Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes, 13107-13111 [2025-04472]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 90, No. 53 / Thursday, March 20, 2025 / Proposed Rules 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 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 adding the following new airworthiness directive: ■ Airbus Helicopters: Docket No. FAA–2025– 0352; Project Identifier MCAI–2023– 00876–R. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) by May 5, 2025. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model EC225LP helicopters, certificated in any category. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 05, Time Limits/Maintenance Checks. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by new and more restrictive airworthiness limitations. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent failure of critical parts and primary structural components, which if not addressed, could result in loss of control of the helicopter. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 (g) Required Action Except as specified in paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD: Comply with all required actions and compliance times specified in, and in accordance with, European Union Aviation Safety Agency AD 2023–0141, dated July 14, 2023 (EASA AD 2023–0141). (h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2023–0141 (1) Where EASA AD 2023–0141 refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD. (2) This AD does not adopt paragraphs (1), (2), (4) and (5) of EASA AD 2023–0141. (3) Where paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2023– 0141 specifies ‘‘Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, revise the approved AMP,’’ this AD requires replacing that text with ‘‘Within 30 days after the effective date of this AD, revise the airworthiness limitations section of the existing maintenance manual or instructions for continued airworthiness and the existing VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:02 Mar 19, 2025 Jkt 265001 approved maintenance or inspection program, as applicable.’’ (4) The initial compliance time for doing the tasks specified in paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2023–0141 is on or before the applicable ‘‘limitations’’ and ‘‘associated thresholds’’ as incorporated by the requirements of paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2023–0141 or within 30 days after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later. (5) This AD does not adopt the ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD 2023–0141. (i) Provisions for Alternative Actions and Intervals After the action required by paragraph (g) of this AD has been done, no alternative actions and associated thresholds and intervals, including life limits, are allowed unless they are approved as specified in the provisions of the ‘‘Ref. Publications’’ section of EASA AD 2023–0141. (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the International Validation Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (k) 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 local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. (k) Additional Information For more information about this AD, contact Adam Hein, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; phone: (316) 946– 4116; email: Adam.Hein@faa.gov. (l) 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. (i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2023–0141, dated July 14, 2023. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For EASA material identified in this AD, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; phone: +49 221 8999 000; email: ADs@easa.europa.eu; website: easa.europa.eu. You may find the EASA material on the EASA website at ad.easa.europa.eu. (4) You may view this material at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, Room 6N– 321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110. (5) You may view this material at the National Archives and Records PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 13107 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 13, 2025. Steven W. Thompson, Acting Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2025–04543 Filed 3–19–25; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2025–0351; Project Identifier MCAI–2024–00480–T] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2023–05–13, which applies to all Airbus SAS Model A300 B4–600, B4–600R, and F4–600R series airplanes; and Model A300 C4–605R Variant F airplanes (collectively called Model A300–600 series airplanes). AD 2023–05–13 requires revising the existing maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations. Since the FAA issued AD 2023–05–13, the FAA has determined that new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations are necessary. This proposed AD would continue to require the actions in AD 2023–05–13 and would require revising the existing maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is proposed for incorporation by reference (IBR). The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. SUMMARY: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 5, 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. DATES: E:\FR\FM\20MRP1.SGM 20MRP1 13108 Federal Register / Vol. 90, No. 53 / Thursday, March 20, 2025 / Proposed Rules • 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–2025–0351; 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 EASA material identified in this proposed AD, contact EASA, KonradAdenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; website easa.europa.eu. You may find this material on the EASA website at ad.easa.europa.eu. It is also available at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA– 2025–0351. • 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: Dan Rodina, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone 206–231–3225; email Dan.Rodina@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 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–2025–0351; Project Identifier MCAI–2024–00480–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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:02 Mar 19, 2025 Jkt 265001 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 Dan Rodina, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone 206–231–3225; email Dan.Rodina@ 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 2023–05–13, Amendment 39–22382 (88 FR 20749, April 7, 2023) (AD 2023–05–13), for all Airbus SAS Model A300–600 series airplanes. AD 2023–05–13 was prompted by an MCAI originated by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union. EASA issued AD 2022–0173, dated August 24, 2022 (EASA AD 2022– 0173) (which corresponds to FAA AD 2023–05–13), to correct an unsafe condition. AD 2023–05–13 requires revising the existing maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations. The FAA issued AD 2023– 05–13 to address fatigue damage in principal structural elements. AD 2023– 05–13 specifies that accomplishing the revision required by that AD terminates certain requirements of AD 2018–18–19, Amendment 39–19398 (83 FR 47056, September 18, 2018) (AD 2018–18–19). This proposed AD would therefore continue to allow that terminating action. AD 2018–18–19 applies to all Airbus SAS Model A300 and A310 series airplanes; and Model A300–600 series airplanes. AD 2023–05–13 applies only to Airbus SAS Model A300–600 series airplanes, and this proposed AD would PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 apply only to Airbus SAS Model A300– 600 series airplanes. Therefore, this proposed AD would terminate the requirements of AD 2018–18–19 for Airbus SAS Model A300–600 series airplanes only. Actions Since AD 2023–05–13 Was Issued Since the FAA issued AD 2023–05– 13, EASA superseded AD 2022–0173 and issued EASA AD 2024–0164, dated August 21, 2024 (EASA AD 2024–0164) (referred to after this as the MCAI), for all Airbus SAS Model A300 B4–601, B4–603, B4–620, B4–622, B4–605R, B4– 622R, C4–620, C4–605R Variant F, F4– 605R, F4–622R, and F4–608ST airplanes. Model A300 C4–620 and F4– 608ST airplanes are not certificated by the FAA and are not included on the U.S. type certificate data sheet; this proposed AD therefore does not include those airplanes in the applicability. The MCAI states that new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations have been developed. The MCAI also states that EASA revised EASA AD 2017–0204 (which corresponds to FAA AD 2018–18–19) to remove Model A300–600 series airplanes from the applicability. Accomplishing the actions specified in this proposed AD would therefore terminate all requirements of AD 2018– 18–19 for Model A300–600 series airplanes only. The FAA is proposing this AD to address fatigue damage in principal structural elements. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2025–0351. Material Incorporated by Reference Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed EASA AD 2024– 0164. This material specifies new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations for airplane structures and safe life limits. This proposed AD would also require EASA AD 2022–0173, dated August 24, 2022, which the Director of the Federal Register approved for incorporation by reference as of May 12, 2023 (88 FR 20749, April 7, 2023). 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 E:\FR\FM\20MRP1.SGM 20MRP1 Federal Register / Vol. 90, No. 53 / Thursday, March 20, 2025 / Proposed Rules 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. ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM This proposed AD would retain all requirements of AD 2023–05–13. This proposed AD would also require revising the existing maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate additional new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations, which are specified in EASA AD 2024– 0164 already described, as proposed for incorporation by reference. Any differences with EASA AD 2024–0164 are identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this proposed AD. This proposed AD would require revisions to certain operator maintenance documents to include new actions (e.g., inspections). Compliance with these actions is required by 14 CFR 91.403(c). For airplanes that have been previously modified, altered, or repaired in the areas addressed by this proposed AD, the operator may not be able to accomplish the actions described in the revisions. In this situation, to comply with 14 CFR 91.403(c), the operator must request approval for an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) according to paragraph (o)(1) 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 retain the IBR of EASA AD 2022–0173 and incorporate EASA AD 2024–0164 by reference in the FAA final rule. This proposed AD would, therefore, require compliance with EASA AD 2022–0173 and EASA AD 2024–0164 through that incorporation, except for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this proposed AD. Using common terms that are the same as the heading of a particular section in EASA AD 2022–0173 or EASA AD 2024–0164 does not mean that operators need comply only with that section. For VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:02 Mar 19, 2025 Jkt 265001 example, where the AD requirement refers to ‘‘all required actions and compliance times,’’ compliance with this proposed AD requirement is not limited to the section titled ‘‘Required Action(s) and Compliance Time(s)’’ in EASA AD 2022–0173 or EASA AD 2024–0164. Material required by EASA AD 2024–0164 for compliance will be available at regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2025– 0351 after the FAA final rule is published. Airworthiness Limitation ADs Using the New Process The FAA’s process of incorporating by reference MCAI ADs as the primary source of information for compliance with corresponding FAA ADs has been limited to certain MCAI ADs (primarily those with service bulletins as the primary source of information for accomplishing the actions required by the FAA AD). However, the FAA is now expanding the process to include MCAI ADs that require a change to airworthiness limitation documents, such as airworthiness limitation sections. For these ADs that incorporate by reference an MCAI AD that changes airworthiness limitations, the FAA requirements are unchanged. Operators must revise the existing maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate the information specified in the new airworthiness limitation document. The airworthiness limitations must be followed according to 14 CFR 91.403(c) and 91.409(e). The previous format of the airworthiness limitation ADs included a paragraph that specified that no alternative actions (e.g., inspections) or intervals may be used unless the actions and intervals are approved as an AMOC in accordance with the procedures specified in the AMOCs paragraph under ‘‘Additional AD Provisions.’’ This new format includes a ‘‘New Provisions for Alternative Actions and Intervals’’ paragraph that does not specifically refer to AMOCs, but operators may still request an AMOC to use an alternative action or interval. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would affect 128 airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: The FAA estimates the total cost per operator for the retained actions from AD 2023–05–13 to be $7,650 (90 workhours × $85 per work-hour). The FAA has determined that revising the existing maintenance or inspection PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 13109 program takes an average of 90 workhours per operator, although the agency recognizes that this number may vary from operator to operator. Since operators incorporate maintenance or inspection program changes for their affected fleet(s), the FAA has determined that a per-operator estimate is more accurate than a per-airplane estimate. The FAA estimates the total cost per operator for the new proposed actions to be $7,650 (90 work-hours × $85 per work-hour). Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA’s authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, describes in more detail the scope of the Agency’s authority. The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements. Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings 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. E:\FR\FM\20MRP1.SGM 20MRP1 13110 Federal Register / Vol. 90, No. 53 / Thursday, March 20, 2025 / Proposed Rules 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 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) 2023–05–13, Amendment 39– 22382 (88 FR 20749, April 7, 2023); and ■ b. Adding the following new AD: ■ ■ Airbus SAS: Docket No. FAA–2025–0351; Project Identifier MCAI–2024–00480–T. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) by May 5, 2025. (b) Affected ADs (1) This AD replaces AD 2023–05–13, Amendment 39–22382 (88 FR 20749, April 7, 2023) (AD 2023–05–13). (2) This AD affects AD 2018–18–19, Amendment 39–19398 (83 FR 47056, September 18, 2018) (AD 2018–18–19). (c) Applicability This AD applies to all Airbus SAS airplanes, certificated in any category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1) through (4) of this AD. (1) Model A300 B4–601, B4–603, B4–620, and B4–622 airplanes. (2) Model A300 B4–605R and B4–622R airplanes. (3) Model A300 C4–605R Variant F airplanes. (4) Model A300 F4–605R and F4–622R airplanes. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 05, Time Limits/Maintenance Checks. ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a determination that new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations are necessary. The FAA is issuing this AD to address fatigue damage in principal structural elements. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Retained Revision of the Existing Maintenance or Inspection Program, With a New Terminating Action This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 2023–05–13, with a new terminating action. Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this AD: Comply with all VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:02 Mar 19, 2025 Jkt 265001 required actions and compliance times specified in, and in accordance with, European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2022–0173, dated August 24, 2022 (EASA AD 2022–0173). Accomplishing the revision of the existing maintenance or inspection program required by paragraph (k) of this AD terminates the requirements of this paragraph. (h) Retained Exceptions to EASA AD 2022– 0173, With No Change This paragraph restates the exceptions specified in paragraph (h) of AD 2023–05–13, with no change. (1) This AD does not adopt the requirements specified in paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2022–0173. (2) Paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2022–0173 specifies revising ‘‘the approved AMP’’ within 12 months after its effective date, but this AD requires revising the existing maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, within 90 days after May 12, 2023 (the effective date of AD 2023–05–13). (3) The initial compliance time for doing the tasks specified in paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2022–0173 is at the applicable ‘‘limitations’’ as incorporated by the requirements of paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2022–0173, or within 90 days after May 12, 2023 (the effective date of AD 2023–05–13), whichever occurs later. (4) This AD does not adopt the provisions specified in paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2022– 0173. (5) This AD does not adopt the ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD 2022–0173. (i) Retained Provisions for Alternative Actions and Intervals, With a New Exception This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (i) of AD 2023–05–13, with a new exception. Except as required by paragraph (k) of this AD, After the existing maintenance or inspection program has been revised as required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no alternative actions (e.g., inspections) and intervals are allowed unless they are approved as specified in the provisions of the ‘‘Ref. Publications’’ section of EASA AD 2022–0173. (j) Retained Terminating Action for Certain Tasks Required by AD 2018–18–19 With No Changes This paragraph restates the terminating action of paragraph (j) of AD 2023–05–13, with no changes. For Model A300 B4–601, B4–603, B4–620, B4–622, B4–605R, B4– 622R, C4–605R Variant F, F4–605R and F4– 622R airplanes only: Accomplishing the actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD terminates the corresponding requirements of AD 2018–18–19 for the tasks identified in the material referenced in EASA AD 2022–0173 only. (k) New Revision of the Existing Maintenance or Inspection Program Except as specified in paragraph (l) of this AD: Comply with all required actions and compliance times specified in, and in accordance with, EASA AD 2024–0164, dated August 21, 2024 (EASA AD 2024– 0164). Accomplishing the revision of the existing maintenance or inspection program PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 required by this paragraph terminates the requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD. (l) Exceptions to EASA AD 2024–0164 (1) This AD does not adopt the requirements specified in paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2024–0164. (2) Paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2024–0164 specifies revising ‘‘the approved AMP,’’ within 12 months after its effective date, but this AD requires revising the existing maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, within 90 days after the effective date of this AD. (3) The initial compliance time for doing the tasks specified in paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2024–0164 is at the applicable ‘‘limitations’’ as incorporated by the requirements of paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2024–0164, or within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later. (4) This AD does not adopt the provisions specified in paragraphs (3) and (4) of EASA AD 2024–0164. (5) This AD does not adopt the ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD 2024–0164. (m) New Provisions for Alternative Actions and Intervals After the existing maintenance or inspection program has been revised as required by paragraph (k) of this AD, no alternative actions (e.g., inspections) and intervals are allowed unless they are approved as specified in the provisions of the ‘‘Ref. Publications’’ section of EASA AD 2024–0164. (n) New Terminating Action for AD 2018– 18–19 For Model A300 B4–601, B4–603, B4–620, B4–622, B4–605R, B4–622R, C4–605R Variant F, F4–605R and F4–622R airplanes only: Accomplishing the actions required by paragraph (j) of this AD terminates the corresponding requirements of AD 2018–18– 19. (o) 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 AIR–520, Continued Operational Safety Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (p) of this AD and email to: AMOC@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the responsible Flight Standards Office. (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD to obtain instructions from a manufacturer, the instructions must be accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, AIR–520, Continued Operational Safety Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus SAS’s EASA Design Organization E:\FR\FM\20MRP1.SGM 20MRP1 Federal Register / Vol. 90, No. 53 / Thursday, March 20, 2025 / Proposed Rules Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOAauthorized signature. Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). ACTION: [Docket No. FAA–2025–0466; Airspace Docket No. 25–AWP–138] This action proposes to establish Class E airspace at Wickenburg, AZ. The FAA is proposing this action to support new instrument procedures and to support instrument flight rule (IFR) operations. DATES: Comments must be received on or before May 5, 2025. ADDRESSES: Send comments identified by FAA Docket No. FAA–2025–0466 and Airspace Docket No. 25–AWP–138 using any of the following methods: * Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to www.regulations.gov and follow the online instruction for sending your comments electronically. * Mail: Send comments to Docket Operations, M–30; U.S. Department of Transportation, 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. Docket: Background documents or comments received may be read at www.regulations.gov at any time. Follow the online instructions for accessing the docket or go 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. FAA Order JO 7400.11J, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, and subsequent amendments can be viewed online at www.faa.gov/air_traffic/ publications/. You may also contact the Rules and Regulations Group, Office of Policy, Federal Aviation Administration, 600 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20597; telephone: (202) 267–8783. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jeffrey Claypool, Federal Aviation Administration, Operations Support Group, Central Service Center, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222–5711. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: RIN 2120–AA66 Authority for This Rulemaking SUMMARY: (p) Additional Information For more information about this AD, contact Dan Rodina, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone 206–231– 3225; email Dan.Rodina@faa.gov. (q) 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. (3) The following material was approved for IBR on [DATE 35 DAYS AFTER PUBLICATION OF THE FINAL RULE]. (i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2024–0164, dated August 21, 2024. (ii) [Reserved] (4) The following material was approved for IBR on May 12, 2023 (88 FR 20749, April 7, 2023). (i) EASA AD 2022–0173, dated August 24, 2022. (ii) [Reserved] (5) For EASA material identified in this AD, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; website easa.europa.eu. You may find this material on the EASA website at ad.easa.europa.eu. (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. Issued on March 13, 2025. Peter A. White, Deputy Director, Integrated Certificate Management Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2025–04472 Filed 3–19–25; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 Establishment of Class E Airspace; Wickenburg, AZ Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. AGENCY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:02 Mar 19, 2025 Jkt 265001 The FAA’s authority to issue rules regarding aviation safety is found in Title 49 of the United States Code. Subtitle I, Section 106 describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 13111 Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs, describes in more detail the scope of the agency’s authority. This rulemaking is promulgated under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that section, the FAA is charged with prescribing regulations to assign the use of airspace necessary to ensure the safety of aircraft and the efficient use of airspace. This regulation is within the scope of that authority as it would establish Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface Wickenburg Municipal Airport, Wickenburg, AZ, to support IFR operations at this airport. Comments Invited The FAA invites interested persons to participate in this rulemaking by submitting written comments, data, or views. Comments are specifically invited on the overall regulatory, aeronautical, economic, environmental, and energy-related aspects of the proposal. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. To ensure the docket does not contain duplicate comments, commenters should submit only one time if comments are filed electronically, or commenters should send only one copy of written comments if comments are filed in writing. The FAA will file in the docket all comments it receives, as well as a report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel concerning this proposed rulemaking. Before acting on this proposal, the FAA will consider all comments it received on or before the closing date for comments. The FAA will consider comments filed after the comment period has closed if it is possible to do so without incurring expense or delay. The FAA may change this proposal in light of the comments it receives. Privacy: In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(c), DOT solicits comments from the public to better inform its rulemaking process. DOT post 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– 14FDMS), which can be reviewed at www.dot.gov/privacy. Availability of Rulemaking Documents An electronic copy of this document may be downloaded through the internet at www.regulations.gov. Recently published rulemaking documents can also be accessed through E:\FR\FM\20MRP1.SGM 20MRP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 90, Number 53 (Thursday, March 20, 2025)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 13107-13111]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2025-04472]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2025-0351; Project Identifier MCAI-2024-00480-T]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2023-05-13, which applies to all Airbus SAS Model A300 B4-600, B4-600R, 
and F4-600R series airplanes; and Model A300 C4-605R Variant F 
airplanes (collectively called Model A300-600 series airplanes). AD 
2023-05-13 requires revising the existing maintenance or inspection 
program, as applicable, to incorporate new or more restrictive 
airworthiness limitations. Since the FAA issued AD 2023-05-13, the FAA 
has determined that new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations 
are necessary. This proposed AD would continue to require the actions 
in AD 2023-05-13 and would require revising the existing maintenance or 
inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new or more 
restrictive airworthiness limitations, as specified in a European Union 
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is 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 5, 
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.

[[Page 13108]]

     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-2025-0351; 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 EASA material identified in this proposed AD, contact 
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 
8999 000; email [email protected]; website easa.europa.eu. You may 
find this material on the EASA website at ad.easa.europa.eu. It is also 
available at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2025-0351.
     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: Dan Rodina, Aviation Safety Engineer, 
FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone 206-231-
3225; 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-2025-0351; 
Project Identifier MCAI-2024-00480-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 Dan 
Rodina, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des 
Moines, WA 98198; telephone 206-231-3225; 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 2023-05-13, Amendment 39-22382 (88 FR 20749, 
April 7, 2023) (AD 2023-05-13), for all Airbus SAS Model A300-600 
series airplanes. AD 2023-05-13 was prompted by an MCAI originated by 
EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the 
European Union. EASA issued AD 2022-0173, dated August 24, 2022 (EASA 
AD 2022-0173) (which corresponds to FAA AD 2023-05-13), to correct an 
unsafe condition.
    AD 2023-05-13 requires revising the existing maintenance or 
inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new or more 
restrictive airworthiness limitations. The FAA issued AD 2023-05-13 to 
address fatigue damage in principal structural elements. AD 2023-05-13 
specifies that accomplishing the revision required by that AD 
terminates certain requirements of AD 2018-18-19, Amendment 39-19398 
(83 FR 47056, September 18, 2018) (AD 2018-18-19). This proposed AD 
would therefore continue to allow that terminating action.
    AD 2018-18-19 applies to all Airbus SAS Model A300 and A310 series 
airplanes; and Model A300-600 series airplanes. AD 2023-05-13 applies 
only to Airbus SAS Model A300-600 series airplanes, and this proposed 
AD would apply only to Airbus SAS Model A300-600 series airplanes. 
Therefore, this proposed AD would terminate the requirements of AD 
2018-18-19 for Airbus SAS Model A300-600 series airplanes only.

Actions Since AD 2023-05-13 Was Issued

    Since the FAA issued AD 2023-05-13, EASA superseded AD 2022-0173 
and issued EASA AD 2024-0164, dated August 21, 2024 (EASA AD 2024-0164) 
(referred to after this as the MCAI), for all Airbus SAS Model A300 B4-
601, B4-603, B4-620, B4-622, B4-605R, B4-622R, C4-620, C4-605R Variant 
F, F4-605R, F4-622R, and F4-608ST airplanes. Model A300 C4-620 and F4-
608ST airplanes are not certificated by the FAA and are not included on 
the U.S. type certificate data sheet; this proposed AD therefore does 
not include those airplanes in the applicability. The MCAI states that 
new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations have been developed.
    The MCAI also states that EASA revised EASA AD 2017-0204 (which 
corresponds to FAA AD 2018-18-19) to remove Model A300-600 series 
airplanes from the applicability. Accomplishing the actions specified 
in this proposed AD would therefore terminate all requirements of AD 
2018-18-19 for Model A300-600 series airplanes only.
    The FAA is proposing this AD to address fatigue damage in principal 
structural elements. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could 
result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane You may examine 
the MCAI in the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2025-
0351.

Material Incorporated by Reference Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed EASA AD 2024-0164. This material specifies new or 
more restrictive airworthiness limitations for airplane structures and 
safe life limits.
    This proposed AD would also require EASA AD 2022-0173, dated August 
24, 2022, which the Director of the Federal Register approved for 
incorporation by reference as of May 12, 2023 (88 FR 20749, April 7, 
2023).
    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

[[Page 13109]]

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 2023-05-13. 
This proposed AD would also require revising the existing maintenance 
or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate additional new or 
more restrictive airworthiness limitations, which are specified in EASA 
AD 2024-0164 already described, as proposed for incorporation by 
reference. Any differences with EASA AD 2024-0164 are identified as 
exceptions in the regulatory text of this proposed AD.
    This proposed AD would require revisions to certain operator 
maintenance documents to include new actions (e.g., inspections). 
Compliance with these actions is required by 14 CFR 91.403(c). For 
airplanes that have been previously modified, altered, or repaired in 
the areas addressed by this proposed AD, the operator may not be able 
to accomplish the actions described in the revisions. In this 
situation, to comply with 14 CFR 91.403(c), the operator must request 
approval for an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) according to 
paragraph (o)(1) 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 retain the IBR of EASA AD 2022-0173 and incorporate 
EASA AD 2024-0164 by reference in the FAA final rule. This proposed AD 
would, therefore, require compliance with EASA AD 2022-0173 and EASA AD 
2024-0164 through that incorporation, except for any differences 
identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this proposed AD. 
Using common terms that are the same as the heading of a particular 
section in EASA AD 2022-0173 or EASA AD 2024-0164 does not mean that 
operators need comply only with that section. For example, where the AD 
requirement refers to ``all required actions and compliance times,'' 
compliance with this proposed AD requirement is not limited to the 
section titled ``Required Action(s) and Compliance Time(s)'' in EASA AD 
2022-0173 or EASA AD 2024-0164. Material required by EASA AD 2024-0164 
for compliance will be available at regulations.gov by searching for 
and locating Docket No. FAA-2025-0351 after the FAA final rule is 
published.

Airworthiness Limitation ADs Using the New Process

    The FAA's process of incorporating by reference MCAI ADs as the 
primary source of information for compliance with corresponding FAA ADs 
has been limited to certain MCAI ADs (primarily those with service 
bulletins as the primary source of information for accomplishing the 
actions required by the FAA AD). However, the FAA is now expanding the 
process to include MCAI ADs that require a change to airworthiness 
limitation documents, such as airworthiness limitation sections.
    For these ADs that incorporate by reference an MCAI AD that changes 
airworthiness limitations, the FAA requirements are unchanged. 
Operators must revise the existing maintenance or inspection program, 
as applicable, to incorporate the information specified in the new 
airworthiness limitation document. The airworthiness limitations must 
be followed according to 14 CFR 91.403(c) and 91.409(e).
    The previous format of the airworthiness limitation ADs included a 
paragraph that specified that no alternative actions (e.g., 
inspections) or intervals may be used unless the actions and intervals 
are approved as an AMOC in accordance with the procedures specified in 
the AMOCs paragraph under ``Additional AD Provisions.'' This new format 
includes a ``New Provisions for Alternative Actions and Intervals'' 
paragraph that does not specifically refer to AMOCs, but operators may 
still request an AMOC to use an alternative action or interval.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would 
affect 128 airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following 
costs to comply with this proposed AD:
    The FAA estimates the total cost per operator for the retained 
actions from AD 2023-05-13 to be $7,650 (90 work-hours x $85 per work-
hour).
    The FAA has determined that revising the existing maintenance or 
inspection program takes an average of 90 work-hours per operator, 
although the agency recognizes that this number may vary from operator 
to operator. Since operators incorporate maintenance or inspection 
program changes for their affected fleet(s), the FAA has determined 
that a per-operator estimate is more accurate than a per-airplane 
estimate.
    The FAA estimates the total cost per operator for the new proposed 
actions to be $7,650 (90 work-hours x $85 per work-hour).

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, 
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
    The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements. 
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight 
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for 
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary 
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that 
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to 
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    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.

[[Page 13110]]

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) 2023-05-13, Amendment 39-22382 
(88 FR 20749, April 7, 2023); and
0
b. Adding the following new AD:

    Airbus SAS: Docket No. FAA-2025-0351; Project Identifier MCAI-
2024-00480-T.

(a) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive 
(AD) by May 5, 2025.

(b) Affected ADs

    (1) This AD replaces AD 2023-05-13, Amendment 39-22382 (88 FR 
20749, April 7, 2023) (AD 2023-05-13).
    (2) This AD affects AD 2018-18-19, Amendment 39-19398 (83 FR 
47056, September 18, 2018) (AD 2018-18-19).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all Airbus SAS airplanes, certificated in any 
category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1) through (4) of this AD.
    (1) Model A300 B4-601, B4-603, B4-620, and B4-622 airplanes.
    (2) Model A300 B4-605R and B4-622R airplanes.
    (3) Model A300 C4-605R Variant F airplanes.
    (4) Model A300 F4-605R and F4-622R airplanes.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 05, Time Limits/
Maintenance Checks.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by a determination that new or more 
restrictive airworthiness limitations are necessary. The FAA is 
issuing this AD to address fatigue damage in principal structural 
elements. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in 
reduced structural integrity of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Retained Revision of the Existing Maintenance or Inspection 
Program, With a New Terminating Action

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 
2023-05-13, with a new terminating action. Except as specified in 
paragraph (h) of this AD: Comply with all required actions and 
compliance times specified in, and in accordance with, European 
Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2022-0173, dated August 24, 
2022 (EASA AD 2022-0173). Accomplishing the revision of the existing 
maintenance or inspection program required by paragraph (k) of this 
AD terminates the requirements of this paragraph.

(h) Retained Exceptions to EASA AD 2022-0173, With No Change

    This paragraph restates the exceptions specified in paragraph 
(h) of AD 2023-05-13, with no change.
    (1) This AD does not adopt the requirements specified in 
paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2022-0173.
    (2) Paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2022-0173 specifies revising ``the 
approved AMP'' within 12 months after its effective date, but this 
AD requires revising the existing maintenance or inspection program, 
as applicable, within 90 days after May 12, 2023 (the effective date 
of AD 2023-05-13).
    (3) The initial compliance time for doing the tasks specified in 
paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2022-0173 is at the applicable 
``limitations'' as incorporated by the requirements of paragraph (2) 
of EASA AD 2022-0173, or within 90 days after May 12, 2023 (the 
effective date of AD 2023-05-13), whichever occurs later.
    (4) This AD does not adopt the provisions specified in paragraph 
(3) of EASA AD 2022-0173.
    (5) This AD does not adopt the ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD 
2022-0173.

(i) Retained Provisions for Alternative Actions and Intervals, With a 
New Exception

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (i) of AD 
2023-05-13, with a new exception. Except as required by paragraph 
(k) of this AD, After the existing maintenance or inspection program 
has been revised as required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no 
alternative actions (e.g., inspections) and intervals are allowed 
unless they are approved as specified in the provisions of the 
``Ref. Publications'' section of EASA AD 2022-0173.

(j) Retained Terminating Action for Certain Tasks Required by AD 2018-
18-19 With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the terminating action of paragraph (j) 
of AD 2023-05-13, with no changes. For Model A300 B4-601, B4-603, 
B4-620, B4-622, B4-605R, B4-622R, C4-605R Variant F, F4-605R and F4-
622R airplanes only: Accomplishing the actions required by paragraph 
(g) of this AD terminates the corresponding requirements of AD 2018-
18-19 for the tasks identified in the material referenced in EASA AD 
2022-0173 only.

(k) New Revision of the Existing Maintenance or Inspection Program

    Except as specified in paragraph (l) of this AD: Comply with all 
required actions and compliance times specified in, and in 
accordance with, EASA AD 2024-0164, dated August 21, 2024 (EASA AD 
2024-0164). Accomplishing the revision of the existing maintenance 
or inspection program required by this paragraph terminates the 
requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD.

(l) Exceptions to EASA AD 2024-0164

    (1) This AD does not adopt the requirements specified in 
paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2024-0164.
    (2) Paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2024-0164 specifies revising ``the 
approved AMP,'' within 12 months after its effective date, but this 
AD requires revising the existing maintenance or inspection program, 
as applicable, within 90 days after the effective date of this AD.
    (3) The initial compliance time for doing the tasks specified in 
paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2024-0164 is at the applicable 
``limitations'' as incorporated by the requirements of paragraph (2) 
of EASA AD 2024-0164, or within 90 days after the effective date of 
this AD, whichever occurs later.
    (4) This AD does not adopt the provisions specified in 
paragraphs (3) and (4) of EASA AD 2024-0164.
    (5) This AD does not adopt the ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD 
2024-0164.

(m) New Provisions for Alternative Actions and Intervals

    After the existing maintenance or inspection program has been 
revised as required by paragraph (k) of this AD, no alternative 
actions (e.g., inspections) and intervals are allowed unless they 
are approved as specified in the provisions of the ``Ref. 
Publications'' section of EASA AD 2024-0164.

(n) New Terminating Action for AD 2018-18-19

    For Model A300 B4-601, B4-603, B4-620, B4-622, B4-605R, B4-622R, 
C4-605R Variant F, F4-605R and F4-622R airplanes only: Accomplishing 
the actions required by paragraph (j) of this AD terminates the 
corresponding requirements of AD 2018-18-19.

(o) 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 
AIR-520, Continued Operational Safety Branch, send it to the 
attention of the person identified in paragraph (p) of this AD and 
email to: [email protected]. 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 EASA; or Airbus SAS's 
EASA Design Organization

[[Page 13111]]

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

(p) Additional Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Dan Rodina, Aviation 
Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; 
telephone 206-231-3225; email [email protected].

(q) 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.
    (3) The following material was approved for IBR on [DATE 35 DAYS 
AFTER PUBLICATION OF THE FINAL RULE].
    (i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2024-0164, 
dated August 21, 2024.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (4) The following material was approved for IBR on May 12, 2023 
(88 FR 20749, April 7, 2023).
    (i) EASA AD 2022-0173, dated August 24, 2022.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (5) For EASA material identified in this AD, contact EASA, 
Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 
8999 000; email [email protected]; website easa.europa.eu. You may 
find this material on the EASA website at ad.easa.europa.eu.
    (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 March 13, 2025.
Peter A. White,
Deputy Director, Integrated Certificate Management Division, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2025-04472 Filed 3-19-25; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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