Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Defense and Space S.A. (Formerly Known as Construcciones Aeronauticas, S.A.) Airplanes, 50539-50542 [2018-21608]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 195 / Tuesday, October 9, 2018 / Proposed Rules (c) Applicability This AD applies to Dassault Aviation Model FALCON 2000, certificated in any category, manufacturer serial numbers 70 through 231 inclusive. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 24, Electrical power. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by a report of chafing of a wire bundle located at the bottom of the right hand (RH) electrical cabinet. We are issuing this AD to address such chafing, which may cause damage to wires within the bundle, and, if not detected and corrected, could lead to improper functioning of airplane systems (such as loss of wing anti-icing or wing anti-icing inoperative indication, loss of normal braking indication, and loss of ‘‘No take-off’’ indication), which could result in reduced control of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with PROPOSALS1 (g) Inspection Within 25 months after the effective date of this AD, for airplanes equipped with a metallic plate at the bottom of the RH electrical cabinet, do the following actions as specified in paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD. (1) Perform a general visual inspection of the wiring bundle for damage (including chafing), in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Dassault Aviation Service Bulletin F2000–436, dated September 28, 2017. (2) Measure the clearance between the metallic plate and the wire bundle at the bottom of the RH electrical cabinet in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Dassault Aviation Service Bulletin F2000–436, dated September 28, 2017. (h) Corrective Action (1) If, during the inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, any damage is found, before further flight, replace all damaged wires using a method approved by the Manager, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Dassault Aviation’s EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOAauthorized signature. (2) If, during the measurement as required by paragraph (g)(2) of this AD, the detected clearance is less than the criteria as specified in Dassault Aviation Service Bulletin F2000– 436, dated September 28, 2017, before further flight, modify the metallic plate in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Dassault Aviation Service Bulletin F2000–436, dated September 28, 2017. (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: 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 Dassault Aviation’s EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (j) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD 2018–0114, dated May 23, 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–2018–0809. (2) For more information about this AD, contact Tom Rodriguez, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206– 231–3226. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Dassault Falcon Jet Corporation, Teterboro Airport, P.O. Box 2000, South Hackensack, NJ 07606; telephone 201–440–6700; internet https:// www.dassaultfalcon.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 26, 2018. John P. Piccola, Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018–21609 Filed 10–5–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P (i) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:49 Oct 05, 2018 Jkt 247001 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 50539 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2018–0805; Product Identifier 2018–NM–103–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Defense and Space S.A. (Formerly Known as Construcciones Aeronauticas, S.A.) 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 Defense and Space S.A. Model CN–235, CN–235–200 and CN–235–300 airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a determination that new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations are necessary. This proposed AD would require revising the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by November 23, 2018. SUMMARY: 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 Defense and Space, Services/Engineering support, Avenida de Arago´n 404, 28022 Madrid, Spain; telephone: +34 91 585 55 84; fax: +34 91 585 31 27; email: MTA.TechnicalService@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. ADDRESSES: E:\FR\FM\09OCP1.SGM 09OCP1 50540 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 195 / Tuesday, October 9, 2018 / Proposed Rules 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– 0805; 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 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: amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with PROPOSALS1 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– 2018–0805; Product Identifier 2018– NM–103–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 because of those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this NPRM. Discussion The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 2018–0134, dated June 25, 2018 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus Defense and Space S.A. Model CN–235, CN–235–200, and CN–235–300 airplanes. The MCAI states: The airworthiness limitations and/or certification maintenance instructions for the EADS–CASA CN–235 aeroplanes, which are approved by EASA, are currently defined and published in the Airbus D&S CN–235 ALL [Airworthiness Limitations List] DT–86–3001 document. These instructions have been identified as mandatory for continued airworthiness. VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:49 Oct 05, 2018 Jkt 247001 Failure to accomplish these instructions could result in an unsafe condition [i.e., fatigue cracking, damage, and corrosion in principal structural elements, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane]. For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD requires accomplishment of the actions specified in the ALL. 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– 0805. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Airbus Defence and Space has issued CN–235 Airworthiness Limitations List, DT–86–3001, Issue R, dated March 20, 2018. This service information describes airworthiness limitations for airplane systems, structural inspections, safe life structural items, and safe life system items. 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 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 the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Proposed Requirements of This NPRM This proposed AD would require revising the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations. This proposed AD would require revisions to certain operator maintenance documents to include new actions (e.g., inspections). Compliance with these actions is required by 14 CFR 91.403(c). For airplanes that have been previously modified, altered, or repaired in the areas addressed by this proposed AD, the operator may not be able to accomplish the actions described in the revisions. In this situation, to comply with 14 CFR 91.403(c), the operator must request approval for an alternative method of compliance according to paragraph (i)(1) of this proposed AD. PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Differences Between This Proposed AD and the MCAI or Service Information The MCAI specifies that if there are findings from the airworthiness limitations section (ALS) inspection tasks, corrective actions must be accomplished in accordance with Airbus maintenance documentation. However, this proposed AD does not include that requirement. Operators of U.S.-registered airplanes are required by general airworthiness and operational regulations to perform maintenance using methods that are acceptable to the FAA. We consider those methods to be adequate to address any corrective actions necessitated by the findings of ALS inspections required by this proposed AD. Airworthiness Limitations Based on Type Design The FAA recently became aware of an issue related to the applicability of ADs that require incorporation of an ALS revision into an operator’s maintenance or inspection program. Typically, when these types of ADs are issued by civil aviation authorities of other countries, they apply to all airplanes covered under an identified type certificate (TC). The corresponding FAA AD typically retains applicability to all of those airplanes. In addition, U.S. operators must operate their airplanes in an airworthy condition, in accordance with 14 CFR 91.7(a). Included in this obligation is the requirement to perform any maintenance or inspections specified in the ALS, and in accordance with the ALS as specified in 14 CFR 43.16 and 91.403(c), unless an alternative has been approved by the FAA. When a type certificate is issued for a type design, the specific ALS, including revisions, is a part of that type design, as specified in 14 CFR 21.31(c). The sum effect of these operational and maintenance requirements is an obligation to comply with the ALS defined in the type design referenced in the manufacturer’s conformity statement. This obligation may introduce a conflict with an AD that requires a specific ALS revision if new airplanes are delivered with a later revision as part of their type design. To address this conflict, the FAA has approved alternative methods of compliance (AMOCs) that allow operators to incorporate the most recent ALS revision into their maintenance/ inspection programs, in lieu of the ALS revision required by the AD. This eliminates the conflict and enables the operator to comply with both the AD and the type design. E:\FR\FM\09OCP1.SGM 09OCP1 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 195 / Tuesday, October 9, 2018 / Proposed Rules However, compliance with AMOCs is normally optional, and we recently became aware that some operators choose to retain the AD-mandated ALS revision in their fleet-wide maintenance/inspection programs, including those for new airplanes delivered with later ALS revisions, to help standardize the maintenance of the fleet. To ensure that operators comply with the applicable ALS revision for newly delivered airplanes containing a later revision than that specified in an AD, we plan to limit the applicability of ADs that mandate ALS revisions to those airplanes that are subject to an earlier revision of the ALS, either as part of the type design or as mandated by an earlier AD. This proposed AD therefore would apply to Model CN–235, CN–235–200 and CN–235–300 airplanes with an original certificate of airworthiness or original export certificate of airworthiness that was issued on or before the date of the ALS revision identified in this proposed AD. Operators of airplanes with an original certificate of airworthiness or original export certificate of airworthiness issued after that date must comply with the airworthiness limitations specified as part of the approved type design and referenced on the type certificate data sheet. amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with PROPOSALS1 Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 9 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: We have determined that revising the maintenance or inspection program takes an average of 90 work-hours per operator, although we recognize that this number may vary from operator to operator. In the past, we have estimated that this action takes 1 work-hour per airplane. Since operators incorporate maintenance or inspection program changes for their affected fleet(s), we have determined that a per-operator estimate is more accurate than a perairplane estimate. Therefore, we estimate the total cost per operator to be $7,650 (90 work-hours × $85 per workhour) 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, VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:49 Oct 05, 2018 Jkt 247001 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 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 50541 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 Defense and Space S.A. (Formerly Known as Construcciones Aeronauticas, S.A.): Docket No. FAA–2018–0805; Product Identifier 2018–NM–103–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by November 23, 2018. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus Defense and Space S.A. (formerly known as Construcciones Aeronauticas, S.A.) Model CN–235, CN–235–200, and CN–235–300 airplanes, all manufacturer serial numbers, certificated in any category, with an original certificate of airworthiness or original export certificate of airworthiness issued on or before March 20, 2018. This AD does not apply to Model CN–235–300 airplanes in a Maritime Patrol (SM01) configuration. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 05, Time Limits/Maintenance Checks. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by a determination that new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations are necessary. We are issuing this AD to address fatigue cracking, damage, and corrosion in principal structural elements; such fatigue cracking, damage, and corrosion could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Maintenance or Inspection Program Revision Within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, revise the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate the information specified in Airbus Defence and Space CN–235 Airworthiness Limitations List, DT–86–3001, Issue R, dated March 20, 2018. The initial compliance times for doing the tasks are at the applicable times specified in Airbus Defence and Space CN–235 Airworthiness Limitations List, DT–86–3001, Issue R, dated March 20, 2018, or within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later. (h) No Alternative Actions or Intervals After accomplishment of the revision required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no alternative actions (e.g., inspections) or intervals, may be used unless the actions or intervals are approved as an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD. E:\FR\FM\09OCP1.SGM 09OCP1 50542 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 195 / Tuesday, October 9, 2018 / Proposed Rules (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: 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 Defense and Space S.A.’s EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (j) Related Information amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with PROPOSALS1 (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD 2018–0134, dated June 25, 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–2018–0805. (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, Airbus Defense and Space, Services/ Engineering support, Avenida de Arago´n 404, 28022 Madrid, Spain; telephone: +34 91 585 55 84; fax: +34 91 585 31 27; email: MTA.TechnicalService@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 September 19, 2018. John P. Piccola, Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018–21608 Filed 10–5–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:49 Oct 05, 2018 Jkt 247001 CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION 16 CFR Part 1130 [Docket No. CPSC–2018–0018] Amendment to Requirements for Consumer Registration of Durable Infant or Toddler Products Consumer Product Safety Commission. ACTION: Proposed rule. AGENCY: In 2009, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) fulfilled a statutory requirement in the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) to issue a rule requiring manufacturers of durable infant or toddler products to establish a consumer registration program. The Commission now proposes to amend the definition of ‘‘durable infant or toddler product’’ in the rule to include the full statutory definition; clarify that the scope of each listed product category is further defined in the applicable mandatory standard; clarify listed product categories using the product name in the applicable mandatory standard; and clarify the scope of the infant carriers and bassinets and cradles product categories. DATES: Submit comments by December 24, 2018. ADDRESSES: Comments, identified by Docket No. CPSC–2018–0018, may be submitted electronically or in writing: Electronic Submissions: Submit electronic comments to the Federal eRulemaking Portal at: https:// www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. CPSC does not accept comments submitted by electronic mail (email), except through www.regulations.gov. CPSC encourages you to submit electronic comments by using the Federal eRulemaking Portal, as described above. Written Submissions: Submit written submissions in the following way: Mail/ Hand delivery/Courier (for paper, disk, or CD–ROM submissions) to: Division of the Secretariat, Consumer Product Safety Commission, Room 820, 4330 East-West Highway, Bethesda, MD 20814; telephone (301) 504–7923. Instructions: All submissions received must include the agency name and docket number for this proposed rulemaking. All comments received may be posted without change, including any personal identifiers, contact information, or other personal information provided, to: https:// www.regulations.gov. Do not submit SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 electronically any confidential business information, trade secret information, or other sensitive or protected information that you do not want to be available to the public. If you wish to provide such information, please submit it in writing. Docket: For access to the docket to read background documents or comments received, go to: https:// www.regulations.gov, and insert the docket number, CPSC–2018–0018, into the ‘‘Search’’ box, and follow the prompts. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Hope EJ Nesteruk, Project Manager, Children’s Program Manager, Division of Mechanical and Combustion Engineering, Consumer Product Safety Commission, 5 Research Place, Rockville, MD 20850; telephone: 301– 987–2579; email: HNesteruk@cpsc.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Background and Statutory Authority Section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) is the Danny Keysar Child Product Safety Notification Act. Section 104 of the CPSIA requires that for ‘‘durable infant or toddler products,’’ the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) must (1) issue a mandatory rule for each product based on the applicable voluntary standard, and (2) issue a rule requiring consumer registration for such products. 15 U.S.C. 2056a(b) and (d).1 In 2009, the Commission issued a regulation to implement the second requirement, that manufacturers provide a means for consumers to register ‘‘durable infant or toddler products,’’ so that consumers can receive direct notification in the event of a product recall. The rule is codified at 16 CFR part 1130, Requirements for Consumer Registration of Durable Infant or Toddler Products (‘‘part 1130’’ or the ‘‘consumer registration rule’’). The two aspects of section 104, consumer registration and product standards, are both based on the definition of ‘‘durable infant or toddler product’’ set forth in section 104(f) of the CPSIA: ‘‘durable products intended for use, or that may be reasonably expected to be used, by children under the age of 5 years.’’ The statute lists 12 product categories included within the definition, such as cribs, toddler beds, high chairs, strollers, and swings. In a 1 Since 2009, the Commission has issued final rules for 22 durable infant or toddler products, and issued one proposed rule for Inclined Infant Sleep Products that has not yet been finalized. Mandatory standards for durable infant or toddler products are codified in 16 CFR parts 1215 through 1235, and part 1237. Part 1236 is reserved for Inclined Infant Sleep Products. E:\FR\FM\09OCP1.SGM 09OCP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 195 (Tuesday, October 9, 2018)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 50539-50542]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2018-21608]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2018-0805; Product Identifier 2018-NM-103-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Defense and Space S.A. (Formerly 
Known as Construcciones Aeronauticas, S.A.) 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 Defense and Space S.A. Model CN-235, CN-235-200 and CN-
235-300 airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a determination 
that new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations are necessary. 
This proposed AD would require revising the maintenance or inspection 
program, as applicable, to incorporate new or more restrictive 
airworthiness limitations. We are proposing this AD to address the 
unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by November 23, 
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 
Defense and Space, Services/Engineering support, Avenida de 
Arag[oacute]n 404, 28022 Madrid, Spain; telephone: +34 91 585 55 84; 
fax: +34 91 585 31 27; email: [email protected]. 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.

[[Page 50540]]

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-
0805; 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 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-2018-0805; 
Product Identifier 2018-NM-103-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 because 
of those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this NPRM.

Discussion

    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 
2018-0134, dated June 25, 2018 (referred to after this as the Mandatory 
Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an 
unsafe condition for certain Airbus Defense and Space S.A. Model CN-
235, CN-235-200, and CN-235-300 airplanes. The MCAI states:

    The airworthiness limitations and/or certification maintenance 
instructions for the EADS-CASA CN-235 aeroplanes, which are approved 
by EASA, are currently defined and published in the Airbus D&S CN-
235 ALL [Airworthiness Limitations List] DT-86-3001 document. These 
instructions have been identified as mandatory for continued 
airworthiness.
    Failure to accomplish these instructions could result in an 
unsafe condition [i.e., fatigue cracking, damage, and corrosion in 
principal structural elements, which could result in reduced 
structural integrity of the airplane].
    For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD requires 
accomplishment of the actions specified in the ALL.

    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-
0805.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus Defence and Space has issued CN-235 Airworthiness 
Limitations List, DT-86-3001, Issue R, dated March 20, 2018. This 
service information describes airworthiness limitations for airplane 
systems, structural inspections, safe life structural items, and safe 
life system items. 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

    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 the relevant information and determined the unsafe 
condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other 
products of the same type design.

Proposed Requirements of This NPRM

    This proposed AD would require revising the maintenance or 
inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new or more 
restrictive airworthiness limitations.
    This proposed AD would require revisions to certain operator 
maintenance documents to include new actions (e.g., inspections). 
Compliance with these actions is required by 14 CFR 91.403(c). For 
airplanes that have been previously modified, altered, or repaired in 
the areas addressed by this proposed AD, the operator may not be able 
to accomplish the actions described in the revisions. In this 
situation, to comply with 14 CFR 91.403(c), the operator must request 
approval for an alternative method of compliance according to paragraph 
(i)(1) of this proposed AD.

Differences Between This Proposed AD and the MCAI or Service 
Information

    The MCAI specifies that if there are findings from the 
airworthiness limitations section (ALS) inspection tasks, corrective 
actions must be accomplished in accordance with Airbus maintenance 
documentation. However, this proposed AD does not include that 
requirement. Operators of U.S.-registered airplanes are required by 
general airworthiness and operational regulations to perform 
maintenance using methods that are acceptable to the FAA. We consider 
those methods to be adequate to address any corrective actions 
necessitated by the findings of ALS inspections required by this 
proposed AD.

Airworthiness Limitations Based on Type Design

    The FAA recently became aware of an issue related to the 
applicability of ADs that require incorporation of an ALS revision into 
an operator's maintenance or inspection program.
    Typically, when these types of ADs are issued by civil aviation 
authorities of other countries, they apply to all airplanes covered 
under an identified type certificate (TC). The corresponding FAA AD 
typically retains applicability to all of those airplanes.
    In addition, U.S. operators must operate their airplanes in an 
airworthy condition, in accordance with 14 CFR 91.7(a). Included in 
this obligation is the requirement to perform any maintenance or 
inspections specified in the ALS, and in accordance with the ALS as 
specified in 14 CFR 43.16 and 91.403(c), unless an alternative has been 
approved by the FAA.
    When a type certificate is issued for a type design, the specific 
ALS, including revisions, is a part of that type design, as specified 
in 14 CFR 21.31(c).
    The sum effect of these operational and maintenance requirements is 
an obligation to comply with the ALS defined in the type design 
referenced in the manufacturer's conformity statement. This obligation 
may introduce a conflict with an AD that requires a specific ALS 
revision if new airplanes are delivered with a later revision as part 
of their type design.
    To address this conflict, the FAA has approved alternative methods 
of compliance (AMOCs) that allow operators to incorporate the most 
recent ALS revision into their maintenance/inspection programs, in lieu 
of the ALS revision required by the AD. This eliminates the conflict 
and enables the operator to comply with both the AD and the type 
design.

[[Page 50541]]

    However, compliance with AMOCs is normally optional, and we 
recently became aware that some operators choose to retain the AD-
mandated ALS revision in their fleet-wide maintenance/inspection 
programs, including those for new airplanes delivered with later ALS 
revisions, to help standardize the maintenance of the fleet. To ensure 
that operators comply with the applicable ALS revision for newly 
delivered airplanes containing a later revision than that specified in 
an AD, we plan to limit the applicability of ADs that mandate ALS 
revisions to those airplanes that are subject to an earlier revision of 
the ALS, either as part of the type design or as mandated by an earlier 
AD.
    This proposed AD therefore would apply to Model CN-235, CN-235-200 
and CN-235-300 airplanes with an original certificate of airworthiness 
or original export certificate of airworthiness that was issued on or 
before the date of the ALS revision identified in this proposed AD. 
Operators of airplanes with an original certificate of airworthiness or 
original export certificate of airworthiness issued after that date 
must comply with the airworthiness limitations specified as part of the 
approved type design and referenced on the type certificate data sheet.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 9 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD:
    We have determined that revising the maintenance or inspection 
program takes an average of 90 work-hours per operator, although we 
recognize that this number may vary from operator to operator. In the 
past, we have estimated that this action takes 1 work-hour per 
airplane. Since operators incorporate maintenance or inspection program 
changes for their affected fleet(s), we have determined that a per-
operator estimate is more accurate than a per-airplane estimate. 
Therefore, we estimate the total cost per operator to be $7,650 (90 
work-hours x $85 per work-hour)

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):

Airbus Defense and Space S.A. (Formerly Known as Construcciones 
Aeronauticas, S.A.): Docket No. FAA-2018-0805; Product Identifier 
2018-NM-103-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by November 23, 2018.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Defense and Space S.A. (formerly known 
as Construcciones Aeronauticas, S.A.) Model CN-235, CN-235-200, and 
CN-235-300 airplanes, all manufacturer serial numbers, certificated 
in any category, with an original certificate of airworthiness or 
original export certificate of airworthiness issued on or before 
March 20, 2018. This AD does not apply to Model CN-235-300 airplanes 
in a Maritime Patrol (SM01) configuration.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 05, Time Limits/
Maintenance Checks.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by a determination that new or more 
restrictive airworthiness limitations are necessary. We are issuing 
this AD to address fatigue cracking, damage, and corrosion in 
principal structural elements; such fatigue cracking, damage, and 
corrosion could result in reduced structural integrity of the 
airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Maintenance or Inspection Program Revision

    Within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, revise the 
maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate the 
information specified in Airbus Defence and Space CN-235 
Airworthiness Limitations List, DT-86-3001, Issue R, dated March 20, 
2018. The initial compliance times for doing the tasks are at the 
applicable times specified in Airbus Defence and Space CN-235 
Airworthiness Limitations List, DT-86-3001, Issue R, dated March 20, 
2018, or within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, 
whichever occurs later.

(h) No Alternative Actions or Intervals

    After accomplishment of the revision required by paragraph (g) 
of this AD, no alternative actions (e.g., inspections) or intervals, 
may be used unless the actions or intervals are approved as an 
alternative method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the 
procedures specified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD.

[[Page 50542]]

(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 the European Aviation 
Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus Defense and Space S.A.'s EASA Design 
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval 
must include the DOA-authorized signature.

(j) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA AD 2018-0134, dated June 25, 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-2018-0805.
    (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, Airbus 
Defense and Space, Services/Engineering support, Avenida de 
Arag[oacute]n 404, 28022 Madrid, Spain; telephone: +34 91 585 55 84; 
fax: +34 91 585 31 27; email: [email protected]. 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 19, 2018.
John P. Piccola,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-21608 Filed 10-5-18; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P


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