Federal Aviation Administration August 3, 2012 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

We propose to supersede an existing airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to certain The Boeing Company Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-200C, 747-200F, 747-300, 747-400, 747-400D, 747-400F, 747SR, and 747SP series airplanes; and certain Model 757-200, -200PF, and -300 series airplanes. The existing AD currently requires replacing the control switches of the forward, aft, and nose cargo doors for certain airplanes, and replacing the control switches of cargo doors 1 and 2 for certain airplanes. Since we issued that AD, we have determined that additional airplanes are affected by the identified unsafe condition. This proposed AD would continue to require replacing the control switches of the forward, aft, and nose cargo doors of Model 747 airplanes; and the control switches of cargo doors 1 and 2 of Model 757 airplanes; this proposed AD also adds airplanes to the applicability and revises the initial compliance times. We are proposing this AD to prevent injuries to persons and damage to the airplane and equipment.

This action amends Class E airspace at Sweetwater, TX. Additional controlled airspace is necessary to accommodate new Area Navigation (RNAV) Standard Instrument Approach Procedures at Avenger Field Airport. The airport's geographic coordinates are adjusted and the airport name changed. The FAA is taking this action to enhance the safety and management of Instrument Flight Rule (IFR) operations at the airport.

We propose to supersede an existing airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to all The Boeing Company Model 777-200, -200LR, - 300, and -300ER series airplanes. The existing AD currently requires repetitive inspections for cracking of the elevator actuator fittings. Since we issued that AD, the manufacturer has developed a modification that was approved as an optional terminating action to the currently required repetitive inspections. We have been advised that the modification procedures include certain incorrect torque values. This proposed AD would require, for previously modified airplanes, repetitive inspections for movement of the fittings or fastener heads, and eventual replacement of certain bolts (including related investigative and corrective actions if necessary). For all airplanes, this replacement, with corrected torque values, would terminate the requirements of the AD. This proposed AD would also remove certain airplanes from the applicability. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct a cracked actuator fitting or incorrectly installed bolts to the actuator fitting, which could lead to the elevator becoming detached and unrestrained, and a consequent unacceptable flutter condition and loss of control of the airplane.