Department of Transportation February 2005 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents
Results 101 - 150 of 233
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 737-100, -200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500, Series Airplanes
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Boeing Model 737-100, -200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500 series airplanes. This proposed AD would require an inspection for chafing of certain wire bundles located above the center fuel tank, corrective actions if necessary, and replacement of wire bundle clamps with new clamps. This proposed AD is prompted by the results of fuel system reviews conducted by the manufacturer. We are proposing this AD to prevent chafed wire bundles near the center fuel tank, which could cause electrical arcing through the tank wall and ignition of fuel vapor in the fuel tank, and result in a fuel tank explosion.
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 727 Airplanes, Equipped With An Auxiliary Fuel Tank Having a Fuel Pump Installed
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Boeing Model 727 airplanes equipped with an auxiliary fuel tank having a fuel pump installed. This proposed AD would require revising the airplane flight manual to include limitations on operating the fuel pumps for the auxiliary fuel tank. This proposed AD is prompted by a design review of the fuel pump installation, which revealed a potential unsafe condition related to the auxiliary fuel tank(s). We are proposing this AD to prevent dry operation of the fuel pumps for the auxiliary fuel tank, which could create a potential ignition source inside the auxiliary fuel tank that could result in a fire or explosion of the auxiliary fuel tank.
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 737-100, -200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500 Series Airplanes
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Boeing Model 737-100, -200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500 series airplanes. This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections of the stiffeners at left buttock line (LBL) and right buttock line (RBL) 6.15 for cracks; and replacement of both stiffeners with new, improved stiffeners if any stiffener is found cracked. This proposed AD would also allow replacement of both stiffeners at LBL and RBL 6.15 with new, improved stiffeners, which terminates the repetitive inspections. This proposed AD is prompted by reports of cracks in the stiffeners at LBL and RBL 6.15 on the rear spar of the wing center section. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct cracks in the stiffeners at LBL and RBL 6.15, which could result in damage to the keel beam structure and consequently reduce the capability of the airplane to sustain flight loads.
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 767 Series Airplanes
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Boeing Model 767 series airplanes. This proposed AD would require replacing hinge assemblies with new hinge assemblies in the outboard overhead stowage bins and reworking hinge assemblies in the outboard overhead stowage bins that are adjacent to curtain tracks. This proposed AD is prompted by reports of hinge assemblies of outboard overhead stowage bins breaking or the stowage bin doors not latching properly. We are proposing this AD to prevent the outboard overhead stowage bins opening during flight and releasing baggage, and consequently cause passenger injury and blockage of the aisles during emergency egress.
Airworthiness Directives; Dornier Model 328-300 Series Airplanes
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Dornier Model 328-300 series airplanes. This proposed AD would require installing a drain hole in the lower skin of the left- and right-hand elevator horns. This proposed AD is prompted by reports of water found in the elevator assembly. We are proposing this AD to prevent water or ice accumulating in the elevator assembly, which could result in possible corrosion that reduces the structural integrity of the flight control surface, or in an unbalanced flight control surface. These conditions could result in reduced controllability of the airplane.
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 737-300, -400, -500, -600, -700, -700C, -800 and -900 Series Airplanes
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Boeing Model 737-300, -400, -500, -600, -700, -700C, -800 and -900 series airplanes. This proposed AD would require installing an updated version of the operational program software (OPS) in the flight management computers (FMCs), and doing other specified actions. This proposed AD would also require reinstalling software, if necessary. This proposed AD is prompted by one operator reporting FMC map shifts on several Model 737-400 series airplanes with dual FMCs, using OPS version U10.4A. We are proposing this AD to prevent the FMC from displaying the incorrect actual navigation performance value to the flightcrew, which could prevent adequate alerting of a potential navigation error. This condition could result in a near miss with other airplanes or terrain, or collision if other warning systems also fail.
Organization and Delegation of Powers and Duties; Office of Intelligence, Security, and Emergency Response
The Secretary of Transportation (Secretary) renames the Office of Intelligence and Security as the Office of Intelligence, Security, and Emergency Response. The Secretary rescinds the currently delegated authority of the Administrator, Research and Special Programs Administration, to perform functions related to emergency preparedness and response vested in the Secretary and delegates the authority to the Director of Intelligence, Security, and Emergency Response in the Office of the Secretary.
Standard Airworthiness Certification of New Aircraft
The FAA seeks public comments on a proposal to amend the regulations for issuing a standard airworthiness certificate to certain new aircraft manufactured in the United States. The proposal addresses a concern that under the current regulations, certain new aircraft are eligible for a standard airworthiness certificate without meeting the requirements of a type certificate and without having been manufactured under an FAA production approval. The intended effect of this proposal is to ensure that new aircraft manufactured in the United States that receive a standard airworthiness certificate are type certificated and manufactured under an FAA production approval. The FAA also proposes to incorporate requirements contained in laws recently passed by Congress. A holder of a type certificate or supplemental type certificate who allows another person to use the certificate would have to provide written permission to that person. In addition, any person who manufactures an aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller based on a type certificate would have to either hold the type certificate or have a licensing agreement from the holder. The proposal would also prohibit a person from altering an aircraft based on a supplemental type certificate (STC) unless the owner or operator either holds the STC or has written permission from the holder. Additionally, it would require the owner or operator of an aircraft that has been altered based on written permission to use a supplemental type certificate to retain that permission and transfer it at the time the aircraft is sold.
Special Conditions: Boeing Model 747-100/200B/200F/200C/SR/SP/100B/300/ 100B SUD/400/400D/400F Airplanes; Flammability Reduction Means (Fuel Tank Inerting)
These special conditions are issued for the Boeing Model 747- 100/200B/200F/200C/SR/SP/100B/300/100B SUD/400/400D/400F series airplanes. These airplanes, as modified by Boeing Commercial Airplanes, include a new flammability reduction means that uses a nitrogen generation system to reduce the oxygen content in the center wing fuel tank so that exposure to a combustible mixture of fuel and air is substantially minimized. This system is intended to reduce the average flammability exposure of the fleet of airplanes with the system installed to a level equivalent to 3 percent of the airplane operating time. The applicable airworthiness regulations do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards for the design and installation of this system. These special conditions contain the additional safety standards the Administrator considers necessary to ensure an acceptable level of safety for the installation of the system and to define performance objectives the system must achieve to be considered an acceptable means for minimizing development of flammable vapors in the fuel tank installation.
Petitions for Exemption; Summary of Petitions Received
Pursuant to FAA's rulemaking provisions governing the application, processing, and disposition of petitions for exemption part 11 of Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR), this notice contains a summary of certain petitions seeking relief from specified requirements of 14 CFR, dispositions of certain petitions previously received, and corrections. The purpose of this notice is to improve the public's awareness of, and participation in, this aspect of FAA's regulatory activities. Neither publication of this notice nor the inclusion or omission of information in the summary is intended to affect the legal status of any petition or its final disposition.
Advisory Circular (AC) 23-22, Guidance for Approved Model List (AML) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) Approval of Part 23 Airplane Avionics Installations
This notice announces the issuance of Advisory Circular (AC) 23-22. This advisory circular (AC) sets guidelines for using the Approved Model List (AML) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) process for the installation approval of avionics for 14 CFR, part 23 airplanes. It also applies to airplanes certified under a prior certification basis, such as CAR 3 or bulletin 7-A. Guidance provided in this AC applies only to avionics installations using the AML STC process. For other types of modifications to part 23 airplanes seeking to use the AML STC process, the Aircraft Certification Office (ACO) should coordinate with the Small Airplane Directorate. Avionics AML STC guidance provided in this AC addresses the following: (1) Avionics eligible for the AML STC process, (2) Model Qualification Process used by the STC holder and the FAA to either create or edit the AML, and (3) Level of Detail required for the installation instructions for an AML STC, including a list of acceptable equipment that can be integrated under the STC. Material in this AC is neither mandatory nor regulatory in nature and does not constitute a regulation. In addition, this material is not to be construed as having any legal status and should be treated accordingly. However, it is designed to provide standardization guidelines for AML STC approvals. The AML STC process may be used whenever the ACO and the applicant agree that it is suitable. This AC is not applicable to any products certified under part 25, 27, or 29. The draft advisory circular was issued for Public Comment on October 8, 2004 (69 FR 60452). When possible, comments received were used to modify the draft advisory circular.
Revocation of Class D Airspace; South Lake Tahoe, CA
This action revokes the Class D airspace area for the South Lake Tahoe Airport, South Lake Tahoe, California. The FAA is taking this action due to closure of the Airport Traffic Control Tower (ATCT).
Glider Towing as a Restricted Category Special Purpose Flight Operation
This notice announces glider towing as a restricted category special purpose operation under Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) Sec. 21.25(B)(7), for aircraft type certificated under 14 CFR 21.25(a)(1).
Title VI Regulations for Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Financial Assistance Recipients
FMCSA issues this Interim Final Rule (IFR) to clarify and modify the applicability of certain Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and Departmental Title VI provisions that implement Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and related nondiscrimination statutes, as they apply to FMCSA Federal financial assistance recipients. The ``savings provision'' of section 106(b) of the Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act of 1999 provides the opportunity for this clarification and modification. As part of this initiative, FMCSA establishes a new Part 303 under 49 CFR chapter III, Subchapter A, for future FMCSA Title VI implementing regulations and any future guidelines on Title VI compliance. This IFR will provide FMCSA with initial guidelines and procedures for implementing its Title VI procedures. This will be done by continuing to apply and use the Departmental umbrella Title VI regulations in 49 CFR part 21 to any program or activity for which Federal financial assistance is authorized under a law administered by FMCSA. FMCSA will remain subject to those Title VI requirements at the Departmental level, and will develop as needed further guidelines and procedures in accordance with the law to assure effective and consistent implementation for financially assisted recipients. FMCSA also removes itself from the FHWA Title VI regulations set forth at 23 CFR part 200, because they are not appropriate for FMCSA programs and activities. Doing so will avoid any potential confusion while not altering the substantive Title VI obligations of FMCSA and its grantees.
Airworthiness Directives; DG Flugzeugbau GmbH Model DG-500MB Sailplanes and Glaser-Dirks Flugzeugbau GmbH Model DG-800B Sailplanes
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all DG Flugzeugbau GmbH Model DG-500MB sailplanes equipped with a Solo engine and Glaser-Dirks Flugzeugbau GmbH Model DG-800B sailplanes equipped with a Solo engine. This proposed AD would require you to inspect the propeller for damage, specifically foam core separation, and replace any damaged propeller. This proposed AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Germany. We are issuing this proposed AD to detect and correct damage to the propeller, which could result in failure of the propeller to perform properly. This failure could lead to reduced or loss of control of the sailplane.
Environmental Impact Statement: U.S. 127 N/S.R. 28, Cumberland and Fentress Counties, TN
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is issuing this notice to advise the public that an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) will be prepared for a proposed highway project in Cumberland and Fentress Counties, Tennessee.
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 747 Airplanes
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Boeing Model 747 airplanes. This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections of the dual side braces (DSBs), underwing midspar fittings, and associated parts; other specified actions; and corrective actions if necessary. This proposed AD also provides an optional terminating action for the inspections and other specified actions. This proposed AD is prompted by reports of corroded, migrated, and rotated bearings for the DSBs in the inboard and outboard struts, a report of a fractured retainer for the eccentric bushing for one of the side links of a DSB, and reports of wear and damage to the underwing midspar fitting on the outboard strut. We are proposing this AD to prevent the loss of a DSB or underwing midspar fitting load path, which could result in the transfer of loads and motion to other areas of a strut, and possible separation of a strut and engine from the airplane during flight.
Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision
This notice publishes the FMCSA decision to renew the exemptions from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for 17 individuals. The FMCSA has statutory authority to exempt individuals from vision standards if the exemptions granted will not compromise safety. The agency has concluded that granting these exemptions will provide a level of safety that will be equivalent to, or greater than, the level of safety maintained without the exemptions for these commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers.
Notice of Request for Clearance of a New Information Collection: Bus Crash Causation Study
In accordance with the requirement in section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA), the FMCSA is announcing that the new information collection request described in this notice is being sent to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval. We are required under the PRA to send information collection requests to OMB. This information collection is related to a study of the causation of commercial motor vehicle crashes mandated by the Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act of 1999. The bus study will fulfill the bus portion of this mandate and aid in the determination of the reasons for, and factors contributing to, serious bus crashes. The Federal Register notice announcing a 60-day comment period on this information collection was published on August 23, 2004 (69 FR 51879).
Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision
This notice publishes the FMCSA decision to renew the exemptions from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for 28 individuals. The FMCSA has statutory authority to exempt individuals from vision standards if the exemptions granted will not compromise safety. The agency has concluded that granting these exemptions will provide a level of safety that will be equivalent to, or greater than, the level of safety maintained without the exemptions for these commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers.
Reports by Carriers on Incidents Involving Animals During Air Transport
The Department of Transportation (Department or DOT) is making a technical change to the August 11, 2003, final rule implementing section 710 of the Wendell H. Ford Aviation Investment and Reform Act for the 21st Century (AIR-21) to require the reporting airlines to submit the required information on the loss, injury, or death of an animal during air transport to DOT's Aviation Consumer Protection Division rather than the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and, accordingly, is making the rule part of DOT's economic regulations.
Regulations To Be Followed by All Departments and Agencies Having Responsibility To Provide a Preference for U.S.-Flag Vessels in the Shipment of Cargoes on Ocean Vessels
The Maritime Administration (MARAD, we, our) is withdrawing an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) published in the Federal Register on January 28, 1999, which requested comments on proposed amendments to MARAD's cargo preference regulations. Based on comments received and on continuing discussions with other Federal agencies, there are several issues on which MARAD and other Federal agencies have yet to reach agreement. MARAD is involved in a negotiation process with other agencies in order to resolve these issues. Once discussions and negotiations with other agencies are complete, MARAD will initiate a new rulemaking action.
Vehicles Built in Two or More Stages
The final rule amends four different parts of title 49 to address the certification issues related to vehicles built in two or more stages and, to a lesser degree, to altered vehicles. The amendments allow the use of pass-through certification so that it can be used not only for multi-stage vehicles based on chassis-cabs, but also for those based on other types of incomplete vehicles. The amendments also create a new process under which intermediate and final-stage manufacturers and alterers can obtain temporary exemptions from dynamic performance requirements, and provide an automatic one year of additional lead time for new safety requirements for intermediate and final-stage manufacturers and alterers, unless the agency determines with respect to a particular requirement that a longer or shorter time period is appropriate. This final rule also refines the agency's interpretation of ``vehicle type'' to more appropriately reflect the congressional and judicial considerations. Because vehicles built in two or more stages are more properly considered a ``vehicle type,'' the agency will be able more properly to consider the benefits and burdens of various compliance options when developing Federal motor vehicle standards.
Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Model AS350B, BA, B1, B2, B3, C, D, D1, and EC130 B4 Helicopters
This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Model AS350B, BA, B1, B2, B3, C, D, D1, and EC130 B4 helicopters that requires removing and modifying the fuel bleed lever. This amendment is prompted by some cases of loss of the fuel bleed lever in flight. If the tension of the control cable is too low, the cable may vibrate out of its notch, resulting in the fuel bleed lever separating from the hinge. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent a fuel bleed lever from separating and striking the tail rotor blade (blade), resulting in damage to or loss of a blade, and subsequent vibration and loss of control of the helicopter.
Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Model EC 155B, EC155B1, SA-360C, SA-365C, SA-365C1, SA-365C2, SA-365N, SA-365N1, AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, and SA-366G1 Helicopters
This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the specified Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) model helicopters. This action requires an initial and repetitive borescope inspection of the main gearbox (MGB) planet gear carrier or an initial and repetitive visual inspection of the MGB planet gear carrier for a crack. Replacing any MGB that has a cracked planet gear carrier is required before further flight. This amendment is prompted by the discovery of cracks in the web of the planet gear carrier. The actions specified in this AD are intended to detect a crack in the web of the planet gear carrier, which could lead to a MGB seizure and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A300 B2 and B4 Series Airplanes
This amendment supersedes an existing airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to all Airbus Model A300 B2 and B4 series airplanes. The existing AD currently requires determining the part and amendment number of the variable lever arm (VLA) of the rudder control system to verify the parts were installed using the correct standard, and corrective actions if necessary. For certain VLAs, this new AD requires repetitive inspections of the VLA and corrective action if necessary. This new AD also provides a terminating action for the repetitive inspections. Furthermore, this new AD reduces the applicability of affected airplanes. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent failure of both spring boxes of certain VLAs due to corrosion damage, which could result in loss of rudder control and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane. This action is intended to address the identified unsafe condition.
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330, A340-200, and A340-300 Series Airplanes
This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to certain Airbus Model A330, A340-200, and A340-300 series airplanes. This AD requires initial and repetitive inspections of certain frame stiffeners to detect cracking. If any cracking is found, this AD requires replacement of the stiffener with a new, reinforced stiffener. Replacement of the stiffener constitutes terminating action for certain inspections. This AD also requires a one-time inspection of any new, reinforced stiffener; and repair or replacement of the new, reinforced stiffener if any cracking is found during the one-time inspection. This AD also provides for an optional terminating action for certain requirements of this AD. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent fatigue failure of certain frame stiffener fittings, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane. This action is intended to address the identified unsafe condition.
Airworthiness Directives; Raytheon Model DH.125, HS.125, and BH.125 Series Airplanes; BAe.125 Series 800A (C-29A and U-125) and 800B Airplanes; and Hawker 800 (Including Variant U-125A) and 800XP Airplanes; Equipped with TFE731 Engines
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Raytheon Model DH.125, HS.125, and BH.125 series airplanes; BAe.125 series 800A (C-29A and U-125) and 800B airplanes; and Hawker 800 (including variant U-125A) and 800XP airplanes. This AD requires installing insulating blankets on the engine compartment firewall and the wire harness passing through the firewall fairlead. This AD is prompted by a report indicating that insulation on the wire harness passing through the firewall fairlead ignited on the fuselage side of the firewall. We are issuing this AD to prevent a fire in the engine compartment from causing possible ignition of outgassing wire insulation on the fuselage side of the firewall, which could lead to an uncontrollable fire in the fuselage.
Airworthiness Directives; BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Model BAe 146 Series Airplanes and Model Avro 146-RJ Series Airplanes
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Model BAe 146 series airplanes and Model Avro 146-RJ series airplanes. This AD requires repetitive inspections to detect discrepancies of the fuselage skin and reinforcing plates along the wing to fuselage fairing access panels on the left- and right-hand sides of the airplane, and repair if necessary. This AD also provides for an optional terminating action for the repetitive inspections. This AD is prompted by a report of chafing on the wing to fuselage fairing panels. We are issuing this AD to prevent chafing of the fuselage skin and reinforcing plates, which could lead to reduced structural integrity of the airplane's fuselage.
Compass Port LLC Liquefied Natural Gas Deepwater Port License Application; Draft Environmental Impact Statement
The U.S. Coast Guard and the Maritime Administration announce the availability of the draft environmental impact statement for this license application. The application describes a project that would be located in the Outer Continental Shelf and Mississippi Sound areas of the Gulf of Mexico, approximately 11 miles south of Dauphin Island, AL, in lease block Mobile 910. The draft environmental impact statement is a Coast Guard document with several agencies, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission acting as cooperating agencies in the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 process, as described by 40 CFR 1501.6. The Coast Guard is the lead federal agency in the preparation of the draft environmental impact statement for the liquefied natural gas terminal, construction of the gravity-based structures, and the associated offshore and onshore pipelines. The joint document will satisfy the requirements of the Deepwater Port Act. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will assist in the preparation of the draft environmental impact statements for permits pursuant to section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 (33 U.S.C. 403) and section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344). The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission will assist in the preparation of the draft environmental impact statement for the onshore pipeline. Even though an affiliate of Compass Port LLC must separately apply for and receive an authorization for the onshore pipeline, and from the Army Corps of Engineers for the appropriate section 10 and 404 permits, this draft environmental impact statement will assess the environmental impacts of both the onshore and offshore portions of the project. The lead agencies (Coast Guard and Maritime Administration), as well as the cooperating agencies (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers), request public comments on the draft environmental impact statement.
Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus Aircraft Limited Models B4- PC11, B4-PC11A, and B4-PC11AF Sailplanes
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Pilatus Aircraft Limited (Pilatus) Models B4-PC11, B4-PC11A, and B4-PC11AF sailplanes. This proposed AD would require you to repetitively inspect the control-column support for cracks and, if any cracks are found, replace the control-column support with a new support. This proposed AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for Switzerland. We are issuing this proposed AD to detect and correct cracks in the control-column support, which could result in failure of the support. This failure could lead to loss of the primary flight control system.
Airworthiness Directives; Bell Helicopter Textron, A Division of Textron Canada Model 222, 222B, 222U and 230 Helicopters
This amendment supersedes an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for Bell Helicopter Textron, A Division of Textron Canada (BHTC) Model 222, 222B, 222U, and 230 helicopters, that currently requires a visual check of each main rotor grip (grip) and pitch horn assembly without disassembling the main rotor hub assembly (hub assembly), and a visual inspection at specified intervals of each affected grip and pitch horn assembly for a crack using a 10-power or higher magnifying glass. If a crack is found, the existing AD requires replacing each unairworthy grip or pitch horn with an airworthy part before further flight. This amendment requires those same actions, and also requires an additional inspection of the grip and pitch horn assembly for a crack in the disassembled hub assembly, and replacing any cracked part with an airworthy part. This amendment is prompted by the determination that an additional enhanced inspection is needed to ensure the integrity of the hub assembly. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent failure of the grip or pitch horn and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
Redesignation of Mountainous Areas in Alaska
This final rule updates the designated mountainous areas in the State of Alaska. Regulations currently designating mountainous areas in Alaska were established in 1956. Since that time, we have concluded that areas previously considered non-mountainous should be expanded, and two areas previously designated mountainous should be considered non-mountainous. This final rule will allow aircraft operating in certain non-mountainous areas to fly at altitudes acceptable for the actual topography of the area.
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 767-200 and -300 Series Airplanes
The FAA is superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD), which applies to certain Boeing Model 767 series airplanes. That AD currently requires repetitive detailed and eddy current inspections of the aft pressure bulkhead for damage and cracking, and repair if necessary. This new AD also requires one-time detailed and high frequency eddy current inspections of any ``oil-can'' located on the aft pressure bulkhead, and related corrective actions if necessary. An ``oil-can'' is an area on a pressure dome web that moves when pushed from the forward side. This AD is prompted by reports of cracking at ``oil-can'' boundaries on the aft pressure bulkhead. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking of the aft pressure bulkhead, which could result in rapid depressurization of the airplane and possible damage or interference with the airplane control systems that penetrate the bulkhead, and consequent loss of controllability of the airplane.
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards; Low Speed Vehicles; Termination of Rulemaking
The purpose of this document is to announce the termination of a rulemaking in which the agency had considered adding additional conspicuity requirements applicable to low-speed vehicles (LSV), as well as a requirement that LSVs bear a label identifying the safety hazards associated with their operation in mixed traffic. Due to the absence of data showing a conspicuity-related safety problem with current LSV designs, the agency has decided to terminate the rulemaking.
Airworthiness Directives; MD Helicopters, Inc. Model 600N Helicopters
This document proposes superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for the MD Helicopters, Inc. (MDHI) Model 600N helicopters. That AD currently requires certain inspections of both upper tailboom attachments, nutplates, and angles for a crack or thread damage, and repairing or replacing any cracked or damaged part. Also, that AD requires replacing certain tailboom attachment bolts, adding a washer to each bolt, and modifying both upper access covers. This action would require installing six additional inspection holes in the aft fuselage skin panels and inspecting the upper and lower tailboom attachment fittings, the upper longerons, and the angles and nutplates for cracks. Also, the AD would provide a terminating action of modifying the fuselage aft section to strengthen the tailboom attachments and longerons. This proposal is prompted by an analysis that shows that certain tailboom attachments and longerons may develop cracks. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to prevent failure of a tailboom attachment, loss of the tailboom, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
Airworthiness Directives; Raytheon Aircraft Company 90, 99, 100, 200, and 300 Series Airplanes
This document incorporates corrections to Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2005-01-04, which was published in the Federal Register on January 6, 2005 (70 FR 1169) with regulatory corrections published on January 27, 2005 (70 FR 3871). AD 2005-01-04 applies to certain Raytheon Aircraft Company 90, 99, 100, 200, and 300 series airplanes. This action incorporates the corrections into one document to help eliminate any confusion. We are re-issuing the AD in its entirety.
Gulf Landing LLC Liquefied Natural Gas Deepwater Port License Application; Final Environmental Impact Statement Supplementary Material
The Coast Guard and the Maritime Administration (MARAD) announce the availability of material supplementing the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) for the Gulf Landing LLC Liquefied Natural Gas Deepwater Port License Application. The supplementary material corrects errors that appear in the FEIS.
Membership in the National Parks Overflights Advisory Group
The National Park Service (NPS) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), as required by the National Parks Air Tour Management Act of 2000, established the National Parks Overflights Advisory Group (NPOAG) in March 2001. The NPOAG was formed to provide continuing advice and counsel with respect to commercial air tour operations over and near national parks. This notice informs the public of two vacancies on the NPOAG (now the NPOAG Aviation Rulemaking Committee) for members representing environmental interests and invites interested persons to apply to fill the vacancies.
Airworthiness Directives; Agusta S.p.A. Model A109E Helicopters
This document proposes adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Agusta S.p.A. (Agusta) Model A109E helicopters. This proposal would require visually inspecting each main transmission support fitting (fitting) attachment bolt (bolt) for a fracture, a crack, or looseness, and verifying the torque on each fitting bolt. This proposal is prompted by two incidents of fatigue failure of the bolts that secure the transmission rear support fittings to the helicopter. The actions specified by this proposed AD are intended to detect a fracture, a crack, or looseness of a fitting bolt, and prevent fatigue failure of a fitting bolt and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Model AS355E, F, F1, F2, and N Helicopters
This document proposes superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for the specified Eurocopter France (ECF) model helicopters. That AD currently requires replacing certain main or combiner gearboxes with airworthy gearboxes. Further investigation has shown that the main gearbox is not affected, and this action would require replacing a certain combiner gearbox with a modified airworthy gearbox. This proposal is prompted by a report of a freewheel unit slipping resulting in an engine overspeed and shutdown. Also, this proposal is prompted by the conclusion of the investigation, which finds the freewheel slippage is due to the surface treatment applied to certain freewheel rollers in the combiner gearbox. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to prevent an engine overspeed, an engine shutdown, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
Airworthiness Directives; Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Model 407 Helicopters
This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Bell Helicopter Textron Canada (Bell) Model 407 helicopters that requires creating a component history card or equivalent record for each crosstube assembly, converting accumulated run-on landings to an accumulated Retirement Index Number (RIN) count, and establishing a maximum accumulated RIN for certain crosstube assemblies. This amendment is prompted by fatigue testing, analysis, and evaluation by the manufacturer that determined that run-on landings impose a high stress on landing gear or crosstubes and may cause cracking in the area above the skid tube saddle. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent fatigue failure in a crosstube assembly due to excessive stress during run-on landings and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
Airworthiness Directives; Agusta S.p.A. Model A119 Helicopters
This document proposes adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Agusta S.p.A. (Agusta) Model A119 helicopters. This proposal would require visually inspecting each main transmission support fitting (fitting) attachment bolt (bolt) for a fracture, a crack, or looseness, and verifying the torque on each fitting bolt. This proposal is prompted by two incidents of fatigue failure of the bolts that secure the transmission rear support fittings to the helicopter. The actions specified by this proposed AD are intended to detect a fracture, a crack, or looseness of a fitting bolt, and prevent fatigue failure of a fitting bolt and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Model EC120 Helicopters
This document proposes adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Model EC120 helicopters. This proposal would require inspecting the tail rotor drive shaft (drive shaft) damper half-clamps (half-clamps) to determine if they are centered on the friction ring, and if not correctly positioned, centering the half-clamps on the friction ring. This proposal is prompted by the discovery of half-clamps that were incorrectly positioned. This condition, if not detected, could result in interference of the two half-clamps with the drive shaft, which could result in scoring on the drive shaft, failure of the drive shaft, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 747-100, -100B, -100B SUD, -200B, -200C, -200F, and -300 Series Airplanes; and Model 747SP and 747SR Series Airplanes; Equipped With Pratt & Whitney Model JT9D-3, and -7 Series Engines
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Boeing transport category airplanes listed above. This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections for cracks of the upper surface of the aft lower spar web of the inboard and outboard struts, as applicable; and repetitive inspections for cracks of the upper surface of the intermediate web bay of the aft lower spar. This proposed AD would also require repetitive inspections and torque checks of the bolts common to the aft lower spar chords and the fitting of the rear engine mount bulkhead for missing, loose, or fractured bolts, as applicable; and corrective action, if necessary. This proposed AD is prompted by reports of cracking in the aft lower spar web and reports of missing and fractured bolts. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct cracking of the aft lower spar web, and to prevent missing, loose, or fractured bolts common to the aft lower spar chords and the fitting of the rear engine mount bulkhead, which could result in the loss of the aft lower spar load path and reduced structural capability of the pylon, which may result in the separation of the engine from the airplane.
Environmental Impact Statement: Clark County, Nevada
The FHWA is issuing this notice to advise the public that an environmental impact statement will be prepared for a proposed freeway corridor improvement project in the City of Las Vegas, Clark County, Nevada.
Hazardous Materials: Safety Requirements for External Product Piping on Cargo Tanks Transporting Flammable Liquids
RSPA is extending until April 28, 2005, the period for interested persons to submit comments on the December 30, 2004 notice of proposed rulemaking In the December 30, 2004 NPRM, we proposed to amend the Hazardous Materials Regulations to prohibit flammable liquids from being transported in unprotected product piping on existing and newly manufactured DOT specification cargo tank motor vehicles. If adopted as proposed, this action will reduce fatalities and injuries that result from accidents involving unprotected product piping. This proposal was developed jointly with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
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