Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 7575-7578 [2023-02371]
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 24 / Monday, February 6, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
Note 1 to paragraph (c): Helicopters with
an MBB–BK117 C–2e designation are Model
MBB–BK117 C–2 helicopters.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code: 6230, Main Rotor System.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a report of a
missing main rotor swashplate (swashplate)
inner ring (inner ring). The FAA is issuing
this AD to detect a missing inner ring. The
unsafe condition, if not addressed, could
result in loss of main rotor control and
subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
DDrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this
AD: Comply with all required actions and
compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, European Union Aviation
Safety Agency Emergency AD 2023–0006–E,
dated January 12, 2023 (EASA AD 2023–
0006–E).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2023–0006–E
(1) Where EASA AD 2023–0006–E refers to
its effective date, this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(2) Where the service information
referenced in paragraph (1) of EASA AD
2023–0006–E specifies that a pilot may check
for installation of the inner ring on the
swashplate, this AD requires that inspection
to be accomplished by persons authorized
under 14 CFR 43.3.
(3) Where the service information
referenced in paragraph (1) of EASA AD
2023–0006–E and where paragraph (2) of
EASA AD 2023–0006–E specify contacting
AH [Airbus Helicopters] to obtain further
instructions or approved instructions, this
AD requires actions done in accordance with
a method approved by the Manager, General
Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, International
Validation Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus
Helicopters Deutschland GmbH’s EASA
Design Organization Approval (DOA). If
approved by the DOA, the approval must
include the DOA-authorized signature. As an
option, you may accomplish the actions
identified in paragraphs (h)(3)(i) and (ii) of
this AD.
(i) Before further flight, replace the affected
swashplate.
(ii) At the applicable compliance time
identified in paragraph (h)(3)(ii)(A) or (B) of
this AD, report the inspection results and
describe in detail any other findings, along
with the helicopter model and serial number,
swashplate part number, and the following
text: ‘‘EASB BO105–40A–110, BO105LS–
40A–15, BO105 LS A–3–STC–0654/3058–
40A–3, MBB–BK117–40A–118, MBB–
BK117–62–32–0001’’ by email to
support.technical-bulletins.ahd@airbus.com.
(A) If the inspection in paragraph (1) of
EASA AD 2023–0006–E was done on or after
the effective date of this AD: Submit the
report within 10 days after completing
paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2023–0006–E.
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(B) If the inspection in paragraph (1) of
EASA AD 2023–0006–E was done before the
effective date of this AD: Submit the report
within 10 days after the effective date of this
AD.
(4) This AD does not adopt the Remarks
paragraph of EASA AD 2023–0006–E.
7575
Issued on January 31, 2023.
Christina Underwood,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023–02502 Filed 2–2–23; 11:15 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
(i) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits are prohibited.
(j) 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 (k) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR730-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.
(k) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Dan McCully, Program Manager, COS
Program Management Section, Operational
Safety Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, FAA, 1701 Columbia Ave., Mail
Stop: ACO, College Park, GA 30337;
telephone (404) 474–5548; email
william.mccully@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) Emergency AD 2023–0006–E, dated
January 12, 2023.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2023–0006–E, contact
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668
Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999
000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; internet
easa.europa.eu. You may find the EASA
material on the EASA website at
ad.easa.europa.eu.
(4) You may view this service information
at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110.
(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.
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2022–0874; Project
Identifier AD–2022–00337–T; Amendment
39–22307; AD 2023–01–13]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
Company Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
The Boeing Company Model DC–9–81
(MD–81), DC–9–82 (MD–82), DC–9–83
(MD–83), and DC–9–87 (MD–87)
airplanes; and Model MD–88 airplanes.
This AD was prompted by an evaluation
by the design approval holder (DAH)
indicating that certain center wing
lower stringers are subject to
widespread fatigue damage (WFD). WFD
analysis found that fatigue cracks could
grow to a critical length after the
structural modification point (SMP) for
these center wing lower stringers. This
AD requires replacing certain left and
right side center wing lower stringers.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address
the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective March 13,
2023.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of March 13, 2023.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2022–0874; 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.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
• For service information identified
in this final rule, contact Boeing
SUMMARY:
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 24 / Monday, February 6, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
Commercial Airplanes, Attention:
Contractual & Data Services (C&DS),
2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110–SK57,
Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600; telephone
562–797–1717; website
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 under Docket No. FAA–
2022–0874.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Manuel Hernandez, Aerospace
Engineer, Airframe Section, FAA, Los
Angeles ACO Branch, 3960 Paramount
Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712–4137;
phone: 562–627–5256; email:
manuel.f.hernandez@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
DDrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES
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 DC–9–81 (MD–81), DC–9–82
(MD–82), DC–9–83 (MD–83), and DC–9–
87 (MD–87) airplanes; and Model MD–
88 airplanes. The NPRM published in
the Federal Register on August 31, 2022
(87 FR 53419). The NPRM was
prompted by an evaluation by the DAH
indicating that certain center wing
lower stringers are subject to WFD. WFD
analysis found that fatigue cracks could
grow to a critical length after the SMP
for these center wing lower stringers. In
the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require
replacing certain left and right side
center wing lower stringers. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address potential
fatigue cracking of the right and left side
center wing lower stringers S–11
through S–22 between wing stations
Xcw=13 and Xcw=15. If not addressed,
undetected fatigue cracks could grow to
a critical length after the SMP at 81,740
total flight cycles. Any undetected
cracks in three or more adjacent
stringers in the right or left side center
wing lower stringers S–11 through S–22
may result in a principal structural
element’s inability to sustain limit load,
which could adversely affect the
structural integrity of the airplane.
Performing the replacement required by
this AD terminates the repetitive
inspections required by AD 2020–10–10
Amendment 39–19913 (85 FR 31046,
May 22, 2020) (AD 2020–10–10, which
addresses the unsafe condition until the
airplane reaches the SMP).
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Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received comments on the
NPRM from Boeing, and three
individuals. The comments from one
individual were outside the scope of
this rulemaking. The following presents
the comments received and the FAA’s
response to each comment.
Request To Allow Certified Non-Boeing
Mechanics To Perform Replacements
An individual requested that a
certified mechanic not hired by Boeing
be allowed to perform the replacement
specified in the proposed AD. The
commenter stated that it appears that
Boeing must take care of the
replacements, which must be paid for
by the airplanes’ owners, which could
create a conflict of interest. Another
commenter suggested that an external
party should inspect the repaired
airplanes to ensure no further issues
will arise.
The FAA agrees to clarify. Unless
specified otherwise, ADs allow an FAAapproved licensed mechanic authorized
to do maintenance to perform the
replacement actions. Operators may
therefore use a qualified mechanic of
their choice, and do not have to use a
Boeing employee for the replacements.
The FAA has not changed this AD
regarding this issue.
Request To Clarify Certain Language in
the Background Section of the Proposed
AD
Boeing requested that certain
language in the Background section of
the proposed AD be changed for
clarification. Boeing asked that a
sentence describing AD 2020–10–10 be
revised. The sentence in the NPRM
reads: ‘‘AD 2020–10–10 requires
repetitive inspections for cracking in the
left and right side center wing lower
skin at stringers S–18 through S–20, the
fastener holes common to stringers S–11
through S–22, and the forward and aft
skins, and repair.’’ Boeing asked that the
sentence be revised to read: ‘‘AD 2020–
10–10 requires repetitive inspections for
cracking in the left and right side
fastener holes common to stringers S–11
through S–22 and the forward and aft
skins, and center wing lower skin at
stringers S–18 through S–20, and
repair.’’ Boeing stated that the revised
language would correctly identify the
inspection requirements and list them
in the same order as the description in
the service information.
The FAA agrees that the proposed
wording better matches the description
in the service information. However,
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that sentence is not carried over to this
final rule. Therefore, the FAA has not
changed this AD regarding this issue.
Request To Clarify Certain Language in
Paragraph (e) of the Proposed AD
Boeing requested that the language in
paragraph (e) of the proposed AD be
clarified to specify that this AD is being
issued to address ‘‘potential’’ fatigue
cracking. Boeing stated that not all
structure subject to replacement will
have developed fatigue cracking and
that the required action involves
proactive replacement.
The FAA agrees with the request to
change the language. The phrase
‘‘address fatigue cracking’’ in paragraph
(e) of this AD has been changed to read
‘‘address potential fatigue cracking.’’
Request To Clarify Certain Language in
the Explanation of Compliance Time
Paragraph of the Proposed AD
Boeing requested that the language in
the Explanation of Compliance Time
paragraph of the proposed AD be
changed for clarification. Boeing stated
that all structure subject to replacement
is certified type design and not all will
have developed fatigue cracking,
therefore replacing the term ‘‘discrepant
structure’’ with the term ‘‘certain
structure’’ would be more consistent
with the language of the SUMMARY
section.
The FAA agrees that not all structure
subject to replacement will have
developed fatigue cracks at SMP.
However, that sentence is not carried
over to this final rule. Therefore, the
FAA has not changed this AD regarding
this issue.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data,
considered any comments received, and
determined that air safety requires
adopting this AD as proposed.
Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these
products. 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 Alert
Requirements Bulletin MD80–57A246
RB, dated December 17, 2021. This
service information specifies procedures
for replacement of the center wing lower
stringers S–11 through S–22 between
Xcw=0 and Xcw=121.688, left and right
sides.
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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 22 airplanes of U.S. registry. The
FAA estimates the following costs to
comply with this AD:
ESTIMATED COSTS
Action
Labor cost
Replacement ....................................
1,572 work-hours × $85 per hour = $133,620 ..............
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.
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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,
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:26 Feb 03, 2023
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Parts cost
$216,000
Cost per
product
$349,620
Cost on U.S.
operators
$7,691,640
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
load, which could adversely affect the
structural integrity of the airplane.
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
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:
■
2023–01–13 The Boeing Company:
Amendment 39–22307; Docket No.
FAA–2022–0874; Project Identifier AD–
2022–00337–T.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective March 13, 2023.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD affects AD 2020–10–10,
Amendment 39–19913 (85 FR 31046, May 22,
2020) (AD 2020–10–10).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to The Boeing Company
Model DC–9–81 (MD–81), DC–9–82 (MD–82),
DC–9–83 (MD–83), and DC–9–87 (MD–87)
airplanes; and Model MD–88 airplanes,
certificated in any category, as identified in
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin MD80–
57A246 RB, dated December 17, 2021.
(g) Required Actions
Except as specified by paragraph (h) of this
AD: At the applicable times specified in the
‘‘Compliance’’ paragraph of Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin MD80–57A246 RB,
dated December 17, 2021, do all applicable
actions identified in, and in accordance with,
the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing
Alert Requirements Bulletin MD80–57A246
RB, dated December 17, 2021.
Note 1 to paragraph (g): Guidance for
accomplishing the actions required by this
AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin MD80–57A246, dated December 17,
2021, which is referred to in Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin MD80–57A246 RB,
dated December 17, 2021.
(h) Exceptions to Service Information
Specifications
Where Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
MD80–57A246 RB, dated December 17, 2021,
specifies contacting Boeing for replacement
instructions: This AD requires doing the
replacement using a method approved in
accordance with the procedures specified in
paragraph (j) of this AD.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 57, Wings.
(i) Terminating Action for AD 2020–10–10
Accomplishment of the replacement
specified in the Accomplishment
Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements
Bulletin MD80–57A246 RB, dated December
17, 2021, terminates all of the requirements
of AD 2020–10–10.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by an evaluation by
the design approval holder (DAH) indicating
that the center wing lower stringers S–11
through S–22 are subject to widespread
fatigue damage (WFD). The FAA is issuing
this AD to address potential fatigue cracking
of the right and left side center wing lower
stringers S–11 through S–22 between wing
stations Xcw=13 and Xcw=15. If not
addressed, undetected fatigue cracks could
grow to a critical length after the structural
modification point (SMP) at 81,740 total
flight cycles. Any undetected cracks in three
or more adjacent stringers in the right or left
side center wing lower stringers S–11
through S–22 may result in a principal
structural element’s inability to sustain limit
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Los Angeles 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 (k) of this
AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANMLAACO-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.
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 24 / Monday, February 6, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
(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, Los Angeles 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 Manuel Hernandez, Aerospace
Engineer, Airframe Section, FAA, Los
Angeles ACO Branch, 3960 Paramount
Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712–4137;
phone: 562–627–5256; email:
manuel.f.hernandez@faa.gov.
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[Docket No. FAA–2022–1414; Project
Identifier MCAI–2021–01303–E; Amendment
39–22304; AD 2023–01–10]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; GE Aviation
Czech s.r.o. (Type Certificate
Previously Held by WALTER Engines
a.s., Walter a.s., and MOTORLET a.s.)
Turboprop Engines
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
GE Aviation Czech s.r.o. (GEAC)
M601E–11, M601E–11A, M601E–11AS,
M601E–11S, and M601F model
turboprop engines. This AD was
prompted by the exclusion of life limits
for certain compressor cases and
compressor drums from the
airworthiness limitations section (ALS)
of the engine maintenance manual
(EMM). This AD was also prompted by
certain compressor cases that, following
rework, were improperly re-identified
and the engine logbook entries were not
completed. This AD requires
recalculation of the consumed life for
the affected compressor cases and
compressor drums and, depending on
the results of the recalculation, removal
and replacement of the affected
compressor case or compressor drum
with a part eligible for installation. The
FAA is issuing this AD to address the
unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective March 13,
2023.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of March 13, 2023.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2022–1414; 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:
SUMMARY:
Issued on January 13, 2023.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14 CFR Part 39
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
(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 Alert Requirements Bulletin
MD80–57A246 RB, dated December 17, 2021.
(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; website
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:
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
Federal Aviation Administration
AGENCY:
(l) Material Incorporated by Reference
[FR Doc. 2023–02371 Filed 2–3–23; 8:45 am]
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
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• For GEAC service information
identified in this final rule, contact GE
Aviation Czech s.r.o., Beranovy´ch 65,
199 02 Praha 9, Letnˇany, Czech
Republic; phone: +420 222 538 111.
• You may view this service
information at the FAA, Airworthiness
Products Section, Operational Safety
Branch, 1200 District Avenue,
Burlington, MA 01803. For information
on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call (817) 222–5110. It is also
available at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA–2022–1414.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Barbara Caufield, Aviation Safety
Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200
District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803;
phone: (781) 238–7146; email:
barbara.caufield@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 certain GEAC M601E–11,
M601E–11A, M601E–11AS, M601E–
11S, M601E–21, M601F, and M601FS
model turboprop engines. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
November 09, 2022 (87 FR 67579). The
NPRM was prompted by AD 2021–0264,
dated November 22, 2021, issued by the
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Union (referred to after this as the
MCAI). The MCAI states that the life
limits for certain compressor cases and
compressor drums were not published
in the applicable ALS of the EMM for
certain GEAC M601 model turboprop
engines. The MCAI also states that
following rework of certain compressor
cases from part number (P/N) M601–
154.6 to P/N M601–154.51, those
compressor cases were improperly reidentified and the engine logbook
entries were not completed, which
could cause the compressor case to
remain in service beyond its applicable
life limit. This condition can lead to
failure of an affected part, possibly
resulting in engine mount failure and
high energy debris release.
In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to
require recalculation of the consumed
life for the affected compressor cases
and compressor drums and, depending
on the results of the recalculation,
removal and replacement of the affected
compressor case or compressor drum
with a part eligible for installation. 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–2022–1414.
E:\FR\FM\06FER1.SGM
06FER1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 24 (Monday, February 6, 2023)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 7575-7578]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-02371]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2022-0874; Project Identifier AD-2022-00337-T;
Amendment 39-22307; AD 2023-01-13]
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 DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-
9-83 (MD-83), and DC-9-87 (MD-87) airplanes; and Model MD-88 airplanes.
This AD was prompted by an evaluation by the design approval holder
(DAH) indicating that certain center wing lower stringers are subject
to widespread fatigue damage (WFD). WFD analysis found that fatigue
cracks could grow to a critical length after the structural
modification point (SMP) for these center wing lower stringers. This AD
requires replacing certain left and right side center wing lower
stringers. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition
on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective March 13, 2023.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of March 13,
2023.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA-2022-0874; 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.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
For service information identified in this final rule,
contact Boeing
[[Page 7576]]
Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS),
2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-5600;
telephone 562-797-1717; website 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 under Docket No. FAA-2022-0874.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Manuel Hernandez, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe Section, FAA, Los Angeles ACO Branch, 3960 Paramount
Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712-4137; phone: 562-627-5256; 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 DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-83 (MD-83), and
DC-9-87 (MD-87) airplanes; and Model MD-88 airplanes. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on August 31, 2022 (87 FR 53419). The
NPRM was prompted by an evaluation by the DAH indicating that certain
center wing lower stringers are subject to WFD. WFD analysis found that
fatigue cracks could grow to a critical length after the SMP for these
center wing lower stringers. In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require
replacing certain left and right side center wing lower stringers. The
FAA is issuing this AD to address potential fatigue cracking of the
right and left side center wing lower stringers S-11 through S-22
between wing stations Xcw=13 and Xcw=15. If not addressed, undetected
fatigue cracks could grow to a critical length after the SMP at 81,740
total flight cycles. Any undetected cracks in three or more adjacent
stringers in the right or left side center wing lower stringers S-11
through S-22 may result in a principal structural element's inability
to sustain limit load, which could adversely affect the structural
integrity of the airplane. Performing the replacement required by this
AD terminates the repetitive inspections required by AD 2020-10-10
Amendment 39-19913 (85 FR 31046, May 22, 2020) (AD 2020-10-10, which
addresses the unsafe condition until the airplane reaches the SMP).
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA received comments on the NPRM from Boeing, and three
individuals. The comments from one individual were outside the scope of
this rulemaking. The following presents the comments received and the
FAA's response to each comment.
Request To Allow Certified Non-Boeing Mechanics To Perform Replacements
An individual requested that a certified mechanic not hired by
Boeing be allowed to perform the replacement specified in the proposed
AD. The commenter stated that it appears that Boeing must take care of
the replacements, which must be paid for by the airplanes' owners,
which could create a conflict of interest. Another commenter suggested
that an external party should inspect the repaired airplanes to ensure
no further issues will arise.
The FAA agrees to clarify. Unless specified otherwise, ADs allow an
FAA-approved licensed mechanic authorized to do maintenance to perform
the replacement actions. Operators may therefore use a qualified
mechanic of their choice, and do not have to use a Boeing employee for
the replacements. The FAA has not changed this AD regarding this issue.
Request To Clarify Certain Language in the Background Section of the
Proposed AD
Boeing requested that certain language in the Background section of
the proposed AD be changed for clarification. Boeing asked that a
sentence describing AD 2020-10-10 be revised. The sentence in the NPRM
reads: ``AD 2020-10-10 requires repetitive inspections for cracking in
the left and right side center wing lower skin at stringers S-18
through S-20, the fastener holes common to stringers S-11 through S-22,
and the forward and aft skins, and repair.'' Boeing asked that the
sentence be revised to read: ``AD 2020-10-10 requires repetitive
inspections for cracking in the left and right side fastener holes
common to stringers S-11 through S-22 and the forward and aft skins,
and center wing lower skin at stringers S-18 through S-20, and
repair.'' Boeing stated that the revised language would correctly
identify the inspection requirements and list them in the same order as
the description in the service information.
The FAA agrees that the proposed wording better matches the
description in the service information. However, that sentence is not
carried over to this final rule. Therefore, the FAA has not changed
this AD regarding this issue.
Request To Clarify Certain Language in Paragraph (e) of the Proposed AD
Boeing requested that the language in paragraph (e) of the proposed
AD be clarified to specify that this AD is being issued to address
``potential'' fatigue cracking. Boeing stated that not all structure
subject to replacement will have developed fatigue cracking and that
the required action involves proactive replacement.
The FAA agrees with the request to change the language. The phrase
``address fatigue cracking'' in paragraph (e) of this AD has been
changed to read ``address potential fatigue cracking.''
Request To Clarify Certain Language in the Explanation of Compliance
Time Paragraph of the Proposed AD
Boeing requested that the language in the Explanation of Compliance
Time paragraph of the proposed AD be changed for clarification. Boeing
stated that all structure subject to replacement is certified type
design and not all will have developed fatigue cracking, therefore
replacing the term ``discrepant structure'' with the term ``certain
structure'' would be more consistent with the language of the SUMMARY
section.
The FAA agrees that not all structure subject to replacement will
have developed fatigue cracks at SMP. However, that sentence is not
carried over to this final rule. Therefore, the FAA has not changed
this AD regarding this issue.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered any comments
received, and determined that air safety requires adopting this AD as
proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products. 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 Alert Requirements Bulletin MD80-57A246 RB,
dated December 17, 2021. This service information specifies procedures
for replacement of the center wing lower stringers S-11 through S-22
between Xcw=0 and Xcw=121.688, left and right sides.
[[Page 7577]]
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 22 airplanes of U.S.
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacement........................... 1,572 work-hours x $85 $216,000 $349,620 $7,691,640
per hour = $133,620.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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:
2023-01-13 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-22307; Docket No. FAA-
2022-0874; Project Identifier AD-2022-00337-T.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective March 13, 2023.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD affects AD 2020-10-10, Amendment 39-19913 (85 FR 31046,
May 22, 2020) (AD 2020-10-10).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-
9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-83 (MD-83), and DC-9-87 (MD-87) airplanes; and
Model MD-88 airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified
in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin MD80-57A246 RB, dated December
17, 2021.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 57, Wings.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by an evaluation by the design approval
holder (DAH) indicating that the center wing lower stringers S-11
through S-22 are subject to widespread fatigue damage (WFD). The FAA
is issuing this AD to address potential fatigue cracking of the
right and left side center wing lower stringers S-11 through S-22
between wing stations Xcw=13 and Xcw=15. If not addressed,
undetected fatigue cracks could grow to a critical length after the
structural modification point (SMP) at 81,740 total flight cycles.
Any undetected cracks in three or more adjacent stringers in the
right or left side center wing lower stringers S-11 through S-22 may
result in a principal structural element's inability to sustain
limit load, which could adversely affect the structural integrity of
the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Required Actions
Except as specified by paragraph (h) of this AD: At the
applicable times specified in the ``Compliance'' paragraph of Boeing
Alert Requirements Bulletin MD80-57A246 RB, dated December 17, 2021,
do all applicable actions identified in, and in accordance with, the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
MD80-57A246 RB, dated December 17, 2021.
Note 1 to paragraph (g): Guidance for accomplishing the actions
required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
MD80-57A246, dated December 17, 2021, which is referred to in Boeing
Alert Requirements Bulletin MD80-57A246 RB, dated December 17, 2021.
(h) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications
Where Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin MD80-57A246 RB, dated
December 17, 2021, specifies contacting Boeing for replacement
instructions: This AD requires doing the replacement using a method
approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph
(j) of this AD.
(i) Terminating Action for AD 2020-10-10
Accomplishment of the replacement specified in the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
MD80-57A246 RB, dated December 17, 2021, terminates all of the
requirements of AD 2020-10-10.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Los Angeles 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 (k) 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.
[[Page 7578]]
(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, Los
Angeles 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 Manuel Hernandez,
Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Section, FAA, Los Angeles ACO Branch,
3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712-4137; phone: 562-627-
5256; 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 Alert Requirements Bulletin MD80-57A246 RB, dated
December 17, 2021.
(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; website 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: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued on January 13, 2023.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023-02371 Filed 2-3-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
