Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 93154-93157 [2024-27596]

Download as PDF 93154 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 228 / Tuesday, November 26, 2024 / Rules and Regulations 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: 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive: ■ 2024–22–08 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39– 22879; Docket No. FAA–2024–1888; Project Identifier MCAI–2024–00190–T. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective December 31, 2024. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus SAS Model Airbus A350–941 and –1041 airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2024–0073, dated March 18, 2024 (EASA AD 2024–0073). lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 25, Equipment/furnishings. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a determination that the lower attachment studs on aft galley complex may be installed incorrectly due to a missing instruction in the maintenance procedure task. The FAA is issuing this AD to address a possible wrong installation for the lower attachment stud having part number (P/N) XP14–070–007800, P/N XP14– 070–019100, P/N XP14–070–005400, P/N XP14–070–008400, and P/N XP14–070– 001100 on the aft galley complex. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to galley module detachment, VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:25 Nov 25, 2024 Jkt 265001 (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, EASA AD 2024–0073. (h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2024–0073 (1) Where EASA AD 2024–0073 refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD. (2) This AD does not adopt the ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD 2024–0073. (i) Additional AD Provisions PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES § 39.13 with possible consequent injury to cabin crew and passengers, and reduced evacuation capacity from the airplane in case of an emergency. 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, send it to the person identified in paragraph (j) of this AD and email to: 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 Airbus SAS’s EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except as required by paragraph (i)(2) of this AD, if any material referenced in EASA AD 2024– 0073 contains paragraphs that are labeled as RC, the instructions in RC paragraphs, including subparagraphs under an RC paragraph, must be done to comply with this AD; any paragraphs, including subparagraphs under those paragraphs, that are not identified as RC are recommended. The instructions in paragraphs, including subparagraphs under those paragraphs, 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 instructions identified as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or changes to instructions identified as RC require approval of an AMOC. PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 (j) Additional Information For more information about this AD, contact Dat Le, 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 (IBR) of the material listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this material as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. (i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2024–0073, dated March 18, 2024. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For EASA material identified 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. (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 at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ ibr-locations or email fr.inspection@nara.gov. Issued on October 29, 2024. Peter A. White, Deputy Director, Integrated Certificate Management Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2024–27589 Filed 11–25–24; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2024–2008; Project Identifier AD–2024–00122–T; Amendment 39–22876; AD 2024–22–05] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Boeing Company Model 787–8, 787–9, and 787–10 airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report that during manufacture of drag brace lower lock link assemblies for the main landing gear (MLG), a certain required SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\26NOR1.SGM 26NOR1 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 228 / Tuesday, November 26, 2024 / Rules and Regulations lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 inspection was not performed. This AD requires doing a check of maintenance records or an inspection to determine if certain drag brace lower lock link assemblies are installed, and applicable on-condition actions. This AD also prohibits the installation of affected parts. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective December 31, 2024. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of December 31, 2024. ADDRESSES: AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2024–2008; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this final rule, any comments received, and other information. The address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. Material Incorporated by Reference: • For material identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600; telephone 562–797–1717; website myboeingfleet.com. • 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 at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2024–2008. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Joseph Hodgin, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone: 206– 231–3962; email: joseph.j.hodgin@ faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all The Boeing Company Model 787–8, 787–9, and 787–10 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on August 1, 2024 (89 FR 62685). The NPRM was prompted by a report that during manufacture of drag brace lower lock link assemblies for the MLG, a certain required inspection was not performed. In the NPRM, the FAA VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:25 Nov 25, 2024 Jkt 265001 proposed to require doing a check of maintenance records or an inspection to determine if certain drag brace lower lock link assemblies are installed, and applicable on-condition actions. The FAA is issuing this AD to address unsafe condition on these products. Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive Comments The FAA received comments from an individual who supported the NPRM without change. The FAA received additional comments from three commenters, including Boeing, United Airlines, and American Airlines. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA’s response to each comment. Request To Correct Part Number American Airlines, United Airlines, and Boeing requested that the affected landing gear drag brace lower lock link assembly part number be corrected from part number 531Z2010–501, to part number 513Z2010–501. American Airlines, United Airlines, and Boeing stated that paragraph (i) of the proposed AD contains a typo for the affected landing gear drag brace lower lock link assembly part number. The commenters stated that the part number listed in the proposed AD is 531Z2010–501, the correct part number is 513Z2010–501. American Airlines stated it reviewed Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205–SB320048–00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023, and confirmed that the correct part number is 513Z2010–501. Boeing noted that the part number in the proposed AD does not match Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205–SB320048–00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023. The FAA agrees that the correct affected landing gear drag brace lower lock link assembly part number is 513Z2010–501. The FAA has revised paragraph (i) of this AD to reflect the correct part number. Request To Withdraw the NPRM American Airlines stated that it appears that an airworthiness directive is not necessary as the safety issue is being addressed between Boeing and the affected operator(s) via the alert service bulletin. American Airlines also stated that compliance will require the unnecessary burden at all worldwide operators and MROs (i.e., certified repair stations) to create safeguards to look for these four serial numbers any time maintenance is performed on the life limited part component of the lock link assembly, the lower lock link PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 93155 assembly itself, the next higher assembly lock link assembly, the next higher assembly drag brace assembly, the next higher level landing gear, and the airplane throughout the remaining life of the entire 787 worldwide fleet. The FAA infers that American Airlines is requesting that the NPRM be withdrawn. The FAA disagrees with the request to withdraw the NPRM. Operators are not required to accomplish Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205– SB320048–00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023, until an AD mandates accomplishment. This AD addresses the identified unsafe condition by mandating the actions in that material, which ensures that the affected (unsafe) parts are removed from the airplanes identified in paragraph (g) of this AD. In addition, due to rotability of the affected parts, the parts installation prohibition specified in paragraph (i) of this AD is the only way to ensure the affected parts are not installed on all airplanes identified in paragraph (c) of this AD. The FAA has not changed this AD in this regard. Conclusion The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered any comments received, and determined that air safety requires adopting this AD as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. Except for minor editorial changes, and any other changes described previously, this AD is adopted as proposed in the NPRM. None of the changes will increase the economic burden on any operator. Material Incorporated by Reference Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205– SB320048–00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023. This material specifies procedures for doing a check of maintenance records or an inspection of the drag brace lower lock link assembly on the right and left MLG for affected serial numbers and applicable on-condition actions. On-condition actions include replacing any affected drag brace lower lock link assembly on the MLG with a serviceable drag brace lower lock link assembly. This material is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD affects 156 airplanes of U.S. registry. E:\FR\FM\26NOR1.SGM 26NOR1 93156 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 228 / Tuesday, November 26, 2024 / Rules and Regulations The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Inspection or records check ............................ 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ................. The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary replacement that would be required based on the Cost per product Parts cost results of the inspection. The agency has no way of determining the number of $0 Cost on U.S. operators $85 $13,260 aircraft that might need this replacement: ON-CONDITION COSTS Action Labor cost Replacement of one drag brace lower lock link assembly. 18 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,530 ...................... 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. lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 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, VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:25 Nov 25, 2024 Jkt 265001 (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: ■ 2024–22–05 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39–22876; Docket No. FAA–2024–2008; Project Identifier AD– 2024–00122–T. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective December 31, 2024. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 787–8, 787–9, and 787–10 airplanes, certificated in any category. PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Parts cost Cost per product $39,119 $40,649 (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 32, Landing gear. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a report that during manufacture of drag brace lower lock link assemblies for the main landing gear (MLG), a certain inspection was not performed. The FAA is issuing this AD to address undetected cracks that could lead to fracture of the drag brace lower lock link assembly. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in MLG collapse, which could result in loss of directional control while the airplane is on the ground, with the potential for off-runway excursion or penetration of the wing box fuel tank. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions For airplanes with an original airworthiness certificate or original export certificate of airworthiness issued on or before the effective date of this AD: Except as specified by paragraph (h) of this AD, at the applicable times specified in the ‘‘Compliance’’ paragraph of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205– SB320048–00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023, do all applicable actions identified in, and in accordance with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205– SB320048–00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023. The actions specified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205– SB320048–00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023, apply to airplanes not listed in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787– 81205–SB320048–00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023. Note 1 to paragraph (g): Guidance for accomplishing the actions required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205–SB320048–00, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023, which is E:\FR\FM\26NOR1.SGM 26NOR1 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 228 / Tuesday, November 26, 2024 / Rules and Regulations referred to in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205–SB320048–00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023. (h) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications Where the Compliance Time column of the table in the ‘‘Compliance’’ paragraph of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787– 81205–SB320048–00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023, refers to the Issue 001 date of Requirements Bulletin B787–81205– SB320048–00 RB, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD. (i) Parts Installation Prohibition As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install a drag brace lower lock link assembly, part number 513Z2010–501 and serial number 19ZHQ00772, 19ZHQ00773, 19ZHQ00890, or 19ZHQ00891, on any airplane. (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, AIR–520, Continued Operational Safety Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or responsible Flight Standards Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the certification office, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (k)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: AMOC@ faa.gov. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the responsible Flight Standards Office. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD if it is approved by The Boeing Company Organization Designation Authorization that has been authorized by the Manager, AIR– 520, Continued Operational Safety Branch, FAA, to make those findings. To be approved, the repair method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 (k) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Joseph Hodgin, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone: 206–231–3962; email: joseph.j.hodgin@faa.gov. (2) Material identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference is available at the address specified in paragraph (l)(3) of this AD. (l) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the material listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this material as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205–SB320048–00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:25 Nov 25, 2024 Jkt 265001 (ii) [Reserved] (3) For the material identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110– SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600; telephone 562–797–1717; website myboeingfleet.com. (4) You may view this 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 at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ ibr-locationsoremailfr.inspection@nara.gov. Issued on October 24, 2024. Peter A. White, Deputy Director, Integrated Certificate Management Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2024–27596 Filed 11–25–24; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2024–1285; Project Identifier MCAI–2023–01146–T; Amendment 39–22872; AD 2024–22–01] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Canada Limited Partnership (Type Certificate Previously Held by C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership (CSALP); Bombardier, Inc.) Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2023–05– 08, which applied to certain Airbus Canada Limited Partnership Model BD– 500–1A10 and BD–500–1A11 airplanes. AD 2023–05–08 required revising the existing maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations. This AD was prompted by a determination that new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations are necessary. This AD continues to require certain actions in AD 2023–05–08 and requires revising the existing maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations, as specified in a Transport Canada AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 93157 This AD is effective December 31, 2024. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of December 31, 2024. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain other publication listed in this AD as of May 12, 2023 (88 FR 20751, April 7, 2023). The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain other publication listed in this AD as of March 30, 2021 (86 FR 10799, February 23, 2021). ADDRESSES: AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2024–1285; 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 Transport Canada material identified in this AD, contact Transport Canada, Transport Canada National Aircraft Certification, 159 Cleopatra Drive, Nepean, Ontario K1A 0N5, Canada; telephone 888–663–3639; email TC.AirworthinessDirectives-Consignes denavigabilite.TC@tc.gc.ca. You may find this material on the Transport Canada website at tc.canada.ca/en/ aviation. • For Airbus Canada Limited Partnership material identified in this AD, contact Airbus Canada Limited Partnership, 13100 Henri-Fabre Boulevard, Mirabel, Québec J7N 3C6, Canada; telephone 450–476–7676; email a220_crc@abc.airbus; website a220world.airbus.com. • 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 at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2024–1285.≤ FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Gabriel D. Kim, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516–228–7343; email 9-avsnyaco-cos@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: DATES: E:\FR\FM\26NOR1.SGM 26NOR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 89, Number 228 (Tuesday, November 26, 2024)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 93154-93157]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2024-27596]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2024-2008; Project Identifier AD-2024-00122-T; 
Amendment 39-22876; AD 2024-22-05]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
The Boeing Company Model 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes. This AD 
was prompted by a report that during manufacture of drag brace lower 
lock link assemblies for the main landing gear (MLG), a certain 
required

[[Page 93155]]

inspection was not performed. This AD requires doing a check of 
maintenance records or an inspection to determine if certain drag brace 
lower lock link assemblies are installed, and applicable on-condition 
actions. This AD also prohibits the installation of affected parts. The 
FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these 
products.

DATES: This AD is effective December 31, 2024.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of December 31, 
2024.

ADDRESSES: 
    AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under 
Docket No. FAA-2024-2008; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD 
docket contains this final rule, any comments received, and other 
information. The address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
    Material Incorporated by Reference:
     For material identified in this AD, contact Boeing 
Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 
2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-5600; 
telephone 562-797-1717; website myboeingfleet.com.
     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 at regulations.gov under 
Docket No. FAA-2024-2008.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Joseph Hodgin, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone: 206-
231-3962; 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 The Boeing Company 
Model 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes. The NPRM published in the 
Federal Register on August 1, 2024 (89 FR 62685). The NPRM was prompted 
by a report that during manufacture of drag brace lower lock link 
assemblies for the MLG, a certain required inspection was not 
performed. In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require doing a check of 
maintenance records or an inspection to determine if certain drag brace 
lower lock link assemblies are installed, and applicable on-condition 
actions. The FAA is issuing this AD to address unsafe condition on 
these products.

Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive

Comments

    The FAA received comments from an individual who supported the NPRM 
without change.
    The FAA received additional comments from three commenters, 
including Boeing, United Airlines, and American Airlines. The following 
presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA's response to 
each comment.

Request To Correct Part Number

    American Airlines, United Airlines, and Boeing requested that the 
affected landing gear drag brace lower lock link assembly part number 
be corrected from part number 531Z2010-501, to part number 513Z2010-
501. American Airlines, United Airlines, and Boeing stated that 
paragraph (i) of the proposed AD contains a typo for the affected 
landing gear drag brace lower lock link assembly part number. The 
commenters stated that the part number listed in the proposed AD is 
531Z2010-501, the correct part number is 513Z2010-501. American 
Airlines stated it reviewed Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-
81205-SB320048-00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023, and confirmed 
that the correct part number is 513Z2010-501. Boeing noted that the 
part number in the proposed AD does not match Boeing Alert Requirements 
Bulletin B787-81205-SB320048-00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023.
    The FAA agrees that the correct affected landing gear drag brace 
lower lock link assembly part number is 513Z2010-501. The FAA has 
revised paragraph (i) of this AD to reflect the correct part number.

Request To Withdraw the NPRM

    American Airlines stated that it appears that an airworthiness 
directive is not necessary as the safety issue is being addressed 
between Boeing and the affected operator(s) via the alert service 
bulletin. American Airlines also stated that compliance will require 
the unnecessary burden at all worldwide operators and MROs (i.e., 
certified repair stations) to create safeguards to look for these four 
serial numbers any time maintenance is performed on the life limited 
part component of the lock link assembly, the lower lock link assembly 
itself, the next higher assembly lock link assembly, the next higher 
assembly drag brace assembly, the next higher level landing gear, and 
the airplane throughout the remaining life of the entire 787 worldwide 
fleet. The FAA infers that American Airlines is requesting that the 
NPRM be withdrawn.
    The FAA disagrees with the request to withdraw the NPRM. Operators 
are not required to accomplish Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-
81205-SB320048-00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023, until an AD 
mandates accomplishment. This AD addresses the identified unsafe 
condition by mandating the actions in that material, which ensures that 
the affected (unsafe) parts are removed from the airplanes identified 
in paragraph (g) of this AD. In addition, due to rotability of the 
affected parts, the parts installation prohibition specified in 
paragraph (i) of this AD is the only way to ensure the affected parts 
are not installed on all airplanes identified in paragraph (c) of this 
AD. The FAA has not changed this AD in this regard.

Conclusion

    The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered any comments 
received, and determined that air safety requires adopting this AD as 
proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe 
condition on these products. Except for minor editorial changes, and 
any other changes described previously, this AD is adopted as proposed 
in the NPRM. None of the changes will increase the economic burden on 
any operator.

Material Incorporated by Reference Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-
SB320048-00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023. This material 
specifies procedures for doing a check of maintenance records or an 
inspection of the drag brace lower lock link assembly on the right and 
left MLG for affected serial numbers and applicable on-condition 
actions. On-condition actions include replacing any affected drag brace 
lower lock link assembly on the MLG with a serviceable drag brace lower 
lock link assembly.
    This material is reasonably available because the interested 
parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by 
the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD affects 156 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.

[[Page 93156]]

The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     Cost per      Cost on U.S.
                Action                         Labor cost           Parts cost        product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection or records check...........  1 work-hour x $85 per                 $0             $85         $13,260
                                         hour = $85.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Cost per
                    Action                                 Labor cost               Parts cost        product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacement of one drag brace lower lock link   18 work-hours x $85 per hour =           $39,119         $40,649
 assembly.                                       $1,530.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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:

2024-22-05 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-22876; Docket No. FAA-
2024-2008; Project Identifier AD-2024-00122-T.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective December 31, 
2024.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

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

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 32, Landing 
gear.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by a report that during manufacture of drag 
brace lower lock link assemblies for the main landing gear (MLG), a 
certain inspection was not performed. The FAA is issuing this AD to 
address undetected cracks that could lead to fracture of the drag 
brace lower lock link assembly. The unsafe condition, if not 
addressed, could result in MLG collapse, which could result in loss 
of directional control while the airplane is on the ground, with the 
potential for off-runway excursion or penetration of the wing box 
fuel tank.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Required Actions

    For airplanes with an original airworthiness certificate or 
original export certificate of airworthiness issued on or before the 
effective date of this AD: Except as specified by paragraph (h) of 
this AD, at the applicable times specified in the ``Compliance'' 
paragraph of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB320048-
00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023, do all applicable actions 
identified in, and in accordance with, the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-
SB320048-00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023. The actions 
specified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB320048-
00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023, apply to airplanes not 
listed in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB320048-00 
RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023.

    Note 1 to paragraph (g):  Guidance for accomplishing the actions 
required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
B787-81205-SB320048-00, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023, which is

[[Page 93157]]

referred to in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-
SB320048-00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023.

(h) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications

    Where the Compliance Time column of the table in the 
``Compliance'' paragraph of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-
81205-SB320048-00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023, refers to 
the Issue 001 date of Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB320048-00 
RB, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD.

(i) Parts Installation Prohibition

    As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install a 
drag brace lower lock link assembly, part number 513Z2010-501 and 
serial number 19ZHQ00772, 19ZHQ00773, 19ZHQ00890, or 19ZHQ00891, on 
any airplane.

(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, AIR-520, Continued Operational Safety Branch, 
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested 
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 
CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or 
responsible Flight Standards Office, as appropriate. If sending 
information directly to the manager of the certification office, 
send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph 
(k)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the responsible Flight Standards Office.
    (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be 
used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD 
if it is approved by The Boeing Company Organization Designation 
Authorization that has been authorized by the Manager, AIR-520, 
Continued Operational Safety Branch, FAA, to make those findings. To 
be approved, the repair method, modification deviation, or 
alteration deviation must meet the certification basis of the 
airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD.

(k) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Joseph Hodgin, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 
98198; phone: 206-231-3962; email: [email protected].
    (2) Material identified in this AD that is not incorporated by 
reference is available at the address specified in paragraph (l)(3) 
of this AD.

(l) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the material listed in this 
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this material as applicable to do the actions 
required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB320048-00 
RB, Issue 001, dated November 20, 2023.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) For the material identified in this AD, contact Boeing 
Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 
2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-5600; 
telephone 562-797-1717; website myboeingfleet.com.
    (4) You may view this 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 at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability 
of this material at NARA, visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/[email protected]">www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/[email protected].

    Issued on October 24, 2024.
Peter A. White,
Deputy Director, Integrated Certificate Management Division, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2024-27596 Filed 11-25-24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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