Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes, 63940-63943 [2022-22330]

Download as PDF 63940 Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 203 / Friday, October 21, 2022 / Rules and Regulations (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. (h) No Reporting Requirement Although Bombardier Service Bulletin 700–36–7502, dated October 28, 2020, specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD does not include that requirement. 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: ■ 2022–20–09 Bombardier, Inc.: Amendment 39–22193; Docket No. FAA–2022–0886; Project Identifier MCAI–2022–00261–T. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective November 25, 2022. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Bombardier, Inc., Model BD–700–2A12 airplanes, certificated in any category, serial numbers 70006, 70007, 70009 through 70019 inclusive, 70021 through 70029 inclusive, and 70031. jspears on DSK121TN23PROD with RULES (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 36, Pneumatic. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of insufficient clearance between the surrounding structure/skin of the aircraft and select bleed air ducts that supply the wing ice protection system (WIPS) in the rear fuselage. The FAA is issuing this AD to address possible interference between the high pressure (HP) shroud and the surrounding structures, which could compromise the HP ducting shroud’s capability to provide bleed air leak routing and result in a bleed air leak being undetected. A significant undetected bleed air leak could expose the surrounding structure to heat stress, resulting in reduced structural integrity of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:05 Oct 20, 2022 Jkt 259001 (g) Required Actions Within 21 months after the effective date of this AD: Inspect the affected bleed air ducts and surrounding structure for minimum clearance and damage (wear or chafing), and do all applicable corrective actions in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Service Bulletin 700–36–7502, dated October 28, 2020. Do all applicable corrective actions before further flight. (i) Other AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, New York 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 ATTN: Program Manager, Continuing Operational Safety, FAA, New York ACO Branch, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516–228–7300. 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, New York ACO Branch, FAA; or Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA); or Bombardier, Inc.’s TCCA Design Approval Organization (DAO). If approved by the DAO, the approval must include the DAO-authorized signature. (j) Additional Information (1) Refer to TCCA AD CF–2022–05, dated February 24, 2022, for related information. This TCCA AD may be found in the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2022–0886. (2) For more information about this AD, contact Elizabeth Dowling, Aerospace Engineer, Mechanical Systems and Administrative Services Section, FAA, New York ACO Branch, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516–228–7300; email 9-avs-nyaco-cos@ faa.gov. (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 this AD specifies otherwise. PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 (i) Bombardier Service Bulletin 700–36– 7502, dated October 28, 2020. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Bombardier Business Aircraft Customer Response Center, 400 CoˆteVertu Road West, Dorval, Que´bec H4S 1Y9, Canada; telephone 514–855–2999; email ac.yul@aero.bombardier.com; website bombardier.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 fr.inspection@nara.gov, or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued on September 19, 2022. Christina Underwood, Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2022–22329 Filed 10–20–22; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2022–0879; Project Identifier MCAI–2022–00039–T; Amendment 39–22192; AD 2022–20–08] 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 A300 B2K–3C, B2– 203, B4–2C, and B4–203 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of cracking of the flight compartment aft window frame and adjacent fuselage skin. This AD requires require a one-time check for previously accomplished repairs of the window pane and adjacent fuselage panel, and applicable corrective actions, 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 November 25, 2022. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of November 25, 2022. SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\21OCR1.SGM 21OCR1 Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 203 / Friday, October 21, 2022 / Rules and Regulations ADDRESSES: AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2022–0879; 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, the mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), 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. Material Incorporated by Reference: • 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; website easa.europa.eu. You may find this IBR material on the EASA website at ad.easa.europa.eu. • 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. It is also available in the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA– 2022–0879. It is also available at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA– 2022–0879. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, FAA, International Validation Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone 206–231–3225; email dan.rodina@ faa.gov. 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 all Airbus SAS Model A300 B2K–3C, B2–203, B4–2C, and B4–203 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on July 19, 2022 (87 FR 42970). The NPRM was prompted by EASA AD 2022–0004, dated January 11, 2022 (EASA AD 2022–0004), issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union. The MCAI terminates the inspections of the rear lower corner of the flight compartment aft window at fuselage station (STA) 972/frame (FR) 10, as required by paragraphs (a)(8), (d), and (e) of FAA AD 2000–10–01, Amendment 39–11725 (65 FR 33441, May 24, 2000), which corresponds to EASA AD 2022–0004. In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require a one-time check for previously accomplished repairs of the window pane and adjacent fuselage panel, and applicable corrective actions, as specified in EASA AD 2022–0004. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2022–0879. Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive Comments The FAA received a comment from the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), who supported the NPRM without change. Conclusion This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 63941 country and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA’s bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, it has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI referenced above. The FAA reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety requires adopting this AD as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on this product. Except for minor editorial changes, 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 EASA AD 2022–0004 specifies procedures for a one-time check for previously accomplished repairs of the window pane and adjacent fuselage panel, and applicable corrective actions. If no repair is identified, the corrective actions are accomplishing repetitive ultrasonic inspections of the window frame, and detailed inspections of the adjacent fuselage panel for cracking, and repair of any cracking. If any repair is identified, the corrective action is obtaining and accomplishing further instructions. 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 1 airplane of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED ACTIONS Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 .............................................................................................. $0 $85 $85 The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary on-condition inspections 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 inspections: jspears on DSK121TN23PROD with RULES ESTIMATED COSTS OF ON-CONDITION ACTIONS Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product 3 work-hours × $85 per hour = $255 ...................................................................................................................... $0 $255 VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:05 Oct 20, 2022 Jkt 259001 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\21OCR1.SGM 21OCR1 63942 Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 203 / Friday, October 21, 2022 / Rules and Regulations The FAA has received no definitive data on which to base the cost estimates for the on-condition repairs or additional instructions specified in this AD. Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA’s authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, describes in more detail the scope of the Agency’s authority. The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements. Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. 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. jspears on DSK121TN23PROD with RULES 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: ■ VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:05 Oct 20, 2022 Jkt 259001 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: ■ 2022–20–08 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39– 22192; Docket No. FAA–2022–0879; Project Identifier MCAI–2022–00039–T. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective November 25, 2022. (b) Affected ADs This AD affects AD 2000–10–01, Amendment 39–11725 (65 FR 33441, May 24, 2000) (AD 2000–10–01). (c) Applicability This AD applies to all Airbus SAS Model A300 B2K–3C, B2–203, B4–2C, and B4–203 airplanes, certificated in any category. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of cracking of the flight compartment aft window frame and adjacent fuselage skin. The FAA is issuing this AD to address cracking of the wings and fuselage. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in reduced structural integrity 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 2022–0004, dated January 11, 2022 (EASA AD 2022–0004). (h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2022–0004 (1) Where EASA AD 2022–0004 refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD. (2) Where paragraph (4) of EASA AD 2022– 0004 specifies to ‘‘accomplish those instructions accordingly’’ if any crack is detected, for this AD if any crack is detected, the crack must be repaired before further flight 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) Where paragraph (6) of EASA AD 2022– 0004 specifies terminating action, replace the text ‘‘the requirements of paragraph 1.8 of DGAC France AD 1990–222–116(B) R5 are no longer valid,’’ with ‘‘the inspections of the rear lower corner of the flight compartment aft window at fuselage station (STA) 972/ frame (FR) 10, as required by paragraphs (a)(8), (d), and (e) of AD 2000–10–01, are terminated.’’ PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 (4) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD 2022–0004 does not apply to this AD. (i) No Reporting Requirement Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2022–0004 specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD does not include that requirement. (j) Additional 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 local flight standards district office/certificate holding district office. (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD to obtain instructions from a manufacturer, the instructions must be accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus SAS’s EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (k) Additional Information For more information about this AD, contact Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, FAA, International Validation Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone 206–231– 3225; email dan.rodina@faa.gov. (l) 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 this AD specifies otherwise. (i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2022–0004, dated January 11, 2022. (ii) [Reserved]. (3) For EASA AD 2022–0004, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; website easa.europa.eu. You may find this EASA AD on the EASA website at 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. E:\FR\FM\21OCR1.SGM 21OCR1 Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 203 / Friday, October 21, 2022 / Rules and Regulations (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 fr.inspection@nara.gov, or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued on September 16, 2022. Christina Underwood, Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2022–22330 Filed 10–20–22; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2022–0011; Project Identifier MCAI–2021–00485–T; Amendment 39–22166; AD 2022–18–15] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; MHI RJ Aviation ULC (Type Certificate Previously Held by Bombardier, Inc.) Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain MHI RJ Aviation ULC Model CL–600– 2B19 (Regional Jet Series 100 & 440) airplanes, Model CL–600–2C10 (Regional Jet Series 700, 701 & 702) airplanes, Model CL–600–2C11 (Regional Jet Series 550) airplanes, Model CL–600–2D15 (Regional Jet Series 705) airplanes, Model CL–600– 2D24 (Regional Jet Series 900) airplanes, and Model CL–600–2E25 (Regional Jet Series 1000) airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of corrosion on fuel clamshell couplings installed in the fuel tank, and a determination that new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations are necessary. This AD requires removing and replacing the fuel clamshell couplings on certain airplanes, and 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 November 25, 2022. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of November 25, 2022. ADDRESSES: jspears on DSK121TN23PROD with RULES SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:05 Oct 20, 2022 Jkt 259001 AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2022–0011; 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, the mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), 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. Material Incorporated by Reference: • For service information identified in this final rule, contact MHI RJ Aviation Group, Customer Response Center, 3655 Ave. des GrandesTourelles, Suite 110, Boisbriand, Que´bec J7H 0E2 Canada; North America toll-free telephone 833–990–7272 or direct-dial telephone 450–990–7272; fax 514–855–8501; email thd.crj@ mhirj.com; internet mhirj.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 regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA– 2022–0011. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jiwan Karunatilake, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe and Propulsion Section, FAA, New York ACO Branch, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516– 228–7300; email 9-avs-nyaco-cos@ faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA), which is the aviation authority for Canada, has issued TCCA AD CF– 2021–16, dated April 26, 2021 (TCCA AD CF–2021–16) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or the MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition for certain MHI RJ Aviation ULC Model CL–600–2B19 (Regional Jet Series 100 & 440) airplanes, Model CL–600–2C10 (Regional Jet Series 700, 701 & 702) airplanes, Model CL–600–2C11 (Regional Jet Series 550) airplanes, Model CL–600–2D15 (Regional Jet Series 705) airplanes, Model CL–600– 2D24 (Regional Jet Series 900) airplanes, and Model CL–600–2E25 (Regional Jet Series 1000) airplanes. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the internet at regulations.gov by PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 63943 searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2022–0011. The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain MHI RJ Aviation ULC Model CL–600–2B19 (Regional Jet Series 100 & 440) airplanes, Model CL– 600–2C10 (Regional Jet Series 700, 701 & 702) airplanes, Model CL–600–2C11 (Regional Jet Series 550) airplanes, Model CL–600–2D15 (Regional Jet Series 705) airplanes, Model CL–600– 2D24 (Regional Jet Series 900) airplanes, and Model CL–600–2E25 (Regional Jet Series 1000) airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on January 25, 2022 (87 FR 3716). The NPRM was prompted by reports of corrosion on fuel clamshell couplings installed in the fuel tank, and a determination that new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations are necessary. The NPRM proposed to require removing and replacing the fuel clamshell couplings on certain airplanes, and 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 corroded fuel clamshell couplings in the fuel tank, which, if not removed and replaced, could reduce the ability of the fuel coupling to conduct lightning current and possibly lead to arcing and subsequent fuel tank ignition in the event of a lightning strike. See the MCAI for additional background information. Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive Comments The FAA received a comment from the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) who supported the NPRM without change. The FAA received one additional comment from MHI RJ Aviation. The following presents the comment received on the NPRM and the FAA’s response. Request for Clarification for Incorporating Temporary Revisions (TRs) MHI RJ Aviation requested that the proposed AD be revised to include provisional statement allowing the incorporation of TRs in their respective manuals. MHI RJ Aviation conceded that the provision that allows this may be included in paragraph (k) of the proposed AD, but noted that it is not clear. MHI RJ Aviation requested that the FAA consider adding a provision to avoid requests for alternative methods of compliance (AMOCs) from operators. E:\FR\FM\21OCR1.SGM 21OCR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 87, Number 203 (Friday, October 21, 2022)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 63940-63943]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2022-22330]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2022-0879; Project Identifier MCAI-2022-00039-T; 
Amendment 39-22192; AD 2022-20-08]
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 A300 B2K-3C, B2-203, B4-2C, and B4-203 airplanes. This 
AD was prompted by reports of cracking of the flight compartment aft 
window frame and adjacent fuselage skin. This AD requires require a 
one-time check for previously accomplished repairs of the window pane 
and adjacent fuselage panel, and applicable corrective actions, 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 November 25, 2022.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of November 25, 
2022.

[[Page 63941]]


ADDRESSES: 
    AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under 
Docket No. FAA-2022-0879; 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, the mandatory continuing airworthiness 
information (MCAI), 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.
    Material Incorporated by Reference:
     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]; website easa.europa.eu. You 
may find this IBR material on the EASA website at ad.easa.europa.eu.
     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. It is also available in the AD docket at 
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2022-0879. It is also available at 
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2022-0879.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, Large 
Aircraft Section, FAA, International Validation Branch, 2200 South 
216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone 206-231-3225; 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 all Airbus SAS Model 
A300 B2K-3C, B2-203, B4-2C, and B4-203 airplanes. The NPRM published in 
the Federal Register on July 19, 2022 (87 FR 42970). The NPRM was 
prompted by EASA AD 2022-0004, dated January 11, 2022 (EASA AD 2022-
0004), issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member 
States of the European Union. The MCAI terminates the inspections of 
the rear lower corner of the flight compartment aft window at fuselage 
station (STA) 972/frame (FR) 10, as required by paragraphs (a)(8), (d), 
and (e) of FAA AD 2000-10-01, Amendment 39-11725 (65 FR 33441, May 24, 
2000), which corresponds to EASA AD 2022-0004.
    In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require a one-time check for 
previously accomplished repairs of the window pane and adjacent 
fuselage panel, and applicable corrective actions, as specified in EASA 
AD 2022-0004. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe 
condition on these products.
    You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at regulations.gov under 
Docket No. FAA-2022-0879.

Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive

Comments

    The FAA received a comment from the Air Line Pilots Association 
(ALPA), who supported the NPRM without change.

Conclusion

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to 
the FAA's bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, it 
has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI 
referenced above. The FAA reviewed the relevant data and determined 
that air safety requires adopting this AD as proposed. Accordingly, the 
FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on this product. 
Except for minor editorial changes, 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

    EASA AD 2022-0004 specifies procedures for a one-time check for 
previously accomplished repairs of the window pane and adjacent 
fuselage panel, and applicable corrective actions. If no repair is 
identified, the corrective actions are accomplishing repetitive 
ultrasonic inspections of the window frame, and detailed inspections of 
the adjacent fuselage panel for cracking, and repair of any cracking. 
If any repair is identified, the corrective action is obtaining and 
accomplishing further instructions.
    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 1 airplane 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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 work-hour x $85 per hour = $85.............................              $0              $85              $85
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary on-
condition inspections 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 inspections:

                 Estimated Costs of On-Condition Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             Cost per
              Labor cost                   Parts cost        product
------------------------------------------------------------------------
3 work-hours x $85 per hour = $255....              $0             $255
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 63942]]

    The FAA has received no definitive data on which to base the cost 
estimates for the on-condition repairs or additional instructions 
specified in this AD.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, 
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
    The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements. 
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight 
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for 
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary 
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that 
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to 
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.

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:

2022-20-08 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39-22192; Docket No. FAA-2022-0879; 
Project Identifier MCAI-2022-00039-T.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective November 25, 
2022.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD affects AD 2000-10-01, Amendment 39-11725 (65 FR 33441, 
May 24, 2000) (AD 2000-10-01).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all Airbus SAS Model A300 B2K-3C, B2-203, B4-
2C, and B4-203 airplanes, certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

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

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports of cracking of the flight 
compartment aft window frame and adjacent fuselage skin. The FAA is 
issuing this AD to address cracking of the wings and fuselage. The 
unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in reduced 
structural integrity 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 
2022-0004, dated January 11, 2022 (EASA AD 2022-0004).

(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2022-0004

    (1) Where EASA AD 2022-0004 refers to its effective date, this 
AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
    (2) Where paragraph (4) of EASA AD 2022-0004 specifies to 
``accomplish those instructions accordingly'' if any crack is 
detected, for this AD if any crack is detected, the crack must be 
repaired before further flight 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) Where paragraph (6) of EASA AD 2022-0004 specifies 
terminating action, replace the text ``the requirements of paragraph 
1.8 of DGAC France AD 1990-222-116(B) R5 are no longer valid,'' with 
``the inspections of the rear lower corner of the flight compartment 
aft window at fuselage station (STA) 972/frame (FR) 10, as required 
by paragraphs (a)(8), (d), and (e) of AD 2000-10-01, are 
terminated.''
    (4) The ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD 2022-0004 does not apply 
to this AD.

(i) No Reporting Requirement

    Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-0004 
specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD 
does not include that requirement.

(j) Additional 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: [email protected]. 
Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal 
inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the 
local flight standards district office/certificate holding district 
office.
    (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD 
to obtain instructions from a manufacturer, the instructions must be 
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, Large Aircraft 
Section, International Validation Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus 
SAS's EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must include 
the DOA-authorized signature.

(k) Additional Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Dan Rodina, 
Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, FAA, International 
Validation Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; 
telephone 206-231-3225; email [email protected].

(l) 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 this AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2022-0004, 
dated January 11, 2022.
    (ii) [Reserved].
    (3) For EASA AD 2022-0004, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 
50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email 
[email protected]; website easa.europa.eu. You may find this EASA 
AD on the EASA website at 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.

[[Page 63943]]

    (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: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued on September 16, 2022.
Christina Underwood,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2022-22330 Filed 10-20-22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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