Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes, 36930-36933 [2023-11914]
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 108 / Tuesday, June 6, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
(3) The initial compliance time for doing
the tasks specified in paragraph (3) of EASA
AD 2022–0062 is at the applicable
‘‘limitations’’ and ‘‘associated thresholds’’ as
incorporated by the requirements of
paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2022–0062, or
within 90 days after January 23, 2023 (the
effective date of AD 2022–25–16), whichever
occurs later.
(4) The provisions specified in paragraphs
(4) and (5) of EASA AD 2022–0062 do not
apply to this AD.
(5) This AD does not adopt the ‘‘Remarks’’
section of EASA AD 2022–0062.
(i) Retained Provisions for Alternative
Actions, Intervals, and Critical Design
Configuration Control Limitations (CDCCLs),
With No Changes
This paragraph restates the requirements of
paragraph (l) of AD 2022–25–16, with no
changes. Except as required by paragraph (j)
of this AD, after the existing maintenance or
inspection program has been revised as
required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no
alternative actions (e.g., inspections),
intervals, and CDCCLs are allowed unless
they are approved as specified in the
provisions of the ‘‘Ref. Publications’’ section
of EASA AD 2022–0062.
(j) New Revision of the Existing Maintenance
or Inspection Program
Except as specified in paragraph (k) of this
AD: Comply with all required actions and
compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, EASA AD 2022–0199,
dated September 26, 2022 (EASA AD 2022–
0199). Accomplishing the revision of the
existing maintenance or inspection program
required by this paragraph terminates the
requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD.
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(k) Exceptions to EASA AD 2022–0199
(1) The requirements specified in
paragraphs (1) and (2) of EASA AD 2022–
0199 do not apply to this AD.
(2) Paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2022–0199
specifies revising ‘‘the approved AMP’’
within 12 months after its effective date, but
this AD requires revising the existing
maintenance or inspection program, as
applicable, within 90 days after the effective
date of this AD.
(3) The initial compliance time for doing
the tasks specified in paragraph (3) of EASA
AD 2022–0199 is at the applicable
‘‘limitations’’ and ‘‘associated thresholds’’ as
incorporated by the requirements of
paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2022–0199, or
within 90 days after the effective date of this
AD, whichever occurs later.
(4) The provisions specified in paragraphs
(4) and (5) of EASA AD 2022–0199 do not
apply to this AD.
(5) This AD does not adopt the ‘‘Remarks’’
section of EASA AD 2022–0199.
(l) New Provisions for Alternative Actions,
Intervals, and CDCCLs
After the existing maintenance or
inspection program has been revised as
required by paragraph (j) of this AD, no
alternative actions (e.g., inspections),
intervals, and CDCCLs are allowed unless
they are approved as specified in the
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provisions of the ‘‘Ref. Publications’’ section
of EASA AD 2022–0199.
(m) Additional AD Provisions
The following provisions also apply to this
AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): 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
responsible Flight Standards Office, as
appropriate. If sending information directly
to the International Validation Branch, send
it to the attention of the person identified in
paragraph (n) of this AD. Information may be
emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR-730-AMOC@faa.gov.
Before using any approved AMOC, notify
your appropriate principal inspector, or
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of
the responsible Flight Standards Office.
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
requirement in this AD to obtain instructions
from a manufacturer, the instructions must
be accomplished using a method approved
by the Manager, International Validation
Branch, FAA; or EASA; or ATR—GIE Avions
de Transport Re´gional’s EASA Design
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by
the DOA, the approval must include the
DOA-authorized signature.
(n) Additional Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Shahram Daneshmandi, Aviation
Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue,
Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone
206–231–3220; email
Shahram.Daneshmandi@faa.gov.
(o) 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.
(3) The following service information was
approved for IBR on July 11, 2023.
(i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2022–0199, dated September 26,
2022.
(ii) [Reserved]
(4) The following service information was
approved for IBR on January 23, 2023 (87 FR
77491, December 19, 2022).
(i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2022–0062, dated April 8, 2022
(EASA AD 2022–0062).
(ii) [Reserved]
(5) For EASA ADs 2022–0199 and 2022–
0062, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer
3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49
221 8999 000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu;
website easa.europa.eu. You may find these
EASA ADs on the EASA website at
ad.easa.europa.eu.
(6) 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.
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(7) 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 May 25, 2023.
Michael Linegang,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023–11918 Filed 6–5–23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2022–1660; Project
Identifier MCAI–2022–01268–T; Amendment
39–22447; AD 2023–11–02]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Airbus SAS Model A300 B4–600, B4–
600R, and F4–600R series airplanes, and
Model A300 C4–605R Variant F
airplanes (collectively called Model
A300–600 series airplanes). This AD
was prompted by a determination that
new or more restrictive airworthiness
limitations are necessary. This AD
requires revising the existing
maintenance or inspection program, as
applicable, to incorporate new or more
restrictive airworthiness limitations, as
specified in a European Union Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is
incorporated by reference. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective July 11,
2023.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of July 11, 2023.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2022–1660; 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
SUMMARY:
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 108 / Tuesday, June 6, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
Docket Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
• For material incorporated by
reference in this AD, contact EASA,
Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668
Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221
8999 000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu;
website easa.europa.eu. You may find
this material on the EASA website at
ad.easa.europa.eu.
• You may view this material at the
FAA, Airworthiness Products Section,
Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South
216th St., Des Moines, WA. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.
It is also available in the AD docket at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–
2022–1660.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan
Rodina, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA,
1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410,
Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 206–
231–3225; email dan.rodina@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES1
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to all Airbus SAS Model A300
B4–601, B4–603, B4–620, and B4–622
airplanes, Model A300 B4–605R and
B4–622R airplanes; Model A300 C4–
605R Variant F airplanes; and Model
A300 F4–605R and F4–622R airplanes.
The NPRM published in the Federal
Register on January 12, 2023 (88 FR
2035). The NPRM was prompted by AD
2022–0194, dated September 23, 2022,
issued by EASA, which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the
European Union (EASA AD 2022–0194)
(also referred to as the MCAI). The
MCAI states that new or more restrictive
airworthiness limitations tasks related
to the trimmable horizontal stabilizer
actuators (THSA) are necessary. EASA
AD 2022–0194 specifies that revised
tasks (limitations) in Airbus A300–600
Airworthiness Limitations Section
(ALS), Part 4, System Equipment
Maintenance Requirements (SEMR)
Revision 03, dated August 28, 2017, are
required by EASA AD 2017–0202, dated
October 12, 2017 (which corresponds to
FAA AD 2018–18–21, Amendment 39–
19400 (83 FR 47054, September 18,
2018) (AD 2018–18–21)). EASA AD
2022–0194 also specifies that
incorporation of EASA AD 2022–0194
invalidates (terminates) prior
instructions for the tasks specified in
Airbus A300–600 Airworthiness
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Limitations Section (ALS), Part 4,
System Equipment Maintenance
Requirements (SEMR) Revision 03,
Variation 3.1, dated June 30, 2022
(Variation 3.1), only. For this AD, the
corresponding action is specified in
paragraph (j)(2) of this AD, which states
that accomplishing the actions specified
in this AD terminates the corresponding
requirements of AD 2018–18–21, for the
tasks identified in the service
information referenced in EASA AD
2022–0194 only.
The MCAI also states that EASA AD
2015–0081, dated May 7, 2015 (EASA
AD 2015–0081) requires replacement of
certain THSA. EASA AD 2015–0081
corresponds to FAA AD 2016–15–01,
Amendment 39–18592 (81 FR 47696,
July 22, 2016) (AD 2016–15–01). AD
2016–15–01 required inspecting THSA
part numbers, serial numbers, and flight
cycles on certain THSAs; and repetitive
replacement of certain THSAs. The
THSA limitation task specified in this
AD addresses the actions required by
AD 2016–15–01. Paragraph (j)(1) of this
AD therefore terminates all of the
requirements of AD 2016–15–01, for
Model A300–600 series airplanes only.
In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to
require revising the existing
maintenance or inspection program, as
applicable, to incorporate new or more
restrictive airworthiness limitations, as
specified in EASA AD 2022–0194. The
FAA is issuing this AD to address the
risks associated with the effects of aging
on airplane systems. The unsafe
condition, if not addressed, could
change system characteristics, leading to
an increased potential for failure of
certain life-limited parts, and reduced
structural integrity or controllability of
the airplane.
You may examine the MCAI in the
AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA–2022–1660.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received a comment from
Air Line Pilots Association,
International, who supported the NPRM
without change.
The FAA received an additional
comment from United Parcel Service
(UPS). The following presents the
comment received on the NPRM and the
FAA’s response.
Request To Extend Compliance Time
and Threshold
UPS proposed a bridging plan to
transition to the new Variation 3.1 with
initial threshold of not to exceed 14,600
flight cycles, with repeat replacement of
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36931
13,500 flight cycles. UPS asserted that
the restrictive compliance time
specified in paragraph (h)(2) of the
proposed AD could result in immediate
grounding of airplanes with parts
currently installed on the airplane
accumulating between 13,500 flight
cycles and 14,600 flight cycles, since a
current parts shortage at repair vendors
does not support the increase in number
of part removals at the reduced
threshold. UPS also noted that AD
2016–15–01 provided a 2-year
compliance time for a larger threshold
decrease from 47,000 flight cycles to
14,600 flight cycles, and that the current
replacement program at 14,600 flight
cycles is effective to maintain safety and
reliability.
The FAA does not agree with the
requested change. The manufacturer has
confirmed that adequate parts are
available to support the required
compliance time. As noted in paragraph
(h)(3) of this AD, ‘‘The initial
compliance time for doing the tasks
specified in paragraph (3) of EASA AD
2022–0194 is on or before the applicable
‘‘limitations’’ and ‘‘associated
thresholds’’ as incorporated by the
requirements of paragraph (3) of EASA
AD 2022–0194, or within 90 days after
the effective date of this AD, whichever
occurs later.’’ The FAA has determined
that the compliance time, as proposed,
should allow sufficient time for
operators to coordinate with their
respective vendors and accomplish the
task. In developing an appropriate
compliance time, the FAA considered
the safety implications, the time
necessary to accomplish the required
actions, and normal maintenance
schedules for timely accomplishment of
the required actions. In light of these
items, we have determined that the
specified compliance time, as proposed,
is appropriate. However, under the
provisions of paragraph (k)(1) of this
AD, the FAA will consider requests for
approval of an extension of the
compliance time if sufficient data are
submitted to substantiate that the
extension would provide an acceptable
level of safety. This AD has not been
changed with regard to this request.
Conclusion
This product has been approved by
the aviation authority of another
country and is approved for operation in
the United States. Pursuant to the FAA’s
bilateral agreement with this State of
Design Authority, it has notified the
FAA of the unsafe condition described
in the MCAI referenced above. The FAA
reviewed the relevant data, considered
the comments received, and determined
that air safety requires adopting this AD
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 108 / Tuesday, June 6, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on this product. Except for
minor editorial changes, this AD is
adopted as proposed in the NPRM.
None of the changes will increase the
economic burden on any operator.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2022–0194 specifies new or
more restrictive airworthiness
limitations for certain THSAs. 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.
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES1
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 128 airplanes of U.S. registry.
The FAA estimates the following costs
to comply with this AD:
The FAA has determined that revising
the existing maintenance or inspection
program takes an average of 90 workhours per operator, although the agency
recognizes that this number may vary
from operator to operator. Since
operators incorporate maintenance or
inspection program changes for their
affected fleet(s), the FAA has
determined that a per-operator estimate
is more accurate than a per-airplane
estimate. Therefore, the agency
estimates the average total cost per
operator to be $7,650 (90 work-hours ×
$85 per work-hour).
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs, describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking
under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section
44701: General requirements. Under
that section, Congress charges the FAA
with promoting safe flight of civil
aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and
procedures the Administrator finds
necessary for safety in air commerce.
This regulation is within the scope of
that authority because it addresses an
unsafe condition that is likely to exist or
develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism
implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a
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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
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:
■
2023–11–02 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39–
22447; Docket No. FAA–2022–1660;
Project Identifier MCAI–2022–01268–T.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective July 11, 2023.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD affects AD 2016–15–01,
Amendment 39–18592 (81 FR 47696, July 22,
2016) (AD 2016–15–01); and AD 2018–18–21,
Amendment 39–19400 (83 FR 47054,
September 18, 2018) (AD 2018–18–21).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Airbus SAS Model
A300 B4–601, B4–603, B4–620, and B4–622
airplanes, Model A300 B4–605R and B4–
622R airplanes; Model A300 C4–605R
Variant F airplanes; and Model A300 F4–
605R and F4–622R airplanes; certificated in
any category.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 05, Time Limits/Maintenance
Checks.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a determination
that new or more restrictive airworthiness
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limitations are necessary. The FAA is issuing
this AD to address the risks associated with
the effects of aging on airplane systems. The
unsafe condition, if not addressed, could
change system characteristics, leading to an
increased potential for failure of certain lifelimited parts, and reduced structural
integrity or controllability of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this
AD: Comply with all required actions and
compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, European Union Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2022–0194, dated
September 23, 2022 (EASA AD 2022–0194).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2022–0194
(1) This AD does not adopt the
requirements specified in paragraphs (1) and
(2) of EASA AD 2022–0194.
(2) Paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2022–0194
specifies revising ‘‘the approved AMP’’
within 12 months after its effective date, but
this AD requires revising the existing
maintenance or inspection program, as
applicable, within 90 days after the effective
date of this AD.
(3) The initial compliance time for doing
the tasks specified in paragraph (3) of EASA
AD 2022–0194 is on or before the applicable
‘‘limitations’’ and ‘‘associated thresholds’’ as
incorporated by the requirements of
paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2022–0194, or
within 90 days after the effective date of this
AD, whichever occurs later.
(4) This AD does not adopt the provisions
specified in paragraph (4) of EASA AD 2022–
0194.
(5) This AD does not adopt the ‘‘Remarks’’
section of EASA AD 2022–0194.
(i) Provisions for Alternative Actions and
Intervals
After the existing maintenance or
inspection program has been revised as
required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no
alternative actions (e.g., inspections) and
intervals are allowed unless they are
approved as specified in the provisions of the
‘‘Ref. Publications’’ section of EASA AD
2022–0194.
(j) Terminating Actions for AD 2016–15–01
and AD 2018–18–21
(1) Accomplishing the actions required by
this AD terminates all requirements of AD
2016–15–01 for Model A300–600 series
airplanes only.
(2) Accomplishing the actions required by
this AD terminates the corresponding
requirements of AD 2018–18–21, for the tasks
identified in the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2022–0194 only.
(k) Additional AD Provisions
The following provisions also apply to this
AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): The Manager, International
Validation Branch, FAA, has the authority to
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 108 / Tuesday, June 6, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
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 International Validation Branch, send
it to the attention of the person identified in
paragraph (l) of this AD. Information may be
emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR-730-AMOC@faa.gov.
Before using any approved AMOC, notify
your appropriate principal inspector, or
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of
the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office.
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
requirement in this AD to obtain instructions
from a manufacturer, the instructions must
be accomplished using a method approved
by the Manager, International Validation
Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus SAS’s
EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA).
If approved by the DOA, the approval must
include the DOA-authorized signature.
(l) Additional Information
Dan Rodina, Aviation Safety Engineer,
FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410,
Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 206–231–
3225; email dan.rodina@faa.gov.
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES1
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2022–0194, dated September 23,
2022.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2022–0194, contact
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668
Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999
000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; website
easa.europa.eu. You may find this EASA AD
on the EASA website at ad.easa.europa.eu.
(4) You may view this material at the FAA,
Airworthiness Products Section, Operational
Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des
Moines, WA. For information on the
availability of this material at the FAA, call
206–231–3195.
(5) You may view this material that is
incorporated by reference at the National
Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability
of this material at NARA, email
fr.inspection@nara.gov, or go to:
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued on May 25, 2023.
Ross Landes,
Deputy Director for Regulatory Operations,
Compliance & Airworthiness Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023–11914 Filed 6–5–23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2023–0428; Project
Identifier MCAI–2022–01250–T; Amendment
39–22442; AD 2023–10–06]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is superseding
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2017–06–
07, which applied to all Airbus SAS
Model A330–200 Freighter, –200, and
–300 series airplanes; and A340–200,
–300, –500, and –600 series airplanes.
AD 2017–06–07 required identification
of potentially affected inboard flap
parts, a one-time eddy current
inspection to identify which material
the parts are made of, and, depending
on findings, replacement with
serviceable parts. This AD was
prompted by a determination that, even
if affected inboard flaps were not
installed on airplanes during
production, affected inboard flaps could
be installed on airplanes as spare parts.
This AD continues to require the actions
in AD 2017–06–07, as specified in a
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD, which is incorporated by
reference. This AD also reduces the
allowance for the installation of affected
parts under certain conditions. The FAA
is issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective July 11,
2023.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of July 11, 2023.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2023–0428; or in person at
Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this final rule, the mandatory
continuing airworthiness information
(MCAI), any comments received, and
other information. The address for
Docket Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
• For material incorporated by
reference in this AD, contact EASA,
SUMMARY:
PO 00000
Frm 00015
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
36933
Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668
Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221
8999 000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu;
website easa.europa.eu. You may find
this material on the EASA website at
ad.easa.europa.eu.
• You may view this material at the
FAA, Airworthiness Products Section,
Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South
216th St., Des Moines, WA. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.
It is also available in the AD docket at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–
2023–0428.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Vladimir Ulyanov, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, International Validation
Branch, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite
410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone
206–231–3229; email
Vladimir.Ulyanov@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to supersede AD 2017–06–07,
Amendment 39–18831 (82 FR 17107,
April 10, 2017) (AD 2017–06–07). AD
2017–06–07 applied to all Airbus SAS
Model A330–223F and –243F airplanes;
A330–201, –202, –203, –223, and –243
airplanes; A330–301, –302, –303, –321,
–322, –323, –341, –342, and –343
airplanes; A340–211, –212, and –213
airplanes; A340–311, –312, and –313
airplanes; A340–541 airplanes; and
A340–642 airplanes. AD 2017–06–07
was prompted by an MCAI originated by
EASA, which is the Technical Agent for
the Member States of the European
Union. EASA issued AD 2016–0231,
dated November 22, 2016 (EASA AD
2016–0231), which superseded EASA
AD 2016–0082, dated April 27, 2016, to
correct an unsafe condition. AD 2017–
06–07 required identification of
potentially affected inboard flap parts, a
one-time eddy current inspection to
identify which material the parts are
made of, and, depending on findings,
replacement with serviceable parts. The
FAA issued AD 2017–06–07 to detect
and correct structural parts of inboard
flaps made of nonconforming aluminum
alloy, which could result in reduced
structural integrity of the airplane.
The NPRM published in the Federal
Register on March 8, 2023 (88 FR
14303). The NPRM was prompted by
AD 2022–0189, dated September 19,
2022, issued by EASA (EASA AD 2022–
0189) (also referred to as the MCAI),
which superseded EASA AD 2016–
0231. The MCAI states that since EASA
AD 2016–0231 was issued, it was
determined that, even if affected
E:\FR\FM\06JNR1.SGM
06JNR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 108 (Tuesday, June 6, 2023)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 36930-36933]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-11914]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2022-1660; Project Identifier MCAI-2022-01268-T;
Amendment 39-22447; AD 2023-11-02]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Airbus SAS Model A300 B4-600, B4-600R, and F4-600R series airplanes,
and Model A300 C4-605R Variant F airplanes (collectively called Model
A300-600 series airplanes). This AD was prompted by a determination
that new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations are necessary.
This AD requires revising the existing maintenance or inspection
program, as applicable, to incorporate new or more restrictive
airworthiness limitations, as specified in a European Union Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective July 11, 2023.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of July 11,
2023.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA-2022-1660; 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
[[Page 36931]]
Docket Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
For material incorporated by reference in this AD, contact
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221
8999 000; email [email protected]; website easa.europa.eu. You may
find this material on the EASA website at ad.easa.europa.eu.
You may view this material at the FAA, Airworthiness
Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des
Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call 206-231-3195. It is also available in the AD docket at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2022-1660.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan Rodina, Aviation Safety Engineer,
FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 206-
231-3225; email [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Airbus SAS Model
A300 B4-601, B4-603, B4-620, and B4-622 airplanes, Model A300 B4-605R
and B4-622R airplanes; Model A300 C4-605R Variant F airplanes; and
Model A300 F4-605R and F4-622R airplanes. The NPRM published in the
Federal Register on January 12, 2023 (88 FR 2035). The NPRM was
prompted by AD 2022-0194, dated September 23, 2022, issued by EASA,
which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European
Union (EASA AD 2022-0194) (also referred to as the MCAI). The MCAI
states that new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations tasks
related to the trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuators (THSA) are
necessary. EASA AD 2022-0194 specifies that revised tasks (limitations)
in Airbus A300-600 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS), Part 4,
System Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR) Revision 03, dated
August 28, 2017, are required by EASA AD 2017-0202, dated October 12,
2017 (which corresponds to FAA AD 2018-18-21, Amendment 39-19400 (83 FR
47054, September 18, 2018) (AD 2018-18-21)). EASA AD 2022-0194 also
specifies that incorporation of EASA AD 2022-0194 invalidates
(terminates) prior instructions for the tasks specified in Airbus A300-
600 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS), Part 4, System Equipment
Maintenance Requirements (SEMR) Revision 03, Variation 3.1, dated June
30, 2022 (Variation 3.1), only. For this AD, the corresponding action
is specified in paragraph (j)(2) of this AD, which states that
accomplishing the actions specified in this AD terminates the
corresponding requirements of AD 2018-18-21, for the tasks identified
in the service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-0194 only.
The MCAI also states that EASA AD 2015-0081, dated May 7, 2015
(EASA AD 2015-0081) requires replacement of certain THSA. EASA AD 2015-
0081 corresponds to FAA AD 2016-15-01, Amendment 39-18592 (81 FR 47696,
July 22, 2016) (AD 2016-15-01). AD 2016-15-01 required inspecting THSA
part numbers, serial numbers, and flight cycles on certain THSAs; and
repetitive replacement of certain THSAs. The THSA limitation task
specified in this AD addresses the actions required by AD 2016-15-01.
Paragraph (j)(1) of this AD therefore terminates all of the
requirements of AD 2016-15-01, for Model A300-600 series airplanes
only.
In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require revising the existing
maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new or
more restrictive airworthiness limitations, as specified in EASA AD
2022-0194. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the risks associated
with the effects of aging on airplane systems. The unsafe condition, if
not addressed, could change system characteristics, leading to an
increased potential for failure of certain life-limited parts, and
reduced structural integrity or controllability of the airplane.
You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA-2022-1660.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA received a comment from Air Line Pilots Association,
International, who supported the NPRM without change.
The FAA received an additional comment from United Parcel Service
(UPS). The following presents the comment received on the NPRM and the
FAA's response.
Request To Extend Compliance Time and Threshold
UPS proposed a bridging plan to transition to the new Variation 3.1
with initial threshold of not to exceed 14,600 flight cycles, with
repeat replacement of 13,500 flight cycles. UPS asserted that the
restrictive compliance time specified in paragraph (h)(2) of the
proposed AD could result in immediate grounding of airplanes with parts
currently installed on the airplane accumulating between 13,500 flight
cycles and 14,600 flight cycles, since a current parts shortage at
repair vendors does not support the increase in number of part removals
at the reduced threshold. UPS also noted that AD 2016-15-01 provided a
2-year compliance time for a larger threshold decrease from 47,000
flight cycles to 14,600 flight cycles, and that the current replacement
program at 14,600 flight cycles is effective to maintain safety and
reliability.
The FAA does not agree with the requested change. The manufacturer
has confirmed that adequate parts are available to support the required
compliance time. As noted in paragraph (h)(3) of this AD, ``The initial
compliance time for doing the tasks specified in paragraph (3) of EASA
AD 2022-0194 is on or before the applicable ``limitations'' and
``associated thresholds'' as incorporated by the requirements of
paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2022-0194, or within 90 days after the
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later.'' The FAA has
determined that the compliance time, as proposed, should allow
sufficient time for operators to coordinate with their respective
vendors and accomplish the task. In developing an appropriate
compliance time, the FAA considered the safety implications, the time
necessary to accomplish the required actions, and normal maintenance
schedules for timely accomplishment of the required actions. In light
of these items, we have determined that the specified compliance time,
as proposed, is appropriate. However, under the provisions of paragraph
(k)(1) of this AD, the FAA will consider requests for approval of an
extension of the compliance time if sufficient data are submitted to
substantiate that the extension would provide an acceptable level of
safety. This AD has not been changed with regard to this request.
Conclusion
This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another
country and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to
the FAA's bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, it
has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI
referenced above. The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered the
comments received, and determined that air safety requires adopting
this AD
[[Page 36932]]
as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the
unsafe condition on this product. Except for minor editorial changes,
this AD is adopted as proposed in the NPRM. None of the changes will
increase the economic burden on any operator.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2022-0194 specifies new or more restrictive airworthiness
limitations for certain THSAs. 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 128 airplanes of U.S.
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
The FAA has determined that revising the existing maintenance or
inspection program takes an average of 90 work-hours per operator,
although the agency recognizes that this number may vary from operator
to operator. Since operators incorporate maintenance or inspection
program changes for their affected fleet(s), the FAA has determined
that a per-operator estimate is more accurate than a per-airplane
estimate. Therefore, the agency estimates the average total cost per
operator to be $7,650 (90 work-hours x $85 per work-hour).
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States,
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
2023-11-02 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39-22447; Docket No. FAA-2022-1660;
Project Identifier MCAI-2022-01268-T.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective July 11, 2023.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD affects AD 2016-15-01, Amendment 39-18592 (81 FR 47696,
July 22, 2016) (AD 2016-15-01); and AD 2018-18-21, Amendment 39-
19400 (83 FR 47054, September 18, 2018) (AD 2018-18-21).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Airbus SAS Model A300 B4-601, B4-603, B4-
620, and B4-622 airplanes, Model A300 B4-605R and B4-622R airplanes;
Model A300 C4-605R Variant F airplanes; and Model A300 F4-605R and
F4-622R airplanes; certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 05, Time Limits/
Maintenance Checks.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a determination that new or more
restrictive airworthiness limitations are necessary. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the risks associated with the effects of
aging on airplane systems. The unsafe condition, if not addressed,
could change system characteristics, leading to an increased
potential for failure of certain life-limited parts, and reduced
structural integrity or controllability of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this AD: Comply with all
required actions and compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD
2022-0194, dated September 23, 2022 (EASA AD 2022-0194).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2022-0194
(1) This AD does not adopt the requirements specified in
paragraphs (1) and (2) of EASA AD 2022-0194.
(2) Paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2022-0194 specifies revising ``the
approved AMP'' within 12 months after its effective date, but this
AD requires revising the existing maintenance or inspection program,
as applicable, within 90 days after the effective date of this AD.
(3) The initial compliance time for doing the tasks specified in
paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2022-0194 is on or before the applicable
``limitations'' and ``associated thresholds'' as incorporated by the
requirements of paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2022-0194, or within 90
days after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later.
(4) This AD does not adopt the provisions specified in paragraph
(4) of EASA AD 2022-0194.
(5) This AD does not adopt the ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD
2022-0194.
(i) Provisions for Alternative Actions and Intervals
After the existing maintenance or inspection program has been
revised as required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no alternative
actions (e.g., inspections) and intervals are allowed unless they
are approved as specified in the provisions of the ``Ref.
Publications'' section of EASA AD 2022-0194.
(j) Terminating Actions for AD 2016-15-01 and AD 2018-18-21
(1) Accomplishing the actions required by this AD terminates all
requirements of AD 2016-15-01 for Model A300-600 series airplanes
only.
(2) Accomplishing the actions required by this AD terminates the
corresponding requirements of AD 2018-18-21, for the tasks
identified in the service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-
0194 only.
(k) Additional AD Provisions
The following provisions also apply to this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager,
International Validation Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve
AMOCs for this AD, if requested
[[Page 36933]]
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 International Validation Branch, send it
to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (l) of this
AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal
inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the
local flight standards district office/certificate holding district
office.
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD
to obtain instructions from a manufacturer, the instructions must be
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International
Validation Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus SAS's EASA Design
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval
must include the DOA-authorized signature.
(l) Additional Information
Dan Rodina, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue,
Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 206-231-3225; email
[email protected].
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2022-0194,
dated September 23, 2022.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2022-0194, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3,
50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email
[email protected]; website easa.europa.eu. You may find this EASA
AD on the EASA website at ad.easa.europa.eu.
(4) You may view this material at the FAA, Airworthiness
Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St.,
Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material
at the FAA, call 206-231-3195.
(5) You may view this material that is incorporated by reference
at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For
information on the availability of this material at NARA, email
[email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued on May 25, 2023.
Ross Landes,
Deputy Director for Regulatory Operations, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023-11914 Filed 6-5-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
