Airworthiness Directives; Zodiac Seats France Cabin Attendant Seats, 59288-59290 [2018-25436]

Download as PDF 59288 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 226 / Friday, November 23, 2018 / Rules and Regulations (h) Replacement and Re-identification for Group 1 Airplanes (1) Within 18 months after the effective date of this AD, replace any affected RAT hydraulic pump with a serviceable part, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330– 29–3130 or A340–29–4098, both dated May 3, 2017, as applicable. (2) Concurrently with the replacement required by paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, reidentify the part number of the RAT module, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330– 29–3130 or A340–29–4098, both dated May 3, 2017, as applicable. (l) Related Information Note 1 to paragraph (h)(2) of this AD: Airbus Service Bulletins A330–29–3130 and A340–29–4098, both dated May 3, 2017, provide guidance for re-identification of the part numbers of the RAT hydraulic pumps that are not affected, and the part numbers of the RAT modules that are not equipped with an affected hydraulic pump. (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A330–29–3130, dated May 3, 2017. (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340–29–4098, dated May 3, 2017. (iii) UTC Aerospace Systems Service Bulletin ERPS06M–29–22, dated March 17, 2017. (iv) UTC Aerospace Systems Service Bulletin ERPS06M–29–22, Revision 1, dated June 27, 2017. (v) UTC Aerospace Systems Service Bulletin ERPS06M–29–22, Revision 2, dated May 24, 2018. (3) For Airbus SAS service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office—EIAS, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@ airbus.com; internet https://www.airbus.com. (4) For UTC Aerospace service information identified in this final rule, contact UTC Aerospace Systems Goodrich Corporation, Actuation Systems, Stafford Road, Fordhouses, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV10 7EH, England; phone: +44 (0) 1902 624644938; fax: +44 (0) 1902 788100624947; email: techpubs.wolverhampton@ goodrich.com; internet: https:// www.customers.utcaerospacesystems.com. (5) 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. (6) 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. (i) Compliance With AD 2016–14–01 After re-identification of a RAT module on an airplane, as required by paragraph (h)(2) of this AD, the airplane remains compliant with the RAT module re-identification requirements of AD 2016–14–01 for that airplane. amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with RULES (j) Parts Installation Prohibition (1) For Group 1 airplanes: After replacement of any affected RAT hydraulic pump as required by paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, do not install any affected RAT hydraulic pump. (2) For Group 2 airplanes: As of the effective date of this AD, do not install any affected RAT hydraulic pump. (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 Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (l)(2) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOCREQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding district office. (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus SAS’s EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOAauthorized signature. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:13 Nov 21, 2018 Jkt 247001 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD 2018–0062, dated March 20, 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–2018–0764. (2) For more information about this AD, contact Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax: 206–231–3229. (m) Material Incorporated by Reference Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on November 8, 2018. Chris Spangenberg, Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018–25387 Filed 11–21–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2017–0632; Product Identifier 2017–NE–16–AD; Amendment 39– 19487; AD 2018–23–01] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Zodiac Seats France Cabin Attendant Seats Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Zodiac Seats France 536 Series Cabin Attendant Seats. This AD was prompted by cracks found in a highly concentrated stress area of the seat pan hinges. This AD requires repetitive inspections and replacement of the seat pan. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective December 28, 2018. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of December 28, 2018. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact Zodiac Seats France, Rue Robert Marechal Senior B.P. 69, 36100 Issoudun, France; phone: +33 (0) 2 54 03 39 39; fax: +33 (0) 2 54 03 39 00; email: zs.tac@zodiacaerospace.com; internet: https://services.zodi acaerospace.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, Engine & Propeller Standards Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA, 01803. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 781–238– 7759. It is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2017–0632. SUMMARY: Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2017– 0632; 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 final rule, the mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The address for Docket Operations (phone: 800–647– 5527) is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– E:\FR\FM\23NOR1.SGM 23NOR1 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 226 / Friday, November 23, 2018 / Rules and Regulations 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC, 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dorie Resnik, Aerospace Engineer, Boston ACO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA, 01803; phone: 781–238–7693; fax: 781–238–7199; email: dorie.resnik@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking NPRM to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Zodiac Seats France 536 Series Cabin Attendant Seats. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on December 22, 2017 (82 FR 60690). The NPRM was prompted by cracks found in a highly concentrated stress area of the seat pan hinges. The NPRM proposed to require repetitive inspections of the affected cabin attendant seats and, depending on findings, replacement of the seat pan. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA AD 2017– 0001, dated January 6, 2017 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’) to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: Cases of cracks were found on Zodiac Seats France cabin attendant seats 536 series installed on some ATR 42 and ATR 72 aeroplanes. The detected damage was located in the area of the seat pan hinges. Investigations identified that fatigue had caused these cracks in a highly concentrated stress area. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to failure of the seat, possibly resulting in injury to the seat occupant. To address this potential unsafe condition, Zodiac Seats France issued Service Bulletin (SB) 536–25–003 to provide inspection and replacement instructions. Consequently, EASA issued AD 2016–0164, requiring repetitive visual inspections of the affected cabin attendant seats and, depending on findings, replacement of the seat pan. Since that AD was issued, Zodiac Seats France developed a reinforced seat pan, and revised SB 536–25–003 accordingly. After installation of a reinforced seat pan, the seat P/N amendment status is updated. For the reason described above, this AD retains the requirements of EASA AD 2016– 0164, which is superseded, prohibits installation of unreinforced seat pans on seats already modified, and introduces the reinforced seat pan installation as optional terminating action for the repetitive inspections. 59289 Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this final rule as proposed except for minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes: • Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM for addressing the unsafe condition; and • Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Zodiac Seats France Service Bulletin (SB) No. 536–25–003, Rev. 3, dated June 2, 2017. The SB describes procedures for inspection, modification, or replacement of the seat pan of certain model seats known to be installed on ATR 42 and ATR 72 airplanes. 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. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2017– 0632. Costs of Compliance Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this final rule. We received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of the cost to the public. We estimate that this AD affects 55 seat assemblies installed on, but not limited to, ATR 42 and ATR 72 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Seat inspection, modification, or replacement 1.2 work-hours × $85 per hour = $102 .......... According to the manufacturer, some of the costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost estimate. amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with RULES 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 16:13 Nov 21, 2018 Jkt 247001 Parts cost 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 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 $1,500 Cost per product $1,602 Cost on U.S. operators $88,110 Division, but during this transition period, the Executive Director has delegated the authority to issue ADs applicable to engines, propellers, and associated appliances to the Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, Policy and Innovation Division. Regulatory Findings 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 this AD: E:\FR\FM\23NOR1.SGM 23NOR1 59290 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 226 / Friday, November 23, 2018 / Rules and Regulations (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 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ 2018–23–01 Zodiac Seats France (formerly SICMA Aero Seat): Amendment 39–19487; Docket No. FAA–2017–0632; Product Identifier 2017–NE–16–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective December 28, 2018. (b) Affected ADs None. amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with RULES (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 2500, Cabin Equipment/Furnishings. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by cracks found in a highly concentrated stress area of the seat pan hinges. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of affected seats. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in injury to the seat occupants. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. 16:13 Nov 21, 2018 (1) Before exceeding 2,500 flight cycles (FCs), or within 100 FCs after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later, inspect the seat pan structure in both deployed and stowed positions using paragraph 2.A., Accomplishment Instructions, of Zodiac Seats France Service Bulletin (SB) No. 536–25–003, Rev. 3, dated June 2, 2017. (2) If cracks are found, before the next flight: (i) Replace seat pan with reinforced seat pan, P/N F0511530, using paragraph 2.B., Accomplishment Instructions, of Zodiac Seats France SB No. 536–25–003, Rev. 3, dated June 2, 2017. (ii) Re-mark the seat using paragraph 2.C., Accomplishment Instructions, of Zodiac Seats France SB No. 536–25–003, Rev. 3, dated June 2, 2017. (3) If no cracks are found, do the following: (i) Re-mark the seat using paragraph 2.C., Accomplishment Instructions, of Zodiac Seats France SB No. 536–25–003, Rev. 3, dated June 2, 2017. (ii) Reinspect the seat pan every 100 FCs since last inspection, or replace seat pan with reinforced seat pan, P/N F0511530, using paragraph 2.B., Accomplishment. Instructions, of Zodiac Seats France SB No. 536–25–003, Rev. 3, dated June 2, 2017. (4) After the effective date of this AD, and until compliance with this AD is accomplished, stow and secure an affected attendant seat in the retracted position to prevent occupancy, in accordance with the provisions and limitations of the applicable Master Minimum Equipment List item. (h) Optional Terminating Action Installation of a reinforced seat pan, P/N F0511530, using paragraph 2.B., Accomplishment Instructions, of Zodiac Seats France SB No. 536–25–003, Rev. 3, dated June 2, 2017, is terminating action to this AD. (i) Credit for Previous Actions (c) Applicability (1) This AD applies to all Zodiac Seats France Cabin Attendant Seats, 536 Series, part numbers (P/N) 53600, all dash numbers, and all serial numbers, with seat pan P/N F0433453, installed. (2) These appliances are installed on, but not limited to, ATR 42 and ATR 72 airplanes of U.S. registry. VerDate Sep<11>2014 (g) Required Actions Jkt 247001 You may take credit for inspections and modifications performed in accordance with Zodiac Seats France SB No. 536–25–003, Rev. 2, dated September 16, 2016, or earlier versions, if you performed these actions before the effective date of this AD. (k) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Dorie Resnik, Aerospace Engineer, Boston ACO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA, 01803; phone: 781– 238–7693; fax: 781–238–7199; email: dorie.resnik@faa.gov. (2) Refer to MCAI EASA AD 2017–0001, dated January 6, 2017, for more information. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA–2017–0632. (l) 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 the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Zodiac Seats France Service Bulletin No. 536–25–003, Rev. 3, dated June 2, 2017. (ii) [Reserved.] (3) For Zodiac Seats France service information identified in this AD, contact Zodiac Seats France, Rue Robert Marechal Senior B.P. 69, 36100 Issoudun, France; phone: +33 (0) 2 54 03 39 39; fax: +33 (0) 2 54 03 39 00; email: zs.tac@ zodiacaerospace.com; internet: https:// services.zodiacaerospace.com. (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Engine & Propeller Standards Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA, 01803. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 781–238–7759. (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 Burlington, Massachusetts, on November 16, 2018. Robert J. Ganley, Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018–25436 Filed 11–21–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Boston ACO Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the ACO Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (k)(1) of this AD. You may email your request to: 9-aneboston-aco-amocrequests@faa.gov. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2016–9392; Product Identifier 2016–NM–003–AD; Amendment 39–19499; AD 2018–23–12] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Zodiac Aero Evacuation Systems (also known as Air Cruisers Company) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. AGENCY: E:\FR\FM\23NOR1.SGM 23NOR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 226 (Friday, November 23, 2018)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 59288-59290]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2018-25436]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2017-0632; Product Identifier 2017-NE-16-AD; Amendment 
39-19487; AD 2018-23-01]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Zodiac Seats France Cabin Attendant 
Seats

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain 
Zodiac Seats France 536 Series Cabin Attendant Seats. This AD was 
prompted by cracks found in a highly concentrated stress area of the 
seat pan hinges. This AD requires repetitive inspections and 
replacement of the seat pan. We are issuing this AD to address the 
unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective December 28, 2018.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of December 28, 
2018.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Zodiac Seats France, Rue Robert Marechal Senior B.P. 69, 36100 
Issoudun, France; phone: +33 (0) 2 54 03 39 39; fax: +33 (0) 2 54 03 39 
00; email: [email protected]; internet: https://services.zodiacaerospace.com. You may view this service information at 
the FAA, Engine & Propeller Standards Branch, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA, 01803. For information on the availability of this 
material at the FAA, call 781-238-7759. It is also available on the 
internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating 
Docket No. FAA-2017-0632.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2017-
0632; 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 final rule, the mandatory continuing airworthiness information 
(MCAI), the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other 
information. The address for Docket Operations (phone: 800-647-5527) is 
U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-

[[Page 59289]]

30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue 
SE, Washington, DC, 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dorie Resnik, Aerospace Engineer, 
Boston ACO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA, 01803; 
phone: 781-238-7693; fax: 781-238-7199; email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking NPRM to amend 14 CFR part 
39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Zodiac Seats France 536 
Series Cabin Attendant Seats. The NPRM published in the Federal 
Register on December 22, 2017 (82 FR 60690). The NPRM was prompted by 
cracks found in a highly concentrated stress area of the seat pan 
hinges. The NPRM proposed to require repetitive inspections of the 
affected cabin attendant seats and, depending on findings, replacement 
of the seat pan. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition 
on these products.
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA 
AD 2017-0001, dated January 6, 2017 (referred to after this as ``the 
MCAI'') to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The 
MCAI states:

    Cases of cracks were found on Zodiac Seats France cabin 
attendant seats 536 series installed on some ATR 42 and ATR 72 
aeroplanes. The detected damage was located in the area of the seat 
pan hinges. Investigations identified that fatigue had caused these 
cracks in a highly concentrated stress area.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to 
failure of the seat, possibly resulting in injury to the seat 
occupant.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, Zodiac Seats France 
issued Service Bulletin (SB) 536-25-003 to provide inspection and 
replacement instructions. Consequently, EASA issued AD 2016-0164, 
requiring repetitive visual inspections of the affected cabin 
attendant seats and, depending on findings, replacement of the seat 
pan.
    Since that AD was issued, Zodiac Seats France developed a 
reinforced seat pan, and revised SB 536-25-003 accordingly. After 
installation of a reinforced seat pan, the seat P/N amendment status 
is updated.
    For the reason described above, this AD retains the requirements 
of EASA AD 2016-0164, which is superseded, prohibits installation of 
unreinforced seat pans on seats already modified, and introduces the 
reinforced seat pan installation as optional terminating action for 
the repetitive inspections.

    You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD 
docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for 
and locating Docket No. FAA-2017-0632.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this final rule. We received no comments on the NPRM or on the 
determination of the cost to the public.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety and 
the public interest require adopting this final rule as proposed except 
for minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor 
changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM for addressing the unsafe condition; and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    We reviewed Zodiac Seats France Service Bulletin (SB) No. 536-25-
003, Rev. 3, dated June 2, 2017. The SB describes procedures for 
inspection, modification, or replacement of the seat pan of certain 
model seats known to be installed on ATR 42 and ATR 72 airplanes. This 
service information is reasonably available because the interested 
parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by 
the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 55 seat assemblies installed on, 
but not limited to, ATR 42 and ATR 72 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     Cost per      Cost on U.S.
                Action                         Labor cost           Parts cost        product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Seat inspection, modification, or       1.2 work-hours x $85 per          $1,500          $1,602         $88,110
 replacement.                            hour = $102.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, 
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: ``General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.
    This 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 engines, propellers, and 
associated appliances to the Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards 
Branch, Policy and Innovation Division.

Regulatory Findings

    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 this AD:

[[Page 59290]]

    (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):

2018-23-01 Zodiac Seats France (formerly SICMA Aero Seat): Amendment 
39-19487; Docket No. FAA-2017-0632; Product Identifier 2017-NE-16-
AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective December 28, 2018.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    (1) This AD applies to all Zodiac Seats France Cabin Attendant 
Seats, 536 Series, part numbers (P/N) 53600, all dash numbers, and 
all serial numbers, with seat pan P/N F0433453, installed.
    (2) These appliances are installed on, but not limited to, ATR 
42 and ATR 72 airplanes of U.S. registry.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 2500, Cabin 
Equipment/Furnishings.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by cracks found in a highly concentrated 
stress area of the seat pan hinges. We are issuing this AD to 
prevent failure of affected seats. The unsafe condition, if not 
addressed, could result in injury to the seat occupants.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Required Actions

    (1) Before exceeding 2,500 flight cycles (FCs), or within 100 
FCs after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later, 
inspect the seat pan structure in both deployed and stowed positions 
using paragraph 2.A., Accomplishment Instructions, of Zodiac Seats 
France Service Bulletin (SB) No. 536-25-003, Rev. 3, dated June 2, 
2017.
    (2) If cracks are found, before the next flight:
    (i) Replace seat pan with reinforced seat pan, P/N F0511530, 
using paragraph 2.B., Accomplishment Instructions, of Zodiac Seats 
France SB No. 536-25-003, Rev. 3, dated June 2, 2017.
    (ii) Re-mark the seat using paragraph 2.C., Accomplishment 
Instructions, of Zodiac Seats France SB No. 536-25-003, Rev. 3, 
dated June 2, 2017.
    (3) If no cracks are found, do the following:
    (i) Re-mark the seat using paragraph 2.C., Accomplishment 
Instructions, of Zodiac Seats France SB No. 536-25-003, Rev. 3, 
dated June 2, 2017.
    (ii) Reinspect the seat pan every 100 FCs since last inspection, 
or replace seat pan with reinforced seat pan, P/N F0511530, using 
paragraph 2.B., Accomplishment.
    Instructions, of Zodiac Seats France SB No. 536-25-003, Rev. 3, 
dated June 2, 2017.
    (4) After the effective date of this AD, and until compliance 
with this AD is accomplished, stow and secure an affected attendant 
seat in the retracted position to prevent occupancy, in accordance 
with the provisions and limitations of the applicable Master Minimum 
Equipment List item.

(h) Optional Terminating Action

    Installation of a reinforced seat pan, P/N F0511530, using 
paragraph 2.B., Accomplishment Instructions, of Zodiac Seats France 
SB No. 536-25-003, Rev. 3, dated June 2, 2017, is terminating action 
to this AD.

(i) Credit for Previous Actions

    You may take credit for inspections and modifications performed 
in accordance with Zodiac Seats France SB No. 536-25-003, Rev. 2, 
dated September 16, 2016, or earlier versions, if you performed 
these actions before the effective date of this AD.

(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Boston ACO Branch, FAA, has the authority to 
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found 
in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request 
to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District 
Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the 
manager of the ACO Branch, send it to the attention of the person 
identified in paragraph (k)(1) of this AD. You may email your 
request to: [email protected].
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding 
district office.

(k) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Dorie Resnik, 
Aerospace Engineer, Boston ACO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA, 01803; phone: 781-238-7693; fax: 781-238-7199; 
email: [email protected].
    (2) Refer to MCAI EASA AD 2017-0001, dated January 6, 2017, for 
more information. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the 
internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating 
it in Docket No. FAA-2017-0632.

(l) 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 the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Zodiac Seats France Service Bulletin No. 536-25-003, Rev. 3, 
dated June 2, 2017.
    (ii) [Reserved.]
    (3) For Zodiac Seats France service information identified in 
this AD, contact Zodiac Seats France, Rue Robert Marechal Senior 
B.P. 69, 36100 Issoudun, France; phone: +33 (0) 2 54 03 39 39; fax: 
+33 (0) 2 54 03 39 00; email: [email protected]; internet: 
https://services.zodiacaerospace.com.
    (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Engine & 
Propeller Standards Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA, 
01803. For information on the availability of this material at the 
FAA, call 781-238-7759.
    (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 Burlington, Massachusetts, on November 16, 2018.
Robert J. Ganley,
Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-25436 Filed 11-21-18; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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