Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 74524-74527 [2022-26466]

Download as PDF 74524 Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 233 / Tuesday, December 6, 2022 / Proposed Rules List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 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: ■ Airbus Canada Limited Partnership (Type Certificate Previously Held by C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership (CSALP); Bombardier, Inc.): Docket No. FAA– 2022–1492; Project Identifier MCAI– 2022–01184–T. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) by January 20, 2023. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus Canada Limited Partnership (Type Certificate previously held by C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership (CSALP); Bombardier, Inc.) Model BD–500– 1A10 airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in Transport Canada AD CF– 2022–51, dated September 13, 2022 (Transport Canada AD CF–2022–51). (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code: 25, Equipment/furnishings. lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports the overwing emergency exit door (OWEED) escape line may be incorrectly installed. The FAA is issuing this AD to ensure the OWEED escape line is installed correctly. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in the OWEED escape line not deploying, resulting in possible passenger injury following a ditching event. (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, Transport Canada AD CF– 2022–51. VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:01 Dec 05, 2022 Jkt 259001 (h) Exception to Transport Canada AD CF– 2022–51 Where Transport Canada AD CF–2022–51 refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD. (i) Additional 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; or Airbus Canada Limited Partnership’s Transport Canada Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except as required by paragraph (i)(2) of this AD, if any service information contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended. Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the operator’s maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests identified as RC require approval of an AMOC. (j) Additional Information For more information about this AD, contact Chirayu Gupta, 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 (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. (i) Transport Canada AD CF–2022–51, dated September 13, 2022. PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 (ii) [Reserved] (3) For Transport Canada AD CF–2022–51, contact Transport Canada National Aircraft Certification, 159 Cleopatra Drive, Nepean, Ontario K1A 0N5, Canada; telephone (888) 663–3639; email AD-CN@tc.gc.ca; website tc.canada.ca/en/aviation. (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 November 29, 2022. Christina Underwood, Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2022–26408 Filed 12–5–22; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2022–1171; Project Identifier AD–2022–00852–T] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2021–08–19, which applies to all The Boeing Company Model 787–8, –9, and –10 airplanes. AD 2021–08–19 requires repetitive general visual inspections for disengaged or damaged decompression panels of the bilge barriers located in the forward and aft cargo compartments, reinstallation of disengaged but undamaged panels, and replacement of damaged panels. Since the FAA issued AD 2021–08–19, new procedures for changing or replacing the bilge barrier assembly in the forward cargo compartment have been developed. This proposed AD would retain the requirements of AD 2021–08–19 and require changing or replacing the bilge barrier assembly in the forward and aft cargo compartments, which would terminate the repetitive inspections. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\06DEP1.SGM 06DEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 233 / Tuesday, December 6, 2022 / Proposed Rules The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by January 20, 2023. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this NPRM, 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 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 regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2022–1171. DATES: lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2022–1171; 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 NPRM, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Brandon Lucero, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206– 231–3569; email: brandon.lucero@ faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2022–1171; Project Identifier AD– 2022–00852–T’’ at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:01 Dec 05, 2022 Jkt 259001 proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend the proposal because of those comments. Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact received about this proposed AD. Confidential Business Information CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing CBI as ‘‘PROPIN.’’ The FAA will treat such marked submissions as confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public docket of this NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Brandon Lucero, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206–231–3569; email: brandon.lucero@faa.gov. Any commentary that the FAA receives that is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking. Background The FAA issued AD 2021–08–19, Amendment 39–21513 (86 FR 20440, April 20, 2021) (AD 2021–08–19), for all The Boeing Company Model 787–8, –9, and –10 airplanes. AD 2021–08–19 was prompted by reports of multiple incidents of torn decompression panels found in the bilge area, and the determination that additional airplanes are subject to the unsafe condition. AD 2021–08–19 requires repetitive general visual inspections for disengaged or damaged decompression panels of the bilge barriers located in the forward and aft cargo compartments, reinstallation of disengaged but undamaged panels, and replacement of damaged panels. The PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 74525 FAA issued AD 2021–08–19 to address the possibility of leakage in the bilge area, which could, in the event of a cargo fire, result in insufficient Halon concentrations to adequately control the fire. This condition, if not addressed, could result in the loss of continued safe flight and landing of the airplane. Actions Since AD 2021–08–19 Was Issued The preamble to AD 2021–08–19 specifies that the FAA considers that AD ‘‘interim action’’ and that the FAA might consider further rulemaking if a modification is developed, approved, and available. The manufacturer has since developed such a modification (procedures for changing or replacing the bilge barrier assembly in the forward cargo compartment), which would terminate the repetitive inspections required by AD 2021–08–19. The FAA has determined that this modification should be required. FAA’s Determination The FAA is issuing this NPRM after determining that the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205– SB500011–00 RB, Issue 001, dated May 10, 2022. This service information specifies procedures for changing or replacing the bilge barrier assembly in the forward cargo compartments at stations (STA) 345 and 825 and aft cargo compartment at STA 1304. 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 the ADDRESSES section. Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM This proposed AD would retain all of the requirements of AD 2021–08–19. This proposed AD would also require accomplishing the actions identified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205–SB500011–00 RB, Issue 001, dated May 10, 2022, described previously, except for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this proposed AD. For information on the procedures and compliance times, see this service information at regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2022–1171. E:\FR\FM\06DEP1.SGM 06DEP1 74526 Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 233 / Tuesday, December 6, 2022 / Proposed Rules Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would affect 135 airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Repetitive inspections (retained actions). Change or replace bilge barrier (new proposed action). Labor cost Parts cost 3 work-hours × $85 per hour = $255 per inspection cycle. Up to 7 work-hours × $85 per hour = $595. $0 ...................................... $255 per inspection cycle $34,425 per inspection cycle. Up to $12,100 ................... Up to $12,695 ................... Up to $1,713,825. The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary replacements that would be required based on the Cost per product results of the proposed inspection. The agency has no way of determining the Cost on U.S. operators number of aircraft that might need these replacements: ON-CONDITION COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Replacement (retained requirement) 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ............................................................ $* $85 * The FAA has received no definitive data on which to base the parts costs estimates for the replacements. 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. lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 Regulatory Findings The FAA has determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would 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 the proposed regulation: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:01 Dec 05, 2022 Jkt 259001 (2) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (3) Would 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 Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 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: a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2021–08–19, Amendment 39– 21513 (86 FR 20440, April 20, 2021), and ■ b. Adding the following new AD: ■ ■ The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA– 2022–1171; Project Identifier AD–2022– 00852–T. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) action by January 20, 2023. PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 (b) Affected ADs This AD replaces AD 2021–08–19, Amendment 39–21513 (86 FR 20440, April 20, 2021) (AD 2021–08–19). (c) Applicability This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 787–8, –9, and –10 airplanes, certificated in any category. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 50, Cargo and accessory compartments. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of multiple incidents of torn decompression panels being found in the bilge area, and the development of new procedures for changing or replacing the bilge barrier assembly in the forward cargo compartment. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the possibility of leakage in the bilge area, which could, in the event of a cargo fire, result in insufficient Halon concentrations to adequately control the fire. This condition, if not addressed, could result in the loss of continued safe flight and landing of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Retained Repetitive Inspections and Corrective Action With No Changes This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 2021–08–19 with no changes. At the applicable times specified in paragraph (g)(1) or (2) of this AD: Do a general visual inspection for disengaged or damaged (torn) decompression panels of the bilge barriers located in the forward and aft cargo compartments. If any disengaged but E:\FR\FM\06DEP1.SGM 06DEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 233 / Tuesday, December 6, 2022 / Proposed Rules undamaged panel is found: Before further flight, reinstall the panel. If any damaged panel is found: Before further flight, replace the panel with a new or serviceable panel. Reinstallations and replacements must be done in accordance with the operator’s maintenance or inspection program, as applicable. (1) If a general visual inspection for disengaged or damaged (torn) decompression panels of the bilge barriers was done before May 5, 2021 (the effective date of AD 2021– 08–19): Do the next inspection within 4 calendar months after the most recent inspection. Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 4 calendar months. (2) If a general visual inspection for disengaged or damaged (torn) decompression panels of the bilge barriers was not done before May 5, 2021 (the effective date of AD 2021–08–19): Do the initial inspection within 30 days after May 5, 2021. Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 4 calendar months. (h) Retained MEL Provisions With No Changes This paragraph restates the provisions of paragraph (h) of AD 2021–08–19 with no changes. If any decompression panel inspected as required by this AD is disengaged or damaged, the airplane may be operated as specified in the operator’s existing FAA-approved minimum equipment list (MEL), provided provisions that address the disengaged or damaged decompression panels are included in the MEL. lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 (i) New Required Actions Except as specified by paragraph (j) of this AD: At the applicable times specified in the ‘‘Compliance,’’ paragraph of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205– SB500011–00 RB, Issue 001, dated May 10, 2022, do all applicable actions identified in, and in accordance with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205–SB500011–00 RB, Issue 001, dated May 10, 2022. Accomplishing the actions required by this paragraph terminates the repetitive inspections required by paragraph (g) of this AD. Note 1 to paragraph (i): Guidance for accomplishing the actions required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205–SB500011–00, Issue 001, dated May 10, 2022, which is referred to in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205–SB500011–00 RB, Issue 001, dated May 10, 2022. (j) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications Where the Compliance Time column of the table in the ‘‘Compliance’’ paragraph of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787– 81205–SB500011–00 RB, Issue 001, dated May 10, 2022, uses the phrase ‘‘the Issue 001 date of Requirements Bulletin B787–81205– SB500011–00 RB,’’ this AD requires using ‘‘the effective date of this AD.’’ 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 paragraph (l)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-Seattle-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. (4) AMOCs approved for AD 2021–08–19 are approved as AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205– SB500011–00 RB, Issue 001, dated May 10, 2022, that are required by paragraph (i) of this AD. (l) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Brandon Lucero, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206–231–3569; email: brandon.lucero@faa.gov. (2) 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 myboeingfleet.com. You may view this referenced 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. Issued on September 21, 2022. Christina Underwood, Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2022–26466 Filed 12–5–22; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P (k) 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:01 Dec 05, 2022 Jkt 259001 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 74527 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2022–1566; Project Identifier MCAI–2022–00290–T] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Canada Limited Partnership (Type Certificate Previously Held by C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership (CSALP); Bombardier, Inc.) Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Canada Limited Partnership Model BD–500–1A10 and BD–500– 1A11 airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of mechanical wear damage found on the engine fuel feed system tubes and fuel tube connections. This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections of the fuel feed system for damage and replacement if necessary, as specified in a Transport Canada AD, which is proposed for incorporation by reference (IBR). The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by January 20, 2023. SUMMARY: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2022–1566; 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 NPRM, the mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. Material Incorporated by Reference: ADDRESSES: E:\FR\FM\06DEP1.SGM 06DEP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 87, Number 233 (Tuesday, December 6, 2022)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 74524-74527]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2022-26466]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2022-1171; Project Identifier AD-2022-00852-T]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2021-08-19, which applies to all The Boeing Company Model 787-8, -9, 
and -10 airplanes. AD 2021-08-19 requires repetitive general visual 
inspections for disengaged or damaged decompression panels of the bilge 
barriers located in the forward and aft cargo compartments, 
reinstallation of disengaged but undamaged panels, and replacement of 
damaged panels. Since the FAA issued AD 2021-08-19, new procedures for 
changing or replacing the bilge barrier assembly in the forward cargo 
compartment have been developed. This proposed AD would retain the 
requirements of AD 2021-08-19 and require changing or replacing the 
bilge barrier assembly in the forward and aft cargo compartments, which 
would terminate the repetitive inspections. The FAA is proposing this 
AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

[[Page 74525]]


DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by January 20, 
2023.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to regulations.gov. Follow 
the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this NPRM, 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 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 regulations.gov by searching for and 
locating Docket No. FAA-2022-1171.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov by searching for 
and locating Docket No. FAA-2022-1171; 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 NPRM, any comments 
received, and other information. The street address for Docket 
Operations is listed above.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Brandon Lucero, Aerospace Engineer, 
Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Section, FAA, Seattle ACO 
Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-
231-3569; email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed 
under ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2022-1171; Project Identifier 
AD-2022-00852-T'' at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful 
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the 
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
the proposal because of those comments.
    Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in 
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 
11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to 
regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The 
agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal 
contact received about this proposed AD.

Confidential Business Information

    CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily 
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of 
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public 
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial 
or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that 
you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to 
this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted 
comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing 
CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked submissions as 
confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public 
docket of this NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to 
Brandon Lucero, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental 
Systems Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des 
Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-3569; email: 
[email protected]. Any commentary that the FAA receives that is 
not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket 
for this rulemaking.

Background

    The FAA issued AD 2021-08-19, Amendment 39-21513 (86 FR 20440, 
April 20, 2021) (AD 2021-08-19), for all The Boeing Company Model 787-
8, -9, and -10 airplanes. AD 2021-08-19 was prompted by reports of 
multiple incidents of torn decompression panels found in the bilge 
area, and the determination that additional airplanes are subject to 
the unsafe condition. AD 2021-08-19 requires repetitive general visual 
inspections for disengaged or damaged decompression panels of the bilge 
barriers located in the forward and aft cargo compartments, 
reinstallation of disengaged but undamaged panels, and replacement of 
damaged panels. The FAA issued AD 2021-08-19 to address the possibility 
of leakage in the bilge area, which could, in the event of a cargo 
fire, result in insufficient Halon concentrations to adequately control 
the fire. This condition, if not addressed, could result in the loss of 
continued safe flight and landing of the airplane.

Actions Since AD 2021-08-19 Was Issued

    The preamble to AD 2021-08-19 specifies that the FAA considers that 
AD ``interim action'' and that the FAA might consider further 
rulemaking if a modification is developed, approved, and available. The 
manufacturer has since developed such a modification (procedures for 
changing or replacing the bilge barrier assembly in the forward cargo 
compartment), which would terminate the repetitive inspections required 
by AD 2021-08-19. The FAA has determined that this modification should 
be required.

FAA's Determination

    The FAA is issuing this NPRM after determining that the unsafe 
condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other 
products of the same type design.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-
SB500011-00 RB, Issue 001, dated May 10, 2022. This service information 
specifies procedures for changing or replacing the bilge barrier 
assembly in the forward cargo compartments at stations (STA) 345 and 
825 and aft cargo compartment at STA 1304. 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 
the ADDRESSES section.

Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM

    This proposed AD would retain all of the requirements of AD 2021-
08-19. This proposed AD would also require accomplishing the actions 
identified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB500011-00 
RB, Issue 001, dated May 10, 2022, described previously, except for any 
differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this 
proposed AD.
    For information on the procedures and compliance times, see this 
service information at regulations.gov by searching for and locating 
Docket No. FAA-2022-1171.

[[Page 74526]]

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would 
affect 135 airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following 
costs to comply with this proposed AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                 Cost on U.S.
             Action                   Labor cost          Parts cost       Cost per product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Repetitive inspections (retained  3 work-hours x $85  $0................  $255 per            $34,425 per
 actions).                         per hour = $255                         inspection cycle.   inspection cycle.
                                   per inspection
                                   cycle.
Change or replace bilge barrier   Up to 7 work-hours  Up to $12,100.....  Up to $12,695.....  Up to $1,713,825.
 (new proposed action).            x $85 per hour =
                                   $595.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Cost per
                  Action                                Labor cost                 Parts cost        product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacement (retained requirement)........  1 work-hour x $85 per hour = $85..             $ *              $85
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The FAA has received no definitive data on which to base the parts costs estimates for the replacements.

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

Regulatory Findings

    The FAA has determined that this proposed AD would not have 
federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD 
would 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 the proposed 
regulation:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (3) Would 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 Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 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:
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2021-08-19, Amendment 39-21513 
(86 FR 20440, April 20, 2021), and
0
b. Adding the following new AD:

The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA-2022-1171; Project Identifier AD-
2022-00852-T.

(a) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive 
(AD) action by January 20, 2023.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2021-08-19, Amendment 39-21513 (86 FR 20440, 
April 20, 2021) (AD 2021-08-19).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 787-8, -9, and -
10 airplanes, certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 50, Cargo and 
accessory compartments.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports of multiple incidents of torn 
decompression panels being found in the bilge area, and the 
development of new procedures for changing or replacing the bilge 
barrier assembly in the forward cargo compartment. The FAA is 
issuing this AD to address the possibility of leakage in the bilge 
area, which could, in the event of a cargo fire, result in 
insufficient Halon concentrations to adequately control the fire. 
This condition, if not addressed, could result in the loss of 
continued safe flight and landing of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) Retained Repetitive Inspections and Corrective Action With No 
Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 
2021-08-19 with no changes. At the applicable times specified in 
paragraph (g)(1) or (2) of this AD: Do a general visual inspection 
for disengaged or damaged (torn) decompression panels of the bilge 
barriers located in the forward and aft cargo compartments. If any 
disengaged but

[[Page 74527]]

undamaged panel is found: Before further flight, reinstall the 
panel. If any damaged panel is found: Before further flight, replace 
the panel with a new or serviceable panel. Reinstallations and 
replacements must be done in accordance with the operator's 
maintenance or inspection program, as applicable.
    (1) If a general visual inspection for disengaged or damaged 
(torn) decompression panels of the bilge barriers was done before 
May 5, 2021 (the effective date of AD 2021-08-19): Do the next 
inspection within 4 calendar months after the most recent 
inspection. Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to 
exceed 4 calendar months.
    (2) If a general visual inspection for disengaged or damaged 
(torn) decompression panels of the bilge barriers was not done 
before May 5, 2021 (the effective date of AD 2021-08-19): Do the 
initial inspection within 30 days after May 5, 2021. Repeat the 
inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 4 calendar months.

(h) Retained MEL Provisions With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the provisions of paragraph (h) of AD 
2021-08-19 with no changes. If any decompression panel inspected as 
required by this AD is disengaged or damaged, the airplane may be 
operated as specified in the operator's existing FAA-approved 
minimum equipment list (MEL), provided provisions that address the 
disengaged or damaged decompression panels are included in the MEL.

(i) New Required Actions

    Except as specified by paragraph (j) of this AD: At the 
applicable times specified in the ``Compliance,'' paragraph of 
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB500011-00 RB, Issue 
001, dated May 10, 2022, do all applicable actions identified in, 
and in accordance with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing 
Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB500011-00 RB, Issue 001, 
dated May 10, 2022. Accomplishing the actions required by this 
paragraph terminates the repetitive inspections required by 
paragraph (g) of this AD.
    Note 1 to paragraph (i): Guidance for accomplishing the actions 
required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
B787-81205-SB500011-00, Issue 001, dated May 10, 2022, which is 
referred to in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-
SB500011-00 RB, Issue 001, dated May 10, 2022.

(j) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications

    Where the Compliance Time column of the table in the 
``Compliance'' paragraph of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-
81205-SB500011-00 RB, Issue 001, dated May 10, 2022, uses the phrase 
``the Issue 001 date of Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB500011-00 
RB,'' this AD requires using ``the effective date of this AD.''

(k) 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 paragraph (l)(1) of this AD. 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.
    (4) AMOCs approved for AD 2021-08-19 are approved as AMOCs for 
the corresponding provisions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 
B787-81205-SB500011-00 RB, Issue 001, dated May 10, 2022, that are 
required by paragraph (i) of this AD.

(l) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Brandon Lucero, 
Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Section, 
FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; 
phone and fax: 206-231-3569; email: [email protected].
    (2) 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 myboeingfleet.com. You may 
view this referenced 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.

    Issued on September 21, 2022.
Christina Underwood,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2022-26466 Filed 12-5-22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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