Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes, 10767-10770 [2021-03566]
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 34 / Tuesday, February 23, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
(l) Related Information
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) Canadian
AD CF–2020–09, dated April 7, 2020, for
related information. This MCAI may be
found in the AD docket on the internet at
https://www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–0691.
(2) For more information about this AD,
contact Andrea Jimenez, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe and Propulsion Section, FAA, New
York ACO Branch, 1600 Stewart Avenue,
Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone
516–228–7330; fax 516–794–5531; email 9avs-nyaco-cos@faa.gov.
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Bombardier Service Bulletin 601R–32–
112, dated November 11, 2019.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For service information identified in
this AD, contact MHI RJ Aviation ULC, 12655
Henri-Fabre Blvd., Mirabel, Que´bec, J7N 1E1
Canada; Widebody Customer Response
Center North America toll-free telephone +1–
844–272–2720 or direct-dial telephone +1–
514–855–8500; fax +1–514–855–8501; email
thd.crj@mhirj.com; internet https://
mhirj.com.
(4) You may view this service information
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.
(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,
email fedreg.legal@nara.gov, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued on December 28, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021–03565 Filed 2–22–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
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Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2020–0674; Product
Identifier 2020–NM–070–AD; Amendment
39–21382; AD 2021–01–06]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Airbus SAS Model A330–200 and
A330–300 series airplanes, and all
Model A340–200 and A340–300 series
airplanes. This AD was prompted by
reports of hydraulic system failure due
to fatigue failure of the screws attaching
the manual valve to the ground service
manifold (GSM). This AD requires, for
certain GSMs, repetitive replacement of
the hydraulic system GSM manual valve
attachment screws having certain part
numbers; and, for certain other GSMs
with certain screws installed,
replacement of those screws, 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 is effective March 30,
2021.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in this AD
as of March 30, 2021.
ADDRESSES: For EASA material
incorporated by reference (IBR) in this
AD, contact the EASA, KonradAdenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne,
Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000;
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. For Airbus
material incorporated by reference in
this AD, contact Airbus SAS,
Airworthiness Office—EAL, Rond-Point
Emile Dewoitine No: 2, 31700 Blagnac
Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36
96; fax +33 5 61 93 45 80; email
airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com;
internet https://www.airbus.com. 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.
SUMMARY:
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10767
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–
0674.
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–
0674; 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,
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:
Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
Large Aircraft Section, International
Validation Branch, FAA, 2200 South
216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
telephone and fax 206–231–3229; email
vladimir.ulyanov@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
The EASA, which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD
2020–0093, dated April 24, 2020 (EASA
AD 2020–0093) (also referred to as the
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness
Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct
an unsafe condition for certain Airbus
SAS Model A330–200 and A330–300
series airplanes, and all Model A340–
200 and A340–300 series airplanes.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to certain Airbus SAS Model
A330–200 and A330–300 series
airplanes, and all Model A340–200 and
A340–300 series airplanes. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
July 31, 2020 (85 FR 46012). The NPRM
was prompted by reports of hydraulic
system failure due to fatigue failure of
the screws attaching the manual valve to
the GSM. The NPRM proposed to
require, for certain GSMs, repetitive
replacement of the hydraulic system
GSM manual valve attachment screws
having certain part numbers; and, for
certain other GSMs with certain screws
installed, replacement of those screws,
as specified in an EASA AD.
Comments
The FAA gave the public the
opportunity to participate in developing
this final rule. The following presents
the comments received on the NPRM
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and the FAA’s response to each
comment.
Support for the NPRM
The Air Line Pilots Association,
International (ALPA) stated its support
for the NPRM.
Request To Include Applicability
Exception
Delta Air Lines (Delta) asked that the
FAA include an exception statement in
paragraph (c) of the proposed AD
related to Airbus modification 58345.
Delta stated that EASA AD 2020–0093
includes the statement ‘‘except those on
which Airbus modification (mod) 58345
has been embodied in production.’’
Delta added that this would remove the
need for operators of post mod 58345
airplanes to demonstrate compliance
with an AD for which compliance is
impossible.
The FAA does not agree with the
commenter’s request. Paragraph (c) of
this AD identifies the affected airplane
models and specifies that this AD is
applicable to the airplanes identified in
EASA AD 2020–0093. Because the
applicability identified in EASA AD
2020–0093 excludes airplanes on which
Airbus modification 58345 is embodied
in production, it is not necessary to
restate that exclusion in this AD. EASA
AD 2020–0093 is incorporated by
reference in its entirety, which includes
the applicability therein. Therefore, the
FAA has not changed this AD in this
regard.
Request To Change AOT Reference
Delta asked that the ‘‘in accordance
with’’ statement in paragraph (g) of the
proposed AD be replaced by ‘‘refer to’’
Airbus Alert Operators Transmission
(AOT) A29L010–19, Revision 01, dated
February 18, 2020, paragraphs
4.4.2.1.(8), 4.4.2.1.(10), 4.4.2.2.(9) and
4.4.2.2.(11). Delta stated that the EASA
AD mandates accomplishment of the
referenced AOT, and the AOT includes
the following note: ‘‘NOTE 2: The
accomplishment instructions of this
AOT include procedures given in other
documents or in other sections of the
AOT. When the words ’refer to’ are used
and the operator has a procedure
accepted by the local authority he
belongs to, the accepted alternative
procedure can be used. When the words
‘in accordance with’ are used then the
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given procedure must be followed.’’
Delta added that paragraphs 4.4.2.1.(8)
and 4.4.2.2.(9) of the AOT use both
‘‘refer to’’ and ‘‘in accordance with,’’
and paragraphs 4.4.2.1.(10) and
4.4.2.2.(11) of the AOT use ‘‘in
accordance with’’ when referencing the
Airplane Maintenance Manual (AMM)
wirelocking procedures. Delta further
noted that in all cases, the AOT refers
to standard AMM procedures, testing
and wirelocking. As standard
procedures, Delta recommended that the
‘‘in accordance with’’ statement be
replaced by ‘‘refer to’’ for paragraphs
4.4.2.1.(8), 4.4.2.1.(10), 4.4.2.2.(9) and
4.4.2.2.(11) of the AOT.
The FAA agrees with the commenter’s
request for further clarification. It
should be clear to operators whether
specific procedures are mandatory.
Paragraph (h)(3) of the proposed AD
specified compliance with ‘‘paragraph
4.4.2., Accomplishment Instructions, of
the AOT’’ only. This means that these
actions must be completed in
accordance with certain procedures
specified in the Airbus AMM tasks
defined in Airbus AOT A29L010–19,
Revision 01, dated February 18, 2020.
The FAA has clarified paragraph (h)(3)
of this AD as follows: ‘‘Where EASA AD
2020–0093 specifies to comply with
‘‘the instructions of the AOT,’’ and ‘‘the
AOT’’ specifies that ‘‘the
accomplishment instructions marked as
Required for Compliance (RC) must be
done’’ this AD requires compliance with
‘‘paragraph 4.4.2., Accomplishment
Instructions, of the AOT [Airbus Alert
Operators Transmission A29L010–19,
Revision 01, dated February 18, 2020]
only; except paragraphs 4.4.2.1(1) and
4.4.2.2(1) which specify gaining access
to the ground service manifold and
preparation for update and may be
accomplished in accordance with the
operator’s maintenance or inspection
program.’’
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data,
considered the comments received, and
determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting this AD
with the change described previously,
and minor editorial changes. The FAA
has determined that these minor
changes:
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• 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.
The FAA also determined that this
change will not increase the economic
burden on any operator or increase the
scope of this AD.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2020–0093 describes
procedures for replacement of the
hydraulic system GSM manual valve
attachment screws. For GSMs with part
number (P/N) 70902–3 or P/N 70902–4
installed with screws having P/N
NAS1101–3H8, EASA AD 2020–0093
describes procedures for repetitive
replacement of those screws with new
screws having P/N NAS1101–3H8. For
GSMs with P/N 70902–5 installed with
screws having P/N NAS1101–3H8,
EASA AD 2020–0093 describes
procedures for replacement of those
screws with new bolts having P/N
EWB0420D–3H–3 or four new screws
having P/N NAS1101–3H8; if new
screws are installed, EASA AD 2020–
0093 describes procedures for replacing
them with new bolts having P/N
EWB0420D–3H–3 before the screws
exceed 10,000 flight cycles since
installation on an airplane. EASA AD
2020–0093 also describes an optional
terminating modification (replacement
of all affected GSMs), which would
terminate the repetitive replacements of
the attachment screws.
Airbus AOT A29L010–19, Revision
01, dated February 18, 2020, describes
procedures for initial and repetitive
replacement of certain GSM manualvalve screws and a one-time visual
inspection to determine if certain GSM
manual-valve screws are installed
instead of the correct bolts.
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.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 107 airplanes of U.S. registry.
The FAA estimates the following costs
to comply with this AD:
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10769
ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED ACTIONS
Labor cost
Cost per product
Cost on U.S.
operators
$595 per cycle ......
$63,665 per cycle.
Parts cost
7 work-hours × $85 per hour = $595 per cycle ............................................................
* $0
* The FAA has received no definitive data that would enable the agency to provide parts cost estimates for the required actions specified in
this AD.
ESTIMATED COSTS FOR OPTIONAL ACTIONS
Labor cost
Parts cost
Cost per
product
10 work-hours × $85 per hour = $850 ....................................................................................................................
* $0
$850
* The FAA has received no definitive data that would enable the agency to provide parts cost estimates for the optional actions specified in this
AD.
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. The FAA does not control
warranty coverage for affected
individuals. As a result, the FAA has
included all known costs in the 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.
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
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) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska, and
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(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.
(4) Model A340–311, –312, and –313
airplanes.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by reports of
hydraulic system failure due to fatigue failure
of the screws attaching the manual valve to
the ground service manifold (GSM). The FAA
is issuing this AD to address the failure of
hydraulic system manual valve attachment
screws. This condition, if not addressed,
could lead to the loss of one or more
hydraulic systems and damage to
surrounding structure and components,
possibly resulting in reduced control of the
airplane, or injury to maintenance staff
working in the main landing gear bay.
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:
■
2021–01–06 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39–
21382; Docket No. FAA–2020–0674;
Product Identifier 2020–NM–070–AD.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective March 30, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus SAS airplanes
specified in paragraphs (c)(1) through (4) of
this AD, certificated in any category, as
identified in European Union Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA) AD 2020–0093, dated April
24, 2020 (EASA AD 2020–0093).
(1) Model A330–201, –202, –203, –223, and
–243 airplanes.
(2) Model A330–301, –302, –303, –321,
–322, –323, –341, –342, and –343 airplanes.
(3) Model A340–211, –212, and –213
airplanes.
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(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 29, Hydraulic power.
(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 2020–0093.
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2020–0093
(1) Where EASA AD 2020–0093 refers to its
effective date or to ‘‘the effective date of
EASA AD 2019–0314,’’ this AD requires
using the effective date of this AD.
(2) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD
2020–0093 does not apply to this AD.
(3) Where EASA AD 2020–0093 specifies
to comply with ‘‘the instructions of the AOT
[Alert Operators Transmission],’’ and ‘‘the
AOT’’ specifies that ‘‘the accomplishment
instructions marked as Required for
Compliance (RC) must be done,’’ this AD
requires compliance with ‘‘paragraph 4.4.2.,
Accomplishment Instructions, of the AOT
[Airbus Alert Operators Transmission
A29L010–19, Revision 01, dated February 18,
2020]’’ only; except paragraphs 4.4.2.1(1) and
4.4.2.2(1), which specify gaining access to the
ground service manifold and preparation for
update, may be accomplished in accordance
with the operator’s maintenance or
inspection program.
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(i) No Reporting Requirement
Although the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2020–0093 specifies
to submit certain information to the
manufacturer, this AD does not include that
requirement.
(j) 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 (k) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116AMOC-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, 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
2020–0093 that contains RC procedures and
tests: Except as required by paragraphs (h)(3)
and (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.
(k) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace
Engineer, Large Aircraft Section,
International Validation Branch, FAA, 2200
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
telephone and fax 206–231–3229; email
vladimir.ulyanov@faa.gov.
(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.
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(i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2020–0093, dated April 24, 2020.
(ii) Airbus Alert Operators Transmission
A29L010–19, Revision 01, dated February 18,
2020.
(3) For EASA AD 2020–0093, contact the
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668
Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999
000; 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) For Airbus service information
identified in this AD, contact Airbus SAS,
Airworthiness Office—EAL, Rond-Point
Emile Dewoitine No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex,
France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33
5 61 93 45 80; email airworthiness.A330A340@airbus.com; internet https://
www.airbus.com.
(5) 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–2020–0674.
(6) 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 December 30, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
control modification kit installed,
during flights into icing conditions with
the landing gear down, ice can form on
the stall vane, which may result in
failure of the stall warning system. This
AD requires identifying and correcting
nonconforming stall warning heat
control systems. The FAA is issuing this
AD to address the unsafe condition on
these products.
DATES: This AD is effective March 30,
2021.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of March 30, 2021.
ADDRESSES: For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
Piper Aircraft Inc., 2926 Piper Drive,
Vero Beach, FL 32960; phone: 772–299–
2686; email: customerservice@
piper.com; website: https://
www.piper.com/. You may view this
service information at the FAA,
Airworthiness Products Section,
Operational Safety Branch, 901 Locust,
Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 816–329–4148.
It is also available at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–
0830.
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at
https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2020–0830; 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, 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: John
Lee, Aviation Safety Engineer, Atlanta
ACO Branch, FAA, 1701 Columbia
Avenue, College Park, GA 30337; phone:
(404) 474–5568; email: john.lee@
faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Piper Aircraft, Inc., (Piper) Models PA–
46–350P (Malibu Mirage), PA–46R–
350T (Malibu Matrix), and PA–46–
500TP (Malibu Meridian) airplanes.
This AD was prompted by a finding of
several airplanes with wing assemblies
that did not have the proper stall
warning heater modification design.
Without the proper stall warning heat
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to all Piper Models PA–46–350P
(Malibu Mirage), PA–46R–350T (Malibu
Matrix), and PA–46–500TP (Malibu
Meridian) airplanes. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
October 28, 2020 (85 FR 68255). The
NPRM was prompted by the finding of
[FR Doc. 2021–03566 Filed 2–22–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2020–0830; Project
Identifier 2020–CE–002–AD; Amendment
39–21428; AD 2021–04–07]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Piper
Aircraft, Inc. Airplanes
AGENCY:
SUMMARY:
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 34 (Tuesday, February 23, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 10767-10770]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-03566]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2020-0674; Product Identifier 2020-NM-070-AD; Amendment
39-21382; AD 2021-01-06]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Airbus SAS Model A330-200 and A330-300 series airplanes, and
all Model A340-200 and A340-300 series airplanes. This AD was prompted
by reports of hydraulic system failure due to fatigue failure of the
screws attaching the manual valve to the ground service manifold (GSM).
This AD requires, for certain GSMs, repetitive replacement of the
hydraulic system GSM manual valve attachment screws having certain part
numbers; and, for certain other GSMs with certain screws installed,
replacement of those screws, 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 is effective March 30, 2021.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of March 30,
2021.
ADDRESSES: For EASA material incorporated by reference (IBR) in this
AD, contact the EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany;
telephone +49 221 8999 000; email [email protected]; internet
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this IBR material on the EASA website
at https://ad.easa.europa.eu. For Airbus material incorporated by
reference in this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL,
Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France;
telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 45 80; email
[email protected]; internet https://www.airbus.com. 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-2020-0674.
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-
0674; 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, 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: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA, 2200
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206-231-3229;
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 2020-0093, dated April 24, 2020
(EASA AD 2020-0093) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe
condition for certain Airbus SAS Model A330-200 and A330-300 series
airplanes, and all Model A340-200 and A340-300 series airplanes.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Airbus SAS
Model A330-200 and A330-300 series airplanes, and all Model A340-200
and A340-300 series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal
Register on July 31, 2020 (85 FR 46012). The NPRM was prompted by
reports of hydraulic system failure due to fatigue failure of the
screws attaching the manual valve to the GSM. The NPRM proposed to
require, for certain GSMs, repetitive replacement of the hydraulic
system GSM manual valve attachment screws having certain part numbers;
and, for certain other GSMs with certain screws installed, replacement
of those screws, as specified in an EASA AD.
Comments
The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in
developing this final rule. The following presents the comments
received on the NPRM
[[Page 10768]]
and the FAA's response to each comment.
Support for the NPRM
The Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) stated its
support for the NPRM.
Request To Include Applicability Exception
Delta Air Lines (Delta) asked that the FAA include an exception
statement in paragraph (c) of the proposed AD related to Airbus
modification 58345. Delta stated that EASA AD 2020-0093 includes the
statement ``except those on which Airbus modification (mod) 58345 has
been embodied in production.'' Delta added that this would remove the
need for operators of post mod 58345 airplanes to demonstrate
compliance with an AD for which compliance is impossible.
The FAA does not agree with the commenter's request. Paragraph (c)
of this AD identifies the affected airplane models and specifies that
this AD is applicable to the airplanes identified in EASA AD 2020-0093.
Because the applicability identified in EASA AD 2020-0093 excludes
airplanes on which Airbus modification 58345 is embodied in production,
it is not necessary to restate that exclusion in this AD. EASA AD 2020-
0093 is incorporated by reference in its entirety, which includes the
applicability therein. Therefore, the FAA has not changed this AD in
this regard.
Request To Change AOT Reference
Delta asked that the ``in accordance with'' statement in paragraph
(g) of the proposed AD be replaced by ``refer to'' Airbus Alert
Operators Transmission (AOT) A29L010-19, Revision 01, dated February
18, 2020, paragraphs 4.4.2.1.(8), 4.4.2.1.(10), 4.4.2.2.(9) and
4.4.2.2.(11). Delta stated that the EASA AD mandates accomplishment of
the referenced AOT, and the AOT includes the following note: ``NOTE 2:
The accomplishment instructions of this AOT include procedures given in
other documents or in other sections of the AOT. When the words 'refer
to' are used and the operator has a procedure accepted by the local
authority he belongs to, the accepted alternative procedure can be
used. When the words `in accordance with' are used then the given
procedure must be followed.'' Delta added that paragraphs 4.4.2.1.(8)
and 4.4.2.2.(9) of the AOT use both ``refer to'' and ``in accordance
with,'' and paragraphs 4.4.2.1.(10) and 4.4.2.2.(11) of the AOT use
``in accordance with'' when referencing the Airplane Maintenance Manual
(AMM) wirelocking procedures. Delta further noted that in all cases,
the AOT refers to standard AMM procedures, testing and wirelocking. As
standard procedures, Delta recommended that the ``in accordance with''
statement be replaced by ``refer to'' for paragraphs 4.4.2.1.(8),
4.4.2.1.(10), 4.4.2.2.(9) and 4.4.2.2.(11) of the AOT.
The FAA agrees with the commenter's request for further
clarification. It should be clear to operators whether specific
procedures are mandatory. Paragraph (h)(3) of the proposed AD specified
compliance with ``paragraph 4.4.2., Accomplishment Instructions, of the
AOT'' only. This means that these actions must be completed in
accordance with certain procedures specified in the Airbus AMM tasks
defined in Airbus AOT A29L010-19, Revision 01, dated February 18, 2020.
The FAA has clarified paragraph (h)(3) of this AD as follows: ``Where
EASA AD 2020-0093 specifies to comply with ``the instructions of the
AOT,'' and ``the AOT'' specifies that ``the accomplishment instructions
marked as Required for Compliance (RC) must be done'' this AD requires
compliance with ``paragraph 4.4.2., Accomplishment Instructions, of the
AOT [Airbus Alert Operators Transmission A29L010-19, Revision 01, dated
February 18, 2020] only; except paragraphs 4.4.2.1(1) and 4.4.2.2(1)
which specify gaining access to the ground service manifold and
preparation for update and may be accomplished in accordance with the
operator's maintenance or inspection program.''
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments
received, and determined that air safety and the public interest
require adopting this AD with the change described previously, and
minor editorial changes. The FAA has 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.
The FAA also determined that this change will not increase the
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this AD.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2020-0093 describes procedures for replacement of the
hydraulic system GSM manual valve attachment screws. For GSMs with part
number (P/N) 70902-3 or P/N 70902-4 installed with screws having P/N
NAS1101-3H8, EASA AD 2020-0093 describes procedures for repetitive
replacement of those screws with new screws having P/N NAS1101-3H8. For
GSMs with P/N 70902-5 installed with screws having P/N NAS1101-3H8,
EASA AD 2020-0093 describes procedures for replacement of those screws
with new bolts having P/N EWB0420D-3H-3 or four new screws having P/N
NAS1101-3H8; if new screws are installed, EASA AD 2020-0093 describes
procedures for replacing them with new bolts having P/N EWB0420D-3H-3
before the screws exceed 10,000 flight cycles since installation on an
airplane. EASA AD 2020-0093 also describes an optional terminating
modification (replacement of all affected GSMs), which would terminate
the repetitive replacements of the attachment screws.
Airbus AOT A29L010-19, Revision 01, dated February 18, 2020,
describes procedures for initial and repetitive replacement of certain
GSM manual-valve screws and a one-time visual inspection to determine
if certain GSM manual-valve screws are installed instead of the correct
bolts.
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.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 107 airplanes of U.S.
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
[[Page 10769]]
Estimated Costs for Required Actions
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Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators
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7 work-hours x $85 per hour = $595 * $0 $595 per cycle............... $63,665 per cycle.
per cycle.
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* The FAA has received no definitive data that would enable the agency to provide parts cost estimates for the
required actions specified in this AD.
Estimated Costs for Optional Actions
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Cost per
Labor cost Parts cost product
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10 work-hours x $85 per hour = $850... * $0 $850
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* The FAA has received no definitive data that would enable the agency
to provide parts cost estimates for the optional actions specified in
this AD.
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. The FAA does not control warranty coverage for
affected individuals. As a result, the FAA has included all known costs
in the 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.
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
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) 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.
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:
2021-01-06 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39-21382; Docket No. FAA-2020-0674;
Product Identifier 2020-NM-070-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective March 30, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus SAS airplanes specified in paragraphs
(c)(1) through (4) of this AD, certificated in any category, as
identified in European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020-
0093, dated April 24, 2020 (EASA AD 2020-0093).
(1) Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, and -243 airplanes.
(2) Model A330-301, -302, -303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342,
and -343 airplanes.
(3) Model A340-211, -212, and -213 airplanes.
(4) Model A340-311, -312, and -313 airplanes.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 29, Hydraulic
power.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by reports of hydraulic system failure due
to fatigue failure of the screws attaching the manual valve to the
ground service manifold (GSM). The FAA is issuing this AD to address
the failure of hydraulic system manual valve attachment screws. This
condition, if not addressed, could lead to the loss of one or more
hydraulic systems and damage to surrounding structure and
components, possibly resulting in reduced control of the airplane,
or injury to maintenance staff working in the main landing gear bay.
(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 2020-0093.
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2020-0093
(1) Where EASA AD 2020-0093 refers to its effective date or to
``the effective date of EASA AD 2019-0314,'' this AD requires using
the effective date of this AD.
(2) The ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD 2020-0093 does not apply
to this AD.
(3) Where EASA AD 2020-0093 specifies to comply with ``the
instructions of the AOT [Alert Operators Transmission],'' and ``the
AOT'' specifies that ``the accomplishment instructions marked as
Required for Compliance (RC) must be done,'' this AD requires
compliance with ``paragraph 4.4.2., Accomplishment Instructions, of
the AOT [Airbus Alert Operators Transmission A29L010-19, Revision
01, dated February 18, 2020]'' only; except paragraphs 4.4.2.1(1)
and 4.4.2.2(1), which specify gaining access to the ground service
manifold and preparation for update, may be accomplished in
accordance with the operator's maintenance or inspection program.
[[Page 10770]]
(i) No Reporting Requirement
Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2020-0093
specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD
does not include that requirement.
(j) 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 (k) 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 2020-0093 that contains RC procedures and
tests: Except as required by paragraphs (h)(3) and (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.
(k) Related Information
For more information about this AD, contact Vladimir Ulyanov,
Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation
Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone
and fax 206-231-3229; email [email protected].
(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 Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020-0093,
dated April 24, 2020.
(ii) Airbus Alert Operators Transmission A29L010-19, Revision
01, dated February 18, 2020.
(3) For EASA AD 2020-0093, contact the EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-
Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; 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) For Airbus service information identified in this AD,
contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, Rond-Point Emile
Dewoitine No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93
36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 45 80; email [email protected]; internet https://www.airbus.com.
(5) 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-2020-0674.
(6) 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 December 30, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-03566 Filed 2-22-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
