Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes, 59960-59963 [2017-26837]
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59960
Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 241 / Monday, December 18, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
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/ibrlocations.html.
[FR Doc. 2017–26841 Filed 12–15–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2017–0627; Product
Identifier 2017–NM–037–AD; Amendment
39–19127; AD 2017–25–13]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Airbus Model A330–200 Freighter,
–200, and –300 series airplanes; and
Airbus Model A340–200, –300, –500,
and –600 series airplanes. This AD was
prompted by a report that the trimmable
horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA)
might not function as intended after
failure of the primary load path. This
AD requires repetitive detailed visual
inspections for discrepancies of the
THSA upper attachments and no-back
housing. We are issuing this AD to
address the unsafe condition on these
products.
SUMMARY:
This AD is effective January 22,
2018.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in this AD
as of January 22, 2018.
ADDRESSES: For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office—
EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte,
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France;
telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33
5 61 93 45 80; email:
airworthiness.A330–A340@airbus.com;
internet: https://www.airbus.com. You
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DATES:
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Union, has issued EASA AD 2017–0044,
dated March 9, 2017 (referred to after
this as the Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the
MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition
for all Airbus Model A330–200
Freighter, –200 and –300 series
airplanes; and Airbus Model A340–200,
–300, –500, and –600 series airplanes.
The MCAI states:
Examining the AD Docket
Issued in Renton, Washington, on
December 4, 2017.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
may view this referenced service
information at the FAA, Transport
Standards Branch, 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–
0627.
The Trimmable Horizontal Stabilizer
Actuator (THSA), as installed on A330 and
A340 aeroplanes, was initially designed to
stall when engaging on the upper secondary
load path (SLP) after primary load path (PLP)
failure. Such stall triggers system monitoring
detection. New mission profile analysis
revealed that in some cases, the THSA could
be operated while engaged on the upper SLP
without stalling [i.e., the THSA might not
function as intended after failure of the
primary load path]. The partial engagement
of the SLP at upper attachment level does not
trigger any indication to the flight crew.
This condition, if not detected and
corrected, could lead to THSA upper
attachment failure and consequent
disconnection of the THSA from the
aeroplane structure, possibly resulting in loss
of control of the aeroplane.
For the reasons described above, this
[EASA] AD requires repetitive detailed
[visual] inspections (DET) of the upper THSA
attachments parts and the PLP and SLP
fuselage attachment points, and, depending
on findings (which include, but are not
limited to, failure of the primary load path),
accomplishment of applicable [additional
inspections for discrepancies and] corrective
action(s).
You may examine the AD docket on
the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2017–
0627; or in person at the Docket
Management Facility between 9 a.m.
and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this AD, the regulatory
evaluation, any comments received, and
other information. The street address for
the Docket Office (telephone: 800–647–
5527) is Docket Management Facility,
U.S. Department of Transportation,
Docket Operations, M–30, West
Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140,
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
International Section, Transport
Standards Branch, FAA, 1601 Lind
Avenue SW, Renton, WA 98057–3356;
telephone: 425–227–1138; fax: 425–
227–1149.
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 Airbus Model A330–200
Freighter, –200, and –300 series
airplanes; and Airbus Model A340–200,
–300, –500, and –600 series airplanes.
The NPRM published in the Federal
Register on June 30, 2017 (82 FR 29795)
(‘‘the NPRM’’). The NPRM was
prompted by a report that the THSA
might not function as intended after
failure of the primary load path. The
NPRM proposed to require repetitive
detailed visual inspections for
discrepancies of the THSA upper
attachments and no-back housing. We
are issuing this AD to detect and correct
discrepancies of the THSA upper
attachments and no-back housing,
which could lead to THSA upper
attachment failure and consequent
disconnection of the THSA from the
airplane structure, possibly resulting in
loss of control of the airplane.
The European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
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The additional inspections include a
detailed visual inspection for
discrepancies of the upper attachment
fitting of the airplane and a detailed
visual inspection for discrepancies of
the removed THSA. Corrective actions
include repair and replacement of the
THSA. 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–
0627.
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.
Support for the NPRM
The Air Line Pilots Association,
International (ALPA), expressed its
support for the NPRM.
Request To Delay Publication of the
Final Rule or Note Discrepancy in
Service Information
Delta Airlines (DAL) requested that
we delay publication of the final rule or
include information regarding a
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 241 / Monday, December 18, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
discrepancy found in Airbus Service
Bulletin A330–27–3218, Revision 01,
dated December 5, 2016, which
specifies to use Aircraft Maintenance
Manual (AMM) task 27–44–00–210–805.
However, AMM task 27–44–00–210–805
is missing from the A330 AMM revision
dated July 1, 2017. DAL preferred to
avoid the need for an alternative method
of compliance (AMOC) to accomplish
the tasks required by Airbus Service
Bulletin A330–27–3218, Revision 01,
dated December 5, 2016. DAL also
contacted Airbus regarding this issue.
We disagree with the request to delay
this final rule. We also disagree that
information regarding the discrepancy
should be specifically included.
Although Airbus Service Bulletin A330–
27–3218, Revision 01, dated December
5, 2016, specifies to use AMM task 27–
44–00–210–805, the service information
also includes information to perform a
detailed visual inspection using
SUBTASK 273218–832–001–001 if
AMM task 27–44–00–210–805 is
unavailable. Therefore, no changes to
this AD are necessary regarding this
issue.
Conclusion
We reviewed the relevant data,
considered the comments received, and
determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting this AD
as proposed except for minor editorial
changes. We have determined that these
minor changes:
• Are consistent with the intent that
was proposed in the NPRM for
correcting the unsafe condition; and
• Do not add any additional burden
upon the public than was already
proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
Airbus has issued the following
service information.
• Airbus Service Bulletin A330–27–
3218, Revision 01, dated December 5,
2016.
59961
• Airbus Service Bulletin A340–27–
4203, Revision 01, dated December 5,
2016.
• Airbus Service Bulletin A340–27–
5067, Revision 01, dated December 5,
2016.
This service information describes
procedures for detailed visual
inspections for discrepancies of the
THSA upper attachments and no-back
housing, additional inspections for
discrepancies, and corrective actions.
These documents are distinct since they
apply to different airplane models. 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 102
airplanes of U.S. registry.
We estimate the following costs to
comply with this AD:
ESTIMATED COSTS
Action
Labor cost
Parts cost
Inspection .........
3 work-hours × $85 per hour =
$255 per inspection cycle.
We estimate the following costs to do
any necessary replacements that would
Cost per product
$0
Cost on U.S. operators
$255 per inspection cycle .............
be required based on the results of the
required inspection. We have no way of
$26,010 per inspection cycle.
determining the number of aircraft that
might need these replacements:
ON-CONDITION COSTS
Action
Labor cost
Replacement ....................................
20 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,700 ...................................................
We have received no definitive data
that would enable us to provide cost
estimates for other on-condition actions
specified in this AD.
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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
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Parts cost
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.
This AD is issued in accordance with
authority delegated by the Executive
Director, Aircraft Certification Service,
as authorized by FAA Order 8000.51C.
In accordance with that order, issuance
of ADs is normally a function of the
Compliance and Airworthiness
Division, but during this transition
period, the Executive Director has
delegated the authority to issue ADs
applicable to transport category
airplanes to the Director of the System
Oversight Division.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this AD will not
have federalism implications under
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$734,661
Cost per
product
$736,361
Executive Order 13132. This AD will
not have a substantial direct effect on
the States, on the relationship between
the national government and the States,
or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
Alaska; and
4. Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 241 / Monday, December 18, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
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:
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Model A330–
201, –202, –203, –223, –223F, –243, –243F,
–301, –302, –303, –321, –322, –323, –341,
–342 and –343 airplanes; and Airbus Model
A340–211, –212, –213, –311, –312, –313,
–541, and –642 airplanes; certificated in any
category, all manufacturer’s serial numbers.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 27, Flight Controls.
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
(g) Repetitive Detailed Visual Inspections
(b) Affected ADs
None.
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
■
2017–25–13 Airbus: Amendment 39–19127;
Docket No. FAA–2017–0627; Product
Identifier 2017–NM–037–AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective January 22, 2018.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by a report that the
trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator
(THSA) might not function as intended after
failure of the primary load path. We are
issuing this AD to detect and correct
discrepancies of the THSA upper
attachments and no-back housing, which
could lead to THSA upper attachment failure
and consequent disconnection of the THSA
from the airplane structure, possibly
resulting in loss of control of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
Before exceeding the threshold in Table 1
to paragraph (g) of this AD, as applicable, or
within 3 months after the effective date of
this AD, whichever occurs later; and
thereafter at intervals not to exceed the
inspection interval values defined in Table 1
to paragraph (g) of this AD; accomplish a
detailed visual inspection for discrepancies
of the THSA upper attachments and no-back
housing, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A330–27–3218, Revision 01,
A340–27–4203, Revision 01, or A340–27–
5067, Revision 01, all dated December 5,
2016, as applicable. Where the ‘‘Threshold’’
column of table 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD
specifies compliance times in ‘‘FH’’ (flight
hours) or ‘‘FC’’ (flight cycles), those
compliance times are flight hours or flight
cycles since the first flight of the airplane, or
since the last accomplishment of Airbus
Model A330 or A340 Maintenance Review
Board Report task 27.40.00/07, or since the
last detailed visual inspection of the THSA
done in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A330–27–3218, Revision 00,
A340–27–4203, Revision 00, or A340–27–
5067, Revision 00, all dated July 1, 2016, as
applicable.
TABLE 1 TO PARAGRAPH (g) OF THIS AD—THSA UPPER ATTACHMENTS/NO-BACK HOUSING INSPECTIONS
Compliance times
(whichever occurs first, flight hours (FH) or flight cycles (FC))
Affected airplanes
Inspection interval
(not to exceed)
Threshold
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A330, A340–200 and A340–300 .......................
A340–500 and A340–600 ..................................
Before 4,000 FH or 1,000 FC ..........................
Before 4,000 FH or 800 FC .............................
(h) Additional Inspections and Corrective
Actions
(1) If, during any inspection required by
paragraph (g) of this AD, any discrepancy
identified in the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330–
27–3218, Revision 01, A340–27–4203,
Revision 01, or A340–27–5067, Revision 01,
all dated December 5, 2016, as applicable, is
detected, before further flight, remove the
THSA, and accomplish a detailed visual
inspection for discrepancies of the upper
attachment fitting of the airplane and a
detailed visual inspection for discrepancies
of the removed THSA, in accordance with
the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A330–27–3218, Revision 01,
A340–27–4203, Revision 01, or A340–27–
5067, Revision 01, all dated December 5,
2016, as applicable. As an alternative to the
removed THSA inspections required by this
paragraph, before further flight, replace the
THSA with a serviceable part (as defined in
paragraph (i) of this AD).
(2) If, during any inspection of the upper
attachment fitting of the airplane required by
paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, any discrepancy
identified in the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330–
27–3218, Revision 01, A340–27–4203,
Revision 01, or A340–27–5067, Revision 01,
all dated December 5, 2016, as applicable, is
detected, before further flight, repair using a
method approved in accordance with the
procedures specified in paragraph (k)(2) of
this AD.
(3) If, during any inspection of the removed
THSA required by paragraph (h)(1) of this
AD, no discrepancy specified in the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A330–27–3218, Revision 01,
A340–27–4203, Revision 01, or A340–27–
5067, Revision 01, all dated December 5,
2016, as applicable, is detected, before
further flight, reinstall the THSA, in
accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330–
27–3218, Revision 01, A340–27–4203,
Revision 01, or A340–27–5067, Revision 01,
all dated December 5, 2016, as applicable.
(4) If, during any inspection of the removed
THSA required by paragraph (h)(1) of this
AD, any discrepancy specified in the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A330–27–3218, Revision 01,
A340–27–4203, Revision 01, or A340–27–
5067, Revision 01, all dated December 5,
2016, as applicable, is detected, before
further flight, replace the THSA with a
serviceable part (as defined in paragraph (i)
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4,000 FH or 1,000 FC
4,000 FH or 800 FC
of this AD), in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A330–27–3218, Revision 01,
A340–27–4203, Revision 01, or A340–27–
5067, Revision 01, all dated December 5,
2016, as applicable.
(i) Definition of Serviceable THSA
For the purpose of this AD, a serviceable
THSA is a part that has accumulated less
than 4,000 FH or 1,000 FC (for Airbus Model
A330, A340–200, or A340–300 airplanes) or
4,000 FH or 800 FC (for Airbus Model A340–
500 or A340–600 airplanes), whichever
occurs first since the first flight of the
airplane, or since the last overhaul of the
THSA, or since the last detailed visual
inspection of the THSA in accordance with
the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A330–27–3218, Revision 01,
A340–27–4203, Revision 01, or A340–27–
5067, Revision 01, all dated December 5,
2016, as applicable.
(j) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for actions
required by paragraphs (g), (h)(1), (h)(3), and
(h)(4) of this AD, if those actions were
performed before the effective date of this AD
using the service information specified in
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paragraph (j)(1), (j)(2), or (j)(3) of this AD, as
applicable.
(1) Airbus Service Bulletin A330–27–3218,
Revision 00, dated July 1, 2016.
(2) Airbus Service Bulletin A340–27–4203,
Revision 00, dated July 1, 2016.
(3) Airbus Service Bulletin A340–27–5067,
Revision 00, dated July 1, 2016.
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(k) Other FAA AD Provisions
The following provisions also apply to this
AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): The Manager, International
Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA,
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this
AD, if requested using the procedures found
in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR
39.19, send your request to your principal
inspector or local Flight Standards District
Office, as appropriate. If sending information
directly to the International Section, send it
to the attention of the person identified in
paragraph (l)(2) of this AD. Information may
be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOCREQUESTS@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 Section,
Transport Standards Branch, 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 DOAauthorized signature.
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except
as required by paragraph (h)(2) of this AD: 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
an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or
changes to procedures or tests identified as
RC require approval of an AMOC.
(l) Related Information
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD
2017–0044, dated March 9, 2017, 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–2017–0627.
(2) For more information about this AD,
contact Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace
Engineer, International Section, Transport
Standards Branch, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue
SW, Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone:
425–227–1138; fax: 425–227–1149.
(3) Service information identified in this
AD that is not incorporated by reference is
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available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (m)(3) and (m)(4) of this AD.
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A330–27–3218,
Revision 01, dated December 5, 2016.
(ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340–27–4203,
Revision 01, dated December 5, 2016.
(iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340–27–
5067, Revision 01, dated December 5, 2016.
(3) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness
Office—EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte,
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33
5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; email:
airworthiness.A330–A340@airbus.com;
internet: https://www.airbus.com.
(4) You may view this service information
at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch,
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/ibrlocations.html.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on
December 5, 2017.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2017–26837 Filed 12–15–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2017–1170; Product
Identifier 2013–NM–054–AD; Amendment
39–19129; AD 2017–25–15]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; ATR–GIE
´
Avions de Transport Regional
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for
comments.
AGENCY:
We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
´
ATR–GIE Avions de Transport Regional
Model ATR42–300 and –500 airplanes
and Model ATR72–202 and –212A
airplanes. This AD requires identifying
SUMMARY:
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59963
the serial number of the dual distributor
valve (DDV), and replacement of
affected DDVs. This AD was prompted
by an investigation performed on a
failed DDV that revealed a
nonconformity of crimping on an
internal valve. We are issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD becomes effective
January 2, 2018.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in this AD
as of January 2, 2018.
We must receive comments on this
AD by February 1, 2018.
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 service information identified in
this final rule, contact ATR–GIE Avions
´
´
de Transport Regional, 1, Allee Pierre
Nadot, 31712 Blagnac Cedex, France;
telephone +33 (0) 5 62 21 62 21; fax +33
(0) 5 62 21 67 18; email
continued.airworthiness@atraircraft.com. You may view this
referenced service information at the
FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 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–
1170.
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–
1170; or in person at the Docket
Operations office between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this AD, the regulatory
evaluation, any comments received, and
other information. The street address for
the Docket Operations office (telephone
E:\FR\FM\18DER1.SGM
18DER1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 241 (Monday, December 18, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 59960-59963]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-26837]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2017-0627; Product Identifier 2017-NM-037-AD; Amendment
39-19127; AD 2017-25-13]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Airbus Model A330-200 Freighter, -200, and -300 series airplanes; and
Airbus Model A340-200, -300, -500, and -600 series airplanes. This AD
was prompted by a report that the trimmable horizontal stabilizer
actuator (THSA) might not function as intended after failure of the
primary load path. This AD requires repetitive detailed visual
inspections for discrepancies of the THSA upper attachments and no-back
housing. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on
these products.
DATES: This AD is effective January 22, 2018.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of January 22,
2018.
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule,
contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96;
fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; email: [email protected];
internet: https://www.airbus.com. You may view this referenced service
information at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 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-2017-0627.
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-
0627; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and
other information. The street address for the Docket Office (telephone:
800-647-5527) is Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor,
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 1601 Lind
Avenue SW, Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone: 425-227-1138; fax: 425-
227-1149.
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 Airbus Model A330-200
Freighter, -200, and -300 series airplanes; and Airbus Model A340-200,
-300, -500, and -600 series airplanes. The NPRM published in the
Federal Register on June 30, 2017 (82 FR 29795) (``the NPRM''). The
NPRM was prompted by a report that the THSA might not function as
intended after failure of the primary load path. The NPRM proposed to
require repetitive detailed visual inspections for discrepancies of the
THSA upper attachments and no-back housing. We are issuing this AD to
detect and correct discrepancies of the THSA upper attachments and no-
back housing, which could lead to THSA upper attachment failure and
consequent disconnection of the THSA from the airplane structure,
possibly resulting in loss of control of the airplane.
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD
2017-0044, dated March 9, 2017 (referred to after this as the Mandatory
Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an
unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A330-200 Freighter, -200 and -300
series airplanes; and Airbus Model A340-200, -300, -500, and -600
series airplanes. The MCAI states:
The Trimmable Horizontal Stabilizer Actuator (THSA), as
installed on A330 and A340 aeroplanes, was initially designed to
stall when engaging on the upper secondary load path (SLP) after
primary load path (PLP) failure. Such stall triggers system
monitoring detection. New mission profile analysis revealed that in
some cases, the THSA could be operated while engaged on the upper
SLP without stalling [i.e., the THSA might not function as intended
after failure of the primary load path]. The partial engagement of
the SLP at upper attachment level does not trigger any indication to
the flight crew.
This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to
THSA upper attachment failure and consequent disconnection of the
THSA from the aeroplane structure, possibly resulting in loss of
control of the aeroplane.
For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires
repetitive detailed [visual] inspections (DET) of the upper THSA
attachments parts and the PLP and SLP fuselage attachment points,
and, depending on findings (which include, but are not limited to,
failure of the primary load path), accomplishment of applicable
[additional inspections for discrepancies and] corrective action(s).
The additional inspections include a detailed visual inspection for
discrepancies of the upper attachment fitting of the airplane and a
detailed visual inspection for discrepancies of the removed THSA.
Corrective actions include repair and replacement of the THSA. 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-
0627.
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.
Support for the NPRM
The Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA), expressed
its support for the NPRM.
Request To Delay Publication of the Final Rule or Note Discrepancy in
Service Information
Delta Airlines (DAL) requested that we delay publication of the
final rule or include information regarding a
[[Page 59961]]
discrepancy found in Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3218, Revision 01,
dated December 5, 2016, which specifies to use Aircraft Maintenance
Manual (AMM) task 27-44-00-210-805. However, AMM task 27-44-00-210-805
is missing from the A330 AMM revision dated July 1, 2017. DAL preferred
to avoid the need for an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) to
accomplish the tasks required by Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3218,
Revision 01, dated December 5, 2016. DAL also contacted Airbus
regarding this issue.
We disagree with the request to delay this final rule. We also
disagree that information regarding the discrepancy should be
specifically included. Although Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3218,
Revision 01, dated December 5, 2016, specifies to use AMM task 27-44-
00-210-805, the service information also includes information to
perform a detailed visual inspection using SUBTASK 273218-832-001-001
if AMM task 27-44-00-210-805 is unavailable. Therefore, no changes to
this AD are necessary regarding this issue.
Conclusion
We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received,
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting
this AD as proposed except for minor editorial changes. We have
determined that these minor changes:
Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the
NPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and
Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was
already proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
Airbus has issued the following service information.
Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3218, Revision 01, dated
December 5, 2016.
Airbus Service Bulletin A340-27-4203, Revision 01, dated
December 5, 2016.
Airbus Service Bulletin A340-27-5067, Revision 01, dated
December 5, 2016.
This service information describes procedures for detailed visual
inspections for discrepancies of the THSA upper attachments and no-back
housing, additional inspections for discrepancies, and corrective
actions. These documents are distinct since they apply to different
airplane models. 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 102 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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection................. 3 work-hours x $85 $0 $255 per inspection $26,010 per
per hour = $255 per cycle. inspection cycle.
inspection cycle.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We estimate the following costs to do any necessary replacements
that would be required based on the results of the required inspection.
We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need
these replacements:
On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per
Action Labor cost Parts cost product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacement................................ 20 work-hours x $85 per hour = $734,661 $736,361
$1,700.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide
cost estimates for other 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.
This AD is issued in accordance with authority delegated by the
Executive Director, Aircraft Certification Service, as authorized by
FAA Order 8000.51C. In accordance with that order, issuance of ADs is
normally a function of the Compliance and Airworthiness Division, but
during this transition period, the Executive Director has delegated the
authority to issue ADs applicable to transport category airplanes to
the Director of the System Oversight Division.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications
under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct
effect on the States, on the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order
12866;
2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and
4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
[[Page 59962]]
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):
2017-25-13 Airbus: Amendment 39-19127; Docket No. FAA-2017-0627;
Product Identifier 2017-NM-037-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective January 22, 2018.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, -
223F, -243, -243F, -301, -302, -303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342
and -343 airplanes; and Airbus Model A340-211, -212, -213, -311, -
312, -313, -541, and -642 airplanes; certificated in any category,
all manufacturer's serial numbers.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 27, Flight
Controls.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by a report that the trimmable horizontal
stabilizer actuator (THSA) might not function as intended after
failure of the primary load path. We are issuing this AD to detect
and correct discrepancies of the THSA upper attachments and no-back
housing, which could lead to THSA upper attachment failure and
consequent disconnection of the THSA from the airplane structure,
possibly resulting in loss of control of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Repetitive Detailed Visual Inspections
Before exceeding the threshold in Table 1 to paragraph (g) of
this AD, as applicable, or within 3 months after the effective date
of this AD, whichever occurs later; and thereafter at intervals not
to exceed the inspection interval values defined in Table 1 to
paragraph (g) of this AD; accomplish a detailed visual inspection
for discrepancies of the THSA upper attachments and no-back housing,
in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service
Bulletin A330-27-3218, Revision 01, A340-27-4203, Revision 01, or
A340-27-5067, Revision 01, all dated December 5, 2016, as
applicable. Where the ``Threshold'' column of table 1 to paragraph
(g) of this AD specifies compliance times in ``FH'' (flight hours)
or ``FC'' (flight cycles), those compliance times are flight hours
or flight cycles since the first flight of the airplane, or since
the last accomplishment of Airbus Model A330 or A340 Maintenance
Review Board Report task 27.40.00/07, or since the last detailed
visual inspection of the THSA done in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3218,
Revision 00, A340-27-4203, Revision 00, or A340-27-5067, Revision
00, all dated July 1, 2016, as applicable.
Table 1 to Paragraph (g) of This AD--THSA Upper Attachments/No-Back
Housing Inspections
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Compliance times (whichever occurs
first, flight hours (FH) or flight
cycles (FC))
Affected airplanes ---------------------------------------
Inspection
Threshold interval (not to
exceed)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
A330, A340-200 and A340-300..... Before 4,000 FH or 4,000 FH or 1,000
1,000 FC. FC
A340-500 and A340-600........... Before 4,000 FH or 4,000 FH or 800 FC
800 FC.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(h) Additional Inspections and Corrective Actions
(1) If, during any inspection required by paragraph (g) of this
AD, any discrepancy identified in the Accomplishment Instructions of
Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3218, Revision 01, A340-27-4203,
Revision 01, or A340-27-5067, Revision 01, all dated December 5,
2016, as applicable, is detected, before further flight, remove the
THSA, and accomplish a detailed visual inspection for discrepancies
of the upper attachment fitting of the airplane and a detailed
visual inspection for discrepancies of the removed THSA, in
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service
Bulletin A330-27-3218, Revision 01, A340-27-4203, Revision 01, or
A340-27-5067, Revision 01, all dated December 5, 2016, as
applicable. As an alternative to the removed THSA inspections
required by this paragraph, before further flight, replace the THSA
with a serviceable part (as defined in paragraph (i) of this AD).
(2) If, during any inspection of the upper attachment fitting of
the airplane required by paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, any
discrepancy identified in the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A330-27-3218, Revision 01, A340-27-4203, Revision
01, or A340-27-5067, Revision 01, all dated December 5, 2016, as
applicable, is detected, before further flight, repair using a
method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in
paragraph (k)(2) of this AD.
(3) If, during any inspection of the removed THSA required by
paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, no discrepancy specified in the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3218,
Revision 01, A340-27-4203, Revision 01, or A340-27-5067, Revision
01, all dated December 5, 2016, as applicable, is detected, before
further flight, reinstall the THSA, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3218,
Revision 01, A340-27-4203, Revision 01, or A340-27-5067, Revision
01, all dated December 5, 2016, as applicable.
(4) If, during any inspection of the removed THSA required by
paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, any discrepancy specified in the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3218,
Revision 01, A340-27-4203, Revision 01, or A340-27-5067, Revision
01, all dated December 5, 2016, as applicable, is detected, before
further flight, replace the THSA with a serviceable part (as defined
in paragraph (i) of this AD), in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3218, Revision 01,
A340-27-4203, Revision 01, or A340-27-5067, Revision 01, all dated
December 5, 2016, as applicable.
(i) Definition of Serviceable THSA
For the purpose of this AD, a serviceable THSA is a part that
has accumulated less than 4,000 FH or 1,000 FC (for Airbus Model
A330, A340-200, or A340-300 airplanes) or 4,000 FH or 800 FC (for
Airbus Model A340-500 or A340-600 airplanes), whichever occurs first
since the first flight of the airplane, or since the last overhaul
of the THSA, or since the last detailed visual inspection of the
THSA in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A330-27-3218, Revision 01, A340-27-4203, Revision
01, or A340-27-5067, Revision 01, all dated December 5, 2016, as
applicable.
(j) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for actions required by
paragraphs (g), (h)(1), (h)(3), and (h)(4) of this AD, if those
actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using
the service information specified in
[[Page 59963]]
paragraph (j)(1), (j)(2), or (j)(3) of this AD, as applicable.
(1) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3218, Revision 00, dated
July 1, 2016.
(2) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-27-4203, Revision 00, dated
July 1, 2016.
(3) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-27-5067, Revision 00, dated
July 1, 2016.
(k) Other FAA AD Provisions
The following provisions also apply to this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager,
International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, has the
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,
send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information
directly to the International Section, send it to the attention of
the person identified in paragraph (l)(2) of this AD. Information
may be emailed to: [email protected]. 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
Section, Transport Standards Branch, 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): Except as required by
paragraph (h)(2) of this AD: 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 an airworthy condition. Any
substitutions or changes to procedures or tests identified as RC
require approval of an AMOC.
(l) Related Information
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information
(MCAI) EASA AD 2017-0044, dated March 9, 2017, 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-2017-0627.
(2) For more information about this AD, contact Vladimir
Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport
Standards Branch, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW, Renton, WA 98057-3356;
telephone: 425-227-1138; fax: 425-227-1149.
(3) Service information identified in this AD that is not
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (m)(3) and (m)(4) of this AD.
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3218, Revision 01, dated
December 5, 2016.
(ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-27-4203, Revision 01, dated
December 5, 2016.
(iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-27-5067, Revision 01, dated
December 5, 2016.
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96;
fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; email: [email protected];
internet: https://www.airbus.com.
(4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport
Standards Branch, 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 December 5, 2017.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-26837 Filed 12-15-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P