Airworthiness Directives; ATR-GIE Avions de Transport Régional Airplanes, 47318-47321 [2018-20099]

Download as PDF 47318 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 182 / Wednesday, September 19, 2018 / Proposed Rules 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 1 hour 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. amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with PROPOSALS1 (j) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, New York 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 ATTN: Program Manager, Continuing Operational Safety, FAA, New York ACO Branch, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516–228–7300; fax 516–794–5531. 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, New York ACO Branch, FAA; or Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA); or Bombardier, Inc.’s TCCA Design Approval Organization (DAO). If approved by the DAO, the approval must include the DAO-authorized signature. (k) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) Canadian AD CF–2018–15, dated June 6, 2018, 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–2018–0799. (2) For more information about this AD, contact Darren Gassetto, Aerospace Engineer, Mechanical Systems and Admin Services Section, FAA, New York ACO Branch, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516–228–7323; fax 516– 794–5531; email 9-avs-nyaco-cos@faa.gov. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Bombardier, Inc., 400 CoˆteVertu Road West, Dorval, Que´bec H4S 1Y9, Canada; telephone 514–855–5000; fax 514– 855–7401; email thd.crj@ aero.bombardier.com; internet https:// www.bombardier.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:48 Sep 18, 2018 Jkt 244001 availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on September 10, 2018. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018–20105 Filed 9–18–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2018–0167; Product Identifier 2017–NM–131–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; ATR–GIE Avions de Transport Re´gional Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM); reopening of comment period. AGENCY: We are revising an earlier proposal for all ATR–GIE Avions de Transport Re´gional Model ATR42 and Model ATR72 airplanes. This action revises the notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) by increasing the number of affected parts that must be inspected. We are proposing this airworthiness directive (AD) to address the unsafe condition on these products. Since these actions would impose an additional burden over those in the NPRM, we are reopening the comment period to allow the public the chance to comment on these changes. DATES: The comment period for the NPRM published in the Federal Register on March 29, 2018 (83 FR 13436), is reopened. We must receive comments on this SNPRM by November 5, 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, SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this SNPRM, contact Safran Landing Systems, Inovel Parc Sud—7, rue Ge´ne´ral Vale´rie Andre´, 78140 VELIZY– VILLACOUBLAY—FRANCE; phone: +33 (0) 1 46 29 81 00; internet: www.safran-landing-systems.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. 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– 0167; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this SNPRM, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations (phone: 800–647– 5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206–231–3220. 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– 2018–0167; Product Identifier 2017– NM–131–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this SNPRM. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this SNPRM 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 SNPRM. Discussion We issued an NPRM to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all ATR–GIE Avions de Transport Re´gional Model ATR42 and E:\FR\FM\19SEP1.SGM 19SEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 182 / Wednesday, September 19, 2018 / Proposed Rules Model ATR72 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on March 29, 2018 (83 FR 13436). The NPRM was prompted by reports of cracking in main landing gear (MLG) universal joints (U-joints). The NPRM proposed to require repetitive detailed inspections of the affected U-joints for cracks, and replacement if necessary. The NPRM also provided an optional terminating action for the repetitive inspections. Actions Since the NPRM Was Issued Since we issued the NPRM, the number of affected parts that must be inspected has increased. In addition, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018–0080, dated April 11, 2018 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), which supersedes EASA AD 2017–0172, dated September 7, 2017 (referred to in the NPRM). The MCAI was issued to correct an unsafe condition on all ATR–GIE Avions de Transport Re´gional Model ATR42 and Model ATR72 airplanes. The MCAI states: Occurrences were reported of finding cracks in certain MLG U-joints. Subsequent investigation identified a batch of affected Ujoints which have possibly been subjected to non-detected thermal abuse during the grinding process by the U-joint manufacturer in production, or by a maintenance organization during overhaul and/or repair. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to MLG structural failure and subsequent collapse of the MLG, possibly resulting in damage to the aeroplane and injury to the occupants. To address this potential unsafe condition, SLS [Safran Landing Systems] published the applicable SB [service bulletin] to provide inspection instructions. Consequently, EASA issued AD 2017–0172 to require repetitive detailed visual inspection (DVI) of the affected U-joints for cracks, and, depending on findings, replacement. Since that AD was issued, SLS identified that certain s/n [serial numbers] of affected U-joints were inadvertently not included in the list of the original issue of the applicable SB. Consequently, SLS issued Revision 02 of the applicable SB to clarify the s/n tables of P/N [part number] D56805 and P/N D56805– 2, and to add those missed s/n of affected Ujoints. For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA AD 2017–0172, which is superseded, and includes reference to Revision 02 of the applicable SB. 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– 0167. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Safran Landing Systems has issued Service Bulletin 631–32–249, Revision 2, dated February 13, 2018; Service Bulletin 631–32–250, Revision 2, dated February 13, 2018; and Service Bulletin 631–32–251, Revision 2, dated February 13, 2018. The service information describes procedures for detailed inspections of the affected U-joints for cracking, and replacement if necessary. 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. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this proposed AD. We considered the comment received. Request To Refer to Revised Service Information Empire Airlines requested that we refer to Service Bulletin 631–32–249, 47319 Revision 2, dated February 13, 2018; Service Bulletin 631–32–250, Revision 2, dated February 13, 2018; and Service Bulletin 631–32–251, Revision 2, dated February 13, 2018, because the number of affected parts increased with these revisions. We agree with the commenter’s request. We have revised this proposed AD to refer to the new service bulletins. We have given credit for affected parts listed in Service Bulletin 631–32–249, Revision 1, dated June 26, 2017; Service Bulletin 631–32–250, Revision 1, dated June 26, 2017; and Service Bulletin 631– 32–251, Revision 1, dated June 26, 2017. Any affected parts not identified in Revision 1 of the applicable service bulletins must still comply with the requirements of paragraphs (h) and (i) of this proposed AD. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of This SNPRM 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. Certain changes described above expand the scope of the NPRM. As a result, we have determined that it is necessary to reopen the comment period to provide additional opportunity for the public to comment on this SNPRM. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 62 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with PROPOSALS1 ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Inspection ...................... 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 per inspection cycle. $0 We estimate the following costs to do any necessary on-condition actions that would be required based on the results VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:48 Sep 18, 2018 Jkt 244001 Cost per product $85 per inspection cycle. of any required actions. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Cost on U.S. operators $5,270 per inspection cycle. that might need these on-condition actions: E:\FR\FM\19SEP1.SGM 19SEP1 47320 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 182 / Wednesday, September 19, 2018 / Proposed Rules ON-CONDITION COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Replacement .................................... 8 work-hours × $85 per hour = $680 ........................................................ $14,083 $14,763 According to the manufacturer, some or all of the costs of this proposed AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected individuals. As a result, we have included all known costs in our cost estimate. 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. amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with PROPOSALS1 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: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:48 Sep 18, 2018 Jkt 244001 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): ■ ATR–GIE Avions de Transport Re´gional: Docket No. FAA–2018–0167; Product Identifier 2017–NM–131–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by November 5, 2018. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to ATR–GIE Avions de Transport Re´gional Model ATR42–200, –300, –320, and –500 airplanes; and Model ATR72–101, –102, –201, –202, –211, –212, and –212A airplanes, certificated in any category, all manufacturer serial numbers. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 32, Landing gear. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by reports of cracking in certain main landing gear (MLG) universal joints (U-joints). We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking in MLG Ujoints, which could lead to MLG structural PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 failure and subsequent collapse of the MLG, possibly resulting in damage to the airplane and injury to the occupants. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Definitions (1) For the purposes of this AD, an affected U-joint is any U-joint identified by part number (P/N) and serial number listed in the applicable service bulletin specified in paragraph (g)(1)(i), (g)(1)(ii), or (g)(1)(iii) of this AD. (i) For Model ATR42–200, –300, and –320 airplanes: Safran Landing Systems Service Bulletin 631–32–249, Revision 2, dated February 13, 2018. (ii) For Model ATR42–500 airplanes: Safran Landing Systems Service Bulletin 631–32–250, Revision 2, dated February 13, 2018. (iii) For Model ATR72–101, –102, –201, –202, –211, –212, and –212A airplanes: Safran Landing Systems Service Bulletin 631–32–251, Revision 2, dated February 13, 2018. (2) For the purposes of this AD, a serviceable part is an affected U-joint, as defined in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, released to service by Safran Landing Systems, free of defect, with the letter ‘‘V’’ added on the part (on the identification plate, or in the vicinity of the P/N marking); or a new (never installed) U-joint; or a U-joint repaired as specified in the applicable component maintenance manual (CMM) identified in paragraph (g)(2)(i), (g)(2)(ii), or (g)(2)(iii). (i) For Model ATR42–200, –300, and –320 airplanes: Safran Landing Systems CMM 32– 18–28, Rev. 10 or Safran Landing Systems CMM 32–18–30, Rev. 8, both dated June 2, 2017. (ii) For Model ATR42–500 airplanes: Safran Landing Systems CMM 32–18–45, Rev. 5 or Safran Landing Systems CMM 32– 18–63, Rev. 6, both dated June 2, 2017. (iii) For Model ATR72–101, –102, –201, –202, –211, –212, and –212A airplanes: Safran Landing Systems CMM 32–18–34, Rev. 9, dated June 2, 2017. (h) Repetitive Inspections Within 3 months or 500 flight cycles (FC), whichever occurs first, after the effective date of this AD, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 500 FC: Do a detailed inspection for cracking of each affected U-joint, as identified in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable service bulletin specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i), (g)(1)(ii), or (g)(1)(iii) of this AD. E:\FR\FM\19SEP1.SGM 19SEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 182 / Wednesday, September 19, 2018 / Proposed Rules (i) Corrective Action If, during any inspection required by paragraph (h) of this AD, any cracked U-joint is found, before further flight: Replace the cracked U-joint with a serviceable part, as defined in paragraph (g)(2) of this AD, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable service bulletin specified in paragraph (g)(1)(i), (g)(1)(ii), or (g)(1)(iii) of this AD. (j) Terminating Action Replacement of all affected U-joints on an airplane, as identified in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, with serviceable parts, as defined in paragraph (g)(2) of this AD, constitutes terminating action for the repetitive inspections required by paragraph (h) of this AD for that airplane. (k) Parts Installation Limitation As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install, on any airplane, an affected U-joint, as identified in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, unless it is a serviceable part, as defined in paragraph (g)(2) of this AD. (l) No Reporting Requirement Although the Accomplishment Instructions of the service bulletins identified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i), (g)(1)(ii), and (g)(1)(iii) of this AD specify to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD does not include that requirement. amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with PROPOSALS1 (m) Credit for Previous Actions This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using the service bulletins specified in paragraphs (m)(1), (m)(2), or (m)(3) of this AD, provided that affected U-joints not identified in the service bulletins specified in paragraphs (m)(1), (m)(2), or (m)(3) of this AD comply with the requirements of paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD. (1) Safran Landing Systems Service Bulletin 631–32–249, Revision 1, dated June 26, 2017. (2) Safran Landing Systems Service Bulletin 631–32–250, Revision 1, dated June 26, 2017. (3) Safran Landing Systems Service Bulletin 631–32–251, Revision 1, dated June 26, 2017. (n) 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 (o)(2) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOCREQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:48 Sep 18, 2018 Jkt 244001 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 ATR–GIE Avions de Transport Re´gional’s EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (o) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD 2018–0080, dated April 11, 2018, 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–2018–0167. (2) For more information about this AD, contact Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206–231–3220. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Safran Landing Systems, Inovel Parc Sud—7, rue Ge´ne´ral Vale´rie Andre´, 78140 VELIZY–VILLACOUBLAY— FRANCE; phone: +33 (0) 1 46 29 81 00; internet: www.safran-landing-systems.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 September 10, 2018. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018–20099 Filed 9–18–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2018–0797; Product Identifier 2018–NM–096–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2018–11– 07, which applies to all Saab AB, Saab SUMMARY: Frm 00012 Fmt 4702 Aeronautics Model SAAB 2000 airplanes. AD 2018–11–07 requires a one-time inspection of an affected lug attaching the aileron bellcrank support bracket to the rear spar of the wing and the adjacent area of the installed support brackets, a thickness measurement of the affected lug, repetitive inspections of the affected aileron bellcrank support brackets, and corrective actions if necessary. AD 2018–11–07 also provided an optional terminating action for the repetitive inspections. Since we issued AD 2018– 11–07, we have determined that it is necessary to require the terminating action. This proposed AD would retain the actions of AD 2018–11–07 and require the terminating action for the repetitive inspections. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by November 5, 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 Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics, SE–581 88, Linko¨ping, Sweden; telephone +46 13 18 5591; fax +46 13 18 4874; email saab2000.techsupport@saabgroup.com; internet https://www.saabgroup.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. Examining the AD Docket Airworthiness Directives; Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics (Formerly Known as Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems) Airplanes PO 00000 47321 Sfmt 4702 You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2018– 0797; or in person at Docket Operations 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 Docket Operations (phone 800–647–5527) is in the E:\FR\FM\19SEP1.SGM 19SEP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 182 (Wednesday, September 19, 2018)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 47318-47321]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2018-20099]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2018-0167; Product Identifier 2017-NM-131-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; ATR-GIE Avions de Transport 
R[eacute]gional Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM); reopening 
of comment period.

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

SUMMARY: We are revising an earlier proposal for all ATR-GIE Avions de 
Transport R[eacute]gional Model ATR42 and Model ATR72 airplanes. This 
action revises the notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) by increasing 
the number of affected parts that must be inspected. We are proposing 
this airworthiness directive (AD) to address the unsafe condition on 
these products. Since these actions would impose an additional burden 
over those in the NPRM, we are reopening the comment period to allow 
the public the chance to comment on these changes.

DATES: The comment period for the NPRM published in the Federal 
Register on March 29, 2018 (83 FR 13436), is reopened.
    We must receive comments on this SNPRM by November 5, 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 SNPRM, contact Safran 
Landing Systems, Inovel Parc Sud--7, rue G[eacute]n[eacute]ral 
Val[eacute]rie Andr[eacute], 78140 VELIZY-VILLACOUBLAY--FRANCE; phone: 
+33 (0) 1 46 29 81 00; internet: www.safran-landing-systems.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.

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-
0167; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains 
this SNPRM, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other 
information. The street address for Docket Operations (phone: 800-647-
5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD 
docket shortly after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace 
Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206-231-3220.

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-2018-0167; 
Product Identifier 2017-NM-131-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. 
We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, 
environmental, and energy aspects of this SNPRM. We will consider all 
comments received by the closing date and may amend this SNPRM 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 SNPRM.

Discussion

    We issued an NPRM to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that 
would apply to all ATR-GIE Avions de Transport R[eacute]gional Model 
ATR42 and

[[Page 47319]]

Model ATR72 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on 
March 29, 2018 (83 FR 13436). The NPRM was prompted by reports of 
cracking in main landing gear (MLG) universal joints (U-joints). The 
NPRM proposed to require repetitive detailed inspections of the 
affected U-joints for cracks, and replacement if necessary. The NPRM 
also provided an optional terminating action for the repetitive 
inspections.

Actions Since the NPRM Was Issued

    Since we issued the NPRM, the number of affected parts that must be 
inspected has increased. In addition, the European Aviation Safety 
Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of 
the European Union, issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0080, 
dated April 11, 2018 (referred to after this as the Mandatory 
Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), which 
supersedes EASA AD 2017-0172, dated September 7, 2017 (referred to in 
the NPRM).
    The MCAI was issued to correct an unsafe condition on all ATR-GIE 
Avions de Transport R[eacute]gional Model ATR42 and Model ATR72 
airplanes. The MCAI states:

    Occurrences were reported of finding cracks in certain MLG U-
joints. Subsequent investigation identified a batch of affected U-
joints which have possibly been subjected to non-detected thermal 
abuse during the grinding process by the U-joint manufacturer in 
production, or by a maintenance organization during overhaul and/or 
repair.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to MLG 
structural failure and subsequent collapse of the MLG, possibly 
resulting in damage to the aeroplane and injury to the occupants.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, SLS [Safran Landing 
Systems] published the applicable SB [service bulletin] to provide 
inspection instructions. Consequently, EASA issued AD 2017-0172 to 
require repetitive detailed visual inspection (DVI) of the affected 
U-joints for cracks, and, depending on findings, replacement.
    Since that AD was issued, SLS identified that certain s/n 
[serial numbers] of affected U-joints were inadvertently not 
included in the list of the original issue of the applicable SB. 
Consequently, SLS issued Revision 02 of the applicable SB to clarify 
the s/n tables of P/N [part number] D56805 and P/N D56805-2, and to 
add those missed s/n of affected U-joints.
    For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD retains the 
requirements of EASA AD 2017-0172, which is superseded, and includes 
reference to Revision 02 of the applicable SB.

    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-
0167.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Safran Landing Systems has issued Service Bulletin 631-32-249, 
Revision 2, dated February 13, 2018; Service Bulletin 631-32-250, 
Revision 2, dated February 13, 2018; and Service Bulletin 631-32-251, 
Revision 2, dated February 13, 2018. The service information describes 
procedures for detailed inspections of the affected U-joints for 
cracking, and replacement if necessary. 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.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this proposed AD. We considered the comment received.

Request To Refer to Revised Service Information

    Empire Airlines requested that we refer to Service Bulletin 631-32-
249, Revision 2, dated February 13, 2018; Service Bulletin 631-32-250, 
Revision 2, dated February 13, 2018; and Service Bulletin 631-32-251, 
Revision 2, dated February 13, 2018, because the number of affected 
parts increased with these revisions.
    We agree with the commenter's request. We have revised this 
proposed AD to refer to the new service bulletins. We have given credit 
for affected parts listed in Service Bulletin 631-32-249, Revision 1, 
dated June 26, 2017; Service Bulletin 631-32-250, Revision 1, dated 
June 26, 2017; and Service Bulletin 631-32-251, Revision 1, dated June 
26, 2017. Any affected parts not identified in Revision 1 of the 
applicable service bulletins must still comply with the requirements of 
paragraphs (h) and (i) of this proposed AD.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This SNPRM

    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.
    Certain changes described above expand the scope of the NPRM. As a 
result, we have determined that it is necessary to reopen the comment 
period to provide additional opportunity for the public to comment on 
this SNPRM.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 62 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                  Cost on U.S.
             Action                     Labor cost           Parts cost     Cost per product       operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection.....................  1 work-hour x $85 per                $0   $85 per inspection  $5,270 per
                                  hour = $85 per                            cycle.              inspection
                                  inspection cycle.                                             cycle.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

[[Page 47320]]



                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Cost per
                  Action                                Labor cost                 Parts cost        product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacement...............................  8 work-hours x $85 per hour = $680         $14,083          $14,763
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    According to the manufacturer, some or all of the costs of this 
proposed AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost 
impact on affected individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for 
affected individuals. As a result, we have included all known costs in 
our cost estimate.

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.
    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):

ATR-GIE Avions de Transport R[eacute]gional: Docket No. FAA-2018-
0167; Product Identifier 2017-NM-131-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by November 5, 2018.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to ATR-GIE Avions de Transport R[eacute]gional 
Model ATR42-200, -300, -320, and -500 airplanes; and Model ATR72-
101, -102, -201, -202, -211, -212, and -212A airplanes, certificated 
in any category, all manufacturer serial numbers.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 32, Landing 
gear.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by reports of cracking in certain main 
landing gear (MLG) universal joints (U-joints). We are issuing this 
AD to detect and correct cracking in MLG U-joints, which could lead 
to MLG structural failure and subsequent collapse of the MLG, 
possibly resulting in damage to the airplane and injury to the 
occupants.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Definitions

    (1) For the purposes of this AD, an affected U-joint is any U-
joint identified by part number (P/N) and serial number listed in 
the applicable service bulletin specified in paragraph (g)(1)(i), 
(g)(1)(ii), or (g)(1)(iii) of this AD.
    (i) For Model ATR42-200, -300, and -320 airplanes: Safran 
Landing Systems Service Bulletin 631-32-249, Revision 2, dated 
February 13, 2018.
    (ii) For Model ATR42-500 airplanes: Safran Landing Systems 
Service Bulletin 631-32-250, Revision 2, dated February 13, 2018.
    (iii) For Model ATR72-101, -102, -201, -202, -211, -212, and -
212A airplanes: Safran Landing Systems Service Bulletin 631-32-251, 
Revision 2, dated February 13, 2018.
    (2) For the purposes of this AD, a serviceable part is an 
affected U-joint, as defined in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, 
released to service by Safran Landing Systems, free of defect, with 
the letter ``V'' added on the part (on the identification plate, or 
in the vicinity of the P/N marking); or a new (never installed) U-
joint; or a U-joint repaired as specified in the applicable 
component maintenance manual (CMM) identified in paragraph 
(g)(2)(i), (g)(2)(ii), or (g)(2)(iii).
    (i) For Model ATR42-200, -300, and -320 airplanes: Safran 
Landing Systems CMM 32-18-28, Rev. 10 or Safran Landing Systems CMM 
32-18-30, Rev. 8, both dated June 2, 2017.
    (ii) For Model ATR42-500 airplanes: Safran Landing Systems CMM 
32-18-45, Rev. 5 or Safran Landing Systems CMM 32-18-63, Rev. 6, 
both dated June 2, 2017.
    (iii) For Model ATR72-101, -102, -201, -202, -211, -212, and -
212A airplanes: Safran Landing Systems CMM 32-18-34, Rev. 9, dated 
June 2, 2017.

(h) Repetitive Inspections

    Within 3 months or 500 flight cycles (FC), whichever occurs 
first, after the effective date of this AD, and thereafter at 
intervals not to exceed 500 FC: Do a detailed inspection for 
cracking of each affected U-joint, as identified in paragraph (g)(1) 
of this AD, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
the applicable service bulletin specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i), 
(g)(1)(ii), or (g)(1)(iii) of this AD.

[[Page 47321]]

(i) Corrective Action

    If, during any inspection required by paragraph (h) of this AD, 
any cracked U-joint is found, before further flight: Replace the 
cracked U-joint with a serviceable part, as defined in paragraph 
(g)(2) of this AD, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of the applicable service bulletin specified in 
paragraph (g)(1)(i), (g)(1)(ii), or (g)(1)(iii) of this AD.

(j) Terminating Action

    Replacement of all affected U-joints on an airplane, as 
identified in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, with serviceable parts, 
as defined in paragraph (g)(2) of this AD, constitutes terminating 
action for the repetitive inspections required by paragraph (h) of 
this AD for that airplane.

(k) Parts Installation Limitation

    As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install, on 
any airplane, an affected U-joint, as identified in paragraph (g)(1) 
of this AD, unless it is a serviceable part, as defined in paragraph 
(g)(2) of this AD.

(l) No Reporting Requirement

    Although the Accomplishment Instructions of the service 
bulletins identified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i), (g)(1)(ii), and 
(g)(1)(iii) of this AD specify to submit certain information to the 
manufacturer, this AD does not include that requirement.

(m) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for actions required by 
paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD, if those actions were performed 
before the effective date of this AD using the service bulletins 
specified in paragraphs (m)(1), (m)(2), or (m)(3) of this AD, 
provided that affected U-joints not identified in the service 
bulletins specified in paragraphs (m)(1), (m)(2), or (m)(3) of this 
AD comply with the requirements of paragraphs (h) and (i) of this 
AD.
    (1) Safran Landing Systems Service Bulletin 631-32-249, Revision 
1, dated June 26, 2017.
    (2) Safran Landing Systems Service Bulletin 631-32-250, Revision 
1, dated June 26, 2017.
    (3) Safran Landing Systems Service Bulletin 631-32-251, Revision 
1, dated June 26, 2017.

(n) 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 (o)(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 ATR-GIE Avions de Transport 
R[eacute]gional's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If 
approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized 
signature.

(o) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA AD 2018-0080, dated April 11, 2018, 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-2018-0167.
    (2) For more information about this AD, contact Shahram 
Daneshmandi, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport 
Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; 
telephone and fax 206-231-3220.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Safran Landing Systems, Inovel Parc Sud--7, rue 
G[eacute]n[eacute]ral Val[eacute]rie Andr[eacute], 78140 VELIZY-
VILLACOUBLAY--FRANCE; phone: +33 (0) 1 46 29 81 00; internet: 
www.safran-landing-systems.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 September 10, 2018.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-20099 Filed 9-18-18; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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