Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes, 45776-45779 [2020-16485]

Download as PDF 45776 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 147 / Thursday, July 30, 2020 / Rules and Regulations www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued on July 16, 2020. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2020–16408 Filed 7–29–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2020–0588; Product Identifier 2020–NM–048–AD; Amendment 39–21173; AD 2020–15–10] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus SAS Model A350–941 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of improperly locked diagonal struts located in a certain section of the fuselage; the teeth of the lock washers were incorrectly engaged, which could lead to a loss of tightening torque of an affected strut. This AD requires inspecting the diagonal strut for correct installation and for correct locking of the lock washers, and corrective actions if necessary, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD becomes effective August 14, 2020. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of August 14, 2020. The FAA must receive comments on this AD by September 14, 2020. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:01 Jul 29, 2020 Jkt 250001 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For the material identified in this AD that is incorporated by reference (IBR), contact the EASA, Konrad-AdenauerUfer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 89990 1000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; internet www.easa.europa.eu. You may view this IBR material at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety 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 by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020– 0588. attachments or rear cone joints, and consequent reduction or loss of control of the airplane. See the MCAI for additional background information. Examining the AD Docket FAA’s Determination This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, the FAA has been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI referenced above. The FAA is issuing this AD because the FAA evaluated all pertinent information and determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020– 0588; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, 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: Kathleen Arrigotti, Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206–231–3218; email kathleen.arrigotti@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion The EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 2020–0071, dated March 25, 2020 (‘‘EASA AD 2020–0071’’) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus SAS Model A350–941 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of improperly locked diagonal struts located in a certain section of the fuselage; the teeth of the lock washers were incorrectly engaged, which could lead to a loss of tightening torque of an affected strut. The FAA is issuing this AD to address this condition, which could affect the structural integrity of the surrounding parts, possibly resulting in failure of the horizontal tail plane PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Related IBR Material Under 1 CFR Part 51 EASA AD 2020–0071 describes procedures for inspecting the diagonal strut for correct installation and for correct locking of the lock washers, and corrective actions if necessary. The corrective actions include a general visual inspection of the affected strut for damage, repair of damaged struts, and re-installation of affected struts with no damage. 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. Requirements of This AD This AD requires accomplishing the actions specified in EASA AD 2020– 0071 described previously, as incorporated by reference, except for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this AD. Explanation of Required Compliance Information In the FAA’s ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of the AD process, the FAA initially worked with Airbus and EASA to develop a process to use certain EASA ADs as the primary source of information for compliance with requirements for corresponding FAA ADs. The FAA has since coordinated with other manufacturers and civil aviation authorities (CAAs) to use this process. As a result, EASA AD 2020–0071 is incorporated by reference in this final rule. This AD, therefore, requires compliance with EASA AD 2020–0071 in its entirety, through that incorporation, except for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this AD. Using common terms that are the same as the heading of a particular section in the E:\FR\FM\30JYR1.SGM 30JYR1 45777 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 147 / Thursday, July 30, 2020 / Rules and Regulations EASA AD does not mean that operators need comply only with that section. For example, where the AD requirement refers to ‘‘all required actions and compliance times,’’ compliance with this AD requirement is not limited to the section titled ‘‘Required Action(s) and Compliance Time(s)’’ in the EASA AD. Service information specified in EASA AD 2020–0071 that is required for compliance with EASA AD 2020–0071 is available on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020– 0588. FAA’s Justification and Determination of the Effective Date Since there are currently no domestic operators of these products, notice and opportunity for public comment before issuing this AD are unnecessary. In addition, for the reasons stated above, the FAA finds that good cause exists for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days. Comments Invited This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety, and the FAA did not precede it by notice and opportunity for public comment. The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2020–0588; Product Identifier 2020–NM–048–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this AD based on those comments. Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 11.35, the FAA will post all comments the FAA receives, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The FAA will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact the FAA receives about this AD. Confidential Business Information CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public disclosure. If your comments responsive to this final rule, request for comments, contain commercial or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to this final rule, request for comments, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing CBI as ‘‘PROPIN.’’ The FAA will treat such marked submissions as confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public docket of this final rule, request for comments. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to the person identified in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking. Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) The requirements of the RFA do not apply when an agency finds good cause pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553 to adopt a rule without prior notice and comment. Because the FAA has determined that it has good cause to adopt this rule without notice and comment, RFA analysis is not required. Costs of Compliance Currently, there are no affected U.S.registered airplanes. If an affected airplane is imported and placed on the U.S. Register in the future, the FAA provides the following cost estimates to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED ACTIONS * Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product 3 work-hours × $85 per hour = $340 ...................................................................................................................... $0 $255 * Table does not include estimated costs for reporting. The FAA estimates that it would take about 1 work-hour per product to comply with the reporting requirement in this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per hour. Based on these figures, the FAA estimates the cost of reporting the inspection results on U.S. operators to be $85 per product. ESTIMATED COSTS OF ON-CONDITION ACTIONS * Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product 2 work-hours × $85 per hour = $170 ...................................................................................................................... $0 $170 * Table does not include estimated costs for the on-condition repair of damaged struts. The FAA has received no definitive data that would enable us to provide cost estimates for that action. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES Paperwork Reduction Act A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information displays a current valid VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:01 Jul 29, 2020 Jkt 250001 OMB control number. The control number for the collection of information required by this AD is 2120–0056. The paperwork cost associated with this AD has been detailed in the Costs of Compliance section of this document and includes time for reviewing instructions, as well as completing and reviewing the collection of information. Therefore, all reporting associated with PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 this AD is mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to Information Collection Clearance Officer, Federal Aviation Administration, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177–1524. E:\FR\FM\30JYR1.SGM 30JYR1 45778 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 147 / Thursday, July 30, 2020 / Rules and Regulations 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. Regulatory Findings The FAA determined that this AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, and (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska. 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: ■ khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES 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): ■ 2020–15–10 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39– 21173; Docket No. FAA–2020–0588; Product Identifier 2020–NM–048–AD. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:01 Jul 29, 2020 Jkt 250001 (a) Effective Date This AD becomes effective August 14, 2020. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies Airbus SAS Model A350– 941 airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020–0071, dated March 25, 2020 (‘‘EASA AD 2020–0071’’). (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by reports of improperly locked diagonal struts located in a certain section of the fuselage; the teeth of the lock washers were incorrectly engaged, which could lead to a loss of tightening torque of an affected strut. The FAA is issuing this AD to address this condition, which could affect the structural integrity of the surrounding parts, possibly resulting in failure of the horizontal tail plane attachments or rear cone joints, and consequent reduction or loss of control of the airplane. (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, EASA AD 2020–0071. (h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2020–0071 (1) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD 2020–0071 does not apply to this AD. (2) Paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2020–0071 specifies to report inspection results to Airbus within a certain compliance time. For this AD, report inspection results at the applicable time specified in paragraph (h)(2)(i) or (ii) of this AD. (i) If the inspection was done on or after the effective date of this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the inspection. (ii) If the inspection was done before the effective date of this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the effective date of this AD. (i) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation 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 Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (j) of this AD. PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR730-AMOC@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, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation 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 2020–0071 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. (4) Paperwork Reduction Act Burden Statement: A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 2120–0056. Public reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. All responses to this collection of information are mandatory as required by this AD; the nature and extent of confidentiality to be provided, if any. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden to Information Collection Clearance Officer, Federal Aviation Administration, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177–1524. (j) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Kathleen Arrigotti, Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206–231–3218; email kathleen.arrigotti@faa.gov. (k) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference E:\FR\FM\30JYR1.SGM 30JYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 147 / Thursday, July 30, 2020 / Rules and Regulations (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 Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020–0071, dated March 25, 2020. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For information about EASA AD 2020– 0071, contact the EASA, Konrad-AdenauerUfer 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 material at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. This material may be found in the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–0588. (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, email fedreg.legal@ nara.gov, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/ federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. Issued on July 13, 2020. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2020–16485 Filed 7–29–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2018–0598; Product Identifier 2018–SW–030–AD; Amendment 39–21194; AD 2020–16–10] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Bell Textron Inc. (Type Certificate Previously Held by Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.) Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bell Textron Inc. (Bell) Model 204B, 205A, 205A–1, 205B, 212, 214B, 214B– 1, 412, 412CF, and 412EP helicopters. This AD was prompted by a report of a shoulder harness seat belt comfort clip (comfort clip) interfering with the seat belt inertia reel. This AD requires removing comfort clips from service and inspecting the seat belt shoulder harness khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:01 Jul 29, 2020 Jkt 250001 (harness) for a rip or an abrasion. The actions of this AD are intended to address an unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective September 3, 2020. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact Bell Textron Inc., P.O. Box 482, Fort Worth, TX 76101; telephone 817–280–3391; fax 817–280–6466; or at https:// www.bellcustomer.com. You may view the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. 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– 0598; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, any comments received, and other information. The address for Docket Operations 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: Kuethe Harmon, Safety Management Program Manager, DSCO Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222–5198; fax: 817–222–4960; email: Kuethe.Harmon@ faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Bell Model 204B, 205A, 205A– 1, 205B, 212, 214B, 214B–1, 412, 412CF, and 412EP helicopters with a comfort clip part number (P/N) D7LZ–6560286– A, D7LZ–6560286–B, or 504636–401 installed. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on April 6, 2020 (85 FR, 19113). The NPRM was prompted by a series of service bulletins issued by Bell reporting an issue with comfort clip P/Ns D7LZ–6560286–A, D7LZ– 6560286–B, and 504636–401, which are installed on seat belt assemblies. A design review by Leonardo S.p.A. Helicopter (formerly Agusta S.p.A., Finmeccanica S.p.A.) indicates the use of the affected comfort clips could jeopardize, in cases of impact or deceleration, the correct functionality of the seat belt or the seat belt inertia reel. The NPRM proposed to require PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 45779 removing comfort clips P/Ns D7LZ– 6560286–A, D7LZ–6560286–B, and 504636–401from service and inspecting each harness for a rip or an abrasion. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. Comments The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD, but the FAA did not receive any comments on the NPRM. FAA’s Determination The FAA has reviewed the relevant information and determined that an unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same type designs and that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD requirements as proposed. Related Service Information The FAA reviewed Bell Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) 204B–15–70 for Model 204B helicopters, Bell ASB 205–15–113 for Model 205A and 205A–1 helicopters, Bell ASB 205B–15–66 for Model 205B helicopters, Bell ASB 212– 15–156 for Model 212 helicopters, Bell ASB 412–15–170 for Model 412 and 412EP helicopters, and Bell ASB 412CF–15–60 for Model 412CF helicopters, all dated January 20, 2016. The FAA also reviewed Bell ASB 214– 15–76, dated January 11, 2016, for Model 214B and 214B–1 helicopters. This service information specifies removing the comfort clips from all crew and passenger seat belt assemblies. Differences Between This AD and the Service Information The service information specifies a compliance time of within 100 flight hours or no later than February 21, 2016, and does not specify inspecting each harness for a rip and an abrasion. This AD requires a compliance time of within 50 hours TIS and requires inspecting each harness for a rip and an abrasion. The FAA determined that including an inspection for harness damage is necessary to correct the unsafe condition. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD affects 210 helicopters of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates that operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD. Labor costs are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Removing a comfort clip takes about 0.5 work-hour, for an estimated cost of $43 per comfort clip. E:\FR\FM\30JYR1.SGM 30JYR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 147 (Thursday, July 30, 2020)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 45776-45779]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-16485]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2020-0588; Product Identifier 2020-NM-048-AD; Amendment 
39-21173; AD 2020-15-10]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
certain Airbus SAS Model A350-941 airplanes. This AD was prompted by 
reports of improperly locked diagonal struts located in a certain 
section of the fuselage; the teeth of the lock washers were incorrectly 
engaged, which could lead to a loss of tightening torque of an affected 
strut. This AD requires inspecting the diagonal strut for correct 
installation and for correct locking of the lock washers, and 
corrective actions if necessary, as specified in a European Union 
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. 
The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these 
products.

DATES: This AD becomes effective August 14, 2020.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of August 14, 
2020.
    The FAA must receive comments on this AD by September 14, 2020.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For the material identified in this AD that is incorporated by 
reference (IBR), contact the EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 
Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 89990 1000; email 
[email protected]; internet www.easa.europa.eu. You may view this IBR 
material at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety 
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 by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-
0588.

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-2020-
0588; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains 
this AD, 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: Kathleen Arrigotti, Aerospace 
Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA, 
2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206-231-
3218; email [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    The EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the 
European Union, has issued EASA AD 2020-0071, dated March 25, 2020 
(``EASA AD 2020-0071'') (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing 
Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe 
condition for certain Airbus SAS Model A350-941 airplanes.
    This AD was prompted by reports of improperly locked diagonal 
struts located in a certain section of the fuselage; the teeth of the 
lock washers were incorrectly engaged, which could lead to a loss of 
tightening torque of an affected strut. The FAA is issuing this AD to 
address this condition, which could affect the structural integrity of 
the surrounding parts, possibly resulting in failure of the horizontal 
tail plane attachments or rear cone joints, and consequent reduction or 
loss of control of the airplane. See the MCAI for additional background 
information.

Related IBR Material Under 1 CFR Part 51

    EASA AD 2020-0071 describes procedures for inspecting the diagonal 
strut for correct installation and for correct locking of the lock 
washers, and corrective actions if necessary. The corrective actions 
include a general visual inspection of the affected strut for damage, 
repair of damaged struts, and re-installation of affected struts with 
no damage.
    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.

FAA's Determination

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, the FAA 
has been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI 
referenced above. The FAA is issuing this AD because the FAA evaluated 
all pertinent information and determined the unsafe condition exists 
and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type 
design.

Requirements of This AD

    This AD requires accomplishing the actions specified in EASA AD 
2020-0071 described previously, as incorporated by reference, except 
for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of 
this AD.

Explanation of Required Compliance Information

    In the FAA's ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of the AD 
process, the FAA initially worked with Airbus and EASA to develop a 
process to use certain EASA ADs as the primary source of information 
for compliance with requirements for corresponding FAA ADs. The FAA has 
since coordinated with other manufacturers and civil aviation 
authorities (CAAs) to use this process. As a result, EASA AD 2020-0071 
is incorporated by reference in this final rule. This AD, therefore, 
requires compliance with EASA AD 2020-0071 in its entirety, through 
that incorporation, except for any differences identified as exceptions 
in the regulatory text of this AD. Using common terms that are the same 
as the heading of a particular section in the

[[Page 45777]]

EASA AD does not mean that operators need comply only with that 
section. For example, where the AD requirement refers to ``all required 
actions and compliance times,'' compliance with this AD requirement is 
not limited to the section titled ``Required Action(s) and Compliance 
Time(s)'' in the EASA AD. Service information specified in EASA AD 
2020-0071 that is required for compliance with EASA AD 2020-0071 is 
available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching 
for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-0588.

FAA's Justification and Determination of the Effective Date

    Since there are currently no domestic operators of these products, 
notice and opportunity for public comment before issuing this AD are 
unnecessary. In addition, for the reasons stated above, the FAA finds 
that good cause exists for making this amendment effective in less than 
30 days.

Comments Invited

    This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight 
safety, and the FAA did not precede it by notice and opportunity for 
public comment. The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, 
views, or arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2020-0588; 
Product Identifier 2020-NM-048-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. 
The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, 
explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting 
data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date 
and may amend this AD based on those comments.
    Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in 
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 
11.35, the FAA will post all comments the FAA receives, without change, 
to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you 
provide. The FAA will also post a report summarizing each substantive 
verbal contact the FAA receives about this AD.

Confidential Business Information

    CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily 
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of 
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public 
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this final rule, request for 
comments, contain commercial or financial information that is 
customarily treated as private, that you actually treat as private, and 
that is relevant or responsive to this final rule, request for 
comments, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted 
comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing 
CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked submissions as 
confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public 
docket of this final rule, request for comments. Submissions containing 
CBI should be sent to the person identified in the FOR FURTHER 
INFORMATION CONTACT section. Any commentary that the FAA receives which 
is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public 
docket for this rulemaking.

Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA)

    The requirements of the RFA do not apply when an agency finds good 
cause pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553 to adopt a rule without prior notice and 
comment. Because the FAA has determined that it has good cause to adopt 
this rule without notice and comment, RFA analysis is not required.

Costs of Compliance

    Currently, there are no affected U.S.-registered airplanes. If an 
affected airplane is imported and placed on the U.S. Register in the 
future, the FAA provides the following cost estimates to comply with 
this AD:

                 Estimated Costs for Required Actions *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             Cost per
              Labor cost                   Parts cost        product
------------------------------------------------------------------------
3 work-hours x $85 per hour = $340....              $0             $255
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Table does not include estimated costs for reporting.

    The FAA estimates that it would take about 1 work-hour per product 
to comply with the reporting requirement in this AD. The average labor 
rate is $85 per hour. Based on these figures, the FAA estimates the 
cost of reporting the inspection results on U.S. operators to be $85 
per product.

                Estimated Costs of On-Condition Actions *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             Cost per
              Labor cost                   Parts cost        product
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 work-hours x $85 per hour = $170....              $0             $170
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Table does not include estimated costs for the on-condition repair of
  damaged struts. The FAA has received no definitive data that would
  enable us to provide cost estimates for that action.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not 
required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to penalty for 
failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the 
requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of 
information displays a current valid OMB control number. The control 
number for the collection of information required by this AD is 2120-
0056. The paperwork cost associated with this AD has been detailed in 
the Costs of Compliance section of this document and includes time for 
reviewing instructions, as well as completing and reviewing the 
collection of information. Therefore, all reporting associated with 
this AD is mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden 
and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to 
Information Collection Clearance Officer, Federal Aviation 
Administration, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177-1524.

[[Page 45778]]

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.

Regulatory Findings

    The FAA determined that this AD will not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a 
substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between 
the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power 
and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866, and
    (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska.

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):

2020-15-10 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39-21173; Docket No. FAA-2020-0588; 
Product Identifier 2020-NM-048-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective August 14, 2020.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies Airbus SAS Model A350-941 airplanes, 
certificated in any category, as identified in European Union 
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020-0071, dated March 25, 2020 
(``EASA AD 2020-0071'').

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by reports of improperly locked diagonal 
struts located in a certain section of the fuselage; the teeth of 
the lock washers were incorrectly engaged, which could lead to a 
loss of tightening torque of an affected strut. The FAA is issuing 
this AD to address this condition, which could affect the structural 
integrity of the surrounding parts, possibly resulting in failure of 
the horizontal tail plane attachments or rear cone joints, and 
consequent reduction or loss of control of the airplane.

(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, EASA AD 2020-0071.

(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2020-0071

    (1) The ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD 2020-0071 does not apply 
to this AD.
    (2) Paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2020-0071 specifies to report 
inspection results to Airbus within a certain compliance time. For 
this AD, report inspection results at the applicable time specified 
in paragraph (h)(2)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
    (i) If the inspection was done on or after the effective date of 
this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the inspection.
    (ii) If the inspection was done before the effective date of 
this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the effective date 
of this AD.

(i) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
Large Aircraft Section, International Validation 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 Large Aircraft Section, International Validation 
Branch, 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, Large Aircraft 
Section, International Validation 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 2020-0071 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.
    (4) Paperwork Reduction Act Burden Statement: A federal agency 
may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond 
to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply 
with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the 
Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information 
displays a current valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Control Number 
for this information collection is 2120-0056. Public reporting for 
this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 1 
hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, 
searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data 
needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. 
All responses to this collection of information are mandatory as 
required by this AD; the nature and extent of confidentiality to be 
provided, if any. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or 
any other aspect of this collection of information, including 
suggestions for reducing this burden to Information Collection 
Clearance Officer, Federal Aviation Administration, 10101 Hillwood 
Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177-1524.

(j) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Kathleen Arrigotti, 
Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation 
Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone 
and fax 206-231-3218; email [email protected].

(k) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference

[[Page 45779]]

(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 Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020-0071, 
dated March 25, 2020.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) For information about EASA AD 2020-0071, contact the 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 material at the FAA, Airworthiness 
Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St., 
Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material 
at the FAA, call 206-231-3195. This material may be found in the AD 
docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching 
for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-0588.
    (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, email 
[email protected], or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued on July 13, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-16485 Filed 7-29-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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