Airworthiness Directives; MHI RJ Aviation ULC (Type Certificate Previously Held by Bombardier, Inc.) Airplanes, 69020-69023 [2023-22082]

Download as PDF 69020 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 192 / Thursday, October 5, 2023 / Rules and Regulations (h) Exceptions to Transport Canada AD CF– 2023–28 (1) Where Transport Canada AD CF–2023– 28 refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD. (2) Where Transport Canada AD CF–2023– 28 specifies installing software updates on the integrated cockpit control panel remote data concentrator using a USB-type device, this AD also allows the use of a portable maintenance access terminal (PMAT)-type device. Note 1 to paragraph (h)(2): When using a PMAT-type device, guidance for upgrading the software can be found in Airbus Canada Limited Partnership Service Bulletin BD500– 311001, Issue 001, dated March 14, 2023. ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES1 (i) 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 manager of the International Validation Branch, mail it to the address identified in paragraph (j)(1) of this AD or email to: 9AVS-AIR-730-AMOC@faa.gov. If mailing information, also submit information by email. 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 Transport Canada; or Airbus Canada Limited Partnership’s Transport Canada Design Approval Organization (DAO). If approved by the DAO, the approval must include the DAO-authorized signature. (3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except as required by paragraph (i)(2) of this AD, if any service information contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended. Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the operator’s maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests identified as RC require approval of an AMOC. (j) Additional Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact William Reisenauer, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516– 228–7300; email: 9-avs-nyaco-cos@faa.gov. (2) For Airbus Canada Limited Partnership service information identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference, contact VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:35 Oct 04, 2023 Jkt 262001 Airbus Canada Limited Partnership, 13100 Henri-Fabre Boulevard, Mirabel, Que´bec J7N 3C6, Canada; telephone 450–476–7676; email a220_crc@abc.airbus; website a220world.airbus.com. This Airbus Canada Limited Partnership service information is also available at the address specified in paragraph (k)(4) of this AD. (k) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. (i) Transport Canada AD CF–2023–28, dated May 4, 2023. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For Transport Canada AD CF–2023–28, contact Transport Canada, Transport Canada National Aircraft Certification, 159 Cleopatra Drive, Nepean, Ontario K1A 0N5, Canada; telephone 888–663–3639; email: TC.AirworthinessDirectivesConsignesdenavigabilite.TC@tc.gc.ca; website: tc.canada.ca/en/aviation. (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th Street, Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email fr.inspection@nara.gov, or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued on September 25, 2023. Victor Wicklund, Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2023–22086 Filed 10–4–23; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2023–1040; Project Identifier MCAI–2022–01512–T; Amendment 39–22558; AD 2023–19–08] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; MHI RJ Aviation ULC (Type Certificate Previously Held by Bombardier, Inc.) Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all MHI RJ Aviation ULC Model CL–600–2C10 SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 (Regional Jet Series 700, 701 & 702), CL– 600–2C11 (Regional Jet Series 550), CL– 600–2D15 (Regional Jet Series 705), CL– 600–2D24 (Regional Jet Series 900), and CL–600–2E25 (Regional Jet Series 1000) airplanes. This AD was prompted by a manufacturing quality escape concerning the installation of the Halon metering device on certain cargo fire extinguisher containers. This AD requires the inspection of cargo fire extinguisher container serial numbers and the replacement of the affected containers. This AD would also limit the installation of affected parts. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. This AD is effective November 9, 2023. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of November 9, 2023. DATES: AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA– 2023–1040; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this final rule, the mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), any comments received, and other information. The address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. Material Incorporated by Reference: • For service information identified in this final rule, contact MHI RJ Aviation Group, Customer Response Center, 3655 Ave. des GrandesTourelles, Suite 110, Boisbriand, Que´bec J7H 0E2 Canada; North America toll-free telephone 833–990–7272 or direct-dial telephone 450–990–7272; fax 514–855–8501; email thd.crj@ mhirj.com; website mhirj.com. • You may view this service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. It is also available at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA– 2023–1040. ADDRESSES: FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Gabriel Kim, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone: 516– 228–7300; email: 9-avs-nyaco-cos@ faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: E:\FR\FM\05OCR1.SGM 05OCR1 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 192 / Thursday, October 5, 2023 / Rules and Regulations 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 MHI RJ Aviation ULC Model CL–600–2C10 (Regional Jet Series 700, 701 & 702), CL–600–2C11 (Regional Jet Series 550), CL–600–2D15 (Regional Jet Series 705), CL–600–2D24 (Regional Jet Series 900), and CL–600–2E25 (Regional Jet Series 1000) airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on May 12, 2023 (88 FR 30685). The NPRM was prompted by AD CF–2022–66, dated December 8, 2022, issued by Transport Canada, which is the aviation authority for Canada (referred to after this as the MCAI). The MCAI states that during assembly of the Halon metering device, the discharge head was not fully seated on cargo fire extinguisher containers having certain serial numbers. The threads in the discharge neck were not re-tapped after the discharge disc was welded resulting in an undersized thread, which prevented the Halon metering device from being fully seated. This will result in an increased Halon mass flow rate through the metering device during discharge, which could reduce the duration of the Halon flow. In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require the inspection of cargo fire extinguisher container serial numbers and the replacement of the affected containers, and to limit the installation of affected parts. The FAA is issuing this AD to address an increased Halon mass flow rate through the metering device during discharge, which could reduce the duration of the Halon flow. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, when combined with a cargo fire, could lead to a reduction in the fire extinguishing and suppression capabilities of the fire protection system. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2023–1040. Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive Comments The FAA received a comment from the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA), who supported the NPRM without change. The FAA received an additional comment from MHI RJ Aviation ULC. The following presents the comment received on the NPRM and the FAA’s response. Request for Latest Service Bulletin Revision MHI RJ Aviation ULC stated paragraphs (g), (h), and (k)(2)(i) of the proposed AD refer to MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA–26–014, dated July 28, 2022. The commenter explained that the current revision is at Revision A, dated December 23, 2022, and has been accepted by Transport Canada Continuing Airworthiness. The commenter requested that a credit statement for the initial issue be added to the proposed AD. The commenter added that paragraph (h) of the proposed AD is referring to Collins Service Bulletin Fire Extinguisher–26–A, dated April 4, 2022. The commenter explained that the current revision is at Revision 1, dated June 16, 2022. The commenter noted that since the latest revision of the Collins service bulletin is also referenced in MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA–26–014, Revision A, dated December 23, 2022, Collins Service Bulletin Fire Extinguisher–26–A, Revision 1, dated June 16, 2022, should be referenced in paragraph (h) of the proposed AD. The FAA partially agrees with the request. The FAA agrees that MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA–26–014, Revision A, dated December 23, 2022, as the above-mentioned commentor noted, is the current revision and should be referenced in this AD. The FAA has revised paragraphs (g), (h), and (k)(2)(i) of this AD to add the latest service information revision as an acceptable 69021 method of compliance. Accordingly, the FAA disagrees that a credit paragraph is necessary. 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 as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on this product. 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 MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA–26–014, dated July 28, 2022, and Revision A, dated December 23, 2022. This service information specifies procedures for an inspection for the serial numbers of the high rate of discharge (HRD) and low rate of discharge (LRD) cargo fire extinguisher containers and the replacement of affected cargo fire extinguisher containers. These documents are distinct because MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA–26–014, Revision A, dated December 23, 2022, added an alternative method to find the serial numbers. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD will affect 597 airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD: ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES1 ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED ACTIONS Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Up to 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ................................................................................... $0 Up to $85 ..... Cost on U.S. operators Up to $50,745. ESTIMATED COSTS OF ON-CONDITION ACTIONS Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product 3 work-hours × $85 per hour = $255 ...................................................................................................................... $0 $255 VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:35 Oct 04, 2023 Jkt 262001 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\05OCR1.SGM 05OCR1 69022 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 192 / Thursday, October 5, 2023 / Rules and Regulations The FAA has included all known costs in its cost estimate. According to the manufacturer, however, some or all of the costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected operators. 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. ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES1 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: ■ VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:35 Oct 04, 2023 Jkt 262001 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: ■ 2023–19–08 MHI RJ Aviation ULC (Type Certificate Previously Held by Bombardier, Inc.): Amendment 39– 22558; Docket No. FAA–2023–1040; Project Identifier MCAI–2022–01512–T. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective November 9, 2023. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to all MHI RJ Aviation ULC (type certificate previously held by Bombardier Inc.) airplanes, certificated in any category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1) through (5) of this AD. (1) Model CL–600–2C10 (Regional Jet Series 700, 701 & 702) airplanes. (2) Model CL–600–2C11 (Regional Jet Series 550) airplanes. (3) Model CL–600–2D15 (Regional Jet Series 705) airplanes. (4) Model CL–600–2D24 (Regional Jet Series 900) airplanes. (5) Model CL–600–2E25 (Regional Jet Series 1000) airplanes. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 26, Fire Protection. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a manufacturing quality escape concerning the installation of the Halon metering device on certain cargo fire extinguisher containers. The FAA is issuing this AD to address an increased Halon mass flow rate through the metering device during discharge, which could reduce the duration of the Halon flow. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, when combined with a cargo fire, could lead to a reduction in the fire extinguishing and suppression capabilities of the fire protection system. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Inspection and Replacement Within 1,000 flight hours or 6 months, whichever occurs first from the effective date of this AD, inspect the serial numbers of the high rate of discharge (HRD) and low rate of discharge (LRD) cargo fire extinguisher containers in accordance with Section 2.B. of the Accomplishment Instructions of MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA–26–014, dated July 28, 2022, or Revision A, dated December 23, 2022. A review of airplane maintenance or equipment records is acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the serial number of the HRD and LRD cargo fire extinguisher containers can be conclusively determined from that review. (1) If neither of the HRD or the LRD container serial numbers is listed in Section PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 2.B. of the Accomplishment Instructions of MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA–26–014, dated July 28, 2022, or Revision A, dated December 23, 2022, no further work is required by this paragraph. (2) If the serial numbers of both the HRD and LRD containers are listed in Section 2.B. of the Accomplishment Instructions of MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA–26–014, dated July 28, 2022, or Revision A, dated December 23, 2022: Within 4,500 flight hours from the effective date of this AD, replace the HRD and LRD cargo fire extinguisher containers in accordance with Section 2.B. of the Accomplishment Instructions of the MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA–26–014, dated July 28, 2022, or Revision A, dated December 23, 2022. (3) If the serial number of either the HRD or the LRD container, but not both, is listed in Section 2.B. of the Accomplishment Instructions of MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA–26–014, July 28, 2022, or Revision A, dated December 23, 2022: Within 8,800 flight hours from the effective date of this AD, replace the affected HRD or LRD cargo fire extinguisher container in accordance with Section 2.B. of the Accomplishment Instructions of MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA–26–014, dated July 28, 2022, or Revision A, dated December 23, 2022. (h) Parts Installation Limitation As of the effective date of this AD, it is prohibited to install an HRD or LRD cargo fire extinguisher container with a serial number listed in Section 2.B. of the Accomplishment Instructions of MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA–26–014, dated July 28, 2022, or Revision A, dated December 23, 2022, unless the cargo fire extinguisher container is ink-stamped with a circled ‘‘G’’ adjacent to the nameplate, signifying the incorporation of Collins Service Bulletin Fire Extinguisher–26–A, dated April 4, 2022, or Revision 1, dated June 16, 2022. (i) 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 manager of the International Validation Branch, mail it to ATTN: Program Manager, Continuing Operational Safety, at the address identified in paragraph (j)(2) of this AD or email to: 9-AVS-AIR-730-AMOC@faa.gov. If mailing information, also submit information by email. 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 Transport Canada or MHI RJ Aviation ULC’s Transport Canada Design E:\FR\FM\05OCR1.SGM 05OCR1 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 192 / Thursday, October 5, 2023 / Rules and Regulations Approval Organization (DAO). If approved by the DAO, the approval must include the DAO-authorized signature. (j) Additional Information (1) Refer to Transport Canada AD CF– 2022–66, dated December 8, 2022, for related information. This Transport Canada AD may be found in the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2023–1040. (2) For more information about this AD, contact Gabriel Kim, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone: 516– 228–7300; email: 9-avs-nyaco-cos@faa.gov. (k) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. (i) MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA–26–014, dated July 28, 2022. (ii) MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA–26–014, Revision A, dated December 23, 2022. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact MHI RJ Aviation Group, Customer Response Center, 3655 Ave. des Grandes-Tourelles, Suite 110, Boisbriand, Que´bec J7H 0E2 Canada; North America tollfree telephone 833–990–7272 or direct-dial telephone 450–990–7272; fax 514–855–8501; email thd.crj@mhirj.com; website mhirj.com. (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email fr.inspection@nara.gov, or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued on September 22, 2023. Victor Wicklund, Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2023–22082 Filed 10–4–23; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES1 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2023–1499; Project Identifier MCAI–2023–00458–T; Amendment 39–22565; AD 2023–20–06] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. AGENCY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:35 Oct 04, 2023 Jkt 262001 ACTION: Final rule. The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus SAS Model A330–202, A330– 203, A330–223, A330–243, and A330– 841 airplanes. This AD was prompted by a determination that the cold working process was partially completed on a certain circumferential joint. This AD requires modification of the circumferential joint, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective November 9, 2023. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of November 9, 2023. ADDRESSES: AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2023–1499; 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, 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– 2023–1499. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Timothy Dowling, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; phone 206–231–3667; email Timothy.P.Dowling@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: SUMMARY: Background The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 69023 part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Airbus SAS Model A330–202, A330–203, A330–223, A330– 243, and A330–841 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on July 20, 2023 (88 FR 46697). The NPRM was prompted by AD 2023– 0054, dated March 14, 2023, issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union (EASA AD 2023–0054) (also referred to as the MCAI). The MCAI states that the cold working process was partially completed on the circumferential joint at frame 58. In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require modification of the circumferential joint, as specified in EASA AD 2023–0054. The NPRM also proposed to require contacting the Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus SAS’s EASA Design Organization Approval for instructions if any discrepancy is found during accomplishment of any inspection that is part of the modification. The FAA is issuing this AD to address a partially completed cold working process on the circumferential joint at frame 58, which could affect the structural integrity of the airplane and result in catastrophic failure. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2023–1499. Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive Comments The FAA received comments from Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA), who supported the NPRM without change, and an individual whose comments are unrelated to the unsafe condition identified in the NPRM. Conclusion These products have been approved by the aviation authority of another country and are 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 as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. 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. E:\FR\FM\05OCR1.SGM 05OCR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 192 (Thursday, October 5, 2023)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 69020-69023]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-22082]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2023-1040; Project Identifier MCAI-2022-01512-T; 
Amendment 39-22558; AD 2023-19-08]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; MHI RJ Aviation ULC (Type Certificate 
Previously Held by Bombardier, Inc.) Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
MHI RJ Aviation ULC Model CL-600-2C10 (Regional Jet Series 700, 701 & 
702), CL-600-2C11 (Regional Jet Series 550), CL-600-2D15 (Regional Jet 
Series 705), CL-600-2D24 (Regional Jet Series 900), and CL-600-2E25 
(Regional Jet Series 1000) airplanes. This AD was prompted by a 
manufacturing quality escape concerning the installation of the Halon 
metering device on certain cargo fire extinguisher containers. This AD 
requires the inspection of cargo fire extinguisher container serial 
numbers and the replacement of the affected containers. This AD would 
also limit the installation of affected parts. The FAA is issuing this 
AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective November 9, 2023.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of November 9, 
2023.

ADDRESSES: AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov 
under Docket No. FAA-2023-1040; or in person at Docket Operations 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The AD docket contains this final rule, the mandatory 
continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), any comments received, and 
other information. The address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department 
of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
    Material Incorporated by Reference:
     For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact MHI RJ Aviation Group, Customer Response Center, 3655 Ave. des 
Grandes-Tourelles, Suite 110, Boisbriand, Qu[eacute]bec J7H 0E2 Canada; 
North America toll-free telephone 833-990-7272 or direct-dial telephone 
450-990-7272; fax 514-855-8501; email mhirj.com">thd.crj@mhirj.com; website 
mhirj.com.
     You may view this service information at the FAA, 
Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 
216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this 
material at the FAA, call 206-231-3195. It is also available at 
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2023-1040.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Gabriel Kim, Aviation Safety Engineer, 
FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone: 
516-228-7300; email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

[[Page 69021]]

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 MHI RJ Aviation ULC 
Model CL-600-2C10 (Regional Jet Series 700, 701 & 702), CL-600-2C11 
(Regional Jet Series 550), CL-600-2D15 (Regional Jet Series 705), CL-
600-2D24 (Regional Jet Series 900), and CL-600-2E25 (Regional Jet 
Series 1000) airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on 
May 12, 2023 (88 FR 30685). The NPRM was prompted by AD CF-2022-66, 
dated December 8, 2022, issued by Transport Canada, which is the 
aviation authority for Canada (referred to after this as the MCAI). The 
MCAI states that during assembly of the Halon metering device, the 
discharge head was not fully seated on cargo fire extinguisher 
containers having certain serial numbers. The threads in the discharge 
neck were not re-tapped after the discharge disc was welded resulting 
in an undersized thread, which prevented the Halon metering device from 
being fully seated. This will result in an increased Halon mass flow 
rate through the metering device during discharge, which could reduce 
the duration of the Halon flow.
    In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require the inspection of cargo 
fire extinguisher container serial numbers and the replacement of the 
affected containers, and to limit the installation of affected parts. 
The FAA is issuing this AD to address an increased Halon mass flow rate 
through the metering device during discharge, which could reduce the 
duration of the Halon flow. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, 
when combined with a cargo fire, could lead to a reduction in the fire 
extinguishing and suppression capabilities of the fire protection 
system.
    You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at regulations.gov under 
Docket No. FAA-2023-1040.

Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive

Comments

    The FAA received a comment from the Air Line Pilots Association, 
International (ALPA), who supported the NPRM without change.
    The FAA received an additional comment from MHI RJ Aviation ULC. 
The following presents the comment received on the NPRM and the FAA's 
response.

Request for Latest Service Bulletin Revision

    MHI RJ Aviation ULC stated paragraphs (g), (h), and (k)(2)(i) of 
the proposed AD refer to MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA-26-014, dated 
July 28, 2022. The commenter explained that the current revision is at 
Revision A, dated December 23, 2022, and has been accepted by Transport 
Canada Continuing Airworthiness. The commenter requested that a credit 
statement for the initial issue be added to the proposed AD.
    The commenter added that paragraph (h) of the proposed AD is 
referring to Collins Service Bulletin Fire Extinguisher-26-A, dated 
April 4, 2022. The commenter explained that the current revision is at 
Revision 1, dated June 16, 2022. The commenter noted that since the 
latest revision of the Collins service bulletin is also referenced in 
MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA-26-014, Revision A, dated December 23, 
2022, Collins Service Bulletin Fire Extinguisher-26-A, Revision 1, 
dated June 16, 2022, should be referenced in paragraph (h) of the 
proposed AD.
    The FAA partially agrees with the request. The FAA agrees that 
MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA-26-014, Revision A, dated December 23, 
2022, as the above-mentioned commentor noted, is the current revision 
and should be referenced in this AD. The FAA has revised paragraphs 
(g), (h), and (k)(2)(i) of this AD to add the latest service 
information revision as an acceptable method of compliance. 
Accordingly, the FAA disagrees that a credit paragraph is necessary.

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 as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address 
the unsafe condition on this product. 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 MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA-26-014, dated July 
28, 2022, and Revision A, dated December 23, 2022. This service 
information specifies procedures for an inspection for the serial 
numbers of the high rate of discharge (HRD) and low rate of discharge 
(LRD) cargo fire extinguisher containers and the replacement of 
affected cargo fire extinguisher containers. These documents are 
distinct because MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA-26-014, Revision A, dated 
December 23, 2022, added an alternative method to find the serial 
numbers.
    This service information is reasonably available because the 
interested parties have access to it through their normal course of 
business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD will affect 597 airplanes of U.S. 
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                      Estimated Costs for Required Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Labor cost                  Parts cost         Cost per product          Cost on U.S. operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Up to 1 work-hour x $85 per hour =                 $0   Up to $85................  Up to $50,745.
 $85.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


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


[[Page 69022]]

    The FAA has included all known costs in its cost estimate. 
According to the manufacturer, however, some or all of the costs of 
this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact 
on affected operators.

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:

2023-19-08 MHI RJ Aviation ULC (Type Certificate Previously Held by 
Bombardier, Inc.): Amendment 39-22558; Docket No. FAA-2023-1040; 
Project Identifier MCAI-2022-01512-T.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective November 9, 2023.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all MHI RJ Aviation ULC (type certificate 
previously held by Bombardier Inc.) airplanes, certificated in any 
category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1) through (5) of this AD.
    (1) Model CL-600-2C10 (Regional Jet Series 700, 701 & 702) 
airplanes.
    (2) Model CL-600-2C11 (Regional Jet Series 550) airplanes.
    (3) Model CL-600-2D15 (Regional Jet Series 705) airplanes.
    (4) Model CL-600-2D24 (Regional Jet Series 900) airplanes.
    (5) Model CL-600-2E25 (Regional Jet Series 1000) airplanes.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 26, Fire 
Protection.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by a manufacturing quality escape 
concerning the installation of the Halon metering device on certain 
cargo fire extinguisher containers. The FAA is issuing this AD to 
address an increased Halon mass flow rate through the metering 
device during discharge, which could reduce the duration of the 
Halon flow. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, when combined 
with a cargo fire, could lead to a reduction in the fire 
extinguishing and suppression capabilities of the fire protection 
system.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Inspection and Replacement

    Within 1,000 flight hours or 6 months, whichever occurs first 
from the effective date of this AD, inspect the serial numbers of 
the high rate of discharge (HRD) and low rate of discharge (LRD) 
cargo fire extinguisher containers in accordance with Section 2.B. 
of the Accomplishment Instructions of MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA-
26-014, dated July 28, 2022, or Revision A, dated December 23, 2022. 
A review of airplane maintenance or equipment records is acceptable 
in lieu of this inspection if the serial number of the HRD and LRD 
cargo fire extinguisher containers can be conclusively determined 
from that review.
    (1) If neither of the HRD or the LRD container serial numbers is 
listed in Section 2.B. of the Accomplishment Instructions of MHIRJ 
Service Bulletin 670BA-26-014, dated July 28, 2022, or Revision A, 
dated December 23, 2022, no further work is required by this 
paragraph.
    (2) If the serial numbers of both the HRD and LRD containers are 
listed in Section 2.B. of the Accomplishment Instructions of MHIRJ 
Service Bulletin 670BA-26-014, dated July 28, 2022, or Revision A, 
dated December 23, 2022: Within 4,500 flight hours from the 
effective date of this AD, replace the HRD and LRD cargo fire 
extinguisher containers in accordance with Section 2.B. of the 
Accomplishment Instructions of the MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA-26-
014, dated July 28, 2022, or Revision A, dated December 23, 2022.
    (3) If the serial number of either the HRD or the LRD container, 
but not both, is listed in Section 2.B. of the Accomplishment 
Instructions of MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA-26-014, July 28, 2022, 
or Revision A, dated December 23, 2022: Within 8,800 flight hours 
from the effective date of this AD, replace the affected HRD or LRD 
cargo fire extinguisher container in accordance with Section 2.B. of 
the Accomplishment Instructions of MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA-26-
014, dated July 28, 2022, or Revision A, dated December 23, 2022.

(h) Parts Installation Limitation

    As of the effective date of this AD, it is prohibited to install 
an HRD or LRD cargo fire extinguisher container with a serial number 
listed in Section 2.B. of the Accomplishment Instructions of MHIRJ 
Service Bulletin 670BA-26-014, dated July 28, 2022, or Revision A, 
dated December 23, 2022, unless the cargo fire extinguisher 
container is ink-stamped with a circled ``G'' adjacent to the 
nameplate, signifying the incorporation of Collins Service Bulletin 
Fire Extinguisher-26-A, dated April 4, 2022, or Revision 1, dated 
June 16, 2022.

(i) 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 manager of the 
International Validation Branch, mail it to ATTN: Program Manager, 
Continuing Operational Safety, at the address identified in 
paragraph (j)(2) of this AD or email to: [email protected]. 
If mailing information, also submit information by email. 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 Transport Canada or MHI RJ Aviation ULC's 
Transport Canada Design

[[Page 69023]]

Approval Organization (DAO). If approved by the DAO, the approval 
must include the DAO-authorized signature.

(j) Additional Information

    (1) Refer to Transport Canada AD CF-2022-66, dated December 8, 
2022, for related information. This Transport Canada AD may be found 
in the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2023-1040.
    (2) For more information about this AD, contact Gabriel Kim, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, 
Westbury, NY 11590; telephone: 516-228-7300; email: [email protected].

(k) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this 
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA-26-014, dated July 28, 2022.
    (ii) MHIRJ Service Bulletin 670BA-26-014, Revision A, dated 
December 23, 2022.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact MHI 
RJ Aviation Group, Customer Response Center, 3655 Ave. des Grandes-
Tourelles, Suite 110, Boisbriand, Qu[eacute]bec J7H 0E2 Canada; 
North America toll-free telephone 833-990-7272 or direct-dial 
telephone 450-990-7272; fax 514-855-8501; email mhirj.com">thd.crj@mhirj.com; 
website mhirj.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 [email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued on September 22, 2023.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023-22082 Filed 10-4-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.