Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Canada Limited Partnership (Type Certificate Previously Held by C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership (CSALP); Bombardier, Inc.) Airplanes, 12498-12501 [2025-03941]

Download as PDF 12498 Proposed Rules Federal Register Vol. 90, No. 51 Tuesday, March 18, 2025 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. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2025–0344; Project Identifier MCAI–2024–00638–T] 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: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2022–25–51, which applies to all Airbus Canada Limited Partnership Model BD– 500–1A10 and Model BD–500–1A11 airplanes. AD 2022–25–51 requires revising the Limitations section of the existing airplane flight manual (AFM) to include a new warning and a new limitation. Since the FAA issued AD 2022–25–51, updated primary flight control computer (PFCC) software has been developed to address the unsafe condition. This proposed AD would continue to require the actions in AD 2022–25–51, require installing the updated PFCC software, which terminates the AFM revision, and remove airplanes from the applicability, as specified in a Transport Canada AD, which is proposed for incorporation by reference (IBR). 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 May 2, 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. khammond on DSK9W7S144PROD with PROPOSALS SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:54 Mar 17, 2025 Jkt 265001 • 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–2025–0344; 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, the mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. Material Incorporated by Reference: • For Transport Canada material identified in this proposed AD, contact Transport Canada, Transport Canada National Aircraft Certification, 159 Cleopatra Drive, Nepean, Ontario K1A 0N5, Canada; telephone 888–663–3639; email TC.AirworthinessDirectivesConsignesdenavigabilite.TC@tc.gc.ca; website at tc.canada.ca/en/aviation. It is also available at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2025–0344. • 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. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Rochelle Montgomery, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 405–798–2043; email rochelle.montgomery@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–2025–0344; Project Identifier MCAI–2024–00638–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. PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 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 Rochelle Montgomery, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 405–798–2043; email rochelle.montgomery@faa.gov. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking. Background The FAA issued AD 2022–25–51, Amendment 39–22282 (87 FR 75911, December 12, 2022) (AD 2022–25–51), for all Airbus Canada Limited Partnership Model BD–500–1A10 and Model BD–500–1A11 airplanes. AD 2022–25–51 was prompted by an MCAI originated by Transport Canada, which is the aviation authority for Canada. Transport Canada issued Transport Canada Emergency AD CF–2022–64, dated November 17, 2022 (Transport Canada Emergency AD CF–2022–64), to correct an unsafe condition. AD 2022–25–51 requires revising the Limitations section of the existing AFM by revising the title of the existing autopilot AFM limitation, including a new warning prior to the existing E:\FR\FM\18MRP1.SGM 18MRP1 Federal Register / Vol. 90, No. 51 / Tuesday, March 18, 2025 / Proposed Rules autopilot engagement limitations, and a new limitation prohibiting selecting or reselecting autothrottle during takeoff after thrust levers are advanced to the takeoff setting after the existing autopilot engagement limitations. The FAA issued AD 2022–25–51 to address inadvertent engagement of the autopilot below 400 feet above ground level (AGL) when the flightcrew attempts to engage autothrottle. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in premature rotation due to inadvertent autopilot engagement, possibly leading to tail-strike, inability to climb, and loss of control of the airplane. khammond on DSK9W7S144PROD with PROPOSALS Actions Since AD 2022–25–51 Was Issued The preamble to AD 2022–25–51 explained that the FAA considered the requirements ‘‘interim action’’ and was considering further rulemaking. The FAA has now determined that further rulemaking is indeed necessary, and this proposed AD follows from that determination. Since the FAA issued AD 2022–25– 51, Transport Canada superseded Transport Canada Emergency AD CF– 2022–64, dated November 17, 2022, and issued Transport Canada AD CF–2024– 36, dated October 22, 2024 (Transport Canada AD CF–2024–36) (also referred to as the MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus Canada Limited Partnership Model BD–500– 1A10 and Model BD–500–1A11 airplanes. The MCAI states that there have been multiple in-service reports associated with PFCC software deficiencies leading to nuisance messages on the engine-indicating and crew-alerting system (EICAS) such as rudder fail, aileron fail, and spoiler fail, and flight control fault due to erroneous transmissions from the remote electronic unit (REU). Investigations also indicated design deficiencies in the PFCC software such as an incorrectly implemented built-in test, which is unable to detect a failed REU internal hold-up capacitor, or non-implemented self-tests and monitoring mechanisms to prevent erroneous computations to be transmitted to consumers. Other inservice events indicated a lack of software robustness, which may not prevent an un-annunciated deployment of ground spoilers or an inadvertent autopilot engagement during the take-off roll. These deficiencies and lack of PFCC software robustness, if not corrected, could lead to increased flightcrew workload as well as a large reduction of safety margins. Additionally, during specific flight phases or in combination with other VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:54 Mar 17, 2025 Jkt 265001 failures, these conditions could lead to loss of control of the airplane. The updated software installation required by this proposed AD addresses the unsafe condition identified in AD 2022–25–51 and terminates the AFM revision required by that AD. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2025–0344. Material Incorporated by Reference Under 1 CFR Part 51 Transport Canada AD CF–2024–36 specifies procedures for revising the Limitations section of the existing AFM to include a new warning, installation of updated PFCC software part number 810–0337–009 on three the PFCCs, which terminates the AFM revision, and applicable concurrent software updates. 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 This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA’s bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, it has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI referenced above. The FAA is issuing this NPRM after determining that the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design. Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM This proposed AD would retain all requirements of AD 2022–25–51. This proposed AD would remove airplanes from the applicability because the software installation, which terminates the AFM revision, was done in production on Model BD–500–1A10 airplanes having serial numbers (S/Ns) 50079 and subsequent and on Model BD–500–1A11 airplanes having S/Ns 55298 and subsequent; therefore, the unsafe condition has been addressed on those airplanes. This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions specified in Transport Canada AD CF–2024–36 described previously, except for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this proposed AD and except as discussed under ‘‘Differences Between This NPRM and the MCAI.’’ The installation of updated PFCC software would terminate PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 12499 the AFM revision required by paragraph (g) of this proposed AD. Explanation of Required Compliance Information In the FAA’s ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of the AD process, the FAA developed a process to use some civil aviation authority (CAA) ADs as the primary source of information for compliance with requirements for corresponding FAA ADs. The FAA has been coordinating this process with manufacturers and CAAs. As a result, the FAA proposes to incorporate Transport Canada AD CF– 2024–36 by reference in the FAA final rule. This proposed AD would, therefore, require compliance with Part II of Transport Canada AD CF–2024–36 through that incorporation, except for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this proposed AD. Material required by Transport Canada AD CF–2024–36 for compliance will be available at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2025–0344 after the FAA final rule is published. Differences Between This NPRM and the MCAI Transport Canada AD CF–2024–36 refers to the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Canada Limited Partnership (ACLP) Service Bulletin BD500–270022, Issue 001, dated July 25, 2024, for accomplishing the software installation. The ‘‘Concurrent Requirements’’ paragraph of ACLP Service Bulletin BD500–270022, Issue 001, dated July 25, 2024, refers to ‘‘ACLP Service Bulletin BD500–270020’’ as an additional requirement for certain airplanes; however, ‘‘ACLP Service Bulletin BD500–270020’’ is not included in the Accomplishment Instructions of ACLP Service Bulletin BD500–270022, Issue 001, dated July 25, 2024. The FAA has determined the concurrent service bulletin must be done to address the unsafe condition. The FAA has issued AD 2023–12–09, Amendment 39–22467 (88 FR 42606, July 3, 2023) (AD 2023–12–09), which mandates Transport Canada AD CF– 2022–65, dated November 23, 2022, and refers to ACLP Service Bulletin BD500– 270020, Issue 001, dated September 28, 2022 (or later revisions), for software installation. The FAA has added paragraph (i)(3) of the proposed AD to mandate the concurrent requirement and clarify applicable compliance times. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would affect 133 E:\FR\FM\18MRP1.SGM 18MRP1 12500 Federal Register / Vol. 90, No. 51 / Tuesday, March 18, 2025 / Proposed Rules airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED ACTIONS Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators Retained actions from AD 2022-25-51 .......... New proposed actions ................................... 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ................. Up to 5 work-hours × $85 per hour = $425 ... $0 ................... Up to $10,000 $85 ................. Up to $10,425 $11,305. Up to $1,386,525. Authority for This Rulemaking List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 (d) Subject 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. Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 22, Autoflight. The Proposed Amendment This AD was prompted by multiple inservice reports associated with primary flight control computer (PFCC) software deficiencies leading to nuisance messages on the engine-indicating and crew-alerting system (EICAS) due to erroneous transmissions from the remote electronic unit (REU). Investigations also indicated design deficiencies in the PFCC software and a lack of software robustness, which may not prevent an un-annunciated deployment of ground spoilers or an inadvertent autopilot engagement during the take-off roll. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the PFCC software deficiencies leading to nuisance messages and the lack of PFCC software robustness. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could lead to increased flightcrew workload as well as a large reduction of safety margins. Additionally, during specific flight phases or in combination with other failures, these conditions could lead to loss of control of the airplane. khammond on DSK9W7S144PROD with PROPOSALS 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. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:54 Mar 17, 2025 Jkt 265001 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 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(f), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by: a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2022–25–51, Amendment 39– 22282 (87 FR 75911, December 12, 2022); and ■ b. Adding the following new AD: ■ ■ Airbus Canada Limited Partnership (Type Certificate Previously Held by C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership (CSALP); Bombardier, Inc.): Docket No. FAA– 2025–0344; Project Identifier MCAI– 2024–00638–T. (e) Unsafe Condition (f) Compliance (a) Comments Due Date Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) by May 2, 2025. (g) Retained Revision of Existing AFM, With No Changes (b) Affected ADs This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 2022–25–51, with no changes. Within 7 days after December 27, 2022 (the effective date of AD 2022–25–51), revise the Limitations section of the existing airplane flight manual (AFM) to include the information specified in figure 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD. This may be accomplished by inserting a copy of figure 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD into the existing AFM. Using an AFM revision that includes information identical to that in figure 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD is acceptable for compliance with the requirement of this paragraph. This AD replaces AD 2022–25–51, Amendment 39–22282 (87 FR 75911, December 12, 2022) (AD 2022–25–51). (c) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus Canada Limited Partnership (type certificate previously held by C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership (CSALP); Bombardier, Inc.) Model BD–500– 1A10 and Model BD–500–1A11 airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in Transport Canada AD CF–2024–36, dated October 22, 2024 (Transport Canada AD CF– 2024–36). PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\18MRP1.SGM 18MRP1 Federal Register / Vol. 90, No. 51 / Tuesday, March 18, 2025 / Proposed Rules khammond on DSK9W7S144PROD with PROPOSALS (i) Exceptions to Transport Canada AD CF– 2024–36 (1) This AD does not adopt the requirements of Part I of Transport Canada AD CF–2024–36. (2) Where Transport Canada AD CF–2024– 36 refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD. (3) For the airplanes identified in the ‘‘Concurrent requirements’’ paragraph of the material referenced in Transport Canada AD CF–2024–36: At the applicable time specified in paragraph (i)(3)(i) or (ii), accomplish the concurrent PFCC software update specified in the material referenced in Transport Canada AD CF–2024–36. (i) For airplanes identified in AD 2023–12– 09 Amendment 39–22467 (88 FR 42606, July 3, 2023) (AD 2023–12–09): Prior to or concurrently with the installation specified in paragraph A. of Part II of Transport Canada AD CF–2024–36 but no later than the compliance time specified in AD 2023–12– 09. (ii) For airplanes not identified in AD 2023–12–09: Prior to or concurrently with the installation specified in paragraph A. of Part II of Transport Canada AD CF–2024–36. (j) Additional AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): 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 Continued Operational VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:54 Mar 17, 2025 Jkt 265001 Safety Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (k) of this AD and email to: AMOC@faa.gov. (i) 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, AIR–520, Continued Operational Safety Branch, FAA; or Transport Canada; or Airbus Canada Limited Partnership’s Transport Canada Design Approval Organization (DAO). If approved by the DAO, the approval must include the DAO-authorized signature. (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 March 7, 2025. Victor Wicklund, Deputy Director, Integrated Certificate Management Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2025–03941 Filed 3–17–25; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration (k) Additional Information For more information about this AD, contact Rochelle Montgomery, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 405–798–2043; email rochelle.montgomery@ faa.gov. 14 CFR Part 39 (l) Material Incorporated by Reference Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes (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) Transport Canada AD CF–2024–36, dated October 22, 2024. (ii) [Reserved] (3) 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.AirworthinessDirectivesConsignesdenavigabilite.TC@tc.gc.ca; website tc.canada.ca/en/aviation. (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. PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 [Docket No. FAA–2025–0343; Project Identifier MCAI–2024–00562–T] RIN 2120–AA64 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2020–03–14, which applies to all Airbus SAS Model A350–941 and –1041 airplanes. AD 2020–03–14 requires an inspection of affected crew oxygen cylinder assemblies for any discrepancy and replacement of discrepant crew oxygen cylinder assemblies with serviceable parts, and allows installation of affected parts under certain conditions. Since the FAA issued AD 2020–03–14, the supplier introduced an improved oxygen cylinder assembly, that will ensure the correct function of the system. This SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\18MRP1.SGM 18MRP1 EP18MR25.000</GPH> (h) New Requirements of This AD Except as specified in paragraph (i) of this AD: Comply with all required actions and compliance times specified in, and in accordance with, Transport Canada AD CF– 2024–36. Accomplishing the software installation required by paragraph A. of Part II of Transport Canada AD CF–2024–36 terminates the AFM revision required by paragraph (g) of this AD. 12501

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 90, Number 51 (Tuesday, March 18, 2025)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 12498-12501]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2025-03941]


========================================================================
Proposed Rules
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

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.

========================================================================


Federal Register / Vol. 90, No. 51 / Tuesday, March 18, 2025 / 
Proposed Rules

[[Page 12498]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2025-0344; Project Identifier MCAI-2024-00638-T]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Canada Limited Partnership (Type 
Certificate Previously Held by C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership 
(CSALP); Bombardier, Inc.) Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2022-25-51, which applies to all Airbus Canada Limited Partnership 
Model BD-500-1A10 and Model BD-500-1A11 airplanes. AD 2022-25-51 
requires revising the Limitations section of the existing airplane 
flight manual (AFM) to include a new warning and a new limitation. 
Since the FAA issued AD 2022-25-51, updated primary flight control 
computer (PFCC) software has been developed to address the unsafe 
condition. This proposed AD would continue to require the actions in AD 
2022-25-51, require installing the updated PFCC software, which 
terminates the AFM revision, and remove airplanes from the 
applicability, as specified in a Transport Canada AD, which is proposed 
for incorporation by reference (IBR). 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 May 2, 
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-2025-0344; 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, the mandatory continuing airworthiness 
information (MCAI), any comments received, and other information. The 
street address for Docket Operations is listed above.
    Material Incorporated by Reference:
     For Transport Canada material identified in this proposed 
AD, contact Transport Canada, Transport Canada National Aircraft 
Certification, 159 Cleopatra Drive, Nepean, Ontario K1A 0N5, Canada; 
telephone 888-663-3639; email [email protected]; website at tc.canada.ca/en/
aviation. It is also available at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-
2025-0344.
     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.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Rochelle Montgomery, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; 
telephone 405-798-2043; 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-2025-0344; 
Project Identifier MCAI-2024-00638-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 
Rochelle Montgomery, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart 
Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 405-798-2043; email 
[email protected]. Any commentary that the FAA receives which 
is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public 
docket for this rulemaking.

Background

    The FAA issued AD 2022-25-51, Amendment 39-22282 (87 FR 75911, 
December 12, 2022) (AD 2022-25-51), for all Airbus Canada Limited 
Partnership Model BD-500-1A10 and Model BD-500-1A11 airplanes. AD 2022-
25-51 was prompted by an MCAI originated by Transport Canada, which is 
the aviation authority for Canada. Transport Canada issued Transport 
Canada Emergency AD CF-2022-64, dated November 17, 2022 (Transport 
Canada Emergency AD CF-2022-64), to correct an unsafe condition.
    AD 2022-25-51 requires revising the Limitations section of the 
existing AFM by revising the title of the existing autopilot AFM 
limitation, including a new warning prior to the existing

[[Page 12499]]

autopilot engagement limitations, and a new limitation prohibiting 
selecting or reselecting autothrottle during takeoff after thrust 
levers are advanced to the takeoff setting after the existing autopilot 
engagement limitations. The FAA issued AD 2022-25-51 to address 
inadvertent engagement of the autopilot below 400 feet above ground 
level (AGL) when the flightcrew attempts to engage autothrottle. The 
unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in premature rotation 
due to inadvertent autopilot engagement, possibly leading to tail-
strike, inability to climb, and loss of control of the airplane.

Actions Since AD 2022-25-51 Was Issued

    The preamble to AD 2022-25-51 explained that the FAA considered the 
requirements ``interim action'' and was considering further rulemaking. 
The FAA has now determined that further rulemaking is indeed necessary, 
and this proposed AD follows from that determination.
    Since the FAA issued AD 2022-25-51, Transport Canada superseded 
Transport Canada Emergency AD CF-2022-64, dated November 17, 2022, and 
issued Transport Canada AD CF-2024-36, dated October 22, 2024 
(Transport Canada AD CF-2024-36) (also referred to as the MCAI), to 
correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus Canada Limited 
Partnership Model BD-500-1A10 and Model BD-500-1A11 airplanes. The MCAI 
states that there have been multiple in-service reports associated with 
PFCC software deficiencies leading to nuisance messages on the engine-
indicating and crew-alerting system (EICAS) such as rudder fail, 
aileron fail, and spoiler fail, and flight control fault due to 
erroneous transmissions from the remote electronic unit (REU). 
Investigations also indicated design deficiencies in the PFCC software 
such as an incorrectly implemented built-in test, which is unable to 
detect a failed REU internal hold-up capacitor, or non-implemented 
self-tests and monitoring mechanisms to prevent erroneous computations 
to be transmitted to consumers. Other in-service events indicated a 
lack of software robustness, which may not prevent an un-annunciated 
deployment of ground spoilers or an inadvertent autopilot engagement 
during the take-off roll. These deficiencies and lack of PFCC software 
robustness, if not corrected, could lead to increased flightcrew 
workload as well as a large reduction of safety margins. Additionally, 
during specific flight phases or in combination with other failures, 
these conditions could lead to loss of control of the airplane.
    The updated software installation required by this proposed AD 
addresses the unsafe condition identified in AD 2022-25-51 and 
terminates the AFM revision required by that AD.
    The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on 
these products. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at 
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2025-0344.

Material Incorporated by Reference Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Transport Canada AD CF-2024-36 specifies procedures for revising 
the Limitations section of the existing AFM to include a new warning, 
installation of updated PFCC software part number 810-0337-009 on three 
the PFCCs, which terminates the AFM revision, and applicable concurrent 
software updates. 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

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to 
the FAA's bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, it 
has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI 
referenced above. The FAA is issuing this NPRM after determining that 
the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop 
in other products of the same type design.

Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM

    This proposed AD would retain all requirements of AD 2022-25-51. 
This proposed AD would remove airplanes from the applicability because 
the software installation, which terminates the AFM revision, was done 
in production on Model BD-500-1A10 airplanes having serial numbers (S/
Ns) 50079 and subsequent and on Model BD-500-1A11 airplanes having S/Ns 
55298 and subsequent; therefore, the unsafe condition has been 
addressed on those airplanes. This proposed AD would require 
accomplishing the actions specified in Transport Canada AD CF-2024-36 
described previously, except for any differences identified as 
exceptions in the regulatory text of this proposed AD and except as 
discussed under ``Differences Between This NPRM and the MCAI.'' The 
installation of updated PFCC software would terminate the AFM revision 
required by paragraph (g) of this proposed AD.

Explanation of Required Compliance Information

    In the FAA's ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of the AD 
process, the FAA developed a process to use some civil aviation 
authority (CAA) ADs as the primary source of information for compliance 
with requirements for corresponding FAA ADs. The FAA has been 
coordinating this process with manufacturers and CAAs. As a result, the 
FAA proposes to incorporate Transport Canada AD CF-2024-36 by reference 
in the FAA final rule. This proposed AD would, therefore, require 
compliance with Part II of Transport Canada AD CF-2024-36 through that 
incorporation, except for any differences identified as exceptions in 
the regulatory text of this proposed AD. Material required by Transport 
Canada AD CF-2024-36 for compliance will be available at 
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2025-0344 after the FAA final rule 
is published.

Differences Between This NPRM and the MCAI

    Transport Canada AD CF-2024-36 refers to the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Canada Limited Partnership (ACLP) Service 
Bulletin BD500-270022, Issue 001, dated July 25, 2024, for 
accomplishing the software installation. The ``Concurrent 
Requirements'' paragraph of ACLP Service Bulletin BD500-270022, Issue 
001, dated July 25, 2024, refers to ``ACLP Service Bulletin BD500-
270020'' as an additional requirement for certain airplanes; however, 
``ACLP Service Bulletin BD500-270020'' is not included in the 
Accomplishment Instructions of ACLP Service Bulletin BD500-270022, 
Issue 001, dated July 25, 2024.
    The FAA has determined the concurrent service bulletin must be done 
to address the unsafe condition. The FAA has issued AD 2023-12-09, 
Amendment 39-22467 (88 FR 42606, July 3, 2023) (AD 2023-12-09), which 
mandates Transport Canada AD CF-2022-65, dated November 23, 2022, and 
refers to ACLP Service Bulletin BD500-270020, Issue 001, dated 
September 28, 2022 (or later revisions), for software installation.
    The FAA has added paragraph (i)(3) of the proposed AD to mandate 
the concurrent requirement and clarify applicable compliance times.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would 
affect 133

[[Page 12500]]

airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to 
comply with this proposed AD:

                                      Estimated Costs for Required Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                 Cost on U.S.
             Action                   Labor cost          Parts cost       Cost per product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retained actions from AD          1 work-hour x $85   $0................  $85...............  $11,305.
 2022[dash]25[dash]51.             per hour = $85.
New proposed actions............  Up to 5 work-hours  Up to $10,000.....  Up to $10,425.....  Up to $1,386,525.
                                   x $85 per hour =
                                   $425.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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(f), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by:
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2022-25-51, Amendment 39-22282 
(87 FR 75911, December 12, 2022); and
0
b. Adding the following new AD:

Airbus Canada Limited Partnership (Type Certificate Previously Held 
by C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership (CSALP); Bombardier, Inc.): 
Docket No. FAA-2025-0344; Project Identifier MCAI-2024-00638-T.

(a) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive 
(AD) by May 2, 2025.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2022-25-51, Amendment 39-22282 (87 FR 75911, 
December 12, 2022) (AD 2022-25-51).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Canada Limited Partnership (type 
certificate previously held by C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership 
(CSALP); Bombardier, Inc.) Model BD-500-1A10 and Model BD-500-1A11 
airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in Transport 
Canada AD CF-2024-36, dated October 22, 2024 (Transport Canada AD 
CF-2024-36).

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 22, Autoflight.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by multiple in-service reports associated 
with primary flight control computer (PFCC) software deficiencies 
leading to nuisance messages on the engine-indicating and crew-
alerting system (EICAS) due to erroneous transmissions from the 
remote electronic unit (REU). Investigations also indicated design 
deficiencies in the PFCC software and a lack of software robustness, 
which may not prevent an un-annunciated deployment of ground 
spoilers or an inadvertent autopilot engagement during the take-off 
roll. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the PFCC software 
deficiencies leading to nuisance messages and the lack of PFCC 
software robustness. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could 
lead to increased flightcrew workload as well as a large reduction 
of safety margins. Additionally, during specific flight phases or in 
combination with other failures, these conditions could lead to loss 
of control of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Retained Revision of Existing AFM, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 
2022-25-51, with no changes. Within 7 days after December 27, 2022 
(the effective date of AD 2022-25-51), revise the Limitations 
section of the existing airplane flight manual (AFM) to include the 
information specified in figure 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD. This 
may be accomplished by inserting a copy of figure 1 to paragraph (g) 
of this AD into the existing AFM. Using an AFM revision that 
includes information identical to that in figure 1 to paragraph (g) 
of this AD is acceptable for compliance with the requirement of this 
paragraph.

[[Page 12501]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP18MR25.000

(h) New Requirements of This AD

    Except as specified in paragraph (i) of this AD: Comply with all 
required actions and compliance times specified in, and in 
accordance with, Transport Canada AD CF-2024-36. Accomplishing the 
software installation required by paragraph A. of Part II of 
Transport Canada AD CF-2024-36 terminates the AFM revision required 
by paragraph (g) of this AD.

(i) Exceptions to Transport Canada AD CF-2024-36

    (1) This AD does not adopt the requirements of Part I of 
Transport Canada AD CF-2024-36.
    (2) Where Transport Canada AD CF-2024-36 refers to its effective 
date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
    (3) For the airplanes identified in the ``Concurrent 
requirements'' paragraph of the material referenced in Transport 
Canada AD CF-2024-36: At the applicable time specified in paragraph 
(i)(3)(i) or (ii), accomplish the concurrent PFCC software update 
specified in the material referenced in Transport Canada AD CF-2024-
36.
    (i) For airplanes identified in AD 2023-12-09 Amendment 39-22467 
(88 FR 42606, July 3, 2023) (AD 2023-12-09): Prior to or 
concurrently with the installation specified in paragraph A. of Part 
II of Transport Canada AD CF-2024-36 but no later than the 
compliance time specified in AD 2023-12-09.
    (ii) For airplanes not identified in AD 2023-12-09: Prior to or 
concurrently with the installation specified in paragraph A. of Part 
II of Transport Canada AD CF-2024-36.

(j) Additional AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): 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 Continued Operational Safety Branch, send it to the attention of 
the person identified in paragraph (k) of this AD and email to: 
[email protected].
    (i) 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, AIR-520, 
Continued Operational Safety Branch, FAA; or Transport Canada; or 
Airbus Canada Limited Partnership's Transport Canada Design Approval 
Organization (DAO). If approved by the DAO, the approval must 
include the DAO-authorized signature.

(k) Additional Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Rochelle Montgomery, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, 
Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 405-798-2043; email 
[email protected].

(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 this AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Transport Canada AD CF-2024-36, dated October 22, 2024.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) 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 [email protected]; website tc.canada.ca/en/
aviation.
    (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 [email protected].

    Issued on March 7, 2025.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Integrated Certificate Management Division, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2025-03941 Filed 3-17-25; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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