Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 104900-104904 [2024-30669]

Download as PDF 104900 Proposed Rules Federal Register Vol. 89, No. 247 Thursday, December 26, 2024 This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules. OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT 5 CFR Parts 351 and 430 RIN 3206–AO06 Reduction in Force Office of Personnel Management. ACTION: Withdrawal of proposed rule. AGENCY: The Office of Personnel Management is clarifying its withdrawal of a proposed rule published on December 17, 2020. The notice of proposed rulemaking, inter alia, proposed revising OPM’s reduction-inforce regulations to prioritize performance over length of service when determining which employees will be retained in a RIF. OPM withdrew the proposed rule on March 12, 2021, but in an abundance of caution issues this clarification reiterating that the proposed rule is withdrawn. DATES: OPM withdraws the proposed rule as of March 12, 2021, or no later than December 20, 2024. ADDRESSES: The docket for this withdrawn rule is available at https:// www.regulations.gov/document/OPM_ FRDOC_0001-2024. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Latonia Page (202) 936–3459 or email: employ@opm.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On December 17, 2020, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM or proposed rule) titled ‘‘Reduction in Force,’’ in the Federal Register. See 85 FR 81839. The NPRM proposed to revise OPM’s reduction-in-force (RIF) regulations to prioritize performance over length of service when determining which employees will be retained in a RIF, in response to section 2(j) of Executive Order (E.O.) 13839 (May 25, 2018), titled ‘‘Promoting Accountability and Streamlining Removal Procedures Consistent with Merit Systems and ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:56 Dec 23, 2024 Jkt 265001 Principles.’’ OPM also proposed modifying the order of retention, clarifying tenure group definitions, and modifying how credit for performance is computed. In response to the NPRM, OPM received approximately 44 comments during the 30-day comment period which ended on January 19, 2021. On January 22, 2021, President Biden issued an E.O. 14003 titled ‘‘Protecting the Federal Workforce,’’ which, among other things, revoked E.O. 13839. See 86 FR 7231. On March 12, 2021, OPM withdrew its NPRM from its regulatory agenda (see https://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/ eAgenda ViewRule?pubId=202104&RIN=3206AO06) for three independently sufficient reasons, among others: because E.O. 13839 was revoked, because the NPRM no longer reflected OPM’s policy position, and because issuing such a rule was not a priority for OPM. OPM believes its withdrawal on March 12, 2021, was valid and the agency, regulated entities, and the public have operated with that understanding. Nevertheless, in an abundance of caution, OPM hereby clarifies that the NPRM is withdrawn. Office of Personnel Management. Stephen Hickman, Federal Register Liaison. [FR Doc. 2024–30883 Filed 12–20–24; 11:15 am] BILLING CODE 6325–39–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2024–2665; Project Identifier AD–2024–00203–T] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016–14–04, which applies to certain The Boeing Company Model 787–8 SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 airplanes. AD 2016–14–04 requires replacing the potable waterline couplings above the forward and aft electronics equipment (EE) bays with new, improved couplings. AD 2016–14– 04 also requires sealing the main cabin floor areas above the aft EE bay, installing drip shields and foam blocks, and rerouting the wire bundles near the drip shields above the equipment in the aft EE bay. Since the FAA issued AD 2016–14–04, it was determined that sealant, moisture barrier tape and tape dam requirements above the EE bays may not have been installed on production airplanes. This proposed AD continues to require the actions in AD 2016–14–04 and would require an inspection of seat tracks above the EE bays for missing, damaged, or deteriorated sealant, moisture barrier tape, or tape dams, as applicable, and applicable on-condition actions. This proposed AD also adds airplanes to the applicability. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by February 10, 2025. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2024–2665; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this NPRM, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. Material Incorporated by Reference: • For the material identified in this proposed AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), E:\FR\FM\26DEP1.SGM 26DEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 247 / Thursday, December 26, 2024 / Proposed Rules 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–2024–2665. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Courtney Tuck, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone: 206– 231–3986; email: courtney.k.tuck@ faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2024–2665; Project Identifier AD–2024–00203–T’’ at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposal because of those comments. Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact received about this NPRM. ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 Confidential Business Information CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing CBI as ‘‘PROPIN.’’ The FAA will treat such marked submissions as confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public docket of this VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:56 Dec 23, 2024 Jkt 265001 NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Courtney Tuck, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone: 206–231–3986; email: courtney.k.tuck@faa.gov. Any commentary that the FAA receives that is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking. Background The FAA issued AD 2016–14–04, Amendment 39–18585 (81 FR 44499, July 8, 2016) (AD 2016–14–04), for certain The Boeing Company Model 787–8 airplanes. AD 2016–14–04 was prompted by reports of water leakage from the potable water system due to improperly installed waterline couplings, and water leaking into the EE bays from above the floor in the main cabin, resulting in water on the equipment in the EE bays. AD 2016–14– 04 requires replacing the potable waterline couplings above the forward and aft EE bays with new, improved couplings. AD 2016–14–04 also requires sealing the main cabin floor areas above the aft EE bay, installing drip shields and foam blocks, and rerouting the wire bundles near the drip shields above the equipment in the aft EE bay. The agency issued AD 2016–14–04 to prevent a water leak from an improperly installed potable water system coupling, or main cabin water source, which could cause the equipment in the EE bays to become wet, resulting in an electrical short and potential loss of system functions essential for safe flight. Actions Since AD 2016–14–04 Was Issued Since the FAA issued AD 2016–14– 04, it was determined that sealant, moisture barrier tape and tape dam requirements above the EE bays may not have been installed on production airplanes. Missing moisture barrier tape, tape dams, and sealant at the end of exposed seat tracks above the forward and aft EE bays could allow water to leak onto equipment located in the EE bay(s) which could result in an electrical short and potential loss of several functions essential for safe flight. 104901 Material Incorporated by Reference Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 787–81205– SB530085–00 RB, Issue 001, dated March 6, 2024. This material specifies procedures for a detailed inspection of seat tracks located above the aft EE bays for missing, damaged, or deteriorated sealant, moisture barrier tape, or tape dams, as applicable, and applicable oncondition actions. On-condition actions include applying sealant, moisture barrier tape, and tape dams to each affected area. The FAA also reviewed the following material: • Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB380009–00, Issue 003, dated April 28, 2017, which describes procedures for replacing the existing potable waterline couplings located above the forward and aft EE bays with new, improved couplings, doing a potable water system leak test and repairing any leaks found. • Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB530029–00, Issue 003, dated May 6, 2019, which describes procedures for applying sealant to the main cabin floor areas located above the aft EE bay. • Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB530031–00, Issue 003, dated April 24, 2017, which describes procedures for installing drip shields and foam blocks, and rerouting the wire bundles near the drip shields above the equipment in the aft EE bay. This proposed AD would also require the following material, which the Director of the Federal Register approved for incorporation by reference as of August 12, 2016 (81 FR 44499, July 8, 2016): • Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB380009–00, Issue 002, dated December 9, 2015. • Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB530029–00, Issue 002, dated January 26, 2016. • Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB530031–00, Issue 002, dated March 16, 2016. 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. FAA’s Determination Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM The FAA is issuing this NPRM after determining that the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. This proposed AD would retain all requirements of AD 2016–14–04. This proposed AD would add certain Model 787–8, 787–9, and 787–10 airplanes to the applicability. This proposed AD would also require accomplishing the PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\26DEP1.SGM 26DEP1 104902 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 247 / Thursday, December 26, 2024 / Proposed Rules actions specified in the material already described, except for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this proposed AD. For information on the procedures and compliance times, see this material at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2024–2665. Clarification of Affected Airplanes Paragraphs (g), (h)(1), and (h)(2) of AD 2016–14–04 specify doing actions in accordance with certain service information. However, the paragraphs apply to all airplanes identified in the applicability and did not limit the paragraphs to airplanes identified in the service information identified in each paragraph. Therefore, in paragraphs (g), (h)(1), and (h)(2) of this AD, the FAA has clarified the affected airplanes for each paragraph. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would affect 64 airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Retained actions from AD 2016–14–04. Inspection of floor seat track (new proposed action). Parts cost Up to 174 work-hours × $85 per hour = up to $14,790 per inspection cycle. 22 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,870. The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary on-condition actions that would be required based on Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators $37,926 Up to $52,716 ........................ Up to $3,373,824. 0 $1,870 .................................... $119,680. the results of the proposed inspection. The agency has no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need this repair: ON-CONDITION COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Applying sealant, moisture barrier tape, or tape dam .. 33 work-hours × $85 per hour = $2,805 ...................... $350 $3,155 The FAA has included all known costs in its cost estimate. According to the manufacturer, however, some or all of the costs of this proposed AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected operators. ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 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. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:56 Dec 23, 2024 Jkt 265001 Regulatory Findings The FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed regulation: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (3) Would not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by: a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016–14–04, Amendment 39– 18585 (81 FR 44499, July 8, 2016), and ■ b. Adding the following new AD: ■ ■ The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA– 2024–2665; Project Identifier AD–2024– 00203–T. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) by February 10, 2025. (b) Affected ADs This AD replaces AD 2016–14–04, Amendment 39–18585 (81 FR 44499, July 8, 2016) (AD 2016–14–04). (c) Applicability This AD applies to the airplanes identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (2) of this AD, certificated in any category. (1) The Boeing Company Model 787–8, 787–9, and 787–10 airplanes as identified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 787– 81205–SB530085–00 RB, Issue 001, dated March 6, 2024. (2) The Boeing Company Model 787–8 airplanes, as identified in the service E:\FR\FM\26DEP1.SGM 26DEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 247 / Thursday, December 26, 2024 / Proposed Rules information specified in paragraphs (c)(2)(i) through (iii) of this AD. (i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB380009–00, Issue 002, dated December 9, 2015. (ii) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB530029–00, Issue 002, dated January 26, 2016. (iii) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB530031–00, Issue 002, dated March 16, 2016. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 38, water waste; 53, Fuselage. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of water leakage from the potable water system due to improperly installed waterline couplings, and water leaking into the electronics equipment (EE) bays from above the floor in the main cabin, resulting in water on the equipment in the EE bays. In addition, after AD 2016–14–04 was issued, it was determined that sealant, moisture barrier tape and tape dam requirements above the EE bays may not have been installed on production airplanes. A water leak from an improperly installed potable water system coupling, or main cabin water source, if not addressed, could cause the equipment in the EE bays to become wet, resulting in an electrical short and potential loss of system functions essential for safe flight. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 (g) Retained Replacement of Potable Waterline Couplings, With Revised Service Information This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 2016–14–04, with revised service information. For airplanes identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205–SB380009–00, Issue 002, dated December 9, 2015: Within 24 months after August 12, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2016–14–04), replace the existing potable waterline couplings located above the forward and aft EE bays with new, improved couplings, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205–SB380009–00, Issue 002, dated December 9, 2015; or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205– SB380009–00, Issue 003, dated April 28, 2017. Before further flight after doing the replacement, do a potable water system leak test and repair any leaks found before further flight, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205–SB380009–00, Issue 002, dated December 9, 2015; or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205– SB380009–00, Issue 003, dated April 28, 2017. As of the effective date of this AD, only use Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB380009–00, Issue 003, dated April 28, 2017, for the actions required by this paragraph. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:56 Dec 23, 2024 Jkt 265001 (h) Retained Seal Floor Panels and Seat Tracks/Install Drip Shields and Reroute Wiring, With Revised Service Information This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD 2016–14–04, with revised service information. Within 60 months after August 12, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2016–14–04), do the actions specified in paragraphs (h)(1) and (2) of this AD, as applicable. (1) For airplanes identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205–SB530029–00, Issue 002, dated January 26, 2016: Apply sealant to the main cabin floor areas located above the aft EE bay, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205–SB530029–00, Issue 002, dated January 26, 2016; or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205– SB530029–00, Issue 003, dated May 6, 2019. As of the effective date of this AD, only use Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205– SB530029–00, Issue 003, dated May 6, 2019, for the actions required by this paragraph. (2) For airplanes identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205–SB530031–00, Issue 002, dated March 16, 2016: Install drip shields and foam blocks, and reroute the wire bundles above the equipment in the aft EE bay, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205–SB530031–00, Issue 002, dated March 16, 2016; or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205–SB530031–00, Issue 003, dated April 24, 2017, except as specified in paragraph (i) of this AD. As of the effective date of this AD, only use Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205–SB530031–00, Issue 003, dated April 24, 2017, for the actions required by this paragraph. (i) Retained Exception to Certain Service Information, With No Changes This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (i) of AD 2016–14–04, with no changes. Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205–SB530031–00, Issue 002, dated March 16, 2016, specifies ‘‘Group 6, Configuration 1’’ airplanes in reference to Task 29, the correct airplane group identification is ‘‘Group 7, Configuration 1’’ airplanes. (j) New Required Actions For airplanes identified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205– SB530085–00 RB, Issue 001, dated March 6, 2024: Except as specified by paragraph (k) of this AD, at the applicable times specified in the ‘‘Compliance’’ paragraph of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205– SB530085–00 RB, Issue 001, dated March 6, 2024, do all applicable actions identified in, and in accordance with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205–SB530085–00 RB, Issue 001, dated March 6, 2024. Note 1 to paragraph (j): Guidance for accomplishing the actions required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205–SB530085–00, Issue 001, dated March 6, 2024, which is referred to in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205–SB530085–00 RB, Issue 001, dated March 6, 2024. PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 104903 (k) Exceptions to Requirements Bulletin Specifications Where the Boeing Recommended Compliance Time columns of the tables in the ‘‘Compliance’’ paragraph of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205– SB530085–00 RB, Issue 001, dated March 6, 2024, refer to the Issue 001 date of the Requirements Bulletin B787–81205– SB530085–00 RB, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD. (l) Credit for Previous Actions This paragraph provides credit for the corresponding actions specified in paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD, if those actions were performed before August 12, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2016–14–04) using the applicable service information specified in paragraphs (l)(1) through (3) of this AD. (1) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB380009–00, Issue 001, dated March 26, 2015. (2) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB530029–00, Issue 001, dated March 26, 2015. (3) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB530031–00, Issue 001, dated March 26, 2015. (m) 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 (n)(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 (ODA) 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. (4) AMOCs approved for AD 2016–14–04 are approved as AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD. (5) For material that contains steps that are labeled as Required for Compliance (RC), the provisions of paragraphs (m)(5)(i) and (ii) of this AD apply. (i) The steps labeled as RC, including substeps under an RC step and any figures identified in an RC step, must be done to comply with the AD. If a step or substep is labeled ‘‘RC Exempt,’’ then the RC E:\FR\FM\26DEP1.SGM 26DEP1 ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 104904 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 247 / Thursday, December 26, 2024 / Proposed Rules requirement is removed from that step or substep. An AMOC is required for any deviations to RC steps, including substeps and identified figures. (ii) Steps not labeled 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 RC steps, including substeps and identified figures, can still be done as specified, and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. Issued on December 16, 2024. Suzanne Masterson, Deputy Director, Integrated Certificate Management Division, Aircraft Certification Service. (n) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Courtney Tuck, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone: 206–231–3986; email: courtney.k.tuck@faa.gov. (2) Material identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference is available at the address specified in paragraph (o)(5) of this AD. Federal Aviation Administration (o) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference 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. (3) The following material was approved for IBR on [DATE 35 DAYS AFTER PUBLICATION OF THE FINAL RULE]. (i) Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205–SB530085–00 RB, Issue 001, dated March 6, 2024. (ii) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB380009–00, Issue 003, dated April 28, 2017. (iii) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB530029–00, Issue 003, dated May 6, 2019. (iv) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB530031–00, Issue 003, dated April 24, 2017. (4) The following material was approved for IBR on August 12, 2016 (81 FR 44499, July 8, 2016). (i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB380009–00, Issue 002, dated December 9, 2015. (ii) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB530029–00, Issue 002, dated January 26, 2016. (iii) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– 81205–SB530031–00, Issue 002, dated March 16, 2016. (5) 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. (6) 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. (7) 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. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:56 Dec 23, 2024 Jkt 265001 [FR Doc. 2024–30669 Filed 12–23–24; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 14 CFR Part 141 [Docket No.: FAA–2024–2531] Notice of Public Meeting, and Request for Comment on the Modernization of Pilot Schools. Federal Aviation Administration, DOT. ACTION: Notice of public meeting for proposed rulemaking; request for comment. AGENCY: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announces a public meeting to solicit input on the modernization of pilot school regulations. This will be the first in a series of public meetings on this topic. DATES: The FAA will hold the first public meeting (virtual only) on Thursday, March 6, 2025, from 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., Eastern Time. Written comments are requested no later than March 21, 2025. ADDRESSES: Members of the public must register to attend the virtual public meeting. See website for registration link: https://www.faa.gov/about/office_ org/headquarters_offices/avs/offices/ afx/afs/afs800/afs810/modernization_ of_part-141_initiative. Send comments identified by docket number FAA–2024–2531 using any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to www.regulations.gov and follow the online instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Mail: Send comments to Docket Operations, M–30; U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Room W12–140, West Building Ground Floor, Washington, DC 20590–0001. • Hand Delivery or Courier: Take comments to Docket Operations in Room W12–140 of the West Building Ground Floor at 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. • Fax: Fax comments to Docket Operations at 202–493–2251. Privacy: DOT solicits comments from the public to better inform its process. SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 DOT posts these comments, without edit, including any personal information the commenter provides, to www.regulations.gov, as described in the system of records notice (DOT/ALL– 14 FDMS), which can be reviewed at https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/ FR-2008-01-17/pdf/E8-785.pdf. Docket: Comments received may be read at www.regulations.gov at any time. Follow the online instructions for accessing the docket or go to the Docket Operations in Room W12–140 of the West Building Ground Floor at 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For questions concerning this action, contact Lyndsay Carlson with the Part 141 Modernization Initiative Team, Office of Safety Standards, General Aviation and Commercial Division, Training and Certification Group (AFS– 810): email 9-AFS-ModernizationPart141-Comments@faa.gov. Phone: 202–267–1100. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 141 prescribes the requirements for issuing pilot school air agency certificates, provisional pilot school air agency certificates, associated ratings, and the general operating rules applicable to a holder of a part 141 pilot school or provisional pilot school air agency certificate. Through a part 141 pilot school or provisional pilot school, a student may obtain equivalent levels of aeronautical experience in fewer hours than required by 14 CFR part 61. Part 141 schools are required to have FAA certification, and FAA oversight. Specifically, part 141 includes curricula standards for training and procedures to ensure a training course used by a school is adequate, appropriate, and is administered by qualified personnel including an experienced chief instructor who supervises instructors. The process of licensing or certification of pilot schools in the United States is approaching 100 years of existence. Although the FAA has revised certain regulatory requirements pertaining to pilot schools during this time, part 141 still has many foundational ties to Civil Air Regulations (CAR) part 50, which was implemented in the 1940s. Regulations for pilot schools are typically promulgated to improve safety, reduce aircraft accidents, and embrace changes such as advances in technology and the need for data collection and analysis. Modernizing part 141 would address challenges pertaining to certification, certification management, examining E:\FR\FM\26DEP1.SGM 26DEP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 89, Number 247 (Thursday, December 26, 2024)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 104900-104904]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2024-30669]


=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2024-2665; Project Identifier AD-2024-00203-T]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2016-14-04, which applies to certain The Boeing Company Model 787-8 
airplanes. AD 2016-14-04 requires replacing the potable waterline 
couplings above the forward and aft electronics equipment (EE) bays 
with new, improved couplings. AD 2016-14-04 also requires sealing the 
main cabin floor areas above the aft EE bay, installing drip shields 
and foam blocks, and rerouting the wire bundles near the drip shields 
above the equipment in the aft EE bay. Since the FAA issued AD 2016-14-
04, it was determined that sealant, moisture barrier tape and tape dam 
requirements above the EE bays may not have been installed on 
production airplanes. This proposed AD continues to require the actions 
in AD 2016-14-04 and would require an inspection of seat tracks above 
the EE bays for missing, damaged, or deteriorated sealant, moisture 
barrier tape, or tape dams, as applicable, and applicable on-condition 
actions. This proposed AD also adds airplanes to the applicability. The 
FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these 
products.

DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by February 
10, 2025.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to regulations.gov. Follow 
the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under 
Docket No. FAA-2024-2665; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD 
docket contains this NPRM, any comments received, and other 
information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above.
    Material Incorporated by Reference:
     For the material identified in this proposed AD, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services 
(C&DS),

[[Page 104901]]

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-2024-2665.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Courtney Tuck, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone: 206-
231-3986; email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed 
under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2024-2665; 
Project Identifier AD-2024-00203-T'' at the beginning of your comments. 
The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, 
explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting 
data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date 
and may amend this proposal because of those comments.
    Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in 
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 
11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to 
regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The 
agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal 
contact received about this NPRM.

Confidential Business Information

    CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily 
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of 
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public 
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial 
or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that 
you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to 
this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted 
comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing 
CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked submissions as 
confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public 
docket of this NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to 
Courtney Tuck, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des 
Moines, WA 98198; phone: 206-231-3986; email: [email protected]. 
Any commentary that the FAA receives that is not specifically 
designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this 
rulemaking.

Background

    The FAA issued AD 2016-14-04, Amendment 39-18585 (81 FR 44499, July 
8, 2016) (AD 2016-14-04), for certain The Boeing Company Model 787-8 
airplanes. AD 2016-14-04 was prompted by reports of water leakage from 
the potable water system due to improperly installed waterline 
couplings, and water leaking into the EE bays from above the floor in 
the main cabin, resulting in water on the equipment in the EE bays. AD 
2016-14-04 requires replacing the potable waterline couplings above the 
forward and aft EE bays with new, improved couplings. AD 2016-14-04 
also requires sealing the main cabin floor areas above the aft EE bay, 
installing drip shields and foam blocks, and rerouting the wire bundles 
near the drip shields above the equipment in the aft EE bay. The agency 
issued AD 2016-14-04 to prevent a water leak from an improperly 
installed potable water system coupling, or main cabin water source, 
which could cause the equipment in the EE bays to become wet, resulting 
in an electrical short and potential loss of system functions essential 
for safe flight.

Actions Since AD 2016-14-04 Was Issued

    Since the FAA issued AD 2016-14-04, it was determined that sealant, 
moisture barrier tape and tape dam requirements above the EE bays may 
not have been installed on production airplanes. Missing moisture 
barrier tape, tape dams, and sealant at the end of exposed seat tracks 
above the forward and aft EE bays could allow water to leak onto 
equipment located in the EE bay(s) which could result in an electrical 
short and potential loss of several functions essential for safe 
flight.

FAA's Determination

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

Material Incorporated by Reference Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 787-81205-
SB530085-00 RB, Issue 001, dated March 6, 2024. This material specifies 
procedures for a detailed inspection of seat tracks located above the 
aft EE bays for missing, damaged, or deteriorated sealant, moisture 
barrier tape, or tape dams, as applicable, and applicable on-condition 
actions. On-condition actions include applying sealant, moisture 
barrier tape, and tape dams to each affected area.
    The FAA also reviewed the following material:
     Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB380009-00, 
Issue 003, dated April 28, 2017, which describes procedures for 
replacing the existing potable waterline couplings located above the 
forward and aft EE bays with new, improved couplings, doing a potable 
water system leak test and repairing any leaks found.
     Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB530029-00, 
Issue 003, dated May 6, 2019, which describes procedures for applying 
sealant to the main cabin floor areas located above the aft EE bay.
     Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB530031-00, 
Issue 003, dated April 24, 2017, which describes procedures for 
installing drip shields and foam blocks, and rerouting the wire bundles 
near the drip shields above the equipment in the aft EE bay.
    This proposed AD would also require the following material, which 
the Director of the Federal Register approved for incorporation by 
reference as of August 12, 2016 (81 FR 44499, July 8, 2016):
     Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB380009-00, 
Issue 002, dated December 9, 2015.
     Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB530029-00, 
Issue 002, dated January 26, 2016.
     Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB530031-00, 
Issue 002, dated March 16, 2016.
    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.

Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM

    This proposed AD would retain all requirements of AD 2016-14-04. 
This proposed AD would add certain Model 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 
airplanes to the applicability. This proposed AD would also require 
accomplishing the

[[Page 104902]]

actions specified in the material already described, except for any 
differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this 
proposed AD.
    For information on the procedures and compliance times, see this 
material at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2024-2665.

Clarification of Affected Airplanes

    Paragraphs (g), (h)(1), and (h)(2) of AD 2016-14-04 specify doing 
actions in accordance with certain service information. However, the 
paragraphs apply to all airplanes identified in the applicability and 
did not limit the paragraphs to airplanes identified in the service 
information identified in each paragraph. Therefore, in paragraphs (g), 
(h)(1), and (h)(2) of this AD, the FAA has clarified the affected 
airplanes for each paragraph.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would 
affect 64 airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following 
costs to comply with this proposed AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                 Cost on U.S.
              Action                    Labor cost        Parts cost      Cost per product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retained actions from AD 2016-14-  Up to 174 work-             $37,926  Up to $52,716......  Up to $3,373,824.
 04.                                hours x $85 per
                                    hour = up to
                                    $14,790 per
                                    inspection cycle.
Inspection of floor seat track     22 work-hours x $85               0  $1,870.............  $119,680.
 (new proposed action).             per hour = $1,870.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Cost per
                    Action                                Labor cost               Parts cost        product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Applying sealant, moisture barrier tape, or    33 work-hours x $85 per hour =             $350           $3,155
 tape dam.                                      $2,805.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The FAA has included all known costs in its cost estimate. 
According to the manufacturer, however, some or all of the costs of 
this proposed 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

    The FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed 
regulation:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (3) Would not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by:
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016-14-04, Amendment 39-18585 
(81 FR 44499, July 8, 2016), and
0
b. Adding the following new AD:

The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA-2024-2665; Project Identifier AD-
2024-00203-T.

 (a) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive 
(AD) by February 10, 2025.

 (b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2016-14-04, Amendment 39-18585 (81 FR 44499, 
July 8, 2016) (AD 2016-14-04).

 (c) Applicability

    This AD applies to the airplanes identified in paragraphs (c)(1) 
and (2) of this AD, certificated in any category.
    (1) The Boeing Company Model 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes 
as identified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 787-81205-
SB530085-00 RB, Issue 001, dated March 6, 2024.
    (2) The Boeing Company Model 787-8 airplanes, as identified in 
the service

[[Page 104903]]

information specified in paragraphs (c)(2)(i) through (iii) of this 
AD.
    (i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB380009-00, Issue 
002, dated December 9, 2015.
    (ii) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB530029-00, Issue 
002, dated January 26, 2016.
    (iii) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB530031-00, 
Issue 002, dated March 16, 2016.

 (d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 38, water waste; 
53, Fuselage.

 (e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports of water leakage from the 
potable water system due to improperly installed waterline 
couplings, and water leaking into the electronics equipment (EE) 
bays from above the floor in the main cabin, resulting in water on 
the equipment in the EE bays. In addition, after AD 2016-14-04 was 
issued, it was determined that sealant, moisture barrier tape and 
tape dam requirements above the EE bays may not have been installed 
on production airplanes. A water leak from an improperly installed 
potable water system coupling, or main cabin water source, if not 
addressed, could cause the equipment in the EE bays to become wet, 
resulting in an electrical short and potential loss of system 
functions essential for safe flight.

 (f) Compliance

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

 (g) Retained Replacement of Potable Waterline Couplings, With Revised 
Service Information

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 
2016-14-04, with revised service information. For airplanes 
identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB380009-00, 
Issue 002, dated December 9, 2015: Within 24 months after August 12, 
2016 (the effective date of AD 2016-14-04), replace the existing 
potable waterline couplings located above the forward and aft EE 
bays with new, improved couplings, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-
81205-SB380009-00, Issue 002, dated December 9, 2015; or Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB380009-00, Issue 003, dated 
April 28, 2017. Before further flight after doing the replacement, 
do a potable water system leak test and repair any leaks found 
before further flight, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB380009-
00, Issue 002, dated December 9, 2015; or Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin B787-81205-SB380009-00, Issue 003, dated April 28, 2017. As 
of the effective date of this AD, only use Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin B787-81205-SB380009-00, Issue 003, dated April 28, 2017, 
for the actions required by this paragraph.

 (h) Retained Seal Floor Panels and Seat Tracks/Install Drip Shields 
and Reroute Wiring, With Revised Service Information

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD 
2016-14-04, with revised service information. Within 60 months after 
August 12, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2016-14-04), do the 
actions specified in paragraphs (h)(1) and (2) of this AD, as 
applicable.
    (1) For airplanes identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
B787-81205-SB530029-00, Issue 002, dated January 26, 2016: Apply 
sealant to the main cabin floor areas located above the aft EE bay, 
in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert 
Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB530029-00, Issue 002, dated January 
26, 2016; or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB530029-00, 
Issue 003, dated May 6, 2019. As of the effective date of this AD, 
only use Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB530029-00, Issue 
003, dated May 6, 2019, for the actions required by this paragraph.
    (2) For airplanes identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
B787-81205-SB530031-00, Issue 002, dated March 16, 2016: Install 
drip shields and foam blocks, and reroute the wire bundles above the 
equipment in the aft EE bay, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB530031-
00, Issue 002, dated March 16, 2016; or Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin B787-81205-SB530031-00, Issue 003, dated April 24, 2017, 
except as specified in paragraph (i) of this AD. As of the effective 
date of this AD, only use Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-
SB530031-00, Issue 003, dated April 24, 2017, for the actions 
required by this paragraph.

 (i) Retained Exception to Certain Service Information, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (i) of AD 
2016-14-04, with no changes. Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
B787-81205-SB530031-00, Issue 002, dated March 16, 2016, specifies 
``Group 6, Configuration 1'' airplanes in reference to Task 29, the 
correct airplane group identification is ``Group 7, Configuration 
1'' airplanes.

 (j) New Required Actions

    For airplanes identified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 
B787-81205-SB530085-00 RB, Issue 001, dated March 6, 2024: Except as 
specified by paragraph (k) of this AD, at the applicable times 
specified in the ``Compliance'' paragraph of Boeing Alert 
Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB530085-00 RB, Issue 001, dated 
March 6, 2024, do all applicable actions identified in, and in 
accordance with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert 
Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB530085-00 RB, Issue 001, dated 
March 6, 2024.
    Note 1 to paragraph (j): Guidance for accomplishing the actions 
required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
B787-81205-SB530085-00, Issue 001, dated March 6, 2024, which is 
referred to in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-
SB530085-00 RB, Issue 001, dated March 6, 2024.

 (k) Exceptions to Requirements Bulletin Specifications

    Where the Boeing Recommended Compliance Time columns of the 
tables in the ``Compliance'' paragraph of Boeing Alert Requirements 
Bulletin B787-81205-SB530085-00 RB, Issue 001, dated March 6, 2024, 
refer to the Issue 001 date of the Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-
SB530085-00 RB, this AD requires using the effective date of this 
AD.

 (l) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for the corresponding actions 
specified in paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD, if those actions 
were performed before August 12, 2016 (the effective date of AD 
2016-14-04) using the applicable service information specified in 
paragraphs (l)(1) through (3) of this AD.
    (1) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB380009-00, Issue 
001, dated March 26, 2015.
    (2) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB530029-00, Issue 
001, dated March 26, 2015.
    (3) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB530031-00, Issue 
001, dated March 26, 2015.

 (m) 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 
(n)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the responsible Flight Standards Office.
    (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be 
used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD 
if it is approved by The Boeing Company Organization Designation 
Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, 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.
    (4) AMOCs approved for AD 2016-14-04 are approved as AMOCs for 
the corresponding provisions of paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD.
    (5) For material that contains steps that are labeled as 
Required for Compliance (RC), the provisions of paragraphs (m)(5)(i) 
and (ii) of this AD apply.
    (i) The steps labeled as RC, including substeps under an RC step 
and any figures identified in an RC step, must be done to comply 
with the AD. If a step or substep is labeled ``RC Exempt,'' then the 
RC

[[Page 104904]]

requirement is removed from that step or substep. An AMOC is 
required for any deviations to RC steps, including substeps and 
identified figures.
    (ii) Steps not labeled 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 RC 
steps, including substeps and identified figures, can still be done 
as specified, and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy 
condition.

 (n) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Courtney Tuck, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 
98198; phone: 206-231-3986; email: [email protected].
    (2) Material identified in this AD that is not incorporated by 
reference is available at the address specified in paragraph (o)(5) 
of this AD.

 (o) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference 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.
    (3) The following material was approved for IBR on [DATE 35 DAYS 
AFTER PUBLICATION OF THE FINAL RULE].
    (i) Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB530085-00 
RB, Issue 001, dated March 6, 2024.
    (ii) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB380009-00, Issue 
003, dated April 28, 2017.
    (iii) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB530029-00, 
Issue 003, dated May 6, 2019.
    (iv) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB530031-00, Issue 
003, dated April 24, 2017.
    (4) The following material was approved for IBR on August 12, 
2016 (81 FR 44499, July 8, 2016).
    (i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB380009-00, Issue 
002, dated December 9, 2015.
    (ii) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB530029-00, Issue 
002, dated January 26, 2016.
    (iii) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787-81205-SB530031-00, 
Issue 002, dated March 16, 2016.
    (5) 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.
    (6) 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.
    (7) 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 [email protected].

    Issued on December 16, 2024.
Suzanne Masterson,
Deputy Director, Integrated Certificate Management Division, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2024-30669 Filed 12-23-24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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