Federal Aviation Administration May 21, 2013 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A330-200 and -300 series airplanes; Model A340-200 and -300 series airplanes; and Model A340-541 and -642 airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of wing tip brakes (WTBs) losing their braking function in service due to heavy wear on the brake discs. WTBs are designed to stop and hold the mechanical transmission of slats and flaps in certain failure cases. This proposed AD would require repetitive operational tests of certain WTB pressure-off-brakes (POBs) for performance on the flap and slat systems, and replacement of any affected WTB with a new or serviceable part if the test fails. This proposed AD would also require eventual replacement of all affected WTBs with a new part, which would terminate the repetitive tests. We are proposing this AD to prevent loss of the WTB braking function, and consequent inability of the flap or slat system to be stopped and held in position during operation, which could result in loss of control of the airplane.

This notice contains a summary of a petition seeking relief from specified requirements of 14 CFR. The purpose of this notice is to improve the public's awareness of, and participation in, this aspect of the 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 the petition or its final disposition.

This action establishes five new RNAV routes in support of the Washington, DC, Optimization of Airspace and Procedures in a Metroplex project. The routes increase National Airspace System (NAS) efficiency and allow easier transition into the high altitude structure for departures from the Washington, DC Metropolitan area airports.