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

This action establishes Class E airspace at Nikolai, AK to provide adequate controlled airspace to contain aircraft executing two new Standard Instrument Approach Procedures (SIAPs). This rule results in new Class E airspace upward from 700 feet (ft.) above the surface at Nikolai Airport, AK.

This action modifies Class E airspace at Egegik, AK to provide adequate controlled airspace to contain aircraft executing two revised Standard Instrument Approach Procedures (SIAPs). This rule results in revised Class E airspace upward from 700 feet (ft.) above the surface at Egegik Airport, AK.

The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for McCauley Propeller Systems models 3A32C406/82NDB-X and D3A32C409/ 82NDB-X propellers, installed on Teledyne Continental Motors (TCM) IO- 520, TSIO-520, or IO-550 reciprocating engines. These propellers are herein referred to as C406 and C409 propellers, respectively. This proposed AD would require adding an operational revolutions per minute (rpm) restriction on the C406 and C409 propellers, and installing an rpm restriction placard in the cockpit. This proposed AD would also add a 10,000-hour total time-in-service (TIS) life limit for these propellers. This proposed AD would also remove from service any propeller that has 10,000 hours or more total TIS, or that has an unknown total TIS. Also, this proposed AD would require initial and repetitive propeller blade inspections for damage, and repair if necessary. This proposed AD results from testing by the manufacturer that identified stress conditions that affect the fatigue life and damage tolerance of C406 and C409 propellers, when installed on TCM IO- 520, TSIO-520, or IO-550 reciprocating engines. We are proposing this AD to prevent blade or hub failure that could result in separation of a propeller blade and loss of control of the airplane.

This notice announces the availability of and requests comments on a proposed advisory circular (AC) revision that sets forth acceptable methods of compliance with Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR), part 25, concerning the crashworthiness requirements as applied to cabin interiors. Like all ACs, it is not regulatory but provides guidance for applicants in demonstrating compliance with the objective safety standards set forth in part 25. This notice is necessary to give all interested persons an opportunity to present their views on the proposed AC.

The FAA invites public comments about our intention to request the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB) renewal of a current information collection. Standards have been established for the operation of agricultural aircraft and for the dispensing of chemicals, pesticides, and toxic substances. Information collected shows applicant compliance and eligibility for certification by FAA.

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Boeing Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, and -900 series airplanes. This AD requires modification of certain wire bundles located above the center fuel tank. This AD results from fuel system reviews conducted by the manufacturer. We are issuing 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.

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Boeing Model 737 airplanes. This AD requires, for certain airplanes, a one-time detailed inspection for interference between a clamp assembly and the wires behind the P15 refuel panel, and corrective actions if necessary. For certain other airplanes, this AD requires a one-time detailed inspection for discrepancies of the wires behind the P15 refuel panel; and corrective and related investigative actions if necessary. This AD is prompted by evidence of chafed wiring behind the P15 refuel panel and arcing to the back of the P15 refuel panel and adjacent wing structure. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct chafing of the wiring behind the P15 refuel panel, which could lead to arcing and fire with consequent airplane damage and injury to refueling personnel.

This action changes the effective date of a final rule published in the Federal Register on October 18, 2005 (70 FR 60424), Airspace Docket No. 05-ASW-1. In that rule, the effective date was inadvertently published as December 22, 2005. This action changes the effective date to April 13, 2006.

The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier Model CL-600-2B19 (Regional Jet Series 100 & 440) airplanes. This proposed AD would require replacing the Camloc fasteners on the sidewall of the center pedestal. This proposed AD results from reports of the Camloc fasteners on the sidewall of the center pedestal disengaging and interfering with an inboard rudder pedal. We are proposing this AD to prevent these fasteners from disengaging and interfering with an inboard rudder pedal, which could reduce directional controllability of the airplane.

The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Model BAe 146 airplanes. This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections to measure the depth of chafing or scoring in the skin along the full length of the fairing from forward to aft ends at the contact between the seal and fuselage, and related investigative/corrective actions if necessary. This proposed AD results from a report of chafing in this area. We are proposing this AD to ensure the structural integrity of the fuselage.

Appendix A of this Notice contains the Federal Transit Administration's (FTA) comprehensive compilation of the certifications and assurances for Federal fiscal year 2006 to be used in connection with all Federal assistance programs that FTA administers during Federal fiscal year 2006. FTA is required by 49 U.S.C. 5323(n) to compile an annual list of certifications and assurances and publish them as required by 49 U.S.C. 5336(d)(2). Due to enactment of FTA's new authorizing legislation, the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), Pub. L. 109-59, Aug. 10, 2005, FTA's annual certifications and assurances have been revised to accommodate these legislative changes, as well as changes resulting from enactment of other recent Federal legislation.

This amendment amends Standard Instrument Approach Procedures (SIAPs) for operations at certain airports. These regulatory actions are needed because of changes occurring in the National Airspace System, such as the commissioning of new navigational facilities, addition of new obstacles, or changes in air traffic requirements. These changes are designed to provide safe and efficient use of the navigable airspace and to promote safe flight operations under instrument flight rules at the affected airports.

The Surface Transportation Board (Board) gives notice that the Board has submitted to OMB a request for review and clearance of the seven existing collections listed above, in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, 44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq. (PRA). For the most part, these collections continue current Board reporting requirements without revision. As described below, a minor revision has been made to Collection No.1, Class I Railroad Annual Report. OMB control numbers were obtained in the past, but have expired, for six of the seven information collections that are the subject of this request. The Board previously published a notice about these collections in the Federal Register on May 19, 2005 at 70 FR 28979. That notice allowed for a 60-day public review and comment period. No comments were received. The purpose of the current notice is to allow an additional 30 days for public comment to satisfy the requirements of the PRA, 44 U.S.C. 3507(b). Comments are requested concerning each collection as to (1) whether the particular collection of information described below is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the Board, including whether the collection has practical utility; (2) the accuracy of the Board's burden estimates; (3) ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information collected; and (4) ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on the respondents, including the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology, when appropriate. Submitted comments will be considered by OMB prior to approval of the proposed collection.

This action establishes a Class E enroute domestic airspace area west of San Luis Obispo, CA, to replace existing Class G uncontrolled airspace.

These special conditions are issued for Cessna Model 650 airplanes modified by Elliott Aviation Technical Product Development, Inc. These modified airplanes will have a novel or unusual design feature when compared to the state of technology envisioned in the airworthiness standards for transport category airplanes. The modification incorporates the installation of electronic flight display systems manufactured by Universal Avionics Systems Corporation. The electronic flight display systems perform critical functions. The applicable airworthiness regulations do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards for the protection of these systems from the effects of high-intensity radiated fields (HIRF). These special conditions contain the additional safety standards that the Administrator considers necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by the existing airworthiness standards.

The FHWA is issuing this notice to advise the public that an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) will be prepared for a proposed highway project in San Diego County, California.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announces its findings on the noise compatibility program submitted by the Lehigh- Northampton Airport Authority under the provisions of 49 U.S.C. (the Aviation Safety and Noise Abatement Act, hereinafter referred to as ``the Act'') and 14 CFR Part 150. These findings are made in recognition of the description of Federal and nonfederal responsibilities in Senate Report No. 96-52 (1980). On May 14, 2004 the FAA determined that the noise exposure maps submitted by the Lehigh- Northampton Airport Authority under Part 150 were in compliance with applicable requirements. On October 7, 2005, the FAA approved the Lehigh Valley International Airport's updated noise compatibility program. Most of the recommendations of the program update were approved. One program element relating to revised flight procedures for noise abatement was proposed by the airport operator and was approved in part, as a voluntary measure, and disapproved in part. Only one noise abatement element was disapproved for purposes of Part 150 pending submission of additional information needed to make an informed analysis. The Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority has also requested under FAR Part 150, section 150.35(f), that FAA determine that the revised five-year forecast condition NEM submitted with the noise compatibility program and showing noise contours as a result of the implementation of the noise compatibility program is in compliance with applicable requirements of FAR Part 150. The FAA announces its determination that the revised five-year forecast condition NEW for the Lehigh Valley International Airport for the year 2008 submitted with the noise compatibility program is in compliance with applicable requirements of FAR Part 150 effective October 31, 2005. The documentation that constitutes the revised five-year forecast condition NEM as defined in Sec. Sec. 150.7 and 150.101(e) of Part 150 includes but is not limited to: Sections 2.2 and 2.3, Figure 3, and Table 3 in the NCP Update, and Figure 11 and Figures 36 through 45 in the NEM volume. The FAA has determined that this revised five-year forecast condition NEM and accompanying documentation are in compliance with applicable requirements.

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier Model CL-600-2B19 (Regional Jet Series 100 & 440) airplanes. This AD requires revising the Airworthiness Limitations section of the Instructions for Continued Airworthiness of the Canadair Regional Jet Maintenance Requirements Manual by incorporating new procedures for repetitive detailed and special detailed inspections for cracking of the aft pressure bulkhead. This AD results from a fatigue test, which revealed cracking of the aft pressure bulkhead; subsequent in-service reports show that fatigue cracking has been found on other airplanes. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking in the aft pressure bulkhead, which could result in reduced structural integrity and rapid decompression of the airplane.

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Learjet Model 23, 24, 24A, 24B, 24B-A, 24C, 24D, 24D-A, 24E, 24F, 24F-A, 25, 25A, 25B, 25C, 25D, and 25F airplanes. This AD requires replacement of the spherical accumulator for the main hydraulic system with a new cylindrical accumulator. For certain airplanes, this AD also requires modification of the accumulator pressure gauge. This AD results from reports of the failure of two thrust reverser accumulators (which are similar to the main hydraulic system's spherical accumulator) and fatigue cracks found on four thrust reverser accumulators. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the spherical accumulator for the main hydraulic system, due to fatigue cracking on the threads, which could result in the loss of hydraulic power, damage to the surrounding airplane structure, and loss of airplane control. The failure of the accumulator could also result in injury to any persons in the surrounding area. The loss of hydraulic fluid could also leak onto a potential source of ignition and result in a consequent fire.

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Saab Model SAAB 2000 airplanes. This AD requires modifying the manual feather-and-unfeather system for the propellers to make the design of the system more robust. This AD results from reports of in- flight engine shutdown caused by uncommanded operation of the feather pump of the propeller. We are issuing this AD to prevent uncommanded feathering of the propeller, which could result in the shutdown of an engine during flight and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane.

The FAA is superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD), which applies to all Airbus Model A300 B4-600 and A300 B4-600R series airplanes, and all Model A300 F4-605R airplanes. That AD currently requires repetitive inspections to detect cracks of certain attachment holes, installation of new fasteners, follow-on inspections or repair if necessary, and modification of the angle fittings of fuselage frame FR47. This new AD revises certain inspection thresholds and intervals. This new AD also adds inspections to detect cracks of additional attachment holes. This AD results from reports of cracks found before the inspection thresholds in the existing AD and cracks found in nearby areas not inspected by the existing AD. We are issuing this AD to prevent fatigue cracking of the forward fitting of fuselage frame FR47, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the frame.

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A330-200 and A330-300 series airplanes; and Model A340-200 and A340-300 series airplanes. This AD requires an accelerated schedule of repetitive testing of the elevator servo control loops, and corrective actions if necessary. This AD results from reports of failed elevator servo controls due to broken guides. We are issuing this AD to ensure proper functioning of the elevator servo controls. Failure of the elevator servo controls during certain phases of takeoff could result in an unannounced loss of elevator control and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane.

In this direct final rule, the FAA is amending its regulation on the use of pilot supplemental oxygen. The amendment changes the flight level at which the remaining pilot at the controls of the airplane must put on and use his oxygen mask if the other pilot at any time leaves his control station of the airplane. This amendment revises that altitude to ``above flight level 350'' from ``above flight level 250.'' It will also eliminate the needless use of oxygen that is not otherwise required to provide for safety in air carrier operations. This will reduce needless expenditures to replace oxygen equipment that is subject to excessive wear and tear.

The Board is extending, by 14 days, the deadline for filing the comments requested in its decision served on October 13, 2005, and published in the Federal Register on October 19, 2005, at 70 FR 60881- 82.

The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A319-100 and A320-200 series airplanes. This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections of the wing-tank fuel pumps, canisters, and wing fuel tanks for detached identification labels, and corrective action if necessary. This proposed AD results from several incidents of detached plastic identification labels found floating in the wing fuel tanks. We are proposing this AD to prevent plastic identification labels being ingested into the fuel pumps and consequently entering the engine fuel feed system, which could result in an engine shutdown.