Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes, 14605-14607 [2019-07186]
Download as PDF
Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 70 / Thursday, April 11, 2019 / Rules and Regulations
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 (k) of this AD. Information may be
emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@
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 instructions
from a manufacturer, the instructions must
be accomplished using a method approved
by the Manager, International Section,
Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or EASA;
or Airbus SAS’s EASA Design Organization
Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA,
the approval must include the DOAauthorized signature.
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): For any
service information referenced in EASA AD
2018–0271 that contains RC procedures and
tests: Except as required by paragraph (j)(2)
of this AD, RC 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.
amozie on DSK9F9SC42PROD with RULES
(k) Related Information
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.
(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 this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2018–0271, dated December 12,
2018.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2018–0271, contact
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668
Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 89990
6017; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; Internet
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this
EASA AD on the EASA website at https://
ad.easa.europa.eu.
(4) You may view this EASA AD 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.
EASA AD 2018–0271 may be found in the
AD docket on the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for and
locating Docket No. FAA–2019–0190.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:02 Apr 10, 2019
Jkt 247001
(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
March 26, 2019.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2019–07188 Filed 4–10–19; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2018–1063; Product
Identifier 2018–NM–160–AD; Amendment
39–19606; AD 2019–06–08]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Airbus SAS Model A330–223, A330–
223F, A330–321, A330–322, and A330–
323 airplanes. This AD was prompted
by a report of fatigue cracking in the
latch beam gussets on a certain thrust
reverser (T/R). This AD requires a onetime special detailed inspection of
certain latch beam gussets of certain
T/Rs for cracks, and modifying the latch
beam gussets of the T/Rs, if necessary,
as specified in an European Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is
incorporated by reference. We are
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective May 16,
2019.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of May 16, 2019.
ADDRESSES: For the incorporation by
reference (IBR) material described in the
‘‘Related IBR Material Under 1 CFR part
51’’ section in SUPPLEMENTARY
INFORMATION, contact EASA, KonradAdenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne,
Germany; telephone +49 221 89990
1000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu;
internet www.easa.europa.eu. You may
find this IBR material on the EASA
website at https://ad.easa.europa.eu.
SUMMARY:
PO 00000
Frm 00019
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
14605
You may view this IBR material 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 in the AD docket on
the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov.
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–
1063; 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 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–30, West
Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140,
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
International Section, Transport
Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South
216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
telephone and fax 206–231–3229.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to all Airbus SAS Model A330–
223, A330–223F, A330–321, A330–322,
and A330–323 airplanes. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
December 28, 2018 (83 FR 67158). The
NPRM was prompted by a report of
fatigue cracking in the latch beam
gussets on a certain T/R. The NPRM
proposed to require a one-time special
detailed inspection of certain latch
beam gussets of certain T/Rs for cracks,
and modifying the latch beam gussets of
the T/Rs, if necessary, as specified in,
and in accordance with, EASA AD
2018–0227, dated October 22, 2018
(‘‘EASA AD 2018–0227’’).
We are issuing this AD to address
fatigue cracking in the latch beam
gussets on a certain T/R, which, if not
detected and corrected, could lead to
crack propagation until part failure and
potential departure of the T/R cascade
during T/R operation, which could
result in damage to the airplane and
hazards to persons or property on the
ground.
The EASA, which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD
E:\FR\FM\11APR1.SGM
11APR1
14606
Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 70 / Thursday, April 11, 2019 / Rules and Regulations
2018–0227 (also referred to as the
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness
Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct
an unsafe condition for all Airbus SAS
Model A330–223, A330–223F, A330–
321, A330–322, and A330–323
airplanes. The MCAI states:
A report was received of an in-service
occurrence where an operator found a crack
in the latch beam gussets of an affected TR
[thrust reverser], between the forward (L2)
and middle (L3) latches, adjacent to the aft
cascade frame attachment bracket in the 6
o’clock beam. Subsequent investigation
revealed that the crack surface of the latch
beam gusset showed indication of high
fatigue cycle, leading to development of a
design modification, reinforcing the latch
beam gussets. This was introduced through
Airbus production mod 48539 (improvement
of 6 o’clock latch beam) and Airbus issued
the modification SB [Airbus Service Bulletin
A330–78–3014, dated May 9, 2001] as a
recommendation for in-service aeroplanes.
Since these measures were introduced, a new
case was reported of finding a crack beyond
prediction at the latch beam gusset of an
affected TR, on which the recommended
modification SB had not been accomplished.
This condition, if not detected and
corrected, could lead to crack propagation
until part failure and potentially departure of
TR cascade during TR operation, which
could create runway hazards for other
aeroplanes [which could result in damage to
the airplane and hazards to persons or
property on the ground].
To address this potential unsafe condition,
Airbus issued the inspection SB [Airbus
Service Bulletin A330–78–3024, dated June
28, 2018] to provide instructions for special
detailed inspection (SDI) of the latch beam
gussets.
For the reasons described above, this
[EASA] AD requires a one-time SDI of the
latch beam gussets between the forward and
middle latches of the affected TR [for cracks]
and, depending on findings, replacement
with improved (reinforced, modified) TR
latch beam gussets.
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–
1063.
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 IBR Material Under 1 CFR Part
51
EASA AD 2018–0227 describes
procedures for a one-time special
detailed inspection of the latch beam
gussets between the forward and middle
latches of the affected T/R for cracks
and modifying the latch beam gussets.
This material 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 and it is
publicly available through the EASA
website.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 9
airplanes 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
12 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,020 .....................................................................................
$0
$1,020
$9,180
We estimate the following costs to do
any necessary on-condition action that
would be required based on the results
of any required actions. We have no way
of determining the number of aircraft
that might need this on-condition
action:
ESTIMATED COSTS OF ON-CONDITION ACTIONS
Labor cost
Parts cost
26 work-hours × $85 per hour = $2,210 (per thrust reverser) .............................................
According to the manufacturer, some
or all 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 known
costs in our cost estimate.
amozie on DSK9F9SC42PROD 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
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:02 Apr 10, 2019
Jkt 247001
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.
PO 00000
Frm 00020
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Cost per product
$0
$2,210 (per thrust reverser).
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.
E:\FR\FM\11APR1.SGM
11APR1
Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 70 / Thursday, April 11, 2019 / Rules and Regulations
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 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
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):
■
2019–06–08 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39–
19606; Docket No. FAA–2018–1063;
Product Identifier 2018–NM–160–AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective May 16, 2019.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
amozie on DSK9F9SC42PROD with RULES
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Airbus SAS Model
A330–223, A330–223F, A330–321, A330–
322, and A330–323 airplanes, certificated in
any category, all manufacturer serial
numbers.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 78, Engine exhaust.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by a report of
fatigue cracking in the latch beam gussets on
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:02 Apr 10, 2019
Jkt 247001
a certain thrust reverser (T/R). We are issuing
this AD to address this condition, which, if
not detected and corrected, could lead to
crack propagation until part failure and
potential departure of the T/R cascade during
T/R operation, which could result in damage
to the airplane and hazards to persons or
property on the ground.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this
AD: Comply with all required actions and
compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, the European Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2018–0227, dated
October 22, 2018 (‘‘EASA AD 2018–0227’’).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2018–0227
(1) For purposes of determining
compliance with the requirements of this AD:
Where EASA AD 2018–0227 refers to its
effective date, this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(2) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD
2018–0227 does not apply to this AD.
(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) of this AD. Information may be
emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@
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 instructions
from a manufacturer, the instructions must
be accomplished using a method approved
by the Manager, International Section,
Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or EASA;
or Airbus SAS’s EASA Design Organization
Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA,
the approval must include the DOAauthorized signature.
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): For any
service information referenced in EASA AD
2018–0227 that contains RC procedures and
tests: Except as required by paragraph (i)(2)
of this AD, RC 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
PO 00000
Frm 00021
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
14607
airworthy condition. Any substitutions or
changes to procedures or tests identified as
RC require approval of an AMOC.
(j) Related Information
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.
(k) 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) European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2018–0227, dated October 22,
2018.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2018–0227, contact
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668
Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 89990
6017; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; Internet
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this
EASA AD on the EASA website at https://
ad.easa.europa.eu.
(4) You may view this EASA AD 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.
EASA AD 2018–0227 may be found in the
AD docket on the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for and
locating Docket No. FAA–2018–1063.
(5) You may view this material 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/federalregister/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on
March 25, 2019.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2019–07186 Filed 4–10–19; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 91
[Docket No. FAA–2014–0396]
Interpretation of the Special Rule for
Model Aircraft; Withdrawal
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Notice of interpretation;
withdrawal.
AGENCY:
E:\FR\FM\11APR1.SGM
11APR1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 70 (Thursday, April 11, 2019)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 14605-14607]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-07186]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2018-1063; Product Identifier 2018-NM-160-AD; Amendment
39-19606; AD 2019-06-08]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Airbus SAS Model A330-223, A330-223F, A330-321, A330-322, and A330-323
airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report of fatigue cracking in the
latch beam gussets on a certain thrust reverser (T/R). This AD requires
a one-time special detailed inspection of certain latch beam gussets of
certain T/Rs for cracks, and modifying the latch beam gussets of the T/
Rs, if necessary, as specified in an European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. We are issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective May 16, 2019.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of May 16,
2019.
ADDRESSES: For the incorporation by reference (IBR) material described
in the ``Related IBR Material Under 1 CFR part 51'' section in
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668
Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 89990 1000; email
[email protected]; internet www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this IBR
material on the EASA website at https://ad.easa.europa.eu. You may view
this IBR material 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 in the AD
docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov.
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-
1063; 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 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-30,
West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South
216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206-231-3229.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Airbus SAS Model A330-
223, A330-223F, A330-321, A330-322, and A330-323 airplanes. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on December 28, 2018 (83 FR 67158).
The NPRM was prompted by a report of fatigue cracking in the latch beam
gussets on a certain T/R. The NPRM proposed to require a one-time
special detailed inspection of certain latch beam gussets of certain T/
Rs for cracks, and modifying the latch beam gussets of the T/Rs, if
necessary, as specified in, and in accordance with, EASA AD 2018-0227,
dated October 22, 2018 (``EASA AD 2018-0227'').
We are issuing this AD to address fatigue cracking in the latch
beam gussets on a certain T/R, which, if not detected and corrected,
could lead to crack propagation until part failure and potential
departure of the T/R cascade during T/R operation, which could result
in damage to the airplane and hazards to persons or property on the
ground.
The EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD
[[Page 14606]]
2018-0227 (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness
Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for all
Airbus SAS Model A330-223, A330-223F, A330-321, A330-322, and A330-323
airplanes. The MCAI states:
A report was received of an in-service occurrence where an
operator found a crack in the latch beam gussets of an affected TR
[thrust reverser], between the forward (L2) and middle (L3) latches,
adjacent to the aft cascade frame attachment bracket in the 6
o'clock beam. Subsequent investigation revealed that the crack
surface of the latch beam gusset showed indication of high fatigue
cycle, leading to development of a design modification, reinforcing
the latch beam gussets. This was introduced through Airbus
production mod 48539 (improvement of 6 o'clock latch beam) and
Airbus issued the modification SB [Airbus Service Bulletin A330-78-
3014, dated May 9, 2001] as a recommendation for in-service
aeroplanes. Since these measures were introduced, a new case was
reported of finding a crack beyond prediction at the latch beam
gusset of an affected TR, on which the recommended modification SB
had not been accomplished.
This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to
crack propagation until part failure and potentially departure of TR
cascade during TR operation, which could create runway hazards for
other aeroplanes [which could result in damage to the airplane and
hazards to persons or property on the ground].
To address this potential unsafe condition, Airbus issued the
inspection SB [Airbus Service Bulletin A330-78-3024, dated June 28,
2018] to provide instructions for special detailed inspection (SDI)
of the latch beam gussets.
For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires a one-
time SDI of the latch beam gussets between the forward and middle
latches of the affected TR [for cracks] and, depending on findings,
replacement with improved (reinforced, modified) TR latch beam
gussets.
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-
1063.
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 IBR Material Under 1 CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2018-0227 describes procedures for a one-time special
detailed inspection of the latch beam gussets between the forward and
middle latches of the affected T/R for cracks and modifying the latch
beam gussets. This material 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 and it is
publicly available through the EASA website.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 9 airplanes 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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12 work-hours x $85 per hour = $1,020........................ $0 $1,020 $9,180
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We estimate the following costs to do any necessary on-condition
action that would be required based on the results of any required
actions. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that
might need this on-condition action:
Estimated Costs of On-Condition Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
26 work-hours x $85 per hour = $2,210 $0 $2,210 (per thrust reverser).
(per thrust reverser).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
According to the manufacturer, some or all 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 known costs in our cost
estimate.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: ``General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
This 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 14607]]
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 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):
2019-06-08 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39-19606; Docket No. FAA-2018-1063;
Product Identifier 2018-NM-160-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective May 16, 2019.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Airbus SAS Model A330-223, A330-223F,
A330-321, A330-322, and A330-323 airplanes, certificated in any
category, all manufacturer serial numbers.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 78, Engine
exhaust.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by a report of fatigue cracking in the
latch beam gussets on a certain thrust reverser (T/R). We are
issuing this AD to address this condition, which, if not detected
and corrected, could lead to crack propagation until part failure
and potential departure of the T/R cascade during T/R operation,
which could result in damage to the airplane and hazards to persons
or property on the ground.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this AD: Comply with all
required actions and compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2018-
0227, dated October 22, 2018 (``EASA AD 2018-0227'').
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2018-0227
(1) For purposes of determining compliance with the requirements
of this AD: Where EASA AD 2018-0227 refers to its effective date,
this AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(2) The ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD 2018-0227 does not apply
to this AD.
(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) 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 instructions from a manufacturer, the instructions must be
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International
Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus SAS's
EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the
approval must include the DOA-authorized signature.
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): For any service information
referenced in EASA AD 2018-0227 that contains RC procedures and
tests: Except as required by paragraph (i)(2) of this AD, RC
procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any
procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended.
Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be
deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the
operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining
approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as
RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy
condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests
identified as RC require approval of an AMOC.
(j) Related Information
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.
(k) 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) European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2018-0227, dated
October 22, 2018.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2018-0227, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3,
50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 89990 6017; email
[email protected]; Internet www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this
EASA AD on the EASA website at https://ad.easa.europa.eu.
(4) You may view this EASA AD 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. EASA AD
2018-0227 may be found in the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-
2018-1063.
(5) You may view this material 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 March 25, 2019.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2019-07186 Filed 4-10-19; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P