Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes, 16245-16247 [2018-07647]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 73 / Monday, April 16, 2018 / Proposed Rules 5224; fax: 562–627–5210; email: david.truong@faa.gov. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600; telephone 562–797–1717; internet https:// www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. (i) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications (1) For purposes of determining compliance with the requirements of this AD: Where Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–53A1377 RB, dated December 11, 2017, uses the phrase ‘‘the original issue date of Requirements Bulletin 737–53A1377 RB,’’ this AD requires using ‘‘the effective date of this AD.’’ (2) Where Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–53A1377 RB, dated December 11, 2017, specifies contacting Boeing, this AD requires repair using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (j) of this AD. daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS (h) Required Actions for Group 2 Airplanes For airplanes identified as Group 2 in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737– 53A1377 RB, dated December 11, 2017: Except as required by paragraph (i) of this AD, at the applicable times specified in the ‘‘Compliance’’ paragraph of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–53A1377 RB, dated December 11, 2017, do all applicable actions identified in, and in accordance with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–53A1377 RB, dated December 11, 2017. Note 1 to paragraph (h) of this AD: Guidance for accomplishing the actions required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1377, dated December 11, 2017, which is referred to in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737– 53A1377 RB, dated December 11, 2017. BILLING CODE 4910–13–P (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Los Angeles ACO 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 manager of the certification office, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (k)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-LAACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles ACO Branch, to make those findings. To be approved, the repair method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on March 30, 2018. Chris Spangenberg, Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018–07648 Filed 4–13–18; 8:45 am] DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2018–0270; Product Identifier 2017–NM–133–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A330–200 Freighter, A330–200, A330–300, A340–200, A340– 300, A340–500, and A340–600 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a determination that a functional test to ensure that there is no blockage of vent pipes was not done on the trim tank of certain airplanes during production. This proposed AD would require doing a trim tank functional test, and corrective actions if necessary. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 31, 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. (k) Related Information • Mail: U.S. Department of (1) For more information about this AD, Transportation, Docket Operations, M– contact David Truong, Aerospace Engineer, 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room Airframe Section, FAA, Los Angeles ACO W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Branch, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712–4137; phone: 562–627– Washington, DC 20590. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:32 Apr 13, 2018 Jkt 244001 SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 16245 • 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—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 may view this service information at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. 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–2018– 0270; 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 NPRM, 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: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206–231–3229. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA– 2018–0270; Product Identifier 2017– NM–133–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this NPRM. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this NPRM 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 NPRM. Discussion The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European E:\FR\FM\16APP1.SGM 16APP1 16246 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 73 / Monday, April 16, 2018 / Proposed Rules Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2017–0152, dated August 17, 2017 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus Model A330–200 Freighter, A330–200, A330–300, A340–200, A340–300, A340– 500, and A340–600 series airplanes. The MCAI states: It was discovered that the production functional test to verify the ‘‘Tank Pressures during Refuel Overflow’’ was not performed on the Trim Tank (TT) of A330 and A340 aeroplanes up to MSN [manufacturer serial number] 1711. This test ensures that there is no blockage of the vent pipes. This condition, if not corrected, could lead, in combination with a high level sensor failure, to an over-pressurisation of the TT during refueling or during aft fuel transfer, possibly resulting in a TT rupture and consequent reduced control of the aeroplane To address this potential unsafe condition, Airbus published Service Bulletin (SB) A330–28–3130, SB A340–28–4140 and SB A340–28–5061, to provide functional test instructions. For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires a one-time functional test of the TT overflow and, depending on findings, accomplishment of applicable corrective action(s). Corrective actions include a general visual inspection of the aperture leading to the flame arrestors (NACA duct), a detailed inspection of the flame arrestor, and blockage removal or repair of any discrepant NACA duct. 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–2018– 0270. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Airbus has issued the following service information: • Service Bulletin A330–28–3130, Revision 00, dated May 18, 2017. • Service Bulletin A340–28–4140, Revision 00, dated May 18, 2017. • Service Bulletin A340–28–5061, Revision 00, dated May 18, 2017. The service information describes procedures for doing a trim tank overflow functional test, a general visual inspection of the aperture leading to the flame arrestors (NACA duct), a detailed inspection of the flame arrestor, and blockage removal or repair of discrepant NACA ducts. 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. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of these same type designs. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 97 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Functional test ........................ 16 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,360 ................................ We estimate the following costs to do any necessary inspections that would be Cost per product Parts cost required based on the results of the proposed test. We have no way of $0 Cost on U.S. operators $1,360 $131,920 determining the number of aircraft that might need these inspections: ON-CONDITION COSTS Action Labor cost Inspections ....................................... 2 work-hours × $85 per hour = $170 ........................................................ daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS We have received no definitive data that would allow us to provide cost estimates for the blockage removal or repair of a discrepant NACA duct 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:32 Apr 13, 2018 Jkt 244001 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 proposed 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 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Cost per product Parts cost $0 $170 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 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. E:\FR\FM\16APP1.SGM 16APP1 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 73 / Monday, April 16, 2018 / Proposed Rules For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed regulation: 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and 4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2018–0270; Product Identifier 2017–NM–133–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by May 31, 2018. daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to the airplanes identified in paragraphs (c)(1) through (c)(7) of this AD, certificated in any category, manufacturer serial numbers 1 through 1711 inclusive. (1) Airbus Model A330–223F and –243F airplanes. (2) Airbus Model A330–201, –202, –203, –223, and –243 airplanes. (3) Airbus Model A330–301, –302, –303, –321, –322, –323, –341, –342, and –343 airplanes. (4) Airbus Model A340–211, –212, –213 airplanes. (5) Airbus Model A340–311, –312, and –313 airplanes. (6) Airbus Model A340–541 airplanes. (7) Airbus Model A340–642 airplanes. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 28, Fuel. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by a determination that a functional test to ensure that there is VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:32 Apr 13, 2018 Jkt 244001 no blockage of vent pipes was not done on the trim tank of certain airplanes during production. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct blocked vent pipes, which, in combination with a high level sensor failure, could lead to over-pressurization of the trim tank during refueling or aft fuel transfer. This could lead to trim tank rupture and consequent reduced control of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Functional Test Within 42 months after the effective date of this AD, do a trim tank overflow functional test in accordance with the instructions of the service information specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(3), as applicable. (1) Airbus Service Bulletin A330–28–3130, Revision 00, dated May 18, 2017. (2) Airbus Service Bulletin A340–28–4140, Revision 00, dated May 18, 2017. (3) Airbus Service Bulletin A340–28–5061, Revision 00, dated May 18, 2017. (h) Corrective Actions (1) If, during the functional test required by paragraph (g) of this AD, the trim tank maximum allowable pressure is exceeded: Before further flight, contact the Manager, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus’s Design Organization Approval (DOA) to obtain instructions for corrective actions, and within the compliance time indicated in those instructions accomplish the corrective actions accordingly. (2) If, during the functional test required by paragraph (g) of this AD, the trim surge tank maximum allowable pressure is exceeded: Before further flight, do a general visual inspection of the aperture leading to the flame arrestors (NACA duct) and do a detailed inspection of the flame arrestor in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330– 28–3130, Revision 00, dated May 18, 2017; Airbus Service Bulletin A340–28–4140, Revision 00, dated May 18, 2017; or Airbus Service Bulletin A340–28–5061, Revision 00, dated May 18, 2017; as applicable. (3) If, during any inspection required by paragraph (h)(2) of this AD, any discrepancy (blockage or damage of the NACA duct) is found: Before further flight, accomplish the applicable corrective actions in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330–28–3130, Revision 00, dated May 18, 2017; Airbus Service Bulletin A340–28–4140, Revision 00, dated May 18, 2017; or Airbus Service Bulletin A340–28–5061, Revision 00, dated May 18, 2017; as applicable. (i) 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 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 9990 16247 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 (j)(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 EASA; or Airbus’s EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOAauthorized signature. (3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any service information contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended. Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the operator’s maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests identified as RC require approval of an AMOC. (j) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2017–0152, dated August 17, 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–2018–0270. (2) For more information about this AD, contact Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206–231–3229. (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. You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on March 30, 2018. Chris Spangenberg, Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018–07647 Filed 4–13–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P E:\FR\FM\16APP1.SGM 16APP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 73 (Monday, April 16, 2018)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 16245-16247]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2018-07647]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2018-0270; Product Identifier 2017-NM-133-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
certain Airbus Model A330-200 Freighter, A330-200, A330-300, A340-200, 
A340-300, A340-500, and A340-600 series airplanes. This proposed AD was 
prompted by a determination that a functional test to ensure that there 
is no blockage of vent pipes was not done on the trim tank of certain 
airplanes during production. This proposed AD would require doing a 
trim tank functional test, and corrective actions if necessary. We are 
proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 31, 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: 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--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 service information at the FAA, 
Transport Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206-
231-3195.

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-2018-
0270; 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 NPRM, 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: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 
216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206-231-3229.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed 
under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2018-0270; 
Product Identifier 2017-NM-133-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. 
We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, 
environmental, and energy aspects of this NPRM. We will consider all 
comments received by the closing date and may amend this NPRM 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 NPRM.

Discussion

    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European

[[Page 16246]]

Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2017-0152, dated August 
17, 2017 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing 
Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe 
condition for certain Airbus Model A330-200 Freighter, A330-200, A330-
300, A340-200, A340-300, A340-500, and A340-600 series airplanes. The 
MCAI states:

    It was discovered that the production functional test to verify 
the ``Tank Pressures during Refuel Overflow'' was not performed on 
the Trim Tank (TT) of A330 and A340 aeroplanes up to MSN 
[manufacturer serial number] 1711. This test ensures that there is 
no blockage of the vent pipes.
    This condition, if not corrected, could lead, in combination 
with a high level sensor failure, to an over-pressurisation of the 
TT during refueling or during aft fuel transfer, possibly resulting 
in a TT rupture and consequent reduced control of the aeroplane
    To address this potential unsafe condition, Airbus published 
Service Bulletin (SB) A330-28-3130, SB A340-28-4140 and SB A340-28-
5061, to provide functional test instructions.
    For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires a one-
time functional test of the TT overflow and, depending on findings, 
accomplishment of applicable corrective action(s).

    Corrective actions include a general visual inspection of the 
aperture leading to the flame arrestors (NACA duct), a detailed 
inspection of the flame arrestor, and blockage removal or repair of any 
discrepant NACA duct.
    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-2018-
0270.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus has issued the following service information:
     Service Bulletin A330-28-3130, Revision 00, dated May 18, 
2017.
     Service Bulletin A340-28-4140, Revision 00, dated May 18, 
2017.
     Service Bulletin A340-28-5061, Revision 00, dated May 18, 
2017.
    The service information describes procedures for doing a trim tank 
overflow functional test, a general visual inspection of the aperture 
leading to the flame arrestors (NACA duct), a detailed inspection of 
the flame arrestor, and blockage removal or repair of discrepant NACA 
ducts. 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.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD

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

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 97 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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Functional test....................  16 work-hours x $85 per                  $0          $1,360        $131,920
                                      hour = $1,360.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We estimate the following costs to do any necessary inspections 
that would be required based on the results of the proposed test. We 
have no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need these 
inspections:

                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Cost per
                   Action                                 Labor cost                Parts cost        product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspections................................  2 work-hours x $85 per hour = $170.              $0            $170
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We have received no definitive data that would allow us to provide 
cost estimates for the blockage removal or repair of a discrepant NACA 
duct 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 proposed 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 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.

[[Page 16247]]

    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-2018-0270; Product Identifier 2017-NM-133-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by May 31, 2018.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to the airplanes identified in paragraphs (c)(1) 
through (c)(7) of this AD, certificated in any category, 
manufacturer serial numbers 1 through 1711 inclusive.
    (1) Airbus Model A330-223F and -243F airplanes.
    (2) Airbus Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, and -243 airplanes.
    (3) Airbus Model A330-301, -302, -303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -
342, and -343 airplanes.
    (4) Airbus Model A340-211, -212, -213 airplanes.
    (5) Airbus Model A340-311, -312, and -313 airplanes.
    (6) Airbus Model A340-541 airplanes.
    (7) Airbus Model A340-642 airplanes.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 28, Fuel.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by a determination that a functional test 
to ensure that there is no blockage of vent pipes was not done on 
the trim tank of certain airplanes during production. We are issuing 
this AD to detect and correct blocked vent pipes, which, in 
combination with a high level sensor failure, could lead to over-
pressurization of the trim tank during refueling or aft fuel 
transfer. This could lead to trim tank rupture and consequent 
reduced control of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Functional Test

    Within 42 months after the effective date of this AD, do a trim 
tank overflow functional test in accordance with the instructions of 
the service information specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through 
(g)(3), as applicable.
    (1) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-28-3130, Revision 00, dated May 
18, 2017.
    (2) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-28-4140, Revision 00, dated May 
18, 2017.
    (3) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-28-5061, Revision 00, dated May 
18, 2017.

(h) Corrective Actions

    (1) If, during the functional test required by paragraph (g) of 
this AD, the trim tank maximum allowable pressure is exceeded: 
Before further flight, contact the Manager, International Section, 
Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety 
Agency (EASA); or Airbus's Design Organization Approval (DOA) to 
obtain instructions for corrective actions, and within the 
compliance time indicated in those instructions accomplish the 
corrective actions accordingly.
    (2) If, during the functional test required by paragraph (g) of 
this AD, the trim surge tank maximum allowable pressure is exceeded: 
Before further flight, do a general visual inspection of the 
aperture leading to the flame arrestors (NACA duct) and do a 
detailed inspection of the flame arrestor in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330-28-3130, 
Revision 00, dated May 18, 2017; Airbus Service Bulletin A340-28-
4140, Revision 00, dated May 18, 2017; or Airbus Service Bulletin 
A340-28-5061, Revision 00, dated May 18, 2017; as applicable.
    (3) If, during any inspection required by paragraph (h)(2) of 
this AD, any discrepancy (blockage or damage of the NACA duct) is 
found: Before further flight, accomplish the applicable corrective 
actions in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus 
Service Bulletin A330-28-3130, Revision 00, dated May 18, 2017; 
Airbus Service Bulletin A340-28-4140, Revision 00, dated May 18, 
2017; or Airbus Service Bulletin A340-28-5061, Revision 00, dated 
May 18, 2017; as applicable.

(i) 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 (j)(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 EASA; or Airbus's EASA 
DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-
authorized signature.
    (3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any service information 
contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those 
procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any 
procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended. 
Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be 
deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the 
operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining 
approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as 
RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy 
condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests 
identified as RC require approval of an AMOC.

(j) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2017-0152, dated August 17, 
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-2018-0270.
    (2) For more information about this AD, contact Vladimir 
Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport 
Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; 
telephone and fax 206-231-3229.
    (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. You may view this service 
information at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th 
St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this 
material at the FAA, call 206-231-3195.

    Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on March 30, 2018.
Chris Spangenberg,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-07647 Filed 4-13-18; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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