Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes, 55813-55816 [2018-24391]
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Rules and Regulations
Federal Register
Vol. 83, No. 217
Thursday, November 8, 2018
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER
contains regulatory documents having general
applicability and legal effect, most of which
are keyed to and codified in the Code of
Federal Regulations, which is published under
50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.
The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by
the Superintendent of Documents.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2018–0958; Product
Identifier 2018–NM–139–AD; Amendment
39–19491; AD 2018–23–05]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for
comments.
AGENCY:
We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Airbus SAS Model A350–941 and –1041
airplanes. This AD was prompted by a
report of a close gap between the wing
lower cover (WLC) and wing rib feet.
This AD requires revising the operator’s
minimum equipment list (MEL) to
change certain MEL items. This AD also
requires an inspection for discrepancies
and structural damage of certain wing
rib foot locations, and related
investigative and corrective actions if
necessary. We are issuing this AD to
address the unsafe condition on these
products.
SUMMARY:
This AD becomes effective
November 23, 2018.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of November 23, 2018.
We must receive comments on this
AD by December 24, 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–
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DATES:
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30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
• Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
For service information identified in
this final rule, contact Airbus SAS,
Airworthiness Office—EAL, Rond-Point
Emile Dewoitine No: 2, 31700 Blagnac
Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36
96; fax +33 5 61 93 45 80; email
continued-airworthiness.a350@
airbus.com; internet https://
www.airbus.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.
It is also available on the internet at
https://www.regulations.gov by searching
for and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
0958.
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–
0958; 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 AD, the
regulatory evaluation, any comments
received, and other information. The
street address for Docket Operations
(telephone 800–647–5527) is in the
ADDRESSES section. Comments will be
available in the AD docket shortly after
receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kathleen Arrigotti, Aerospace Engineer,
International Section, Transport
Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South
216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
telephone and fax 206–231–3218.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
The European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Union, has issued EASA AD 2018–0220,
dated October 12, 2018 (referred to after
this as the Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the
MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition
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for certain Airbus SAS Model A350–941
and –1041 airplanes. The MCAI states:
A deviation was identified on certain A350
aeroplanes, where a gap check between some
wing rib feet and the wing lower cover (WLC)
was not systematically performed. Due to
tolerance build-up during wing manufacture,
close gap between the WLC and wing rib feet
could occur in some locations. Under some
flight loading conditions, intermittent or
permanent contact may occur.
This condition, if not detected and
corrected, combined with an empty fuel tank
or fuel level below the rib foot area, could
create an ignition source for the fuel vapour
inside the tanks which, in case of a lightning
strike of high intensity in the immediate area,
could possibly result in ignition of the fuelair mixture in the affected fuel tank and
consequent loss of the aeroplane.
To address this potential unsafe condition,
Airbus issued the AOT [Alert Operators
Transmission A57P011–18] to provide
inspection instructions, and an MER [major
event revision] of the A350 MMEL [master
minimum equipment list] that incorporates
temporary restrictions of the MMEL items
related to the fuel tank inerting system.
For the reasons described above, this
[EASA] AD requires implementation of
certain dispatch restrictions. This [EASA] AD
also requires a one-time detailed inspection
(DET) of the affected areas and, depending on
findings, accomplishment of applicable
corrective action(s). No findings, or
accomplishment of [related investigative and]
corrective action(s), as applicable, allows
removal of the MMEL restrictions.
This [EASA] AD is considered to be an
interim action and further [EASA] AD action
may follow.
The inspection is intended to detect
structural damage as well as other
discrepancies including missing sealant
at each wing rib foot location and a
close gap between the wing rib foot and
the WLC inboard and outboard side of
the rib.
You may examine the MCAI on the
internet at https://www.regulations.gov
by searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2018–0958.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
Airbus has issued Alert Operators
Transmission A57P011–18, dated
October 8, 2018, which describes
procedures for a detailed inspection and
related investigative and corrective
actions. Related investigative actions
include a gap check. Corrective actions
include rework of the wing rib foot and
repair. This service information is
reasonably available because the
interested parties have access to it
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Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 217 / Thursday, November 8, 2018 / Rules and Regulations
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 issuing this
AD because we evaluated all pertinent
information and determined the unsafe
condition exists and is likely to exist or
develop on other products of the same
type design.
Requirements of This AD
This AD revises the operator’s MEL to
change certain MEL items. This AD also
requires an inspection for discrepancies
and structural damage of certain wing
rib foot locations, and related
investigative and corrective actions if
necessary.
Differences Between This AD and the
MCAI
The MCAI specifies to revise the
MMEL to change certain MMEL items.
This AD refers to the operator’s MEL
instead of the MMEL. It is unnecessary
to reference the MMEL, as operators are
required in 14 CFR part 91 to have an
MEL to operate with inoperable
equipment and provisions for relief
cannot be in an MEL without first being
part of the MMEL. The intent of the
provision has not changed.
FAA’s Justification and Determination
of the Effective Date
An unsafe condition exists that
requires the immediate adoption of this
AD without providing an opportunity
for public comments prior to adoption.
The FAA has found that the risk to the
flying public justifies waiving notice
and comment prior to adoption of this
rule because contact between the WLC
and wing rib feet, combined with an
empty fuel tank or fuel level below the
wing rib foot area, could create an
ignition source for the fuel vapor inside
the tanks. In case of a lightning strike of
high intensity in the immediate area,
this condition could possibly result in
ignition of the fuel-air mixture in the
affected fuel tank and consequent loss of
the airplane. Therefore, we find good
cause that notice and opportunity for
prior public comment are impracticable.
In addition, for the reasons stated above,
we find that good cause exists for
making this amendment effective in less
than 30 days.
Comments Invited
This AD is a final rule that involves
requirements affecting flight safety, and
we did not precede it by notice and
opportunity for public comment. We
invite you to send any written relevant
data, views, or arguments about this AD.
Send your comments to an address
listed under the ADDRESSES section.
Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2018–0958;
Product Identifier 2018–NM–139–AD’’
at the beginning of your comments. We
specifically invite comments on the
overall regulatory, economic,
environmental, and energy aspects of
this AD. We will consider all comments
received by the closing date and may
amend this AD based on those
comments.
We will post all comments we
receive, without change, to https://
www.regulations.gov, including any
personal information you provide. We
will also post a report summarizing each
substantive verbal contact we receive
about this AD.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 1
airplane of U.S. registry. We estimate
the following costs to comply with this
AD:
ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED ACTIONS
Labor cost
Parts cost
Cost per
product
Cost on U.S.
operators
60 work-hours × $85 per hour = $5,100 .....................................................................................
$0
$5,100
$5,100
We have received no definitive data
that would enable us to provide cost
estimates for on-condition repair of
structural damage specified in this AD.
We estimate the following costs to do
any necessary on-condition actions that
would be required to address other
discrepancies based on the results of
any required actions.
ESTIMATED COSTS OF ON-CONDITION ACTIONS
Labor cost
Parts cost
Cost per
product
10 work-hours × $85 per hour = $850 ....................................................................................................................
$0
$850
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Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs, describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under
the authority described in Subtitle VII,
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that
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section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
air commerce by prescribing regulations
for practices, methods, and procedures
the Administrator finds necessary for
safety in air commerce. This regulation
is within the scope of that authority
because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on
products identified in this rulemaking
action.
This AD is issued in accordance with
authority delegated by the Executive
Director, Aircraft Certification Service,
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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 and associated appliances to
the Director of the System Oversight
Division.
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Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 217 / Thursday, November 8, 2018 / Rules and Regulations
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this AD will not
have federalism implications under
Executive Order 13132. This AD will
not have a substantial direct effect on
the States, on the relationship between
the national government and the States,
or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
Alaska; and
4. Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
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Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 57, Wings.
(e) Reason
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
55815
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
■
2018–23–05 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39–
19491; Docket No. FAA–2018–0958;
Product Identifier 2018–NM–139–AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD becomes effective November 23,
2018.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to the Airbus SAS
airplanes, certificated in any category,
identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of
this AD.
(1) Model A350–941 airplanes,
manufacturer serial numbers (MSNs) 203,
205, 208, 209, 210, 212, 213, 218, 219, 221,
227, 228, and 235.
(2) Model A350–1041 airplanes, MSN 188.
This AD was prompted by a report of a
close gap between the wing lower cover
(WLC) and wing rib feet. We are issuing this
AD to address potential contact between the
WLC and wing rib feet, which, combined
with an empty fuel tank or fuel level below
the wing rib foot area, could create an
ignition source for the fuel vapor inside the
tanks. In case of a lightning strike of high
intensity in the immediate area, this
condition could possibly result in ignition of
the fuel-air mixture in the affected fuel tank
and consequent loss of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Minimum Equipment List (MEL) Revision
Within 30 days after the effective date of
this AD, revise the operator’s MEL to prohibit
dispatch of the airplane with any inoperative
MEL item listed in figure 1 to paragraphs (g)
and (i) of this AD.
4910–13–P
Sequence No.
Item
21–09–01 ..................................................................................................
21–09–03 ..................................................................................................
21–50–01 ..................................................................................................
21–50–02C ...............................................................................................
21–50–03C ...............................................................................................
21–50–04B ...............................................................................................
21–50–07C ...............................................................................................
21–50–08A ...............................................................................................
21–50–08C ...............................................................................................
21–50–09B ...............................................................................................
21–58–01 ..................................................................................................
21–58–02 ..................................................................................................
21–58–03 ..................................................................................................
21–58–04 ..................................................................................................
21–58–05 ..................................................................................................
21–60–02C ...............................................................................................
36–11–01 ..................................................................................................
36–11–02 ..................................................................................................
36–11–03 ..................................................................................................
36–11–04 ..................................................................................................
36–11–05A ...............................................................................................
AIR OVHT ON FUEL INERTING 1(2) Message.
AIR PRESS LO ON FUEL INERTING 1(2) Message.
Air conditioning Pack.
Pack 1 Valve—Both valves inoperative.
Pack 2 Valve—Both valves inoperative.
Pack Flow Sensor—Both sensors inoperative on the same pack.
Pack Ram Air Inlet Door—Associated pack considered inoperative.
Pack Ram Air Outlet Door—Failed open.
Pack Ram Air Outlet Door—Associated pack considered inoperative.
Pack Control Channel—Both channels inoperative.
Fuel Inerting Inlet Valve.
Fuel Inerting Inlet Valve Flap.
Fuel Inerting Ram Air Outlet Flap.
Fuel Inerting Temperature Control Valve.
Fuel Inerting Turbine Valve.
Hot Air Valve—Associated pack valves deactivated.
Engine Bleed Air System.
Engine Bleed Valve.
Engine Bleed Fan Air Valve.
Engine Bleed Overpressure Valve.
Engine Bleed IP Check Valve—Associated Bleed Considered Inoperative.
Engine Bleed Control.
Engine Bleed Monitoring.
Engine Bleed Monitoring and Control.
Engine Bleed Temperature Redundancy.
CPIOM H43.
CPIOM H44.
CRDC B01.
CRDC B02.
CRDC B03.
CRDC B05.
CRDC B06.
FTIS.
36–11–09
36–11–10
36–11–11
36–11–12
42–11–06
42–11–07
42–41–16
42–41–17
42–41–18
42–41–20
42–41–21
47–10–01
..................................................................................................
..................................................................................................
..................................................................................................
..................................................................................................
..................................................................................................
..................................................................................................
..................................................................................................
..................................................................................................
..................................................................................................
..................................................................................................
..................................................................................................
..................................................................................................
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Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 217 / Thursday, November 8, 2018 / Rules and Regulations
BILLING CODE 4910–13–C
(h) Inspection
Within 3 months after the effective date of
this AD, accomplish a detailed inspection to
detect discrepancies and structural damage at
the wing rib foot locations specified in, and
in accordance with Airbus Alert Operators
Transmission A57P011–18, dated October 8,
2018.
(1) If any discrepancy is detected, do all
applicable related investigative and
corrective actions before further flight, in
accordance with Airbus Alert Operators
Transmission A57P011–18, dated October 8,
2018.
(2) If any structural damage is detected,
before further flight obtain corrective actions
approved by the Manager, International
Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA;
or the European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA); or Airbus SAS’s EASA Design
Organization Approval (DOA) and
accomplish the corrective actions within the
compliance time specified therein. If
approved by the DOA, the approval must
include the DOA-authorized signature.
(i) Relief From MEL Restrictions
After accomplishment of the inspection
and all applicable related investigative and
corrective actions required by paragraph (h)
of this AD on an operator’s fleet, the MEL
revision specified in paragraph (g) of this AD
is no longer required by this AD, and the
provisions for relief for the affected MEL
items in figure 1 to paragraphs (g) and (i) of
this AD may be restored, provided those
items are not otherwise restricted by the
existing master minimum equipment list
(MMEL).
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(j) Reporting Provisions
Although Airbus Alert Operators
Transmission A57P011–18, dated October 8,
2018, specifies sending inspection results to
Airbus, this AD does not require a report.
(k) Other FAA AD Provisions
The following provisions also apply to this
AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): The Manager, International
Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA,
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this
AD, if requested using the procedures found
in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR
39.19, send your request to your principal
inspector or local Flight Standards District
Office, as appropriate. If sending information
directly to the International Section, send it
to the attention of the person identified in
paragraph (l)(2) of this AD. Information may
be emailed to 9-ANM-116-AMOCREQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any
approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal
inspector, the manager of the local flight
standards district office/certificate holding
district office.
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
actions from a manufacturer, the action must
be accomplished using a method approved
by the Manager, International Section,
Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or EASA;
or Airbus SAS’s EASA DOA. If approved by
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the DOA, the approval must include the
DOA-authorized signature.
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any
service information contains procedures or
tests that are identified as RC, those
procedures and tests must be done to comply
with this AD; any procedures or tests that are
not identified as RC are recommended. Those
procedures and tests that are not identified
as RC may be deviated from using accepted
methods in accordance with the operator’s
maintenance or inspection program without
obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided
the procedures and tests identified as RC can
be done and the airplane can be put back in
an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or
changes to procedures or tests identified as
RC require approval of an AMOC.
(l) Related Information
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD
2018–0220, dated October 12, 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–2018–0958.
(2) For more information about this AD,
contact Kathleen Arrigotti, Aerospace
Engineer, International Section, Transport
Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th
St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and
fax 206–231–3218.
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Airbus Alert Operators Transmission
A57P011–18, dated October 8, 2018.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness
Office—EAL, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine
No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France;
telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61
93 45 80; email continuedairworthiness.a350@airbus.com; internet
https://www.airbus.com.
(4) 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.
(5) You may view this service information
that is incorporated by reference at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call
202–741–6030, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on
October 26, 2018.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2018–24391 Filed 11–7–18; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2018–0934; Product
Identifier 2018–NE–35–AD; Amendment 39–
19478; AD 2018–22–05]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Engine
Alliance Turbofan Engines
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for
comments.
AGENCY:
We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Engine Alliance (EA) GP7270, GP7272,
and GP7277 turbofan engines with a
certain high-pressure turbine (HPT) case
installed. This AD requires removal of
affected HPT stator cases (HPT cases)
from service and their replacement with
a part eligible for installation. This AD
was prompted by the discovery of a
quality escape at a manufacturing
facility involving unapproved welds on
HPT cases. We are issuing this AD to
address the unsafe condition on these
products.
SUMMARY:
This AD is effective November
23, 2018.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in this AD
as of November 23, 2018.
We must receive comments on this
AD by December 24, 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 20590,
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
For service information identified in
this final rule, contact Engine Alliance,
411 Silver Lane, East Hartford, CT
06118; phone: 800–565–0140; email:
help24@pw.utc.com; website:
www.engineallianceportal.com. You
may view this service information at the
DATES:
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 217 (Thursday, November 8, 2018)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 55813-55816]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2018-24391]
========================================================================
Rules and Regulations
Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents
having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed
to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published
under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.
The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents.
========================================================================
Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 217 / Thursday, November 8, 2018 /
Rules and Regulations
[[Page 55813]]
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2018-0958; Product Identifier 2018-NM-139-AD; Amendment
39-19491; AD 2018-23-05]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Airbus SAS Model A350-941 and -1041 airplanes. This AD was prompted by
a report of a close gap between the wing lower cover (WLC) and wing rib
feet. This AD requires revising the operator's minimum equipment list
(MEL) to change certain MEL items. This AD also requires an inspection
for discrepancies and structural damage of certain wing rib foot
locations, and related investigative and corrective actions if
necessary. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on
these products.
DATES: This AD becomes effective November 23, 2018.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of November 23,
2018.
We must receive comments on this AD by December 24, 2018.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
Fax: 202-493-2251.
Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
For service information identified in this final rule, contact
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine No:
2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5
61 93 45 80; email [email protected]; internet
https://www.airbus.com. You may view this referenced service information
at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des
Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call 206-231-3195. It is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2018-
0958.
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-
0958; 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 AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other
information. The street address for Docket Operations (telephone 800-
647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in
the AD docket shortly after receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kathleen Arrigotti, Aerospace
Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206-231-3218.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD
2018-0220, dated October 12, 2018 (referred to after this as the
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to
correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus SAS Model A350-941 and -
1041 airplanes. The MCAI states:
A deviation was identified on certain A350 aeroplanes, where a
gap check between some wing rib feet and the wing lower cover (WLC)
was not systematically performed. Due to tolerance build-up during
wing manufacture, close gap between the WLC and wing rib feet could
occur in some locations. Under some flight loading conditions,
intermittent or permanent contact may occur.
This condition, if not detected and corrected, combined with an
empty fuel tank or fuel level below the rib foot area, could create
an ignition source for the fuel vapour inside the tanks which, in
case of a lightning strike of high intensity in the immediate area,
could possibly result in ignition of the fuel-air mixture in the
affected fuel tank and consequent loss of the aeroplane.
To address this potential unsafe condition, Airbus issued the
AOT [Alert Operators Transmission A57P011-18] to provide inspection
instructions, and an MER [major event revision] of the A350 MMEL
[master minimum equipment list] that incorporates temporary
restrictions of the MMEL items related to the fuel tank inerting
system.
For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires
implementation of certain dispatch restrictions. This [EASA] AD also
requires a one-time detailed inspection (DET) of the affected areas
and, depending on findings, accomplishment of applicable corrective
action(s). No findings, or accomplishment of [related investigative
and] corrective action(s), as applicable, allows removal of the MMEL
restrictions.
This [EASA] AD is considered to be an interim action and further
[EASA] AD action may follow.
The inspection is intended to detect structural damage as well as
other discrepancies including missing sealant at each wing rib foot
location and a close gap between the wing rib foot and the WLC inboard
and outboard side of the rib.
You may examine the MCAI on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2018-
0958.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
Airbus has issued Alert Operators Transmission A57P011-18, dated
October 8, 2018, which describes procedures for a detailed inspection
and related investigative and corrective actions. Related investigative
actions include a gap check. Corrective actions include rework of the
wing rib foot and repair. This service information is reasonably
available because the interested parties have access to it
[[Page 55814]]
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 issuing this AD because we
evaluated all pertinent information and determined the unsafe condition
exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same
type design.
Requirements of This AD
This AD revises the operator's MEL to change certain MEL items.
This AD also requires an inspection for discrepancies and structural
damage of certain wing rib foot locations, and related investigative
and corrective actions if necessary.
Differences Between This AD and the MCAI
The MCAI specifies to revise the MMEL to change certain MMEL items.
This AD refers to the operator's MEL instead of the MMEL. It is
unnecessary to reference the MMEL, as operators are required in 14 CFR
part 91 to have an MEL to operate with inoperable equipment and
provisions for relief cannot be in an MEL without first being part of
the MMEL. The intent of the provision has not changed.
FAA's Justification and Determination of the Effective Date
An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of
this AD without providing an opportunity for public comments prior to
adoption. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public
justifies waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule
because contact between the WLC and wing rib feet, combined with an
empty fuel tank or fuel level below the wing rib foot area, could
create an ignition source for the fuel vapor inside the tanks. In case
of a lightning strike of high intensity in the immediate area, this
condition could possibly result in ignition of the fuel-air mixture in
the affected fuel tank and consequent loss of the airplane. Therefore,
we find good cause that notice and opportunity for prior public comment
are impracticable. In addition, for the reasons stated above, we find
that good cause exists for making this amendment effective in less than
30 days.
Comments Invited
This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight
safety, and we did not precede it by notice and opportunity for public
comment. We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under
the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2018-0958; Product
Identifier 2018-NM-139-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. We
specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic,
environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will consider all
comments received by the closing date and may amend this AD based on
those comments.
We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we
receive about this AD.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 1 airplane of U.S. registry. We
estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs for Required Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Labor cost Parts cost product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
60 work-hours x $85 per hour = $5,100........................ $0 $5,100 $5,100
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide
cost estimates for on-condition repair of structural damage specified
in this AD. We estimate the following costs to do any necessary on-
condition actions that would be required to address other discrepancies
based on the results of any required actions.
Estimated Costs of On-Condition Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per
Labor cost Parts cost product
------------------------------------------------------------------------
10 work-hours x $85 per hour = $850... $0 $850
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: ``General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
This AD is issued in accordance with authority delegated by the
Executive Director, Aircraft Certification Service, as authorized by
FAA Order 8000.51C. In accordance with that order, issuance of ADs is
normally a function of the Compliance and Airworthiness Division, but
during this transition period, the Executive Director has delegated the
authority to issue ADs applicable to transport category airplanes and
associated appliances to the Director of the System Oversight Division.
[[Page 55815]]
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications
under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct
effect on the States, on the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order
12866;
2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and
4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
2018-23-05 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39-19491; Docket No. FAA-2018-0958;
Product Identifier 2018-NM-139-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD becomes effective November 23, 2018.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to the Airbus SAS airplanes, certificated in any
category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of this AD.
(1) Model A350-941 airplanes, manufacturer serial numbers (MSNs)
203, 205, 208, 209, 210, 212, 213, 218, 219, 221, 227, 228, and 235.
(2) Model A350-1041 airplanes, MSN 188.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 57, Wings.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by a report of a close gap between the wing
lower cover (WLC) and wing rib feet. We are issuing this AD to
address potential contact between the WLC and wing rib feet, which,
combined with an empty fuel tank or fuel level below the wing rib
foot area, could create an ignition source for the fuel vapor inside
the tanks. In case of a lightning strike of high intensity in the
immediate area, this condition could possibly result in ignition of
the fuel-air mixture in the affected fuel tank and consequent loss
of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Minimum Equipment List (MEL) Revision
Within 30 days after the effective date of this AD, revise the
operator's MEL to prohibit dispatch of the airplane with any
inoperative MEL item listed in figure 1 to paragraphs (g) and (i) of
this AD.
4910-13-P
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sequence No. Item
------------------------------------------------------------------------
21-09-01............................... AIR OVHT ON FUEL INERTING 1(2)
Message.
21-09-03............................... AIR PRESS LO ON FUEL INERTING
1(2) Message.
21-50-01............................... Air conditioning Pack.
21-50-02C.............................. Pack 1 Valve--Both valves
inoperative.
21-50-03C.............................. Pack 2 Valve--Both valves
inoperative.
21-50-04B.............................. Pack Flow Sensor--Both sensors
inoperative on the same pack.
21-50-07C.............................. Pack Ram Air Inlet Door--
Associated pack considered
inoperative.
21-50-08A.............................. Pack Ram Air Outlet Door--
Failed open.
21-50-08C.............................. Pack Ram Air Outlet Door--
Associated pack considered
inoperative.
21-50-09B.............................. Pack Control Channel--Both
channels inoperative.
21-58-01............................... Fuel Inerting Inlet Valve.
21-58-02............................... Fuel Inerting Inlet Valve Flap.
21-58-03............................... Fuel Inerting Ram Air Outlet
Flap.
21-58-04............................... Fuel Inerting Temperature
Control Valve.
21-58-05............................... Fuel Inerting Turbine Valve.
21-60-02C.............................. Hot Air Valve--Associated pack
valves deactivated.
36-11-01............................... Engine Bleed Air System.
36-11-02............................... Engine Bleed Valve.
36-11-03............................... Engine Bleed Fan Air Valve.
36-11-04............................... Engine Bleed Overpressure
Valve.
36-11-05A.............................. Engine Bleed IP Check Valve--
Associated Bleed Considered
Inoperative.
36-11-09............................... Engine Bleed Control.
36-11-10............................... Engine Bleed Monitoring.
36-11-11............................... Engine Bleed Monitoring and
Control.
36-11-12............................... Engine Bleed Temperature
Redundancy.
42-11-06............................... CPIOM H43.
42-11-07............................... CPIOM H44.
42-41-16............................... CRDC B01.
42-41-17............................... CRDC B02.
42-41-18............................... CRDC B03.
42-41-20............................... CRDC B05.
42-41-21............................... CRDC B06.
47-10-01............................... FTIS.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 55816]]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-C
(h) Inspection
Within 3 months after the effective date of this AD, accomplish
a detailed inspection to detect discrepancies and structural damage
at the wing rib foot locations specified in, and in accordance with
Airbus Alert Operators Transmission A57P011-18, dated October 8,
2018.
(1) If any discrepancy is detected, do all applicable related
investigative and corrective actions before further flight, in
accordance with Airbus Alert Operators Transmission A57P011-18,
dated October 8, 2018.
(2) If any structural damage is detected, before further flight
obtain corrective actions approved by the Manager, International
Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or the European Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus SAS's EASA Design Organization
Approval (DOA) and accomplish the corrective actions within the
compliance time specified therein. If approved by the DOA, the
approval must include the DOA-authorized signature.
(i) Relief From MEL Restrictions
After accomplishment of the inspection and all applicable
related investigative and corrective actions required by paragraph
(h) of this AD on an operator's fleet, the MEL revision specified in
paragraph (g) of this AD is no longer required by this AD, and the
provisions for relief for the affected MEL items in figure 1 to
paragraphs (g) and (i) of this AD may be restored, provided those
items are not otherwise restricted by the existing master minimum
equipment list (MMEL).
(j) Reporting Provisions
Although Airbus Alert Operators Transmission A57P011-18, dated
October 8, 2018, specifies sending inspection results to Airbus,
this AD does not require a report.
(k) Other FAA AD Provisions
The following provisions also apply to this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager,
International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, has the
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,
send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information
directly to the International Section, send it to the attention of
the person identified in paragraph (l)(2) of this AD. Information
may be emailed to [email protected]. Before using any
approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight
standards district office/certificate holding district office.
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD
to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International
Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus SAS's
EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-
authorized signature.
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any service information
contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those
procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any
procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended.
Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be
deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the
operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining
approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as
RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy
condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests
identified as RC require approval of an AMOC.
(l) Related Information
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information
(MCAI) EASA AD 2018-0220, dated October 12, 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-2018-0958.
(2) For more information about this AD, contact Kathleen
Arrigotti, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport
Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
telephone and fax 206-231-3218.
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Airbus Alert Operators Transmission A57P011-18, dated
October 8, 2018.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine
No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax
+33 5 61 93 45 80; email [email protected];
internet https://www.airbus.com.
(4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport
Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call
206-231-3195.
(5) You may view this service information that is incorporated
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on October 26, 2018.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-24391 Filed 11-7-18; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
