Department of Transportation March 2005 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

This notice is provided to inform the aviation community that effective immediately, the FAA's General Aviation And Commercial Division, AFS-800, will accept for approval new Flight Instructor Refresher Clinic (FIRC) training course outlines that meet the standards set forth in Advisory Circular (AC) 61-83E, Nationally Scheduled Federal Aviation Administration Approved Industry-Conducted Flight Instructor Refresher Clinics. This rescinds the Federal Register notice (FR Doc. 04-6149) issued March 11, 2004.

The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica S.A. (EMBRAER) Model EMB-135 and -145 series airplanes. This proposed AD would require inspecting to determine the part number of the left and right engine fire handles; and replacing the engine fire handles with engine fire handles having different part numbers if necessary. This proposed AD is prompted by cases of the internal circuit of the engine fire handle failing. We are proposing this AD to prevent failure of the internal circuit of the engine fire handle that could disable the fuel shut-off valves and the discharge of the fire extinguishing agent, which, in the event of a fire, could result in the inability to extinguish a fire.

The FAA is superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for Rolls-Royce (1971) Limited, Bristol Engine Division (RR) model Viper Mk.601-22 turbojet engines. That AD currently requires reducing the life of certain 1st stage turbine rotor blades from 7,000 hours time-in-service (TIS) to 4,600 hours TIS, and provides a drawdown schedule for blades that have already exceeded the new reduced life limit. This AD requires the same actions but changes certain compliance times to be in agreement with RR Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. 72- A184, dated January 2001. This AD results from comments received on AD 2004-13-03, that the AD is unnecessarily more restrictive than the requirements in the associated RR ASB No. 72-A184. We are issuing this AD to prevent multiple failures of 1st stage turbine rotor blades that could result in a dual-engine shutdown.

The FAA is superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for General Electric Company (GE) CF34-8C1 series and CF34-8C5 series turbofan engines, with certain serial number (SN) master variable geometry (VG) actuators installed. That AD currently requires initial and repetitive reviews of the airplane Maintenance Data Computer (MDC) for master VG actuator fault messages, and if the MDC is inoperative, reviews of the Engine Indication and Crew Alerting System (EICAS) for fault messages. That AD also requires replacing actuators reported faulty by the Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC). This ad requires those same actions, and expands the applicability to additional actuators by part number (P/N) and SN. This AD also prohibits installation of affected master VG actuators onto any CF34- 8C1 and CF34-8C5 engine after the effective date of this AD. This AD results from the need to add to the list of affected parts, master VG actuators made by parts manufacturer approval (PMA). We are issuing this AD to prevent dual-channel electrical signal faults in the VG master actuator, which will cause an uncommanded reduction of thrust to idle with a subsequent loss of the ability to advance thrust above idle, and which will result in a multiengine loss of thrust if dual- channel faults occur on more than one engine simultaneously.

This notice proposes special conditions for the Bombardier Aerospace Models BD-700-1A10 and BD-700-1A11 Global Express airplanes. These airplanes, as modified by Bombardier Aerospace Corporation, will have an Enhanced Flight Visibility System (EFVS). The EFVS is a novel or unusual design feature which consists of a head up display (HUD) system modified to display forward-looking infrared (FLIR) imagery. The regulations applicable to pilot compartment view do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards for this design feature. These proposed special conditions contain the additional safety standards that the Administrator considers necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that provided by the existing airworthiness standards.

The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Model BAe 146 and Avro 146-RJ series airplanes. This proposed AD would require modifying the auxiliary power unit (APU) exhaust duct in the environmental control system (ECS) bay; installing new, improved insulation on this APU exhaust duct; and replacing the existing drain pipe with a new exhaust drain pipe blank. This proposed AD is prompted by a determination that the temperature of the skin of the APU exhaust duct in the ECS bay is higher than the certificated maximum temperature for this area. We are proposing this AD to prevent the potential for ignition of fuel or hydraulic fluid, which could leak from pipes running through the ECS bay. Ignition of these flammable fluids could result in a fire in the ECS bay.

The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain EMBRAER Model EMB-145 and -135 series airplanes. This proposed AD would require replacing the horizontal stabilizer control unit (HSCU) with a modified and reidentified or new, improved HSCU. For certain airplanes, this proposed AD would also require related concurrent actions as necessary. This proposed AD is prompted by reports of loss of the pitch trim system due to a simultaneous failure of both channels of the HSCU. We are proposing this AD to prevent loss of pitch trim and reduced controllability of the airplane.

The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Boeing Model 757-200, -200CB, and -200PF series airplanes. This proposed AD would require an inspection of each trailing edge flap transmission assembly to determine the part number and serial number, and related investigative and corrective actions and part marking if necessary. This proposed AD is prompted by a report indicating that cracked flap transmission output gears have been discovered during routine overhaul of the trailing edge flap transmission assemblies. We are proposing this AD to prevent an undetected flap skew, which could result in a flap loss, damage to adjacent airplane systems, and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane.

The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier Model DHC-8-400, -401, and -402 airplanes. This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections to detect discrepancies of the attachment fittings of the outboard flap front spar at flap track Number 4 and Number 5 locations, and corrective actions if necessary. This proposed AD also would require eventual replacement of the attachment fittings as terminating action for the repetitive inspections. This proposed AD is prompted by the discovery of several airplanes that have loose flap front spar attachment fittings at flap track Number 4 and Number 5 locations. We are proposing this AD to prevent the attachment fittings from becoming detached, and consequent loss of control of the airplane.

The FAA proposes to supersede an existing airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to all Bombardier Model DHC-8-101, -102, - 103, -106, -201, -202, -301, -311, and -315 airplanes. The existing AD currently requires installation of a placard on the instrument panel of the cockpit to advise the flightcrew that positioning of the power levers below the flight idle stop during flight is prohibited. Additionally, the existing AD requires eventual installation of an FAA- approved system that would prevent such positioning of the power levers during flight. Installation of that system terminates the requirement for installation of a placard. This proposed AD would require operators who have incorporated a certain Bombardier service bulletin to perform repetitive operational checks of the beta lockout system and to revise the Airworthiness Limitations document. This proposed AD is prompted by in-service issues reported by operators who incorporated Bombardier Service Bulletin 8-76-24 as an alternative method of compliance to the existing AD. We are proposing this AD to prevent the inadvertent activation of ground beta mode during flight, which could lead to engine overspeed, engine damage or failure, and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Park Service (NPS) are establishing a Grand Canyon Working Group within the National Parks Overflights Advisory Group (NPOAG) to provide advice and recommendations regarding the implementation of the National Parks Overflights Act of 1987 with respect to the Grand Canyon. To the extent that recommendations involve aviation rulemaking, the Working Group will also participate in the development of the rule(s). This notice informs the public of the establishment of the Grand Canyon Working Group, describes its structure and qualifications for membership, and provides for nominations for membership in the Working Group.

This amendment supersedes an existing airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to the airplane models listed above. That AD currently requires repetitive inspections to detect discrepancies of the transfer tubes and the collar of the ball nut of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA), and corrective action if necessary. This amendment expands the applicability of the existing AD; and requires new repetitive inspections for discrepancies of the ball screw assembly; corrective action if necessary; repetitive greasing of the THSA ball nut, and replacement of the THSA if necessary; and a modification or replacement (as applicable) of the ball nut assembly, which would end certain repetitive inspections. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent degraded operation of the THSA due to the entrance of water into the ball nut. Degraded operation could lead to reduced controllability of the airplane. This action is intended to address the identified unsafe condition.

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain McDonnell Douglas Model DC-9-10, -20, -30, -40, and -50 series airplanes; and Model DC-9-81 (MD-81) and DC-9-82 (MD-82) airplanes. This AD requires repetitive detailed inspections of the upper and lower caps of the rear spar of the left and right wings, and corrective action if necessary. This AD also provides an optional modification that would end the repetitive inspections. This AD is prompted by reports of fatigue cracks in the upper and lower caps of the wing spar. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking in the upper and lower caps of the rear spar of the left and right wings, which could result in structural failure of the wings.

As authorized by Public Law 105-383 and Public Law 107-295, the Secretary of Transportation, as represented by the Maritime Administration (MARAD), is authorized to grant waivers of the U.S.- build requirement of the coastwise laws under certain circumstances. A request for such a waiver has been received by MARAD. The vessel, and a brief description of the proposed service, is listed below. The complete application is given in DOT docket 2005-20710 at https:// dms.dot.gov. Interested parties may comment on the effect this action may have on U.S. vessel builders or businesses in the U.S. that use U.S.-flag vessels. If MARAD determines, in accordance with Public Law 105-383 and MARAD's regulations at 46 CFR part 388 (68 FR 23084; April 30, 2003), that the issuance of the waiver will have an unduly adverse effect on a U.S.-vessel builder or a business that uses U.S.-flag vessels in that business, a waiver will not be granted. Comments should refer to the docket number of this notice and the vessel name in order for MARAD to properly consider the comments. Comments should also state the commenter's interest in the waiver application, and address the waiver criteria given in Sec. 388.4 of MARAD's regulations at 46 CFR part 388.

As authorized by Public Law 105-383 and Public Law 107-295, the Secretary of Transportation, as represented by the Maritime Administration (MARAD), is authorized to grant waivers of the U.S.- build requirement of the coastwise laws under certain circumstances. A request for such a waiver has been received by MARAD. The vessel, and a brief description of the proposed service, is listed below. The complete application is given in DOT docket 2005-20711 at https:// dms.dot.gov. Interested parties may comment on the effect this action may have on U.S. vessel builders or businesses in the U.S. that use U.S.-flag vessels. If MARAD determines, in accordance with Public Law 105-383 and MARAD's regulations at 46 CFR part 388 (68 FR 23084; April 30, 2003), that the issuance of the waiver will have an unduly adverse effect on a U.S.-vessel builder or a business that uses U.S.-flag vessels in that business, a waiver will not be granted. Comments should refer to the docket number of this notice and the vessel name in order for MARAD to properly consider the comments. Comments should also state the commenter's interest in the waiver application, and address the waiver criteria given in Sec. 388.4 of MARAD's regulations at 46 CFR part 388.

As authorized by Public Law 105-383 and Public Law 107-295, the Secretary of Transportation, as represented by the Maritime Administration (MARAD), is authorized to grant waivers of the U.S.- build requirement of the coastwise laws under certain circumstances. A request for such a waiver has been received by MARAD. The vessel, and a brief description of the proposed service, is listed below. The complete application is given in DOT docket 2005-20683 at https:// dms.dot.gov. Interested parties may comment on the effect this action may have on U.S. vessel builders or businesses in the U.S. that use U.S.-flag vessels. If MARAD determines, in accordance with Public Law 105-383 and MARAD's regulations at 46 CFR part 388 (68 FR 23084; April 30, 2003), that the issuance of the waiver will have an unduly adverse effect on a U.S.-vessel builder or a business that uses U.S.-flag vessels in that business, a waiver will not be granted. Comments should refer to the docket number of this notice and the vessel name in order for MARAD to properly consider the comments. Comments should also state the commenter's interest in the waiver application, and address the waiver criteria given in Sec. 388.4 of MARAD's regulations at 46 CFR part 388.

This document sets forth the schedule for the meetings of the Negotiated Rulemaking Advisory Committee on Minimum Standards for Driver's Licenses and Personal Identification Cards. Pursuant to section 7212 of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004, the Office of the Secretary, DOT, is establishing a committee to develop, through negotiated rulemaking procedures, recommendations for minimum standards to tighten the security for driver's licenses and personal identification cards issued by States, in order for these documents to be accepted for use by Federal agencies for any official purpose, including identification, a given time after the final rule goes into effect. The committee will consist of persons who represent the interests affected by the proposed rule, i.e., State offices that issue driver's licenses or personal identification cards, elected State officials, the Departments of Transportation and Homeland Security, and other interested parties.

The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Rolls-Royce Corporation (RRC) (formerly Allison Engine Company) 501-D22A, 501-D22C, and 501-D22G turboprop engines. This proposed AD would require a onetime inspection for proper metal hardness of certain 1st stage, 2nd stage, 3rd stage, and 4th stage turbine wheels. This proposed AD results from a report of a turbine wheel found to be over dimensional limits, caused by improper metal hardness. We are proposing this AD to prevent uncontained turbine wheel failure, leading to damage of the airplane and total loss of engine power.

This action classifies aircraft used in commercial sightseeing flight operations over Grand Canyon National Park (GCNP) by the noise they produce. This amendment of 14 CFR part 93 is necessary to establish reasonably achievable requirements for aircraft operating in the GCNP to be considered as employing quiet aircraft technology. The FAA now refers to the designation as ``GCNP quiet aircraft technology'' rather than ``quiet technology'' to clarify that the scope of this rule is limited to aircraft operating in the GCNP. The FAA and NPS will use the GCNP quiet aircraft technology designation to consider establishing routes and corridors and in future actions to achieve substantial restoration of natural quiet and visitor experience in the GNCP. This rule does not require any action by commercial air tour operators, as it simply identifies which aircraft meet or do not meet the GCNP quiet aircraft technology designation. Further, this rule does not relieve GCNP commercial air tour operators of their operational limitations. Section 804(b) of the National Parks Air Tour Management Act directs the FAA, in consultation with the NPS and the Advisory Group (now known as the National Park Overflights Advisory Group Aviation Rulemaking Committee or NPOAG ARC) to consider establishing the GCNP quiet aircraft technology aircraft routes and corridors consistent with certain requirements.

In issuing this notice, the FAA incorporates, on an interim basis; two new assurances to the standard grant assurances that are required of a sponsor before receiving a grant under the Airport Improvement Program (AIP). Also, the FAA is modifying another grant assurance. Pursuant to applicable law, the Secretary of Transportation is required to provide notice in the Federal Register of, and to provide an opportunity for public comment on, proposals to modify the assurances and on proposals for additional AIR assurances. A notice of modification of Airport Improvement Program grant assurances and of the opportunity to comment was published in the Federal Register/Vol. 69, No. 163/Tuesday, August 24, 2004 on page 52057. The existing AIP grant assurances are being amended here for two reasons: To add two new assurances as required by Vision 100Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act, (Pub. L. 108-176) and to modify an existing assurance. The August 24 notice proposed, in addition to these new assurances to restructure the grant assurances to better reflect existing law. FAA also invited comments on all of the assurances for proposed changes or for possible recommendations to propose changes to existing statute. FAA is committed to this larger project and wishes to give full considerations to the comments received. At the same time, FAA is obligated to implement changes to law as timely as possible. Therefore, this notice is issued to implement the law with respect to the new assurances and the modified assurance while the larger project is being considered.

The FAA is issuing this notice to advise the public of a meeting of RTCA Special Committee 202: Portable Electronic Devices.

In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), this notice announces that the Information Collection Request (ICR) abstracted below has been forwarded to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for extension of the currently approved collection. The ICR describes the nature of the information collection and the expected burden. The Federal Register notice with a 60-day comment period soliciting comments on the following collection of information was published on December 24, 2004 on page 78520.

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A310 series airplanes; and Model A300 B4-600, B4- 600R, and F4-600R series airplanes, and Model C4 605R Variant F airplanes (collectively called A300-600). This AD requires one-time general visual, detailed, and tap test inspections for discrepancies in the structural integrity of the rudder and its attachments, and corrective actions if necessary. This AD is prompted by a report that, during cruise, a Model A310 series airplane lost most of its rudder, which was made from composite-fiber-reinforced plastic. Investigation revealed that most of the rudder, including the front spar portion above the three servo control actuators was missing. We are issuing this AD to prevent detachment of the rudder from the airplane, which could degrade airplane handling qualities and result in reduced controllability of the airplane.