Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 12561-12565 [2022-04662]
Download as PDF
<![CDATA[
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 44 / Monday, March 7, 2022 / Rules and Regulations
and before further flight, repair or replace the
affected part, as applicable, in accordance
with Action 2 in Schempp-Hirth
Flugzeugbau GmbH Working Instructions for
Technical Note No. 349–42/825–57, Revision
4, dated August 31, 2020.
(h) Credit for Previous Actions
You may take credit for the actions
required by paragraph (g) of this AD if you
performed those actions before the effective
date of this AD using Schempp-Hirth
Flugzeugbau GmbH Working Instructions for
Technical Note No. 349–42/825–57, Revision
2, dated February 24, 2020; or SchemppHirth Flugzeugbau GmbH Working
Instructions for Technical Note No. 349–42/
825–57, Revision 3, dated March 31, 2020.
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, 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 manager of the International Validation
Branch, send it to the attention of the person
identified in paragraph (j)(1) of this AD and
email to: 9-AVS-AIR-730-AMOC@faa.gov.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office.
khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES
(j) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD,
contact Jim Rutherford, Aviation Safety
Engineer, General Aviation & Rotorcraft
Section, International Validation Branch,
FAA, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City,
MO 64106; phone: (816) 329–4165; email:
jim.rutherford@faa.gov.
(2) Refer to European Union Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020–0063, dated
March 18, 2020, for more information. You
may examine the EASA AD in the AD docket
at https://www.regulations.gov by searching
for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–1019.
(3) Service information identified in this
AD that is not incorporated by reference is
available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (k)(3) and (4) of this AD.
(k) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference 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 the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH
Working Instructions for Technical Note No.
349–42/825–57, Revision 4, dated August 31,
2020.
Note 1 to paragraph (k)(2)(i): This service
information contains German to English
translation. EASA used the English
translation in referencing the document from
Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH. For
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:01 Mar 04, 2022
Jkt 256001
enforceability purposes, the FAA will cite
references to the service information in
English as it appears on the document.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau
GmbH, Krebenstrasse 25, 73230 Kirchheim/
Teck, Germany; phone: +49 7021 7298–0; fax:
+49 7021 7298–199; email: info@schempphirth.com; website: https://www.schempphirth.com.
(4) You may view this service information
at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section,
Operational Safety Branch, 901 Locust,
Kansas City, MO 64106. For information on
the availability of this material at the FAA,
call (817) 222–5110.
(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: fr.inspection@nara.gov, or go to:
https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locations.html.
Issued on February 17, 2022.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2022–04650 Filed 3–4–22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2021–0664; Project
Identifier AD–2021–00158–T; Amendment
39–21938; AD 2022–03–21]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
Company Airplanes
12561
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of April 11, 2022.
ADDRESSES: For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes,
Attention: Contractual & Data Services
(C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC
110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600;
telephone 562–797–1717; internet
https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You
may view this 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.
It is also available at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–
0664.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at
https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2021–0664; 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: Tak
Kobayashi, Aerospace Engineer,
Propulsion Section, FAA, Seattle ACO
Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des
Moines, WA; phone: 206–231–3553;
email: Takahisa.Kobayashi@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
AGENCY:
Background
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
The Boeing Company Model 787–8,
787–9, and 787–10 airplanes. This AD
was prompted by significant changes,
including new or more restrictive
requirements, made to the airworthiness
limitations (AWLs) related to fuel tank
ignition prevention and the nitrogen
generation system. This AD requires
revising the existing maintenance or
inspection program, as applicable, to
incorporate new or more restrictive
airworthiness limitations. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective April 11,
2022.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to certain The Boeing Company
Model 787–8, 787–9, and 787–10
airplanes. The NPRM published in the
Federal Register on October 6, 2021 (86
FR 55538). The NPRM was prompted by
significant changes, including new or
more restrictive requirements, made to
the AWLs related to fuel tank ignition
prevention and the nitrogen generation
system. In the NPRM, the FAA proposed
to require revising the existing
maintenance or inspection program, as
applicable, to incorporate new or more
restrictive airworthiness limitations.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address
ignition sources inside the fuel tanks
and increased flammability exposure of
the fuel tanks caused by latent failures,
alterations, repairs, or maintenance
actions, which could result in a fuel
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
SUMMARY:
PO 00000
Frm 00003
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
E:\FR\FM\07MRR1.SGM
07MRR1
12562
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 44 / Monday, March 7, 2022 / Rules and Regulations
tank explosion and consequent loss of
an airplane.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received comments from the
Air Line Pilots Association,
International (ALPA) and United
Airlines who supported the NPRM
without change.
The FAA received additional
comments from two commenters,
including Boeing and American Airlines
(AA). The following presents the
comments received on the NPRM and
the FAA’s response to each comment.
Request To Clarify Applicability
Boeing asked for clarification that the
applicability specified in the proposed
AD is the same as the effectivity
specified in the referenced service
information. Boeing stated that the
effectivity in the service information
mandated by the proposed AD does not
apply to Model 787–8 airplanes having
line numbers 1 through 5.
The FAA agrees that this AD does not
apply to Model 787–8 airplanes having
line numbers 1 through 5. The FAA has
changed paragraph (c) of this AD
accordingly.
khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES
Request To Clarify Applicability for
AWL No. 57–AWL–13
Boeing and AA asked for clarification
that the initial compliance time
specified in paragraph (g)(11)(ii)(B) of
the proposed AD is applicable only to
Model 787 airplanes having line
numbers 10, 13, and 15 through 19
inclusive. Boeing stated that AWL No.
57–AWL–13 explicitly identifies those
specific line numbers instead of
referring to Boeing Service Bulletin
B787–81205–SB570030–00. AA stated
that for airplanes not included in the
effectivity of the referenced service
bulletin, operators could misinterpret
the actions required by paragraph
(g)(11)(ii)(B) for those airplanes,
regardless of the applicability specified
in AWL No. 57–AWL–13.
The FAA agrees that the initial
compliance time specified in paragraph
(g)(11)(ii)(B) of this AD is applicable
only to Model 787 airplanes having line
numbers 10, 13, and 15 through 19
inclusive. The FAA has revised
paragraph (g)(11)(ii)(B) accordingly.
Request To Clarify Applicability in
Airworthiness Limitation Instruction
(ALI)
Boeing asked for clarification that the
initial compliance time for performing
an inspection in accordance with each
ALI task specified in paragraphs (g)(1)
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:01 Mar 04, 2022
Jkt 256001
through (14) of the proposed AD is
applicable only to the airplanes
specified in the applicability of each
ALI task. Boeing also asked for
clarification that the proposed AD does
not supersede the applicability of the
ALI tasks. Boeing stated that each ALI
task has a unique applicability, and
some of these tasks only apply to a
subset of the airplanes affected by the
proposed AD.
The FAA agrees to provide
clarification. This AD requires
incorporation of the service information
into the maintenance or inspection
program. After this action is done,
compliance with each ALI or critical
design configuration control limitation
(CDCCL) task incorporated into the
maintenance or inspection program is
required by the operating rules in 14
CFR 91.403(c) and 43.16. This AD does
not change or supersede any ALI or
CDCCL task or its applicability.
Compliance is based on the
applicability specified in each ALI or
CDCCL task. Therefore, the FAA has not
changed this AD in this regard.
Request To Clarify ‘‘Recent Inspection’’
Boeing asked for clarification
regarding a recent inspection referenced
in the sub-paragraphs to paragraphs
(g)(1) through (14) of the proposed AD.
Boeing asked that the FAA clarify that
a recent inspection performed on an
airplane can be the inspection done in
accordance with an ALI task of the
existing maintenance or inspection
program applicable to that airplane.
Boeing stated that without clarification,
its interpretation is that the initial
inspections are required to be performed
in accordance with the ALI tasks
provided in the service information
mandated by paragraph (g) of the AD.
The FAA agrees to provide
clarification. The initial compliance
time specified in the sub-paragraphs to
paragraph (g)(1) through (14) of this AD
is the compliance time to perform the
first inspection in accordance with each
ALI task, after incorporation of the
service information into the
maintenance or inspection program as
required by paragraph (g) of this AD.
The ‘‘most recent’’ inspection
referenced in those paragraphs is the
inspection performed in accordance
with an ALI task of the operator’s
existing maintenance or inspection
program prior to incorporation of the
service information mandated by
paragraph (g) of this AD. Certain ALI
tasks from the same or earlier revisions
of the service information mandated by
paragraph (g) of this AD should already
exist in the maintenance or inspection
program. The requirements of
PO 00000
Frm 00004
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
paragraphs (g)(1) through (14) of this AD
are intended to address the transition to
the ALI tasks after accomplishment of
the actions required by paragraph (g) of
this AD, without disrupting the existing
inspection intervals. Therefore, the FAA
has not changed this AD in this regard.
Request To Extend Compliance Time
Boeing asked that the compliance
time to revise the maintenance/
inspection program required by
paragraph (g) of the proposed AD be
changed from 180 to 240 days. Boeing
stated that the majority of the
inspections require entry into a wet fuel
cell to access and possibly repair
structural sealant applications, at
unique facilities and with significant
aircraft downtime. Boeing added that an
extension of the compliance time to 240
days would allow additional flexibility
to operators. Boeing also asked whether
an initial inspection done within 180
days after the effective date of the AD
must be performed in accordance with
the service information mandated by
this AD or if it is allowed to be
performed under the existing
maintenance or inspection program
applicable to that airplane. Boeing
stated that performing the initial
inspection within 180 days after the
effective date of the AD seems to
conflict with the requirement to revise
the maintenance or inspection program
within 180 days after the effective date
of the AD.
The FAA does not agree to extend the
compliance time to revise the
maintenance/inspection program
required by paragraph (g) of this AD
from 180 to 240 days because the FAA
has determined that this compliance
time is adequate for operators to
incorporate maintenance or inspection
program changes for their affected fleet.
The 180-day compliance time required
by paragraph (g) is unrelated to the
initial compliance time for performing
the inspections in accordance with each
ALI task specified in the service
information mandated by this AD.
Paragraph (g) requires incorporation of
the service information into the
maintenance or inspection program
within 180 days after the effective date
of this AD. Once the maintenance/
inspection program has been revised,
compliance with each ALI or CDCCL
task of the maintenance or inspection
program is required by the operating
rules in 14 CFR 91.403(c) and 43.16. For
clarification, the initial compliance time
to perform an inspection after
incorporation of the service information
into the maintenance or inspection
program is specified in paragraphs (g)(1)
through (14) of this AD. Therefore, the
E:\FR\FM\07MRR1.SGM
07MRR1
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 44 / Monday, March 7, 2022 / Rules and Regulations
FAA has not changed this AD in this
regard.
Request To Add Revision Level to a
Certain Service Bulletin Reference
AA asked that the FAA specify the
revision level of Boeing Service Bulletin
B787–81205–SB570030–00, referenced
in paragraph (g)(11)(ii)(A) of the
proposed AD. AA stated that specifying
the revision level of the service bulletin
will reduce any ambiguity for the
requirements associated with that
revision level.
The FAA does not agree to include
the revision level of Boeing Service
Bulletin B787–81205–SB570030–00.
Including the revision level of the
referenced service bulletin could
potentially conflict with another AD
that mandates that service bulletin.
Boeing Service Bulletin B787–81205–
SB570030–00, Issue 001, dated March
17, 2017, is required by AD 2018–11–13,
Amendment 39–19301 (83 FR 25894,
June 5, 2018) (AD 2018–11–13). If a later
revision of that service bulletin is issued
in the future as an (alternative method
of compliance) AMOC to AD 2018–11–
13, the actions in the later revision can
be done equivalent to Issue 001.
Specifying ‘‘Issue 001 or later’’ in
paragraph (g)(11)(ii)(A) of this AD
would make it consistent with the
requirements in AD 2018–11–13;
however, if AD 2018–11–13 must be
superseded to mandate a later revision
of the service bulletin, this AD would
also have to be superseded if the
revision level of the service bulletin is
specified. Therefore, the FAA has
determined that the revision level of the
referenced service bulletin will not be
included in this AD, and has not
changed this AD in this regard.
khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data,
considered any comments received, and
determined that air safety requires
adopting this AD as proposed. Except
for minor editorial changes, and any
other changes described previously, this
AD is adopted as proposed in the
NPRM. None of the changes will
increase the economic burden on any
operator.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed Boeing 787
Special Compliance Items/
Airworthiness Limitations, D011Z009–
03–04, dated August 2018. This service
information specifies AWLs that include
ALIs and CDCCLs related to fuel tank
ignition prevention and the nitrogen
generation system. This service
information is reasonably available
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:01 Mar 04, 2022
Jkt 256001
because the interested parties have
access to it through their normal course
of business or by the means identified
in ADDRESSES.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 121 airplanes of U.S. registry.
The FAA estimates the following costs
to comply with this AD:
The FAA has determined that revising
the existing maintenance or inspection
program takes an average of 90 workhours per operator, although the agency
recognizes that this number may vary
from operator to operator. Since
operators incorporate maintenance or
inspection program changes for their
affected fleet(s), the FAA has
determined that a per-operator estimate
is more accurate than a per-airplane
estimate. Therefore, the FAA estimates
the average total cost per operator to be
$7,650 (90 work-hours × $85 per workhour).
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,
PO 00000
Frm 00005
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
12563
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
The 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:
■
2022–03–21 The Boeing Company:
Amendment 39–21938; Docket No.
FAA–2021–0664; Project Identifier AD–
2021–00158–T.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective April 11, 2022.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD affects AD 2018–11–13,
Amendment 39–19301 (83 FR 25894, June 5,
2018) (AD 2018–11–13).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to The Boeing Company
Model 787–8, 787–9, and 787–10 airplanes,
certificated in any category, having line
numbers (L/Ns) 6 through 871 inclusive,
excluding L/N 688; and L/Ns 873, 875, 877,
878, 879, 881, and 883.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 28, Fuel.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by significant
changes, including new and more restrictive
requirements, made to the airworthiness
limitations (AWLs) related to fuel tank
ignition prevention and the nitrogen
generation system. The FAA is issuing this
AD to address ignition sources inside the fuel
tanks and increased flammability exposure of
the fuel tanks caused by latent failures,
alterations, repairs, or maintenance actions,
which could result in a fuel tank explosion
and consequent loss of an airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Maintenance or Inspection Program
Revision
Within 180 days after the effective date of
this AD, revise the existing maintenance or
E:\FR\FM\07MRR1.SGM
07MRR1
khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES
12564
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 44 / Monday, March 7, 2022 / Rules and Regulations
inspection program, as applicable, to
incorporate the information specified in
Sections C through F of Boeing 787 Special
Compliance Items/Airworthiness
Limitations, D011Z009–03–04, dated August
2018. The initial compliance time for doing
the airworthiness limitation instruction (ALI)
tasks specified in Sections C through F of
Boeing 787 Special Compliance Items/
Airworthiness Limitations, D011Z009–03–04,
dated August 2018, as applicable for each
airplane, is at the times specified in
paragraphs (g)(1) through (14) of this AD.
(1) For AWL No. 28–AWL–89, ‘‘Fuel
Quantity Data Concentrator (FQDC) Bracket
Inspections,’’ at the applicable time in
paragraph (g)(1)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection
was performed as specified in AWL No. 28–
AWL–89: Within 5 years or 10,000 flight
cycles, whichever occur first after the most
recent inspection was performed as specified
in AWL No. 28–AWL–89.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial
inspection was performed: Within 5 years or
10,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original
standard airworthiness certificate or the date
of issuance of the original export certificate
of airworthiness.
(2) For AWL No. 57–AWL–01, ‘‘Edge and
Fillet Seals at Stringer and Spar Locations
(Zone 2),’’ at the applicable time in paragraph
(g)(2)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection
was performed as specified in AWL No. 57–
AWL–01: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most
recent inspection was performed as specified
in AWL No. 57–AWL–01.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial
inspection was performed: Within 12 years or
24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original
standard airworthiness certificate or the date
of issuance of the original export certificate
of airworthiness.
(3) For AWL No. 57–AWL–02, ‘‘Fasteners
on Bare Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic
(CFRP) Stripes,’’ at the applicable time in
paragraph (g)(3)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection
was performed as specified in AWL No. 57–
AWL–02: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most
recent inspection was performed as specified
in AWL No. 57–AWL–02.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial
inspection was performed: Within 12 years or
24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original
standard airworthiness certificate or the date
of issuance of the original export certificate
of airworthiness.
(4) For AWL No. 57–AWL–03, ‘‘Head-intank Thin-Sleeved Interference-Fit Fasteners
with Heads in the Fuel Tank’’ at the
applicable time in paragraph (g)(4)(i) or (ii)
of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection
was performed as specified in AWL No. 57–
AWL–03: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most
recent inspection was performed as specified
in AWL No. 57–AWL–03.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial
inspection was performed: Within 12 years or
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:01 Mar 04, 2022
Jkt 256001
24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original
standard airworthiness certificate or the date
of issuance of the original export certificate
of airworthiness.
(5) For AWL No. 57–AWL–05, ‘‘Titanium
Collars—BACC30CT Fasteners (Clearance
Fit).’’ at the applicable time in paragraph
(g)(5)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection
was performed as specified in AWL No. 57–
AWL–05: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most
recent inspection was performed as specified
in AWL No. 57–AWL–05.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial
inspection was performed: Within 12 years or
24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original
standard airworthiness certificate or the date
of issuance of the original export certificate
of airworthiness.
(6) For AWL No. 57–AWL–06, ‘‘Titanium
Collars—BACC30CY Collars (Interference-Fit
with Swaged Collars)’’ at the applicable time
in paragraph (g)(6)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection
was performed as specified in AWL No. 57–
AWL–06: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most
recent inspection was performed as specified
in AWL No. 57–AWL–06.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial
inspection was performed: Within 12 years or
24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original
standard airworthiness certificate or the date
of issuance of the original export certificate
of airworthiness.
(7) For AWL No. 57–AWL–07, ‘‘Tensionrated Bolt Locations at Side of Body (SOB)
and Nacelle Fittings’’ at the applicable time
in paragraph (g)(7)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection
was performed as specified in AWL No. 57–
AWL–07: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most
recent inspection was performed as specified
in AWL No. 57–AWL–07.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial
inspection was performed: Within 12 years or
24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original
standard airworthiness certificate or the date
of issuance of the original export certificate
of airworthiness.
(8) For AWL No. 57–AWL–08, ‘‘Dielectric
Top on Wing Surface,’’ at the applicable time
in paragraph (g)(8)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection
was performed as specified in AWL No. 57–
AWL–08: Within 6 years or 12,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most
recent inspection was performed as specified
in AWL No. 57–AWL–08.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial
inspection was performed: Within 6 years or
12,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original
standard airworthiness certificate or the date
of issuance of the original export certificate
of airworthiness.
(9) For AWL No. 57–AWL–09, ‘‘Inspection
Requirements for Class 1A Seal Installations
created as a result of Boeing Material Review
Board,’’ at the applicable time in paragraph
(g)(9)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
PO 00000
Frm 00006
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection
was performed as specified in AWL No. 57–
AWL–09: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most
recent inspection was performed as specified
in AWL No. 57–AWL–09.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial
inspection was performed: Within 12 years or
24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original
standard airworthiness certificate or the date
of issuance of the original export certificate
of airworthiness.
(10) For AWL No. 57–AWL–10,
‘‘Inspection Requirements for In-Tank
Fasteners near Side of Body (SOB) Rib and
between Ribs 7 and 18,’’ at the applicable
time in paragraph (g)(10)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection
was performed as specified in AWL No. 57–
AWL–10: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most
recent inspection was performed as specified
in AWL No. 57–AWL–10.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial
inspection was performed: Within 12 years or
24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original
standard airworthiness certificate or the date
of issuance of the original export certificate
of airworthiness.
(11) For AWL No. 57–AWL–13,
‘‘Inspection Requirements for In-Tank
Fasteners and Edge Seal near Disbond
Arrestment (DBA) Fastener Installations in
Lightning Zone 2,’’ at the applicable time in
paragraph (g)(11)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection
was performed as specified in AWL No. 57–
AWL–13: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most
recent inspection was performed as specified
in AWL No. 57–AWL–13.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial
inspection was performed: At the applicable
time in paragraph (g)(11)(ii)(A) or (B) of this
AD.
(A) For airplanes on which Boeing Service
Bulletin B787–81205–SB570030–00 is
applicable: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the
incorporation of Boeing Service Bulletin
B787–81205–SB570030–00.
(B) For airplanes having line numbers 10,
13, and 15 through 19 inclusive: Within 12
years or 24,000 flight cycles, whichever
occurs first after the date of issuance of the
original standard airworthiness certificate or
the date of issuance of the original export
certificate of airworthiness.
(12) For AWL No. 57–AWL–14,
‘‘Supplemental Inspection Requirements for
Pre-cured Sealant Caps, Fillet Seals, and
Edge Seals associated Stringer Splice Fitting
Installation located at Right Wing Upper
Panel Stringer No. 3, just Outboard of the
Side of Body Rib,’’ at the applicable time in
paragraph (g)(12)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection
was performed as specified in AWL No. 57–
AWL–14: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles whichever occurs first after the most
recent inspection was performed as specified
in AWL No. 57–AWL–14.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial
inspection was performed: Within 12 years or
E:\FR\FM\07MRR1.SGM
07MRR1
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 44 / Monday, March 7, 2022 / Rules and Regulations
24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original
standard airworthiness certificate or the date
of issuance of the original export certificate
of airworthiness.
(13) For AWL No. 57–AWL–15,
‘‘Inspection Requirements for Pre-cured
Sealant Caps, Injection Seals, Fillet Seals,
and Edge Seals associated with the Wing
Lower Panel Stringer Attachments to the
Lower Side of Body (SOB) Chord,’’ at the
applicable time in paragraph (g)(13)(i) or (ii)
of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection
was performed as specified in AWL No. 57–
AWL–15: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most
recent inspection was performed as specified
in AWL No. 57–AWL–15.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial
inspection was performed: Within 12 years or
24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original
standard airworthiness certificate or the date
of issuance of the original export certificate
of airworthiness.
(14) For AWL No. 57–AWL–16,
‘‘Supplemental Inspection Requirements for
Edge Seals located at Left Wing Upper Panel
Stringer No. 19, Between Ribs 8 and 9,’’ at
the applicable time in paragraph (g)(14)(i) or
(ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection
was performed as specified in AWL No. 57–
AWL–16: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most
recent inspection was performed as specified
in AWL No. 57–AWL–16.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial
inspection was performed: Within 12 years or
24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original
standard airworthiness certificate or the date
of issuance of the original export certificate
of airworthiness.
(h) No Alternative Actions, Intervals, or
Critical Design Configuration Control
Limitations
After the existing maintenance or
inspection program has been revised as
required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no
alternative actions (e.g., inspections),
intervals, or critical design configuration
control limitation (CDCCLs) may be used
unless the actions, intervals, and CDCCLs are
approved as an alternative method of
compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the
procedures specified in paragraph (j) of this
AD.
khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES
(i) Terminating Actions
Accomplishment of the revision required
by paragraph (g) of this AD terminates the
requirements specified in paragraph (h) of
AD 2018–11–13, for Model 787–8 airplanes
only.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Seattle ACO Branch,
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs
for this AD, if requested using the procedures
found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with
14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your
principal inspector or responsible Flight
Standards Office, as appropriate. If sending
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:01 Mar 04, 2022
Jkt 256001
information directly to the manager of the
certification office, send it to the attention of
the person identified in Related Information.
Information may be emailed to: 9-ANMSeattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the responsible Flight Standards Office.
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable
level of safety may be used for any repair,
modification, or alteration required by this
AD if it is approved by The Boeing Company
Organization Designation Authorization
(ODA) that has been authorized by the
Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, to make
those findings. To be approved, the repair
method, modification deviation, or alteration
deviation must meet the certification basis of
the airplane, and the approval must
specifically refer to this AD.
(k) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Tak Kobayashi, Aerospace Engineer,
Propulsion Section, FAA, Seattle ACO
Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines,
WA; phone: 206–231–3553; email:
Takahisa.Kobayashi@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 the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Boeing 787 Special Compliance Items/
Airworthiness Limitations, D011Z009–03–04,
dated August 2018.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Boeing Commercial
Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd.,
MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600;
telephone 562–797–1717; internet https://
www.myboeingfleet.com.
(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,
fr.inspection@nara.gov, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued on January 28, 2022.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2022–04662 Filed 3–4–22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
PO 00000
Frm 00007
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
12565
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2021–0883; Project
Identifier AD–2021–00307–T; Amendment
39–21950; AD 2022–04–08]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is superseding
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2020–16–
01, which applied to all Airbus SAS
Model A318, A319, A320, and A321
series airplanes. AD 2020–16–01
required repetitive cleaning and
greasing of affected cargo door seals
(both original equipment manufacturer
(OEM) and parts manufacturer approval
(PMA) parts). This AD was prompted by
reports of low halon concentration in
the forward and aft cargo compartments
due to air leakage through cargo
compartment door seals, and the FAA’s
determination that improved cargo door
seals must be installed and that certain
flight operations must be limited until
the improved cargo door seals are
installed. This AD retains certain
actions required by AD 2020–16–01 and
requires replacing certain forward and
aft cargo compartment door seals with
new seals and installing a placard on
the cargo compartment doors; and for
certain airplanes, revising the existing
airplane flight manual (AFM) to
implement an operational limitation for
certain routes. The FAA is issuing this
AD to address the unsafe condition on
these products.
DATES: This AD is effective April 11,
2022.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in this AD
as of April 11, 2022.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain other publication listed in
this AD as of October 20, 2021 (86 FR
51265, September 15, 2021).
ADDRESSES: For Airbus service
information identified in this final rule,
contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness
Office—EIAS, Rond-Point Emile
Dewoitine No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex,
France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax
+33 5 61 93 44 51; email
account.airworth-eas@airbus.com;
internet https://www.airbus.com. For
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\07MRR1.SGM
07MRR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 87, Number 44 (Monday, March 7, 2022)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 12561-12565]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2022-04662]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2021-0664; Project Identifier AD-2021-00158-T;
Amendment 39-21938; AD 2022-03-21]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain The Boeing Company Model 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes.
This AD was prompted by significant changes, including new or more
restrictive requirements, made to the airworthiness limitations (AWLs)
related to fuel tank ignition prevention and the nitrogen generation
system. This AD requires revising the existing maintenance or
inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new or more
restrictive airworthiness limitations. The FAA is issuing this AD to
address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective April 11, 2022.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of April 11,
2022.
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule,
contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA
90740-5600; telephone 562-797-1717; internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this 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. It is also available at
https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA-2021-0664.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0664; 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: Tak Kobayashi, Aerospace Engineer,
Propulsion Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des
Moines, WA; phone: 206-231-3553; email: [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain The Boeing
Company Model 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes. The NPRM published in
the Federal Register on October 6, 2021 (86 FR 55538). The NPRM was
prompted by significant changes, including new or more restrictive
requirements, made to the AWLs related to fuel tank ignition prevention
and the nitrogen generation system. In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to
require revising the existing maintenance or inspection program, as
applicable, to incorporate new or more restrictive airworthiness
limitations. The FAA is issuing this AD to address ignition sources
inside the fuel tanks and increased flammability exposure of the fuel
tanks caused by latent failures, alterations, repairs, or maintenance
actions, which could result in a fuel
[[Page 12562]]
tank explosion and consequent loss of an airplane.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA received comments from the Air Line Pilots Association,
International (ALPA) and United Airlines who supported the NPRM without
change.
The FAA received additional comments from two commenters, including
Boeing and American Airlines (AA). The following presents the comments
received on the NPRM and the FAA's response to each comment.
Request To Clarify Applicability
Boeing asked for clarification that the applicability specified in
the proposed AD is the same as the effectivity specified in the
referenced service information. Boeing stated that the effectivity in
the service information mandated by the proposed AD does not apply to
Model 787-8 airplanes having line numbers 1 through 5.
The FAA agrees that this AD does not apply to Model 787-8 airplanes
having line numbers 1 through 5. The FAA has changed paragraph (c) of
this AD accordingly.
Request To Clarify Applicability for AWL No. 57-AWL-13
Boeing and AA asked for clarification that the initial compliance
time specified in paragraph (g)(11)(ii)(B) of the proposed AD is
applicable only to Model 787 airplanes having line numbers 10, 13, and
15 through 19 inclusive. Boeing stated that AWL No. 57-AWL-13
explicitly identifies those specific line numbers instead of referring
to Boeing Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB570030-00. AA stated that for
airplanes not included in the effectivity of the referenced service
bulletin, operators could misinterpret the actions required by
paragraph (g)(11)(ii)(B) for those airplanes, regardless of the
applicability specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-13.
The FAA agrees that the initial compliance time specified in
paragraph (g)(11)(ii)(B) of this AD is applicable only to Model 787
airplanes having line numbers 10, 13, and 15 through 19 inclusive. The
FAA has revised paragraph (g)(11)(ii)(B) accordingly.
Request To Clarify Applicability in Airworthiness Limitation
Instruction (ALI)
Boeing asked for clarification that the initial compliance time for
performing an inspection in accordance with each ALI task specified in
paragraphs (g)(1) through (14) of the proposed AD is applicable only to
the airplanes specified in the applicability of each ALI task. Boeing
also asked for clarification that the proposed AD does not supersede
the applicability of the ALI tasks. Boeing stated that each ALI task
has a unique applicability, and some of these tasks only apply to a
subset of the airplanes affected by the proposed AD.
The FAA agrees to provide clarification. This AD requires
incorporation of the service information into the maintenance or
inspection program. After this action is done, compliance with each ALI
or critical design configuration control limitation (CDCCL) task
incorporated into the maintenance or inspection program is required by
the operating rules in 14 CFR 91.403(c) and 43.16. This AD does not
change or supersede any ALI or CDCCL task or its applicability.
Compliance is based on the applicability specified in each ALI or CDCCL
task. Therefore, the FAA has not changed this AD in this regard.
Request To Clarify ``Recent Inspection''
Boeing asked for clarification regarding a recent inspection
referenced in the sub-paragraphs to paragraphs (g)(1) through (14) of
the proposed AD. Boeing asked that the FAA clarify that a recent
inspection performed on an airplane can be the inspection done in
accordance with an ALI task of the existing maintenance or inspection
program applicable to that airplane. Boeing stated that without
clarification, its interpretation is that the initial inspections are
required to be performed in accordance with the ALI tasks provided in
the service information mandated by paragraph (g) of the AD.
The FAA agrees to provide clarification. The initial compliance
time specified in the sub-paragraphs to paragraph (g)(1) through (14)
of this AD is the compliance time to perform the first inspection in
accordance with each ALI task, after incorporation of the service
information into the maintenance or inspection program as required by
paragraph (g) of this AD. The ``most recent'' inspection referenced in
those paragraphs is the inspection performed in accordance with an ALI
task of the operator's existing maintenance or inspection program prior
to incorporation of the service information mandated by paragraph (g)
of this AD. Certain ALI tasks from the same or earlier revisions of the
service information mandated by paragraph (g) of this AD should already
exist in the maintenance or inspection program. The requirements of
paragraphs (g)(1) through (14) of this AD are intended to address the
transition to the ALI tasks after accomplishment of the actions
required by paragraph (g) of this AD, without disrupting the existing
inspection intervals. Therefore, the FAA has not changed this AD in
this regard.
Request To Extend Compliance Time
Boeing asked that the compliance time to revise the maintenance/
inspection program required by paragraph (g) of the proposed AD be
changed from 180 to 240 days. Boeing stated that the majority of the
inspections require entry into a wet fuel cell to access and possibly
repair structural sealant applications, at unique facilities and with
significant aircraft downtime. Boeing added that an extension of the
compliance time to 240 days would allow additional flexibility to
operators. Boeing also asked whether an initial inspection done within
180 days after the effective date of the AD must be performed in
accordance with the service information mandated by this AD or if it is
allowed to be performed under the existing maintenance or inspection
program applicable to that airplane. Boeing stated that performing the
initial inspection within 180 days after the effective date of the AD
seems to conflict with the requirement to revise the maintenance or
inspection program within 180 days after the effective date of the AD.
The FAA does not agree to extend the compliance time to revise the
maintenance/inspection program required by paragraph (g) of this AD
from 180 to 240 days because the FAA has determined that this
compliance time is adequate for operators to incorporate maintenance or
inspection program changes for their affected fleet. The 180-day
compliance time required by paragraph (g) is unrelated to the initial
compliance time for performing the inspections in accordance with each
ALI task specified in the service information mandated by this AD.
Paragraph (g) requires incorporation of the service information into
the maintenance or inspection program within 180 days after the
effective date of this AD. Once the maintenance/inspection program has
been revised, compliance with each ALI or CDCCL task of the maintenance
or inspection program is required by the operating rules in 14 CFR
91.403(c) and 43.16. For clarification, the initial compliance time to
perform an inspection after incorporation of the service information
into the maintenance or inspection program is specified in paragraphs
(g)(1) through (14) of this AD. Therefore, the
[[Page 12563]]
FAA has not changed this AD in this regard.
Request To Add Revision Level to a Certain Service Bulletin Reference
AA asked that the FAA specify the revision level of Boeing Service
Bulletin B787-81205-SB570030-00, referenced in paragraph (g)(11)(ii)(A)
of the proposed AD. AA stated that specifying the revision level of the
service bulletin will reduce any ambiguity for the requirements
associated with that revision level.
The FAA does not agree to include the revision level of Boeing
Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB570030-00. Including the revision level
of the referenced service bulletin could potentially conflict with
another AD that mandates that service bulletin. Boeing Service Bulletin
B787-81205-SB570030-00, Issue 001, dated March 17, 2017, is required by
AD 2018-11-13, Amendment 39-19301 (83 FR 25894, June 5, 2018) (AD 2018-
11-13). If a later revision of that service bulletin is issued in the
future as an (alternative method of compliance) AMOC to AD 2018-11-13,
the actions in the later revision can be done equivalent to Issue 001.
Specifying ``Issue 001 or later'' in paragraph (g)(11)(ii)(A) of this
AD would make it consistent with the requirements in AD 2018-11-13;
however, if AD 2018-11-13 must be superseded to mandate a later
revision of the service bulletin, this AD would also have to be
superseded if the revision level of the service bulletin is specified.
Therefore, the FAA has determined that the revision level of the
referenced service bulletin will not be included in this AD, and has
not changed this AD in this regard.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered any comments
received, and determined that air safety requires adopting this AD as
proposed. Except for minor editorial changes, and any other changes
described previously, this AD is adopted as proposed in the NPRM. None
of the changes will increase the economic burden on any operator.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed Boeing 787 Special Compliance Items/Airworthiness
Limitations, D011Z009-03-04, dated August 2018. This service
information specifies AWLs that include ALIs and CDCCLs related to fuel
tank ignition prevention and the nitrogen generation system. This
service information is reasonably available because the interested
parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by
the means identified in ADDRESSES.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 121 airplanes of U.S.
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
The FAA has determined that revising the existing maintenance or
inspection program takes an average of 90 work-hours per operator,
although the agency recognizes that this number may vary from operator
to operator. Since operators incorporate maintenance or inspection
program changes for their affected fleet(s), the FAA has determined
that a per-operator estimate is more accurate than a per-airplane
estimate. Therefore, the FAA estimates the average total cost per
operator to be $7,650 (90 work-hours x $85 per work-hour).
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.
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:
2022-03-21 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-21938; Docket No. FAA-
2021-0664; Project Identifier AD-2021-00158-T.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective April 11, 2022.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD affects AD 2018-11-13, Amendment 39-19301 (83 FR 25894,
June 5, 2018) (AD 2018-11-13).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 787-8, 787-9, and
787-10 airplanes, certificated in any category, having line numbers
(L/Ns) 6 through 871 inclusive, excluding L/N 688; and L/Ns 873,
875, 877, 878, 879, 881, and 883.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 28, Fuel.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by significant changes, including new and
more restrictive requirements, made to the airworthiness limitations
(AWLs) related to fuel tank ignition prevention and the nitrogen
generation system. The FAA is issuing this AD to address ignition
sources inside the fuel tanks and increased flammability exposure of
the fuel tanks caused by latent failures, alterations, repairs, or
maintenance actions, which could result in a fuel tank explosion and
consequent loss of an airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Maintenance or Inspection Program Revision
Within 180 days after the effective date of this AD, revise the
existing maintenance or
[[Page 12564]]
inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate the information
specified in Sections C through F of Boeing 787 Special Compliance
Items/Airworthiness Limitations, D011Z009-03-04, dated August 2018.
The initial compliance time for doing the airworthiness limitation
instruction (ALI) tasks specified in Sections C through F of Boeing
787 Special Compliance Items/Airworthiness Limitations, D011Z009-03-
04, dated August 2018, as applicable for each airplane, is at the
times specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (14) of this AD.
(1) For AWL No. 28-AWL-89, ``Fuel Quantity Data Concentrator
(FQDC) Bracket Inspections,'' at the applicable time in paragraph
(g)(1)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection was performed as
specified in AWL No. 28-AWL-89: Within 5 years or 10,000 flight
cycles, whichever occur first after the most recent inspection was
performed as specified in AWL No. 28-AWL-89.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial inspection was performed:
Within 5 years or 10,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first after
the date of issuance of the original standard airworthiness
certificate or the date of issuance of the original export
certificate of airworthiness.
(2) For AWL No. 57-AWL-01, ``Edge and Fillet Seals at Stringer
and Spar Locations (Zone 2),'' at the applicable time in paragraph
(g)(2)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection was performed as
specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-01: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most recent inspection was
performed as specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-01.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial inspection was performed:
Within 12 years or 24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original standard airworthiness
certificate or the date of issuance of the original export
certificate of airworthiness.
(3) For AWL No. 57-AWL-02, ``Fasteners on Bare Carbon Fiber
Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) Stripes,'' at the applicable time in
paragraph (g)(3)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection was performed as
specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-02: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most recent inspection was
performed as specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-02.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial inspection was performed:
Within 12 years or 24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original standard airworthiness
certificate or the date of issuance of the original export
certificate of airworthiness.
(4) For AWL No. 57-AWL-03, ``Head-in-tank Thin-Sleeved
Interference-Fit Fasteners with Heads in the Fuel Tank'' at the
applicable time in paragraph (g)(4)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection was performed as
specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-03: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most recent inspection was
performed as specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-03.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial inspection was performed:
Within 12 years or 24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original standard airworthiness
certificate or the date of issuance of the original export
certificate of airworthiness.
(5) For AWL No. 57-AWL-05, ``Titanium Collars--BACC30CT
Fasteners (Clearance Fit).'' at the applicable time in paragraph
(g)(5)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection was performed as
specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-05: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most recent inspection was
performed as specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-05.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial inspection was performed:
Within 12 years or 24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original standard airworthiness
certificate or the date of issuance of the original export
certificate of airworthiness.
(6) For AWL No. 57-AWL-06, ``Titanium Collars--BACC30CY Collars
(Interference-Fit with Swaged Collars)'' at the applicable time in
paragraph (g)(6)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection was performed as
specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-06: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most recent inspection was
performed as specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-06.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial inspection was performed:
Within 12 years or 24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original standard airworthiness
certificate or the date of issuance of the original export
certificate of airworthiness.
(7) For AWL No. 57-AWL-07, ``Tension-rated Bolt Locations at
Side of Body (SOB) and Nacelle Fittings'' at the applicable time in
paragraph (g)(7)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection was performed as
specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-07: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most recent inspection was
performed as specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-07.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial inspection was performed:
Within 12 years or 24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original standard airworthiness
certificate or the date of issuance of the original export
certificate of airworthiness.
(8) For AWL No. 57-AWL-08, ``Dielectric Top on Wing Surface,''
at the applicable time in paragraph (g)(8)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection was performed as
specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-08: Within 6 years or 12,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most recent inspection was
performed as specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-08.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial inspection was performed:
Within 6 years or 12,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first after
the date of issuance of the original standard airworthiness
certificate or the date of issuance of the original export
certificate of airworthiness.
(9) For AWL No. 57-AWL-09, ``Inspection Requirements for Class
1A Seal Installations created as a result of Boeing Material Review
Board,'' at the applicable time in paragraph (g)(9)(i) or (ii) of
this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection was performed as
specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-09: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most recent inspection was
performed as specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-09.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial inspection was performed:
Within 12 years or 24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original standard airworthiness
certificate or the date of issuance of the original export
certificate of airworthiness.
(10) For AWL No. 57-AWL-10, ``Inspection Requirements for In-
Tank Fasteners near Side of Body (SOB) Rib and between Ribs 7 and
18,'' at the applicable time in paragraph (g)(10)(i) or (ii) of this
AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection was performed as
specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-10: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most recent inspection was
performed as specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-10.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial inspection was performed:
Within 12 years or 24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original standard airworthiness
certificate or the date of issuance of the original export
certificate of airworthiness.
(11) For AWL No. 57-AWL-13, ``Inspection Requirements for In-
Tank Fasteners and Edge Seal near Disbond Arrestment (DBA) Fastener
Installations in Lightning Zone 2,'' at the applicable time in
paragraph (g)(11)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection was performed as
specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-13: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most recent inspection was
performed as specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-13.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial inspection was performed:
At the applicable time in paragraph (g)(11)(ii)(A) or (B) of this
AD.
(A) For airplanes on which Boeing Service Bulletin B787-81205-
SB570030-00 is applicable: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight cycles,
whichever occurs first after the incorporation of Boeing Service
Bulletin B787-81205-SB570030-00.
(B) For airplanes having line numbers 10, 13, and 15 through 19
inclusive: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs
first after the date of issuance of the original standard
airworthiness certificate or the date of issuance of the original
export certificate of airworthiness.
(12) For AWL No. 57-AWL-14, ``Supplemental Inspection
Requirements for Pre-cured Sealant Caps, Fillet Seals, and Edge
Seals associated Stringer Splice Fitting Installation located at
Right Wing Upper Panel Stringer No. 3, just Outboard of the Side of
Body Rib,'' at the applicable time in paragraph (g)(12)(i) or (ii)
of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection was performed as
specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-14: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles whichever occurs first after the most recent inspection was
performed as specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-14.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial inspection was performed:
Within 12 years or
[[Page 12565]]
24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first after the date of
issuance of the original standard airworthiness certificate or the
date of issuance of the original export certificate of
airworthiness.
(13) For AWL No. 57-AWL-15, ``Inspection Requirements for Pre-
cured Sealant Caps, Injection Seals, Fillet Seals, and Edge Seals
associated with the Wing Lower Panel Stringer Attachments to the
Lower Side of Body (SOB) Chord,'' at the applicable time in
paragraph (g)(13)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection was performed as
specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-15: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most recent inspection was
performed as specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-15.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial inspection was performed:
Within 12 years or 24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original standard airworthiness
certificate or the date of issuance of the original export
certificate of airworthiness.
(14) For AWL No. 57-AWL-16, ``Supplemental Inspection
Requirements for Edge Seals located at Left Wing Upper Panel
Stringer No. 19, Between Ribs 8 and 9,'' at the applicable time in
paragraph (g)(14)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) For airplanes on which an inspection was performed as
specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-16: Within 12 years or 24,000 flight
cycles, whichever occurs first after the most recent inspection was
performed as specified in AWL No. 57-AWL-16.
(ii) For airplanes on which no initial inspection was performed:
Within 12 years or 24,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first
after the date of issuance of the original standard airworthiness
certificate or the date of issuance of the original export
certificate of airworthiness.
(h) No Alternative Actions, Intervals, or Critical Design Configuration
Control Limitations
After the existing maintenance or inspection program has been
revised as required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no alternative
actions (e.g., inspections), intervals, or critical design
configuration control limitation (CDCCLs) may be used unless the
actions, intervals, and CDCCLs are approved as an alternative method
of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the procedures specified in
paragraph (j) of this AD.
(i) Terminating Actions
Accomplishment of the revision required by paragraph (g) of this
AD terminates the requirements specified in paragraph (h) of AD
2018-11-13, for Model 787-8 airplanes only.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, has the authority to
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found
in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request
to your principal inspector or responsible Flight Standards Office,
as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of
the certification office, send it to the attention of the person
identified in Related Information. Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the responsible Flight Standards Office.
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be
used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD
if it is approved by The Boeing Company Organization Designation
Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Seattle
ACO Branch, FAA, to make those findings. To be approved, the repair
method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation must meet
the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must
specifically refer to this AD.
(k) Related Information
For more information about this AD, contact Tak Kobayashi,
Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch,
2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA; phone: 206-231-3553; 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 the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Boeing 787 Special Compliance Items/Airworthiness
Limitations, D011Z009-03-04, dated August 2018.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services
(C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-
5600; telephone 562-797-1717; internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com.
(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 protected], or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued on January 28, 2022.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2022-04662 Filed 3-4-22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
