Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Canada Limited Partnership (Type Certificate Previously Held by C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership (CSALP); Bombardier, Inc.) Airplanes, 26193-26195 [2025-11385]
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26193
Rules and Regulations
Federal Register
Vol. 90, No. 117
Friday, June 20, 2025
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER
contains regulatory documents having general
applicability and legal effect, most of which
are keyed to and codified in the Code of
Federal Regulations, which is published under
50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.
The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by
the Superintendent of Documents.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2024–2666; Project
Identifier MCAI–2024–00261–T; Amendment
39–23062; AD 2025–12–04]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Canada Limited Partnership (Type
Certificate Previously Held by C Series
Aircraft Limited Partnership (CSALP);
Bombardier, Inc.) Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Airbus Canada Limited Partnership
Model BD–500–1A11 airplanes. This
AD was prompted by an investigation of
an in-service hydraulic fluid leakage
event that indicated the potential use of
an uncalibrated torque wrench when
tightening the union fittings at the
pressure and return interfaces of all
three rudder hydraulic power control
units (PCUs). This AD requires properly
torquing the rudder PCU hydraulic
fittings and applying the torque seal on
the rudder PCU hydraulic fittings. The
FAA is issuing this AD to address the
unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective July 25,
2025.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of July 25, 2025.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2024–2666; or in person at
Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this final rule, the mandatory
continuing airworthiness information
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES1
SUMMARY:
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:16 Jun 18, 2025
Jkt 265001
(MCAI), any comments received, and
other information. The address for
Docket Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
• For Transport Canda 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.
You may find this material on the
Transport Canada website at
tc.canada.ca/en/aviation.
• You may view this material at the
FAA, Airworthiness Products Section,
Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South
216th St., Des Moines, WA. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.
It is also available at regulations.gov
under Docket No. FAA–2024–2666.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Brenda L. Buitrago, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St.,
Des Moines, WA 98198; phone: 516–
288–7368; email:
Brenda.L.Buitrago.Perez@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to certain Airbus Canada Limited
Partnership Model BD–500–1A11
airplanes. The NPRM was published in
the Federal Register on December 20,
2024 (89 FR 104067). The NPRM was
prompted by AD CF–2024–13, dated
April 29, 2024 (Transport Canada AD
CF–2024–13) (also referred to as the
MCAI), issued by Transport Canada,
which is the aviation authority for
Canada. The MCAI states an
investigation of an in-service hydraulic
fluid leakage event indicated the
potential use of an uncalibrated torque
wrench when tightening the union
fittings at the pressure and return
interfaces of all three rudder PCUs. If
not corrected, this condition could
cause the union fittings to come loose
and leak, resulting in the potential loss
of one or more hydraulic systems.
In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to
require properly torquing the rudder
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Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
PCU hydraulic fittings and applying the
torque seal on the rudder PCU hydraulic
fittings, as specified in Transport
Canada AD CF–2024–13. The FAA is
issuing 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–2024–2666.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received a comment from
The Air Line Pilots Association,
International (ALPA), who supported
the NPRM without change.
The FAA received additional
comments from two commenters,
Airbus Canada Limited Partnership and
Delta Air Lines, Inc. (Delta). The
following presents the comments
received on the NPRM and the FAA’s
response to each comment.
Request To Remove, Revise, or Clarify
the Exception for Leak Repair
Delta requested the FAA either
remove the exception in paragraph
(h)(3) of the proposed AD or revise it to
require ensuring that any hydraulic leak
is within the leakage limits, instead of
requiring the leak to be repaired before
further flight as proposed. As
justification, Delta stated Transport
Canada AD CF–2024–13 references
service information, which in turn
references an airplane maintenance
program (AMP) task that contains
allowable leakage limits for seals on the
rudder PCU, ensuring the leak rate does
not exceed the allowable limit. Delta
also stated they received confirmation
from Airbus Canada Limited
Partnership indicating that allowable
leaks as defined in the AMP task are
acceptable. Delta, therefore, concluded
that the exception in paragraph (h)(3) of
the proposed AD contradicts the
allowable leakage limits of the AMP
task, and that it causes extra strain on
operators who have already
accomplished the procedures in the
referenced service information because
those operators are not able to
demonstrate compliance with the
proposed AD, unless the exception is
removed or revised.
Airbus requested the FAA explain
why the FAA’s proposed AD does not
allow the same leak tolerance provided
in Transport Canada AD CF–2024–13.
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Federal Register / Vol. 90, No. 117 / Friday, June 20, 2025 / Rules and Regulations
The FAA agrees that some leaks may
be permissible if the leak rate is within
the allowable leakage limits of the AMP
task. It is not the FAA’s intent to require
different actions than those required by
Transport Canada AD CF–2024–13.
Therefore, the FAA has revised the
‘‘Material Incorporated by Reference
Under 1 CFR part 51’’ paragraph to
clarify that, in addition to other
specified actions, the corrective actions
include testing for leakage limits to
ensure any leak is within the applicable
leakage tolerance and replacing the
rudder PCU. Accordingly, the FAA has
revised paragraph (h)(3) of this AD to
specify that the visual inspection for
hydraulics leaks at all coil tube fittings
of the upper, middle, and lower rudder
PCUs and all applicable corrective
actions must be performed, and that all
applicable corrective actions must be
done before further flight except as
specified in steps 13 and 22 of AMP
BD500–A–J27–21–01–01AAA–364B–A.
Conclusion
These products have been approved
by the civil aviation authority of another
country and are approved for operation
in the United States. Pursuant to the
FAA’s bilateral agreement with this
State of Design Authority, that authority
has notified the FAA of the unsafe
condition described in the MCAI
referenced above. The FAA reviewed
the relevant data, considered any
comments received, and determined
that air safety requires adopting this AD
as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products. Except for
minor editorial changes, and any other
changes described previously, this AD is
adopted as proposed in the NPRM.
None of the changes will increase the
economic burden on any operator.
Costs of Compliance
Material Incorporated by Reference
Under 1 CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed Transport Canada
AD CF–2024–13, dated April 29, 2024.
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 5 airplanes of U.S. registry. The
FAA estimates the following costs to
comply with this AD:
This material specifies procedures for
properly torquing the rudder PCU
hydraulic fittings and applying the
torque seal on the rudder PCU hydraulic
fittings, which includes cleaning any
leaks at the coil B-nut connections,
performing a visual inspection for
hydraulics leaks for all rudder PCU coil
tube fittings, and applicable corrective
actions. The corrective actions include
tightening the nut to the specified
torque, testing for leakage limits to
ensure any leak is within the applicable
leakage tolerance, replacing any
defective components, and replacing the
rudder PCU. 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.
ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED ACTIONS
Labor cost
Parts cost
Up to 9 work-hours × $85 per hour = Up to $765 .....................................................
Cost per product
$0 *
Up to $765 .............
Cost on U.S.
operators
Up to $3,825.
* The FAA has received no definitive data on which to base the cost estimates for the replacement cost.
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES1
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs, describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking
under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section
44701: General requirements. Under
that section, Congress charges the FAA
with promoting safe flight of civil
aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and
procedures the Administrator finds
necessary for safety in air commerce.
This regulation is within the scope of
that authority because it addresses an
unsafe condition that is likely to exist or
develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism
implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on
the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and
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17:16 Jun 18, 2025
Jkt 265001
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
§ 39.13
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
(b) Affected Ads
None.
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive:
■
2025–12–04 Airbus Canada Limited
Partnership (Type Certificate Previously
Held by C Series Aircraft Limited
Partnership (CSALP); Bombardier, Inc.):
Amendment 39–23062; Docket No.
FAA–2024–2666; Project Identifier
MCAI–2024–00261–T.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective July 25, 2025.
(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–
1A11 airplanes, certificated in any category,
as identified in Transport Canada AD CF–
2024–13, dated April 29, 2024 (Transport
Canada AD CF–2024–13).
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 29, Hydraulic Power.
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by an investigation
of an in-service leakage event that indicated
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
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Federal Register / Vol. 90, No. 117 / Friday, June 20, 2025 / Rules and Regulations
the use potential of an uncalibrated torque
wrench when tightening the union fittings at
the pressure and return interfaces of all three
rudder hydraulic power control units (PCUs).
The FAA is issuing this AD to address union
fittings that could come loose and leak when
improperly torqued. The unsafe condition, if
not addressed, could result in the potential
loss of one or more hydraulic systems.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this
AD: Comply with all required actions and
compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, Transport Canada AD CF–
2024–13.
(h) Exception To Transport Canada AD CF–
2024–13
(1) Where Transport Canada AD CF–2024–
13 refers to its effective date, this AD requires
using the effective date of this AD.
(2) Where Transport Canada AD CF–2024–
13 refers to hours air time, this AD requires
using flight hours.
(3) Where the material referenced in
Transport Canada AD CF–2024–13 specifies
to ‘‘perform a visual inspection for
hydraulics leaks for all Rudder PCUs coil
tube fitting (Upper, Middle and Lower) in
accordance with to AMP BD500–A–J27–21–
01–01AAA–364B–A’’, this AD requires
replacing that text with ‘‘perform a visual
inspection for hydraulics leaks for all Rudder
PCUs coil tube fittings (Upper, Middle and
Lower) and do all applicable corrective
actions in accordance with AMP BD500–A–
J27–21–01–01AAA–364B–A. Do all
applicable corrective actions before further
flight except as specified in steps 13 and 22
of AMP BD500–A–J27–21–01–01AAA–364B–
A’’.
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES1
(i) No Reporting Requirement
Although the material referenced in
Transport Canada AD CF–2024–13 specifies
to submit certain information to the
manufacturer, this AD does not include that
requirement.
(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 AIR–520, Continued
Operational Safety Branch, send it to the
attention of the person identified in
paragraph (k) 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.
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17:16 Jun 18, 2025
Jkt 265001
(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 Brenda L. Buitrago, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des
Moines, WA 98198; phone: 516–288–7368;
email: Brenda.L.Buitrago.Perez@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 this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Transport Canada AD CF–2024–13,
dated April 29, 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. You
may find this Transport Canada material on
the Transport Canada website at
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 fr.inspection@nara.gov.
Issued on June 12, 2025.
Peter A. White,
Deputy Director, Integrated Certificate
Management Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2025–11385 Filed 6–18–25; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
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26195
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2024–2668; Project
Identifier AD–2024–00561–E; Amendment
39–23061; AD 2025–12–03]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; CFM
International, S.A. Engines
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is superseding
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2023–09–
06, which applied to all CFM
International, S.A. Model (CFM) LEAP–
1A23, LEAP–1A24, LEAP–1A24E1,
LEAP–1A26, LEAP–1A26CJ, LEAP–
1A26E1, LEAP–1A29, LEAP–1A29CJ,
LEAP–1A30, LEAP–1A32, LEAP–1A33,
LEAP–1A33B2, and LEAP–1A35A
(LEAP–1A) engines. AD 2023–09–06
required replacement of certain highpressure turbine (HPT) rotor stage 1
disks (HPT stage 1 disks), forward outer
seals, and compressor rotor stages 6–10
spools. AD 2023–09–06 also prohibited
installation of an HPT stage 1 disk,
forward outer seal, or compressor rotor
stages 6–10 spool that has a part number
and serial number identified in the
service information onto any engine.
Since the FAA issued AD 2023–09–06,
the manufacturer identified additional
affected parts that were manufactured
from material suspected to have reduced
material properties due to iron
inclusion, which prompted this AD.
This AD retains the requirements to
replace certain HPT stage 1 disks,
forward outer seals, and compressor
rotor stages 6–10 spools and expands
the applicability to include additional
affected parts manufactured from the
same material suspected to have
reduced material properties due to iron
inclusion. The FAA is issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD is effective July 25,
2025.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of July 25, 2025.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain other publications listed in
this AD as of June 23, 2023 (88 FR
32092, May 19, 2023).
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
SUMMARY:
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20JNR1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 90, Number 117 (Friday, June 20, 2025)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 26193-26195]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2025-11385]
========================================================================
Rules and Regulations
Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents
having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed
to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published
under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.
The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents.
========================================================================
Federal Register / Vol. 90, No. 117 / Friday, June 20, 2025 / Rules
and Regulations
[[Page 26193]]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2024-2666; Project Identifier MCAI-2024-00261-T;
Amendment 39-23062; AD 2025-12-04]
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: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Airbus Canada Limited Partnership Model BD-500-1A11 airplanes.
This AD was prompted by an investigation of an in-service hydraulic
fluid leakage event that indicated the potential use of an uncalibrated
torque wrench when tightening the union fittings at the pressure and
return interfaces of all three rudder hydraulic power control units
(PCUs). This AD requires properly torquing the rudder PCU hydraulic
fittings and applying the torque seal on the rudder PCU hydraulic
fittings. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on
these products.
DATES: This AD is effective July 25, 2025.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of July 25,
2025.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA-2024-2666; or in person at Docket Operations between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD
docket contains this final rule, the mandatory continuing airworthiness
information (MCAI), any comments received, and other information. The
address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation,
Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
For Transport Canda 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]. You may find this material on the
Transport Canada website at tc.canada.ca/en/aviation.
You may view this material at the FAA, Airworthiness
Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des
Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call 206-231-3195. It is also available at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA-2024-2666.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Brenda L. Buitrago, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone: 516-
288-7368; email: [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Airbus Canada
Limited Partnership Model BD-500-1A11 airplanes. The NPRM was published
in the Federal Register on December 20, 2024 (89 FR 104067). The NPRM
was prompted by AD CF-2024-13, dated April 29, 2024 (Transport Canada
AD CF-2024-13) (also referred to as the MCAI), issued by Transport
Canada, which is the aviation authority for Canada. The MCAI states an
investigation of an in-service hydraulic fluid leakage event indicated
the potential use of an uncalibrated torque wrench when tightening the
union fittings at the pressure and return interfaces of all three
rudder PCUs. If not corrected, this condition could cause the union
fittings to come loose and leak, resulting in the potential loss of one
or more hydraulic systems.
In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require properly torquing the
rudder PCU hydraulic fittings and applying the torque seal on the
rudder PCU hydraulic fittings, as specified in Transport Canada AD CF-
2024-13. The FAA is issuing 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-2024-2666.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA received a comment from The Air Line Pilots Association,
International (ALPA), who supported the NPRM without change.
The FAA received additional comments from two commenters, Airbus
Canada Limited Partnership and Delta Air Lines, Inc. (Delta). The
following presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA's
response to each comment.
Request To Remove, Revise, or Clarify the Exception for Leak Repair
Delta requested the FAA either remove the exception in paragraph
(h)(3) of the proposed AD or revise it to require ensuring that any
hydraulic leak is within the leakage limits, instead of requiring the
leak to be repaired before further flight as proposed. As
justification, Delta stated Transport Canada AD CF-2024-13 references
service information, which in turn references an airplane maintenance
program (AMP) task that contains allowable leakage limits for seals on
the rudder PCU, ensuring the leak rate does not exceed the allowable
limit. Delta also stated they received confirmation from Airbus Canada
Limited Partnership indicating that allowable leaks as defined in the
AMP task are acceptable. Delta, therefore, concluded that the exception
in paragraph (h)(3) of the proposed AD contradicts the allowable
leakage limits of the AMP task, and that it causes extra strain on
operators who have already accomplished the procedures in the
referenced service information because those operators are not able to
demonstrate compliance with the proposed AD, unless the exception is
removed or revised.
Airbus requested the FAA explain why the FAA's proposed AD does not
allow the same leak tolerance provided in Transport Canada AD CF-2024-
13.
[[Page 26194]]
The FAA agrees that some leaks may be permissible if the leak rate
is within the allowable leakage limits of the AMP task. It is not the
FAA's intent to require different actions than those required by
Transport Canada AD CF-2024-13. Therefore, the FAA has revised the
``Material Incorporated by Reference Under 1 CFR part 51'' paragraph to
clarify that, in addition to other specified actions, the corrective
actions include testing for leakage limits to ensure any leak is within
the applicable leakage tolerance and replacing the rudder PCU.
Accordingly, the FAA has revised paragraph (h)(3) of this AD to specify
that the visual inspection for hydraulics leaks at all coil tube
fittings of the upper, middle, and lower rudder PCUs and all applicable
corrective actions must be performed, and that all applicable
corrective actions must be done before further flight except as
specified in steps 13 and 22 of AMP BD500-A-J27-21-01-01AAA-364B-A.
Conclusion
These products have been approved by the civil aviation authority
of another country and are approved for operation in the United States.
Pursuant to the FAA's bilateral agreement with this State of Design
Authority, that authority has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition
described in the MCAI referenced above. The FAA reviewed the relevant
data, considered any comments received, and determined that air safety
requires adopting this AD as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing
this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. Except for
minor editorial changes, and any other changes described previously,
this AD is adopted as proposed in the NPRM. None of the changes will
increase the economic burden on any operator.
Material Incorporated by Reference Under 1 CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed Transport Canada AD CF-2024-13, dated April 29,
2024. This material specifies procedures for properly torquing the
rudder PCU hydraulic fittings and applying the torque seal on the
rudder PCU hydraulic fittings, which includes cleaning any leaks at the
coil B-nut connections, performing a visual inspection for hydraulics
leaks for all rudder PCU coil tube fittings, and applicable corrective
actions. The corrective actions include tightening the nut to the
specified torque, testing for leakage limits to ensure any leak is
within the applicable leakage tolerance, replacing any defective
components, and replacing the rudder PCU. This material is reasonably
available because the interested parties have access to it through
their normal course of business or by the means identified in the
ADDRESSES section.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 5 airplanes of U.S.
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs for Required Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Up to 9 work-hours x $85 per hour = Up to $765.. $0 * Up to $765............ Up to $3,825.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The FAA has received no definitive data on which to base the cost estimates for the replacement cost.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States,
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
2025-12-04 Airbus Canada Limited Partnership (Type Certificate
Previously Held by C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership (CSALP);
Bombardier, Inc.): Amendment 39-23062; Docket No. FAA-2024-2666;
Project Identifier MCAI-2024-00261-T.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective July 25, 2025.
(b) Affected Ads
None.
(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-500-1A11 airplanes, certificated
in any category, as identified in Transport Canada AD CF-2024-13,
dated April 29, 2024 (Transport Canada AD CF-2024-13).
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 29, Hydraulic
Power.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by an investigation of an in-service
leakage event that indicated
[[Page 26195]]
the use potential of an uncalibrated torque wrench when tightening
the union fittings at the pressure and return interfaces of all
three rudder hydraulic power control units (PCUs). The FAA is
issuing this AD to address union fittings that could come loose and
leak when improperly torqued. The unsafe condition, if not
addressed, could result in the potential loss of one or more
hydraulic systems.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this AD: Comply with all
required actions and compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, Transport Canada AD CF-2024-13.
(h) Exception To Transport Canada AD CF-2024-13
(1) Where Transport Canada AD CF-2024-13 refers to its effective
date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(2) Where Transport Canada AD CF-2024-13 refers to hours air
time, this AD requires using flight hours.
(3) Where the material referenced in Transport Canada AD CF-
2024-13 specifies to ``perform a visual inspection for hydraulics
leaks for all Rudder PCUs coil tube fitting (Upper, Middle and
Lower) in accordance with to AMP BD500-A-J27-21-01-01AAA-364B-A'',
this AD requires replacing that text with ``perform a visual
inspection for hydraulics leaks for all Rudder PCUs coil tube
fittings (Upper, Middle and Lower) and do all applicable corrective
actions in accordance with AMP BD500-A-J27-21-01-01AAA-364B-A. Do
all applicable corrective actions before further flight except as
specified in steps 13 and 22 of AMP BD500-A-J27-21-01-01AAA-364B-
A''.
(i) No Reporting Requirement
Although the material referenced in Transport Canada AD CF-2024-
13 specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this
AD does not include that requirement.
(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
AIR-520, Continued Operational Safety Branch, send it to the
attention of the person identified in paragraph (k) 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 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 Brenda L. Buitrago,
Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA
98198; phone: 516-288-7368; email: [email protected].
(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 this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Transport Canada AD CF-2024-13, dated April 29, 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]. You may find this Transport
Canada material on the Transport Canada website at 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 June 12, 2025.
Peter A. White,
Deputy Director, Integrated Certificate Management Division, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2025-11385 Filed 6-18-25; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P