Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 38887-38889 [2019-16815]
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38887
Proposed Rules
Federal Register
Vol. 84, No. 153
Thursday, August 8, 2019
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER
contains notices to the public of the proposed
issuance of rules and regulations. The
purpose of these notices is to give interested
persons an opportunity to participate in the
rule making prior to the adoption of the final
rules.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2019–0576; Product
Identifier 2019–NM–049–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
Company Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
The FAA proposes to adopt a
new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
The Boeing Company Model 747–400,
747–400F, 747–8F, and 747–8 series
airplanes. This proposed AD was
prompted by reports of dual flight
management computer (FMC) cold starts
during a critical flight phase such as
takeoff and approach. This proposed AD
would require an inspection to
determine if certain software is
installed, installation of FMC
operational program software (OPS) and
a software configuration check, and
applicable concurrent requirements.
The FAA is proposing this AD to
address the unsafe condition on these
products.
SUMMARY:
The FAA must receive comments
on this proposed AD by September 23,
2019.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
using the procedures found in 14 CFR
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.
• Fax: 202–493–2251.
• Mail: U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail
address above between 9 a.m. and 5
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DATES:
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:03 Aug 07, 2019
Jkt 247001
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
For service information identified in
this NPRM, contact Boeing Commercial
Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster
Blvd., MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA
90740–5600; telephone 562–797–1717;
internet https://
www.myboeingfleet.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–2019–0576.
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–2019–
0576; or in person at Docket Operations
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The AD docket contains this NPRM, the
regulatory evaluation, any comments
received, and other information. The
street address for Docket Operations is
listed above. Comments will be
available in the AD docket shortly after
receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Nelson Sanchez, Aerospace Engineer,
Systems and Equipment Section, FAA,
Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th
St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone
and fax: 206–231–3543; email:
nelson.sanchez@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to send any
written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this proposal. Send
your comments to an address listed
under the ADDRESSES section. Include
‘‘Docket No. FAA–2019–0576; Product
Identifier 2019–NM–049–AD’’ at the
beginning of your comments. The FAA
specifically invites comments on the
overall regulatory, economic,
environmental, and energy aspects of
this NPRM. The agency will consider all
comments received by the closing date
and may amend this NPRM because of
those comments.
The FAA will post all comments,
without change, to https://
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Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
www.regulations.gov, including any
personal information you provide. The
agency will also post a report
summarizing each substantive verbal
contact received about this proposed
AD.
Discussion
The FAA has received reports
indicating that some operators
experienced dual FMC cold starts
during a critical flight phase such as
takeoff and approach. A cold start is a
computer reset that is equivalent to
starting from an unpowered (cold) state.
During a cold start, the computer is not
available to perform its intended
function. Dual FMC cold starts can
result in a loss of flight critical data
from flight deck displays during a high
workload phase of flight. This
condition, if not addressed, could
reduce the flightcrew’s situational
awareness, resulting in a loss of
continued safe flight and landing.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 747–34A3119
RB, dated February 15, 2019; and
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
747–34A3125 RB, dated February 15,
2019. The service information describes
procedures for installation of the FMC
OPS, part number (P/N) HNP5A–AL11–
9008, or later-approved software
version, and a software configuration
check, and applicable concurrent
requirements (installing certain software
and hardware). These documents are
distinct since they apply to airplanes in
different configurations.
This service information is reasonably
available because the interested parties
have access to it through their normal
course of business or by the means
identified in the ADDRESSES section.
FAA’s Determination
The FAA is proposing this AD
because the agency evaluated all the
relevant information and determined
the unsafe condition described
previously is likely to exist or develop
in other products of the same type
design.
Proposed AD Requirements
This proposed AD would require an
inspection to determine if certain
software is installed, and if necessary,
accomplishment of the actions
E:\FR\FM\08AUP1.SGM
08AUP1
38888
Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 153 / Thursday, August 8, 2019 / Proposed Rules
identified in Boeing Alert Requirements
Bulletin 747–34A3119 RB, dated
February 15, 2019; and Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 747–34A3125
RB, dated February 15, 2019; described
previously, except as discussed under
‘‘Differences Between this Proposed AD
and the Service Information’’ and except
for any differences identified as
exceptions in the regulatory text of this
proposed AD.
For information on the procedures
and compliance times, see this service
information at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2019–
0576.
an AD. Boeing has implemented this RC
concept into Boeing service bulletins.
In an effort to further improve the
quality of ADs and AD-related Boeing
service information, a joint process
improvement initiative was worked
between the FAA and Boeing. The
initiative resulted in the development of
a new process in which the service
information more clearly identifies the
actions needed to address the unsafe
condition in the ‘‘Accomplishment
Instructions.’’ The new process results
in a Boeing Requirements Bulletin,
which contains only the actions needed
to address the unsafe condition (i.e.,
only the RC actions).
Explanation of Requirements Bulletin
The FAA worked in conjunction with
industry, under the Airworthiness
Directive Implementation Aviation
Rulemaking Committee (AD ARC), to
enhance the AD system. One
enhancement is a process for annotating
which steps in the service information
are ‘‘required for compliance’’ (RC) with
Differences Between This Proposed AD
and the Service Information
The effectivity of Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 747–34A3119
RB, dated February 15, 2019; and
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
747–34A3125 RB, dated February 15,
2019; is limited to certain airplanes as
identified in the service information.
However, the applicability of this
proposed AD includes all Boeing Model
747–400, 747–400F, 747–8F, and 747–8
series airplanes. Because the affected
software versions are rotable, the FAA
has determined that these software
versions could later be installed on
airplanes that were initially delivered
with acceptable software, thereby
subjecting those airplanes to the unsafe
condition. We have confirmed with
Boeing that the Accomplishment
Instructions in Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 747–34A3119
RB, dated February 15, 2019, and
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
747–34A3125 RB, dated February 15,
2019, are applicable to the affected
airplanes.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this proposed
AD affects 115 airplanes of U.S. registry.
The agency estimates the following
costs to comply with this proposed AD:
ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED ACTIONS
Action
Labor cost
Parts cost
Records check or inspection ..........
Software installation and configuration check.
Concurrent actions .........................
1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85
2 work-hours × $85 per hour =
$170.
Up to 119 work-hours × $85 per
hour = $10,115.
Cost per product
Cost on U.S.
operators
$0
(*)
$85 .................................
$170 * .............................
$9,775.
$19,550.*
(*)
Up to $10,115 * ..............
Up to $1,163,225.*
* The FAA has received no definitive data that would enable the agency to provide parts cost-estimates for the software installation or concurrent actions specified in this proposed AD.
jbell on DSK3GLQ082PROD with PROPOSALS
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.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking
under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section
44701: ‘‘General requirements.’’ Under
that section, Congress charges the FAA
with promoting safe flight of civil
aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and
procedures the Administrator finds
necessary for safety in air commerce.
This regulation is within the scope of
that authority because it addresses an
unsafe condition that is likely to exist or
develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
This proposed AD is issued in
accordance with authority delegated by
the Executive Director, Aircraft
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:03 Aug 07, 2019
Jkt 247001
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.
Regulatory Findings
The FAA has determined that this
proposed AD would not have federalism
implications under Executive Order
13132. This proposed AD would not
have a substantial direct effect on the
States, on the relationship between the
national Government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify this proposed regulation:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
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Frm 00002
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part
39 as follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
E:\FR\FM\08AUP1.SGM
08AUP1
Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 153 / Thursday, August 8, 2019 / Proposed Rules
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
■
The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA–
2019–0576; Product Identifier 2019–
NM–049–AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
The FAA must receive comments by
September 23, 2019.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all The Boeing
Company Model 747–400, 747–400F, 747–
8F, and 747–8 series airplanes, certificated in
any category.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 34, Navigation.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of dual
flight management computer (FMC) cold
starts during a critical flight phase such as
takeoff and approach. The FAA is issuing
this AD to address dual FMC cold starts,
which can result in a loss of flight critical
data from flight deck displays during a high
workload phase of flight. This condition, if
not addressed, could reduce the flightcrew’s
situational awareness, resulting in a loss of
continued safe flight and landing.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
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(g) Definition
For the purposes of this AD, later-approved
software versions are only those Boeing
software versions that are approved as a
replacement for the applicable software
identified in Boeing Alert Requirements
Bulletin 747–34A3119 RB, dated February
15, 2019; or Boeing Alert Requirements
Bulletin 747–34A3125 RB, dated February
15, 2019; and are approved as part of the type
design by the FAA or The Boeing Company
Organization Designation Authorization
(ODA) after February 15, 2019 (the issuance
date of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
747–34A3119 RB; and Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 747–34A3125 RB).
(h) Required Actions
(1) For airplanes that have an original
airworthiness certificate or export certificate
of airworthiness issued on or before the
effective date of this AD: Within 6 months
after the effective date of this AD, inspect the
FMC left and FMC right to determine if FMC
operational program software (OPS) software,
part number (P/N) HNP5A–AL11–9008, or
later-approved software version, as defined
in paragraph (g) of this AD, is installed. A
review of airplane maintenance records is
acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the
part number of the FMC OPS can be
conclusively determined from that review.
(2) If, during any inspection or records
review required by paragraph (h)(1) of this
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:03 Aug 07, 2019
Jkt 247001
AD, FMC OPS, P/N HNP5A–AL11–9008, or
later-approved software version, as defined
in paragraph (g) of this AD, is not found:
Within 6 months after the effective date of
this AD, do all applicable actions identified
in, and in accordance with, the applicable
Concurrent Requirements and
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 747–34A3119 RB,
dated February 15, 2019; or Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 747–34A3125 RB,
dated February 15, 2019; as applicable.
Note 1 to paragraph (g): Guidance for
accomplishing the actions required by this
AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 747–34A3119, dated February 15,
2019, which is referred to in Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 747–34A3119 RB,
dated February 15, 2019; and Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 747–34A3125, dated
February 15, 2019, which is referred to in
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 747–
34A3125 RB, dated February 15, 2019.
(i) Parts Installation Limitation
As of the effective date of this AD: Do not
install FMC software unless it is FMC OPS,
P/N HNP5A–AL11–9008 or later-approved
software version, as defined in paragraph (g)
of this AD.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Seattle ACO Branch,
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs
for this AD, if requested using the procedures
found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with
14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your
principal inspector or local Flight Standards
District Office, as appropriate. If sending
information directly to the manager of the
certification office, send it to the attention of
the person identified in paragraph (k)(1) of
this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@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.
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable
level of safety may be used for any repair,
modification, or alteration required by this
AD if it is approved by The Boeing Company
ODA that has been authorized by the
Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, to make
those findings. To be approved, the repair
method, modification deviation, or alteration
deviation must meet the certification basis of
the airplane, and the approval must
specifically refer to this AD.
(k) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD,
contact Nelson Sanchez, Aerospace Engineer,
Systems and Equipment Section, FAA,
Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St.,
Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax:
206–231–3543; email: nelson.sanchez@
faa.gov.
(2) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Boeing Commercial
Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd.,
MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600;
telephone 562–797–1717; internet https://
PO 00000
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Fmt 4702
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38889
www.myboeingfleet.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.
Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on July
29, 2019.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2019–16815 Filed 8–7–19; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2019–0603; Product
Identifier 2019–NM–087–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
Company Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
The FAA proposes to adopt a
new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain The Boeing Company Model
777–300ER and 777F series airplanes.
This proposed AD was prompted by an
evaluation by the design approval
holder (DAH) indicating that the
fuselage stringers, stringer splices, and
skin splice straps are subject to
widespread fatigue damage (WFD). This
proposed AD would require repetitive
detailed inspections of certain stringer
splices and skin splice straps for any
cracks, repetitive high frequency eddy
current (HFEC) inspections of certain
stringers and stringer splices for any
cracks, and applicable on-condition
actions. The agency is proposing this
AD to address the unsafe condition on
these products.
DATES: The FAA must receive comments
on this proposed AD by September 23,
2019.
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.
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\08AUP1.SGM
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Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 153 (Thursday, August 8, 2019)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 38887-38889]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-16815]
========================================================================
Proposed Rules
Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.
========================================================================
Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 153 / Thursday, August 8, 2019 /
Proposed Rules
[[Page 38887]]
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2019-0576; Product Identifier 2019-NM-049-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD)
for all The Boeing Company Model 747-400, 747-400F, 747-8F, and 747-8
series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of dual
flight management computer (FMC) cold starts during a critical flight
phase such as takeoff and approach. This proposed AD would require an
inspection to determine if certain software is installed, installation
of FMC operational program software (OPS) and a software configuration
check, and applicable concurrent requirements. The FAA is proposing
this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by September
23, 2019.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
Fax: 202-493-2251.
Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Boeing
Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS),
2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-5600;
telephone 562-797-1717; internet https://www.myboeingfleet.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-2019-0576.
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-2019-
0576; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.,
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains
this NPRM, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other
information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above.
Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Nelson Sanchez, Aerospace Engineer,
Systems and Equipment Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South
216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax: 206-231-3543;
email: [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed
under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2019-0576;
Product Identifier 2019-NM-049-AD'' at the beginning of your comments.
The FAA specifically invites comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this NPRM. The agency
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend
this NPRM because of those comments.
The FAA will post all comments, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide.
The agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal
contact received about this proposed AD.
Discussion
The FAA has received reports indicating that some operators
experienced dual FMC cold starts during a critical flight phase such as
takeoff and approach. A cold start is a computer reset that is
equivalent to starting from an unpowered (cold) state. During a cold
start, the computer is not available to perform its intended function.
Dual FMC cold starts can result in a loss of flight critical data from
flight deck displays during a high workload phase of flight. This
condition, if not addressed, could reduce the flightcrew's situational
awareness, resulting in a loss of continued safe flight and landing.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 747-34A3119 RB,
dated February 15, 2019; and Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 747-
34A3125 RB, dated February 15, 2019. The service information describes
procedures for installation of the FMC OPS, part number (P/N) HNP5A-
AL11-9008, or later-approved software version, and a software
configuration check, and applicable concurrent requirements (installing
certain software and hardware). These documents are distinct since they
apply to airplanes in different configurations.
This service information is reasonably available because the
interested parties have access to it through their normal course of
business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.
FAA's Determination
The FAA is proposing this AD because the agency evaluated all the
relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described
previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same
type design.
Proposed AD Requirements
This proposed AD would require an inspection to determine if
certain software is installed, and if necessary, accomplishment of the
actions
[[Page 38888]]
identified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 747-34A3119 RB, dated
February 15, 2019; and Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 747-34A3125
RB, dated February 15, 2019; described previously, except as discussed
under ``Differences Between this Proposed AD and the Service
Information'' and except for any differences identified as exceptions
in the regulatory text of this proposed AD.
For information on the procedures and compliance times, see this
service information at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and
locating Docket No. FAA-2019-0576.
Explanation of Requirements Bulletin
The FAA worked in conjunction with industry, under the
Airworthiness Directive Implementation Aviation Rulemaking Committee
(AD ARC), to enhance the AD system. One enhancement is a process for
annotating which steps in the service information are ``required for
compliance'' (RC) with an AD. Boeing has implemented this RC concept
into Boeing service bulletins.
In an effort to further improve the quality of ADs and AD-related
Boeing service information, a joint process improvement initiative was
worked between the FAA and Boeing. The initiative resulted in the
development of a new process in which the service information more
clearly identifies the actions needed to address the unsafe condition
in the ``Accomplishment Instructions.'' The new process results in a
Boeing Requirements Bulletin, which contains only the actions needed to
address the unsafe condition (i.e., only the RC actions).
Differences Between This Proposed AD and the Service Information
The effectivity of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 747-34A3119
RB, dated February 15, 2019; and Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
747-34A3125 RB, dated February 15, 2019; is limited to certain
airplanes as identified in the service information. However, the
applicability of this proposed AD includes all Boeing Model 747-400,
747-400F, 747-8F, and 747-8 series airplanes. Because the affected
software versions are rotable, the FAA has determined that these
software versions could later be installed on airplanes that were
initially delivered with acceptable software, thereby subjecting those
airplanes to the unsafe condition. We have confirmed with Boeing that
the Accomplishment Instructions in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
747-34A3119 RB, dated February 15, 2019, and Boeing Alert Requirements
Bulletin 747-34A3125 RB, dated February 15, 2019, are applicable to the
affected airplanes.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this proposed AD affects 115 airplanes of
U.S. registry. The agency estimates the following costs to comply with
this proposed AD:
Estimated Costs for Required Actions
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Records check or inspection....... 1 work-hour x $85 per hour $0 $85................................ $9,775.
= $85.
Software installation and 2 work-hours x $85 per (*) $170 *............................. $19,550.*
configuration check. hour = $170.
Concurrent actions................ Up to 119 work-hours x $85 (*) Up to $10,115 *.................... Up to $1,163,225.*
per hour = $10,115.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The FAA has received no definitive data that would enable the agency to provide parts cost-estimates for the software installation or concurrent
actions specified in this proposed AD.
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.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: ``General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
This proposed AD is issued in accordance with authority delegated
by the Executive Director, Aircraft Certification Service, as
authorized by FAA Order 8000.51C. In accordance with that order,
issuance of ADs is normally a function of the Compliance and
Airworthiness Division, but during this transition period, the
Executive Director has delegated the authority to issue ADs applicable
to transport category airplanes and associated appliances to the
Director of the System Oversight Division.
Regulatory Findings
The FAA has determined that this proposed AD would not have
federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD
would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the
relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of
government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed
regulation:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
[[Page 38889]]
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA-2019-0576; Product Identifier
2019-NM-049-AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
The FAA must receive comments by September 23, 2019.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 747-400, 747-
400F, 747-8F, and 747-8 series airplanes, certificated in any
category.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 34, Navigation.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of dual flight management
computer (FMC) cold starts during a critical flight phase such as
takeoff and approach. The FAA is issuing this AD to address dual FMC
cold starts, which can result in a loss of flight critical data from
flight deck displays during a high workload phase of flight. This
condition, if not addressed, could reduce the flightcrew's
situational awareness, resulting in a loss of continued safe flight
and landing.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Definition
For the purposes of this AD, later-approved software versions
are only those Boeing software versions that are approved as a
replacement for the applicable software identified in Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 747-34A3119 RB, dated February 15, 2019; or
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 747-34A3125 RB, dated February
15, 2019; and are approved as part of the type design by the FAA or
The Boeing Company Organization Designation Authorization (ODA)
after February 15, 2019 (the issuance date of Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 747-34A3119 RB; and Boeing Alert Requirements
Bulletin 747-34A3125 RB).
(h) Required Actions
(1) For airplanes that have an original airworthiness
certificate or export certificate of airworthiness issued on or
before the effective date of this AD: Within 6 months after the
effective date of this AD, inspect the FMC left and FMC right to
determine if FMC operational program software (OPS) software, part
number (P/N) HNP5A-AL11-9008, or later-approved software version, as
defined in paragraph (g) of this AD, is installed. A review of
airplane maintenance records is acceptable in lieu of this
inspection if the part number of the FMC OPS can be conclusively
determined from that review.
(2) If, during any inspection or records review required by
paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, FMC OPS, P/N HNP5A-AL11-9008, or later-
approved software version, as defined in paragraph (g) of this AD,
is not found: Within 6 months after the effective date of this AD,
do all applicable actions identified in, and in accordance with, the
applicable Concurrent Requirements and Accomplishment Instructions
of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 747-34A3119 RB, dated February
15, 2019; or Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 747-34A3125 RB,
dated February 15, 2019; as applicable.
Note 1 to paragraph (g): Guidance for accomplishing the actions
required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
747-34A3119, dated February 15, 2019, which is referred to in Boeing
Alert Requirements Bulletin 747-34A3119 RB, dated February 15, 2019;
and Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-34A3125, dated February 15,
2019, which is referred to in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
747-34A3125 RB, dated February 15, 2019.
(i) Parts Installation Limitation
As of the effective date of this AD: Do not install FMC software
unless it is FMC OPS, P/N HNP5A-AL11-9008 or later-approved software
version, as defined in paragraph (g) of this AD.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, has the authority to
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found
in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request
to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District
Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the
manager of the certification office, send it to the attention of the
person identified in paragraph (k)(1) of this AD. Information may be
emailed 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.
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be
used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD
if it is approved by The Boeing Company ODA that has been authorized
by the Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, to make those findings. To
be approved, the repair method, modification deviation, or
alteration deviation must meet the certification basis of the
airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD.
(k) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact Nelson Sanchez,
Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Equipment Section, FAA, Seattle ACO
Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and
fax: 206-231-3543; email: [email protected].
(2) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services
(C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-
5600; telephone 562-797-1717; internet https://www.myboeingfleet.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.
Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on July 29, 2019.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2019-16815 Filed 8-7-19; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P