2) For more information about this AD, contact Todd Thompson, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1175; fax 425–227–1149. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 328 Support Services GmbH, Global Support Center, P.O. Box 1252, D– 82231 Wessling, Federal Republic of Germany; telephone +49 8153 88111 6666; fax +49 8153 88111 6565; email gsc.op@ 328support.de; Internet https:// www.328support.de. You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 22, 2017. John P. Piccola, Jr., Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2017–13756 Filed 6–29–17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2017–0628; Directorate Identifier 2016–NM–207–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 all Airbus Model A310 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a revision of certain airworthiness limitation items (ALI) documents, which require more restrictive maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations. This proposed AD would require revising the maintenance or inspection program to incorporate the maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. SUMMARY: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 14, 2017. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: DATES: E:\FR\FM\30JNP1.SGM 30JNP1 29790 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 125 / Friday, June 30, 2017 / Proposed Rules • 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 SAS, Airworthiness Office—EAW, 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. mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with PROPOSALS 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– 0628; 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: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–2125; 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–2017–0628; Directorate Identifier 2016–NM–207–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. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:56 Jun 29, 2017 Jkt 241001 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 2016–0217, dated November 2, 2016 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A310 series airplanes. The MCAI states: The airworthiness limitations for Airbus A310 aeroplanes, which are approved by EASA, are currently defined and published in the Airbus A310 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) document(s). These instructions have been identified as mandatory actions for continued airworthiness. Failure to accomplish these instructions could result in an unsafe condition. EASA previously issued [EASA] AD 2014– 0124 (later revised) [which includes actions for Airbus A310 series airplanes; those actions are included in FAA AD 2013–13–13, Amendment 39–17501 (79 FR 48957, August 19, 2014) (‘‘AD 2013–13–13’’)], to require the actions as specified in Airbus A310 Airworthiness Limitation Item (ALI) Document at issue 08. Since EASA AD 2014–0124R1 was issued, Airbus replaced ALI Document issue 08 with A310 ALS Part 2 Revision 01 and then published the A310 ALS Part 2 Variation 1.1 and Variation 1.2, to introduce more restrictive maintenance requirements and/or airworthiness limitations. For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD retains part of the requirements of EASA AD 2014–0124R1, which will be superseded, and requires accomplishment of the actions specified in Airbus A310 ALS Part 2 Revision 01, ALS Part 2 Variation 1.1 and ALS Part 2 Variation 1.2 (hereafter collectively referred to as ‘the ALS’ in this [EASA] AD). The remaining requirements of EASA AD 2014–0124R1 are retained in [EASA] AD 2016–0218, applicable to A300– 600 aeroplanes, published at the same time as this [EASA] AD. This NPRM would not supersede AD 2013–13–13. Rather, we have determined that a stand-alone AD would be more appropriate to address the changes in the MCAI. This NPRM would require revising the maintenance or inspection program to incorporate the maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations. Accomplishment of the proposed actions would then terminate all requirements of AD 2013–13–13. PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 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– 0628. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed the following service information: • Airbus A310 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS), Part 2, ‘‘Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT—ALI),’’ Revision 01, dated August 7, 2015. • Airbus A310 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS), Part 2, ‘‘Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT—ALI),’’ Variation 1.1, dated January 25, 2016. • Airbus A310 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS), Part 2, ‘‘Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT—ALI),’’ Variation 1.2, dated July 22, 2016. The service information describes airworthiness limitations applicable to the DT—ALIs. These documents are distinct because they contain different tasks at different revision levels. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. This AD requires revisions to certain operator maintenance documents to include new actions (e.g., inspections). Compliance with these actions is required by 14 CFR 91.403(c). For airplanes that have been previously modified, altered, or repaired in the areas addressed by this proposed AD, the operator may not be able to accomplish the actions described in the revisions. In this situation, to comply with 14 CFR 91.403(c), the operator must request approval for an alternative method of compliance according to paragraph (j)(1) of this proposed AD. The request should include a description of changes to the required E:\FR\FM\30JNP1.SGM 30JNP1 29791 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 125 / Friday, June 30, 2017 / Proposed Rules actions that will ensure the continued damage tolerance of the affected structure. Costs of Compliance We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: We estimate that this proposed AD affects 8 airplanes of U.S. registry. ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Maintenance Program Revision ..................... 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ................. None .............. Authority for This Rulemaking The Proposed Amendment 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. Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD 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. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:56 Jun 29, 2017 Jkt 241001 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–2017–0628; Directorate Identifier 2016–NM–207–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by August 14, 2017. (b) Affected ADs This AD affects AD 2013–13–13, Amendment 39–17501 (79 FR 48957, August 19, 2014) (‘‘AD 2013–13–13’’). (c) Applicability This AD applies to all Airbus Model A310– 203, –204, –221, –222, –304, –322, –324, and –325 airplanes, certificated in any category, all manufacturer serial numbers. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 05. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by a revision of certain airworthiness limitation items (ALI) documents, which require more restrictive maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations. We are issuing this AD to prevent fatigue cracking, damage, or corrosion in principal structural elements, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Revision of Maintenance or Inspection Program Within 3 months after the effective date of this AD, revise the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate the information specified in paragraphs (g)(1), PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Cost per product $85 Cost on U.S. operators $680 (g)(2), and (g)(3) of this AD. The initial compliance times for doing the tasks is at the time specified in the service information identified in paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), and (g)(3) of this AD, or within 3 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later. (1) Airbus A310 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS), Part 2, ‘‘Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT—ALI),’’ Revision 01, dated August 7, 2015. (2) Airbus A310 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS), Part 2, ‘‘Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT—ALI),’’ Variation 1.1, dated January 25, 2016. (3) Airbus A310 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS), Part 2, ‘‘Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT–ALI),’’ Variation 1.2, dated July 22, 2016. (h) No Alternative Actions, and Intervals After the maintenance or inspection program has been revised as required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no alternative actions (e.g., inspections), or intervals, may be used unless the actions and/or intervals are approved as an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (j)(1) of this AD. (i) Terminating Action for AD 2013–13–13 Accomplishing the actions required by this AD terminates all requirements of AD 2013– 13–13 for that airplane only. (j) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, International Branch, ANM–116, 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 (k)(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– E:\FR\FM\30JNP1.SGM 30JNP1 29792 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 125 / Friday, June 30, 2017 / Proposed Rules 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. (k) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD 2016–0217, dated November 2, 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–2017–0628. (2) For more information about this AD, contact Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–2125; fax 425–227–1149. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office—EAW, 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 service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 22, 2017. John P. Piccola, Jr., Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2017–13755 Filed 6–29–17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P We must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 14, 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 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 referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. It is also available on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2017– 0629. DATES: Examining the AD Docket DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2017–0629; Directorate Identifier 2016–NM–184–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Boeing Company Model 737–100, –200, –200C, –300, –400, and –500 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of fatigue cracking in the frame outboard chord and in the radius of the auxiliary chord at a certain area. This proposed AD would require inspections to detect this cracking, and corrective action if necessary. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with PROPOSALS SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:56 Jun 29, 2017 Jkt 241001 You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2017– 0629; 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: Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; phone: (425) 917–6450; fax: (425) 917–6590; email: alan.pohl@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA– 2017–0629; Directorate Identifier 2016– NM–184–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 have received reports indicating that fatigue cracking was found in the frame outboard chord at BS 727 and in the radius of the auxiliary chord at BS 727 and S–18A on certain airplanes. Cracks in the outboard chord were found on airplanes having between 20,000 and 85,000 flight cycles, and between 27,000 and 74,000 flight hours. Cracks in the radius of the auxiliary chord were found on airplanes having between 46,000 and 85,000 flight cycles, and between 41,000 and 64,000 flight hours. The cracks were caused by fatigue, and, for certain airplanes, the fretting of adjacent parts contributed to the initiation of the fatigue damage. This condition, if not corrected, could result in reduced structural integrity of the outboard chord and consequent rapid decompression of the airplane. Related Rulemaking On October 16, 2012, we issued AD 2012–23–04, Amendment 39–17260 (77 FR 69747, November 21, 2012) (‘‘AD 2012–23–04’’), applicable to all The Boeing Company Model 737–100, –200, –200C, –300, –400, and –500 series airplanes. That AD requires various inspections for cracks in the outboard chord of the frame at BS 727. That AD also requires inspections for cracks in the BS 727 frame outboard chord and the radius of the auxiliary chord, for certain airplanes. That AD was prompted by several reports of fatigue cracking in the frame outboard chord at BS 727 and in the radius of the auxiliary chord. The actions required by that AD are intended to detect and correct fatigue cracking of the outboard and auxiliary chords, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the outboard chord and consequent rapid decompression of the airplane. E:\FR\FM\30JNP1.SGM 30JNP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 125 (Friday, June 30, 2017)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 29789-29792]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-13755]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2017-0628; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-207-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 all 
Airbus Model A310 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a 
revision of certain airworthiness limitation items (ALI) documents, 
which require more restrictive maintenance requirements and 
airworthiness limitations. This proposed AD would require revising the 
maintenance or inspection program to incorporate the maintenance 
requirements and airworthiness limitations. We are proposing this AD to 
address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 14, 2017.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:

[[Page 29790]]

     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 
SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAW, 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-
0628; 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: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-2125; 
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-2017-0628; 
Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-207-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 2016-0217, dated November 2, 2016 (referred to 
after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or 
``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A310 
series airplanes. The MCAI states:

    The airworthiness limitations for Airbus A310 aeroplanes, which 
are approved by EASA, are currently defined and published in the 
Airbus A310 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) document(s). 
These instructions have been identified as mandatory actions for 
continued airworthiness.
    Failure to accomplish these instructions could result in an 
unsafe condition.
    EASA previously issued [EASA] AD 2014-0124 (later revised) 
[which includes actions for Airbus A310 series airplanes; those 
actions are included in FAA AD 2013-13-13, Amendment 39-17501 (79 FR 
48957, August 19, 2014) (``AD 2013-13-13'')], to require the actions 
as specified in Airbus A310 Airworthiness Limitation Item (ALI) 
Document at issue 08.
    Since EASA AD 2014-0124R1 was issued, Airbus replaced ALI 
Document issue 08 with A310 ALS Part 2 Revision 01 and then 
published the A310 ALS Part 2 Variation 1.1 and Variation 1.2, to 
introduce more restrictive maintenance requirements and/or 
airworthiness limitations.
    For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD retains part of 
the requirements of EASA AD 2014-0124R1, which will be superseded, 
and requires accomplishment of the actions specified in Airbus A310 
ALS Part 2 Revision 01, ALS Part 2 Variation 1.1 and ALS Part 2 
Variation 1.2 (hereafter collectively referred to as `the ALS' in 
this [EASA] AD). The remaining requirements of EASA AD 2014-0124R1 
are retained in [EASA] AD 2016-0218, applicable to A300-600 
aeroplanes, published at the same time as this [EASA] AD.

    This NPRM would not supersede AD 2013-13-13. Rather, we have 
determined that a stand-alone AD would be more appropriate to address 
the changes in the MCAI. This NPRM would require revising the 
maintenance or inspection program to incorporate the maintenance 
requirements and airworthiness limitations. Accomplishment of the 
proposed actions would then terminate all requirements of AD 2013-13-
13.
    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-
0628.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    We reviewed the following service information:
     Airbus A310 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS), Part 
2, ``Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT--ALI),'' 
Revision 01, dated August 7, 2015.
     Airbus A310 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS), Part 
2, ``Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT--ALI),'' 
Variation 1.1, dated January 25, 2016.
     Airbus A310 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS), Part 
2, ``Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT--ALI),'' 
Variation 1.2, dated July 22, 2016.
    The service information describes airworthiness limitations 
applicable to the DT--ALIs. These documents are distinct because they 
contain different tasks at different revision levels. This service 
information is reasonably available because the interested parties have 
access to it through their normal course of business or by the means 
identified in the ADDRESSES section.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have 
been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service 
information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we 
evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition 
exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same 
type design.
    This AD requires revisions to certain operator maintenance 
documents to include new actions (e.g., inspections). Compliance with 
these actions is required by 14 CFR 91.403(c). For airplanes that have 
been previously modified, altered, or repaired in the areas addressed 
by this proposed AD, the operator may not be able to accomplish the 
actions described in the revisions. In this situation, to comply with 
14 CFR 91.403(c), the operator must request approval for an alternative 
method of compliance according to paragraph (j)(1) of this proposed AD. 
The request should include a description of changes to the required

[[Page 29791]]

actions that will ensure the continued damage tolerance of the affected 
structure.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 8 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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maintenance Program Revision.....  1 work-hour x $85     None...................             $85            $680
                                    per hour = $85.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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-2017-0628; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-
207-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by August 14, 2017.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD affects AD 2013-13-13, Amendment 39-17501 (79 FR 48957, 
August 19, 2014) (``AD 2013-13-13'').

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all Airbus Model A310-203, -204, -221, -222, 
-304, -322, -324, and -325 airplanes, certificated in any category, 
all manufacturer serial numbers.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 05.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by a revision of certain airworthiness 
limitation items (ALI) documents, which require more restrictive 
maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations. We are 
issuing this AD to prevent fatigue cracking, damage, or corrosion in 
principal structural elements, which could result in reduced 
structural integrity of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Revision of Maintenance or Inspection Program

    Within 3 months after the effective date of this AD, revise the 
maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate the 
information specified in paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), and (g)(3) of 
this AD. The initial compliance times for doing the tasks is at the 
time specified in the service information identified in paragraphs 
(g)(1), (g)(2), and (g)(3) of this AD, or within 3 months after the 
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later.
    (1) Airbus A310 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS), Part 2, 
``Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT--ALI),'' 
Revision 01, dated August 7, 2015.
    (2) Airbus A310 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS), Part 2, 
``Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT--ALI),'' 
Variation 1.1, dated January 25, 2016.
    (3) Airbus A310 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS), Part 2, 
``Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT-ALI),'' 
Variation 1.2, dated July 22, 2016.

(h) No Alternative Actions, and Intervals

    After the maintenance or inspection program has been revised as 
required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no alternative actions (e.g., 
inspections), or intervals, may be used unless the actions and/or 
intervals are approved as an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) 
in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (j)(1) of 
this AD.

(i) Terminating Action for AD 2013-13-13

    Accomplishing the actions required by this AD terminates all 
requirements of AD 2013-13-13 for that airplane only.

(j) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Branch, ANM-116, 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 (k)(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-

[[Page 29792]]

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.

(k) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA AD 2016-0217, dated November 2, 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-2017-0628.
    (2) For more information about this AD, contact Dan Rodina, 
Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-
3356; telephone 425-227-2125; fax 425-227-1149.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAW, 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 service 
information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind 
Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this 
material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 22, 2017.
John P. Piccola, Jr.,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-13755 Filed 6-29-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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