Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes, 42691-42694 [2021-16561]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 148 / Thursday, August 5, 2021 / Rules and Regulations 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: (h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2021–0035 (1) Where EASA AD 2021–0035 refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD. (2) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD 2021–0035 does not apply to this AD. (i) No Reporting Requirement Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2021–0035 specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD does not include that requirement. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by reports of missing or disbonded pressure seals on two thrust reverser (TR) translating cowls. The FAA is issuing this AD to address missing or disbonded TR translating cowl seal segments. In a case where all seal segments were missing, this condition, if not addressed, could lead to loss of thrust at maximum continuous thrust or at takeoff/go-around, possibly resulting in substantially reduced performance of the airplane. (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 responsible Flight Standards 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-AVS-AIR730-AMOC@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the responsible Flight Standards 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): Except as required by paragraph (j)(2) of this AD, if any service information contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those 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. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (k) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, 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: ■ 2021–15–13 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39– 21660; Docket No. FAA–2021–0349; Project Identifier MCAI–2021–00103–T. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective September 9, 2021. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to all Airbus SAS Model A330–841 and –941 airplanes, certificated in any category. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 78, Engine exhaust. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES (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, European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2021–0035, dated January 25, 2021 (EASA AD 2021–0035). VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:02 Aug 04, 2021 Jkt 253001 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 42691 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. (i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2021–0035, dated January 25, 2021. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For EASA AD 2021–0035, contact 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) 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–2021–0349. (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 16, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–16562 Filed 8–4–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2021–0371; Project Identifier MCAI–2021–00102–T; Amendment 39–21654; AD 2021–15–07] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus SAS Model A330–200, –200 Freighter, –300, –800, and –900 series airplanes; and Model A340–200 and –300 series airplanes. This AD was SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\05AUR1.SGM 05AUR1 42692 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 148 / Thursday, August 5, 2021 / Rules and Regulations prompted by reports of incorrect installation of the lower attachment parts of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA). This AD requires doing a detailed inspection of the THSA lower attachment parts for discrepancies and corrective action if necessary, and prohibits using earlier versions of certain airplane maintenance manual (AMM) tasks, 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 September 9, 2021. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of September 9, 2021. ADDRESSES: For material incorporated by reference (IBR) in this AD, contact 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 IBR material on the EASA website at https://ad.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–2021– 0371. 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–2021– 0371; 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: Background EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 2021–0033, dated January 25, 2021 (EASA AD 2021–0033) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or the MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus SAS Model A330–200, –200 Freighter, –300, –800, and –900 series airplanes; and Model A340–200 and –300 series airplanes. Model A330–743L airplanes are not certificated by the FAA and are not included on the U.S. type certificate data sheet; this AD therefore does not include those airplanes in the applicability. The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Airbus SAS Model A330– 200, –200 Freighter, –300, –800, and –900 series airplanes; and Model A340– 200 and –300 series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on May 18, 2021 (86 FR 26855). The NPRM was prompted by reports of incorrect installation of the lower attachment parts of the THSA. The NPRM proposed to require doing a detailed inspection of the THSA lower attachment parts for discrepancies and corrective action if necessary, and to prohibit using earlier versions of certain AMM tasks, as specified in EASA AD 2021–0033. Comments The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this final rule. The FAA has considered the comment received. The Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) indicated its support for the NPRM. Conclusion The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered the comment received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this final rule as proposed, except for 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. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 EASA AD 2021–0033 describes procedures for doing a detailed inspection of the THSA lower attachment parts for discrepancies (i.e., incorrect installation) and corrective actions (which includes detailed inspections of the horizontal stabilizer, the assembly of the trim actuating arms, the support fittings, and the upper and lower attachment plates for any cracks, dents and scratches, corrosion, deterioration of the structure, the condition of the fasteners and bearings, and repair; and re-installing or replacing the THSA lower attachment parts) if necessary. EASA AD 2021–0033 also prohibits using earlier versions of certain AMM tasks. 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 120 airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD: khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED ACTIONS Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators 2 work-hours × $85 per hour = $170 .......................................................................................... $0 $170 $20,400 The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary on-condition actions that would be required based on VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:02 Aug 04, 2021 Jkt 253001 the results of any required actions. The FAA has no way of determining the PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 number of aircraft that might need these on-condition actions: E:\FR\FM\05AUR1.SGM 05AUR1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 148 / Thursday, August 5, 2021 / Rules and Regulations 42693 ESTIMATED COSTS OF ON-CONDITION ACTIONS Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product 25 work-hours × $85 per hour = $2,125 ................................................................................................................. $821,060 $823,185 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. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES accordance with, European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2021–0033, dated January 25, 2021 (EASA AD 2021–0033). 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: (h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2021–0033 ■ 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: ■ 2021–15–07 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39– 21654; Docket No. FAA–2021–0371; Project Identifier MCAI–2021–00102–T. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective September 9, 2021. (b) Affected ADs None. (i) Other FAA AD Provisions (c) Applicability This AD applies to all Airbus SAS airplanes specified in paragraphs (c)(1) through (7) of this AD, certificated in any category. (1) Model A330–201, –202, –203, –223, and –243 airplanes. (2) Model A330–223F and –243F airplanes. (3) Model A330–301, –302, –303, –321, –322, –323, –341, –342, and –343 airplanes. (4) Model A330–841 airplanes. (5) Model A330–941 airplanes. (6) Model A340–211, –212, and –213 airplanes. (7) Model A340–311, –312, and –313 airplanes. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 27, Flight controls. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by reports of incorrect installation of the lower attachment parts of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA). The FAA is issuing this AD to address incorrect installation of the THSA lower attachment parts, which could lead to the loss of THSA primary load path and consequent activation of THSA secondary load path (which is designed to withstand full loads only for a limited period of time), and possibly result in reduced controllability of the airplane. Adoption of the Amendment (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: (g) Requirements Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this AD: Comply with all required actions and compliance times specified in, and in VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:02 Aug 04, 2021 Jkt 253001 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4700 (1) Where EASA AD 2021–0033 refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD. (2) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD 2021–0033 does not apply to this AD. (3) Where any service information in EASA AD 2021–0033 specifies to contact Airbus in case of findings, this AD requires doing a repair 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. Sfmt 4700 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 responsible Flight Standards 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: 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 responsible Flight Standards 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 DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except as required by paragraph (i)(2) of this AD, if any service information contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those 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 E:\FR\FM\05AUR1.SGM 05AUR1 42694 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 148 / Thursday, August 5, 2021 / Rules and Regulations changes to procedures or tests identified as RC require approval of an AMOC. (j) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax: 206–231–3229; email (k) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. (i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2021–0033, dated January 25, 2021. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For EASA AD 2021–0033, contact 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) 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–2021–0371. (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 14, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–16561 Filed 8–4–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2021–0343; Project Identifier MCAI–2021–00013–T; Amendment 39–21655; AD 2021–15–08] khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:02 Aug 04, 2021 Jkt 253001 Airbus SAS Model A350–941 and –1041 airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report that during an inspection of the flight deck escape hatches it was found that they were difficult to open from the inside, and several hatches were found impossible to open from the outside. Subsequent investigation revealed corrosion on the flight deck escape hatch mechanism due to condensation penetrating inside the mechanism. This AD requires replacing all affected flight deck escape hatches with serviceable hatches, 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 September 9, 2021. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of September 9, 2021. ADDRESSES: For material incorporated by reference (IBR) in this AD, contact 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 IBR material on the EASA website at https://ad.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–2021– 0343. Background 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–2021– 0343; 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: 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: Conclusion PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 2021–0004, dated January 6, 2021 (EASA AD 2021– 0004) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or the MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus SAS Model A350–941 and –1041 airplanes. The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Airbus SAS Model A350– 941 and –1041 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on May 7, 2021 (86 FR 24549). The NPRM was prompted by a report that during an inspection of the flight deck escape hatches it was found that they were difficult to open from the inside, and several hatches were found impossible to open from the outside. Subsequent investigation revealed corrosion on the flight deck escape hatch mechanism due to condensation penetrating inside the mechanism. The NPRM proposed to require replacing all affected flight deck escape hatches with serviceable hatches, as specified in EASA AD 2021–0004. The FAA is issuing this AD to address possible inaccessibility of the flight deck escape hatch, which could impede flightcrew evacuation during an emergency. See the MCAI for additional background information. Comments The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this final rule. The Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) indicated its support for the NPRM. The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered the comment received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this final rule as proposed, except for 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. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 EASA AD 2021–0004 describes procedures for replacing all affected flight deck escape hatches with serviceable flight deck escape hatches. This material is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course E:\FR\FM\05AUR1.SGM 05AUR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 148 (Thursday, August 5, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 42691-42694]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-16561]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2021-0371; Project Identifier MCAI-2021-00102-T; 
Amendment 39-21654; AD 2021-15-07]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
Airbus SAS Model A330-200, -200 Freighter, -300, -800, and -900 series 
airplanes; and Model A340-200 and -300 series airplanes. This AD was

[[Page 42692]]

prompted by reports of incorrect installation of the lower attachment 
parts of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA). This AD 
requires doing a detailed inspection of the THSA lower attachment parts 
for discrepancies and corrective action if necessary, and prohibits 
using earlier versions of certain airplane maintenance manual (AMM) 
tasks, 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 September 9, 2021.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of September 9, 
2021.

ADDRESSES: For material incorporated by reference (IBR) in this AD, 
contact 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. 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-2021-0371.

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-2021-
0371; 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:

Background

    EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the 
European Union, has issued EASA AD 2021-0033, dated January 25, 2021 
(EASA AD 2021-0033) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing 
Airworthiness Information, or the MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition 
for all Airbus SAS Model A330-200, -200 Freighter, -300, -800, and -900 
series airplanes; and Model A340-200 and -300 series airplanes. Model 
A330-743L airplanes are not certificated by the FAA and are not 
included on the U.S. type certificate data sheet; this AD therefore 
does not include those airplanes in the applicability.
    The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Airbus SAS Model 
A330-200, -200 Freighter, -300, -800, and -900 series airplanes; and 
Model A340-200 and -300 series airplanes. The NPRM published in the 
Federal Register on May 18, 2021 (86 FR 26855). The NPRM was prompted 
by reports of incorrect installation of the lower attachment parts of 
the THSA. The NPRM proposed to require doing a detailed inspection of 
the THSA lower attachment parts for discrepancies and corrective action 
if necessary, and to prohibit using earlier versions of certain AMM 
tasks, as specified in EASA AD 2021-0033.

Comments

    The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in 
developing this final rule. The FAA has considered the comment 
received. The Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) 
indicated its support for the NPRM.

Conclusion

    The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered the comment 
received, and determined that air safety and the public interest 
require adopting this final rule as proposed, except for 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.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    EASA AD 2021-0033 describes procedures for doing a detailed 
inspection of the THSA lower attachment parts for discrepancies (i.e., 
incorrect installation) and corrective actions (which includes detailed 
inspections of the horizontal stabilizer, the assembly of the trim 
actuating arms, the support fittings, and the upper and lower 
attachment plates for any cracks, dents and scratches, corrosion, 
deterioration of the structure, the condition of the fasteners and 
bearings, and repair; and re-installing or replacing the THSA lower 
attachment parts) if necessary. EASA AD 2021-0033 also prohibits using 
earlier versions of certain AMM tasks. 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 120 airplanes of U.S. 
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                      Estimated Costs for Required Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                    Cost per       Cost on U.S.
                          Labor cost                              Parts cost        product         operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 work-hours x $85 per hour = $170...........................              $0             $170          $20,400
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary on-
condition actions that would be required based on the results of any 
required actions. The FAA has no way of determining the number of 
aircraft that might need these on-condition actions:

[[Page 42693]]



                 Estimated Costs of On-Condition Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             Cost per
              Labor cost                   Parts cost        product
------------------------------------------------------------------------
25 work-hours x $85 per hour = $2,125.        $821,060         $823,185
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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:

2021-15-07 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39-21654; Docket No. FAA-2021-0371; 
Project Identifier MCAI-2021-00102-T.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective September 9, 
2021.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all Airbus SAS airplanes specified in 
paragraphs (c)(1) through (7) of this AD, certificated in any 
category.
    (1) Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, and -243 airplanes.
    (2) Model A330-223F and -243F airplanes.
    (3) Model A330-301, -302, -303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342, 
and -343 airplanes.
    (4) Model A330-841 airplanes.
    (5) Model A330-941 airplanes.
    (6) Model A340-211, -212, and -213 airplanes.
    (7) Model A340-311, -312, and -313 airplanes.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 27, Flight 
controls.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by reports of incorrect installation of the 
lower attachment parts of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer 
actuator (THSA). The FAA is issuing this AD to address incorrect 
installation of the THSA lower attachment parts, which could lead to 
the loss of THSA primary load path and consequent activation of THSA 
secondary load path (which is designed to withstand full loads only 
for a limited period of time), and possibly result in reduced 
controllability 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, European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 
2021-0033, dated January 25, 2021 (EASA AD 2021-0033).

(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2021-0033

    (1) Where EASA AD 2021-0033 refers to its effective date, this 
AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
    (2) The ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD 2021-0033 does not apply 
to this AD.
    (3) Where any service information in EASA AD 2021-0033 specifies 
to contact Airbus in case of findings, this AD requires doing a 
repair 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.

(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 responsible Flight 
Standards 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 
responsible Flight Standards 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 DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must include 
the DOA-authorized signature.
    (3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except as required by 
paragraph (i)(2) of this AD, if any service information contains 
procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those 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

[[Page 42694]]

changes to procedures or tests identified as RC require approval of 
an AMOC.

(j) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Vladimir Ulyanov, 
Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation 
Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone 
and fax: 206-231-3229; email

(k) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2021-0033, 
dated January 25, 2021.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) For EASA AD 2021-0033, contact 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) 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-2021-0371.
    (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 14, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-16561 Filed 8-4-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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