80 FR 12360 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 45 (March 9, 2015)

Page Range		12360-12364
FR Document		2015-05031
We are revising an earlier proposed Airworthiness Directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A330 series airplanes. The NPRM proposed to require revising the maintenance program or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate certain maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations. The NPRM was prompted by a determination that more restrictive maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations are necessary. This action revises the NPRM by proposing to supersede AD 2007-05-12, AD 2009-18-20, and AD 2010-15-02 in addition to those ADs already identified in the NPRM, as well as to require more restrictive limitations and to add Airbus Model A330-323 airplanes to the applicability. We are proposing this supplemental NPRM (SNPRM) to address the aging effects of aircraft systems. Such aging effects could change the characteristics of those systems, which, in isolation or in combination with one or more other specific failures or events, could result in failure of certain life limited parts, which could reduce the structural integrity of the airplane or reduce the controllability of the airplane. Since these actions impose an additional burden over those proposed in the NPRM, we are reopening the comment period to allow the public the chance to comment on these proposed changes.
Federal Register, Volume 80 Issue 45 (Monday, March 9, 2015)
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 45 (Monday, March 9, 2015)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 12360-12364]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2015-05031]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2013-0834; Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-045-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); reopening of 
comment period.

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SUMMARY: We are revising an earlier proposed Airworthiness Directive 
(AD) for certain Airbus Model A330 series airplanes. The NPRM proposed 
to require revising the maintenance program or inspection program, as 
applicable, to incorporate certain maintenance requirements and 
airworthiness limitations. The NPRM was prompted by a determination 
that more restrictive maintenance requirements and airworthiness 
limitations are necessary. This action revises the NPRM by proposing to 
supersede AD 2007-05-12, AD 2009-18-20, and AD 2010-15-02 in addition 
to those ADs already identified in the NPRM, as well as to require more 
restrictive limitations and to add Airbus Model A330-323 airplanes to 
the applicability. We are proposing this supplemental NPRM (SNPRM) to 
address the aging effects of aircraft systems. Such aging effects could 
change the characteristics of those systems, which, in isolation or in 
combination with one or more other specific failures or events, could 
result in failure of certain life limited parts, which could reduce the 
structural integrity of the airplane or reduce the controllability of 
the airplane. Since these actions impose an additional burden over 
those proposed in the NPRM, we are reopening the comment period to 
allow the public the chance to comment on these proposed changes.

DATES: We must receive comments on this SNPRM by April 23, 2015.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: (202) 493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday 
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact 
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 
93 45 80; email airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com; Internet http://www.airbus.com. You may view this referenced service information at the 
FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. 
For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
425-227-1221.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FAA-2013-0834 or in person at the 
Docket Management

[[Page 12361]]

Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except 
Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the 
regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. 
The street address for the Docket Office (telephone: (800) 647-5527) is 
in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket 
shortly after receipt. It is also available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2013-
0834.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1138; 
fax 425-227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2013-0834; 
Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-045-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed AD based on those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus issued A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4--
Aging Systems Maintenance, Revision 04, dated August 27, 2013, and 
Airbus A330 ALS Part 4--Aging Systems Maintenance (ASM), Variation 4.1 
and Variation 4.2, both dated July 23, 2014. This service information 
describes preventative maintenance requirements and associated 
airworthiness limitations applicable to aircraft systems susceptible to 
aging effects. The actions described in this service information are 
intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI. This 
service information is reasonably available; see ADDRESSES for ways to 
access this service information.

Discussion

    On February 22, 2007, we issued AD 2007-05-12, Amendment 39-14973 
(72 FR 10057, March 7, 2007), for certain Airbus Model A330, A340-200, 
and A340-300 series airplanes. AD 2007-05-12 requires inspecting to 
determine the part number of certain spoiler servo controls (SSCs) and 
replacing any affected SSC with a new SSC. AD 2007-05-12 resulted from 
a determination of a new load duty cycle defined by the manufacturer. 
We issued AD 2007-05-12 to prevent fatigue cracking of certain SSCs, 
which could result in hydraulic leakage and consequent loss of SSC 
function and loss of the associated hydraulic system. These conditions 
could affect all three hydraulic systems, which could result in reduced 
controllability of the airplane.
    On August 26, 2009, we issued AD 2009-18-20, Amendment 39-16017 (74 
FR 46313, September 9, 2009), for certain Airbus Model A330-300, A340-
200, and A340-300 series airplanes. AD 2009-18-20 requires 
identification and modification of certain SSCs. AD 2009-18-20 resulted 
from a report of a failure of a SSC whose maintenance cover had 
ruptured due to pressure pulse fatigue. We issued AD 2009-18-20 to 
prevent the loss of a hydraulic system due to leakage; loss of three 
hydraulic systems could result in reduced controllability of the 
airplane.
    On June 30, 2010, we issued AD 2010-15-02, Amendment 39-16368 (75 
FR 42589, July 22, 2010), for certain Airbus Model A330-200 and -300 
series airplanes, and A340-200, -300, -500, and -600 series airplanes. 
AD 2010-15-02 requires repetitive detailed visual inspections for 
corrosion and wear detection of the input gear boxes (IPGBs) and down 
drive shafts (DDSs) on the flap tracks on both wings, and corrective 
actions, as applicable. AD 2010-15-02 resulted from reports of 
corrosion and damage on the DDSs and IPGBs on the flap tracks. We 
issued AD 2010-15-02 to detect and correct corrosion and wear due to 
absence of grease in the spline interfaces which could cause DDS 
disconnection and result in a free movable flap surface, potentially 
leading to aircraft asymmetry or even flap detachment, and reduce the 
ability of the flightcrew to maintain the safe flight and landing of 
the airplane.
    We issued an NPRM to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that 
would apply to certain Airbus Model A330 series airplanes. The NPRM 
published in the Federal Register on November 7, 2013 (78 FR 66861).
    The NPRM proposed to supersede AD 2003-14-11, Amendment 39-13230 
(68 FR 41521, July 14, 2003); AD 2004-11-08, Amendment 39-13654 (69 FR 
31874, June 8, 2004); AD 2004-13-25, Amendment 39-13707 (69 FR 41394, 
July 9, 2004); AD 2004-18-14, Amendment 39-13793 (69 FR 55326, 
September 14, 2004); AD 2008-06-07, Amendment 39-15419 (73 FR 13103, 
March 12, 2008; corrected April 15, 2008 (73 FR 20367)); and AD 2012-
04-07, Amendment 39-16963 (77 FR 12989, March 5, 2012) to require 
actions intended to address the aging effects of aircraft systems. Such 
aging effects could change the characteristics of those systems, which, 
in isolation or in combination with one or more other specific failures 
or events, could result in failure of certain life limited parts, which 
could reduce the structural integrity of the airplane or reduce the 
controllability of the airplane.

Actions Since the NPRM (78 FR 66861, November 7, 2013) Was Issued

    Since we issued the NPRM (78 FR 66861, November 7, 2013), we 
received Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4--
Aging Systems Maintenance, Revision 04, dated August 27, 2013, and 
Airbus A330 ALS Part 4--Aging Systems Maintenance (ASM), Variation 4.1 
and Variation 4.2, both dated July 23, 2014, which contain more 
restrictive maintenance requirements. We determined that more 
restrictive maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations are 
necessary and that Airbus Model A330-323 airplanes need to be added to 
the applicability of this AD in order to address the unsafe condition.
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, also issued new EASA 
AD 2013-0268, dated November 7, 2013 (referred to after this as the 
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to 
correct an unsafe condition on certain Airbus Model A330 series 
airplanes. EASA AD 2013-0268 supersedes and retains the requirements of 
four EASA ADs and requires accomplishment of the actions specified in 
Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4--Aging 
Systems Maintenance, Revision 04, dated August 27, 2013. The MCAI 
states:

    The airworthiness limitations for Airbus aeroplanes are 
currently published in Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) 
documents.
    The airworthiness limitations applicable to the Ageing Systems 
Maintenance (ASM) are

[[Page 12362]]

given in Airbus A330 ALS Part 4, which is approved by EASA.
    Revision 04 of Airbus A330 ALS Part 4 introduces more 
restrictive maintenance requirements and/or airworthiness 
limitations. Failure to comply with these instructions could result 
in an unsafe condition.
    For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD retains the 
requirements of EASA AD 2012-0020, which is superseded, and requires 
accomplishment of the actions specified in Airbus A330 ALS Part 4 at 
Revision 04.
    In addition, this [EASA] AD also supersedes EASA AD 2006-0159, 
EASA AD 2008-0026, and EASA AD 2008-0160 [which correspond to FAA 
ADs 2007-05-12, Amendment 39-14973 (72 FR 10057, March 7, 2007); 
2010-15-02, Amendment 39-16368 (75 FR 42589, July 22, 2010); and 
2009-18-20, Amendment 39-16017 (74 FR 46313, September 9, 2009), 
respectively], whose requirements applicable to A330 aeroplanes have 
been transferred into Airbus A330 ALS Part 4.

The unsafe condition is the aging effects of aircraft systems. Such 
aging effects could change the characteristics of those systems, which, 
in isolation or in combination with one or more other specific failures 
or events, could result in failure of certain life limited parts, which 
could reduce the structural integrity of the airplane or reduce the 
controllability of the airplane. You may examine the MCAI in the AD 
docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for 
and locating it in Docket No. FAA-2013-0834.

Related Rulemaking

    We have issued AD 2014-23-17, Amendment 18033 (79 FR 71304, 
December 2, 2014) for Airbus Model A340-211, -212, -213, -311, -312, -
313, -541, and -642 airplanes. AD 2014-23-17 terminates the 
requirements of the following ADs for Airbus Model A340-211, -212, -
213, -311, -312, -313, -541, and -642 airplanes.
     AD 2003-14-11, Amendment 39-13230 (68 FR 41521, July 14, 
2003);
     AD 2004-11-08, Amendment 39-13654 (69 FR 31874, June 8, 
2004);
     AD 2004-13-25, Amendment 39-13707 (69 FR 41394, July 9, 
2004);
     AD 2004-18-14, Amendment 39-13793 (69 FR 55326, September 
14, 2004);
     AD 2007-05-12, Amendment 39-14973 (72 FR 10057, March 7, 
2007);
     AD 2008-06-07, Amendment 39-15419 (73 FR 13103, March 12, 
2008; corrected April 15, 2008 (73 FR 20367));
     AD 2009-18-20, Amendment 39-16017 (74 FR 46313, September 
9, 2009);
     AD 2010-15-02, Amendment 39-16368 (75 FR 42589, July 22, 
2010); and
     AD 2012-04-07, Amendment 39-16963 (77 FR 12989, March 5, 
2012).

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this proposed AD. We have considered the comment received on the NPRM 
(78 FR 66861, November 7, 2013) and the FAA's response to each comment.

Request To Add Airplane Model to the Applicability

    Delta Airlines (Delta) requested that we add Airbus Model A330-323 
airplanes to paragraph (c), ``Applicability,'' of the NPRM (78 FR 
66861, November 7, 2013).
    We agree. Airbus Model A330-323 airplanes were erroneously omitted 
from the applicability. We have revised the applicability of this 
proposed AD to add these airplanes.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This SNPRM

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have 
been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service 
information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we 
evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition 
exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of these 
same type designs.
    This proposed AD would retain none of the requirements of the 
following ADs:
     AD 2007-05-12, Amendment 39-14973 (72 FR 10057, March 7, 
2007);
     AD 2009-18-20, Amendment 39-16017 (74 FR 46313, September 
9, 2009); and
     AD 2010-15-02, Amendment 39-16368 (75 FR 42589, July 22, 
2010).
    This proposed AD would require implementation of certain 
maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations and adding 
Airbus Model A330-323 airplanes to the applicability. Certain changes 
described above expand the scope of the NPRM (78 FR 66861, November 7, 
2013). As a result, we have determined that it is necessary to reopen 
the comment period to provide additional opportunity for the public to 
comment on this SNPRM.

Differences Between This SNPRM and the Service Information

    This SNPRM proposes to incorporate Airbus A330 ALS Part 4--Aging 
Systems Maintenance, Revision 04, dated August 27, 2013, including the 
compliance times for the actions. However, the compliance times for 
certain initial actions are different from those specified in Airbus 
A330 ALS Part 4--Aging Systems Maintenance, Revision 04, dated August 
27, 2013, because the actions and associated compliance times are 
required by AD 2009-18-20, Amendment 39-16017 (74 FR 46313, September 
9, 2009). Therefore, the initial compliance time for these actions is 
relative to the effective date of the applicable superseded AD, as 
specified in paragraphs (h)(5), (h)(6), and (h)(7) of this SNPRM.
    The MCAI specifies that if there are findings from the ALS 
inspection tasks, corrective actions must be accomplished in accordance 
with Airbus maintenance documentation. However, this AD does not 
include that requirement. Operators of U.S.-registered airplanes are 
required by general airworthiness and operational regulations to 
perform maintenance using methods that are acceptable to the FAA. We 
consider those methods to be adequate to address any corrective actions 
necessitated by the findings of ALS inspections required by this AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this SNPRM affects 79 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate that it would take about 2 work-hours per product to 
comply with the new basic requirements of this SNPRM. The average labor 
rate is $85 per work-hour. Required parts would cost $0 per product. 
Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this SNPRM on U.S. 
operators to be $13,430, or $170 per product.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation 
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's 
authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.

[[Page 12363]]

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed 
regulation:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
    3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and
    4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2003-14-11, Amendment 39-13230 
(68 FR 41521, July 14, 2003); AD 2004-11-08, Amendment 39-13654 (69 FR 
31874, June 8, 2004); AD 2004-13-25, Amendment 39-13707 (69 FR 41394, 
July 9, 2004); AD 2004-18-14, Amendment 39-13793 (69 FR 55326, 
September 14, 2004); AD 2007-05-12, Amendment 39-14973 (72 FR 10057, 
March 7, 2007); AD 2008-06-07, Amendment 39-15419 (73 FR 13103, March 
12, 2008; corrected April 15, 2008 (73 FR 20367)); AD 2009-18-20, 
Amendment 39-16017 (74 FR 46313, September 9, 2009); AD 2010-15-02, 
Amendment 39-16368 (75 FR 42589, July 22, 2010); AD 2012-04-07, 
Amendment 39-16963 (77 FR 12989, March 5, 2012); and
0
b. Adding the following new AD:

Airbus: Docket No. FAA-2013-0834; Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-
045-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by April 23, 2015.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD supersedes the ADs specified in paragraphs (b)(1) 
through (b)(9) of this AD.
    (1) AD 2003-14-11, Amendment 39-13230 (68 FR 41521, July 14, 
2003).
    (2) AD 2004-11-08, Amendment 39-13654 (69 FR 31874, June 8, 
2004).
    (3) AD 2004-13-25, Amendment 39-13707 (69 FR 41394, July 9, 
2004).
    (4) AD 2004-18-14, Amendment 39-13793 (69 FR 55326, September 
14, 2004).
    (5) AD 2007-05-12, Amendment 39-14973 (72 FR 10057, March 7, 
2007).
    (6) AD 2008-06-07, Amendment 39-15419 (73 FR 13103, March 12, 
2008; corrected April 15, 2008 (73 FR 20367)).
    (7) AD 2009-18-20, Amendment 39-16017 (74 FR 46313, September 9, 
2009).
    (8) AD 2010-15-02, Amendment 39-16368 (75 FR 42589, July 22, 
2010).
    (9) AD 2012-04-07, Amendment 39-16963 (77 FR 12989, March 5, 
2012).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, -
243, -223F, -243F, -301, -302, -303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342, 
and -343 airplanes; certificated in any category; all manufacturer 
serial numbers.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 05, Time Limits/
Maintenance Checks.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by a determination that more restrictive 
maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations are 
necessary. We are issuing this AD to address the aging effects of 
aircraft systems. Such aging effects could change the 
characteristics of those systems, which, in isolation or in 
combination with one or more other specific failures or events, 
could result in failure of certain life limited parts, which could 
reduce the structural integrity of the airplane or reduce the 
controllability of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) Maintenance Program Revision and Actions

    Within 6 months after the effective date of this AD, revise the 
maintenance program or inspection program, as applicable, by 
incorporating Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) 
Part 4--Aging Systems Maintenance, Revision 04, dated August 27, 
2013, and Airbus A330 ALS Part 4--Aging Systems Maintenance (ASM), 
Variation 4.1 and Variation 4.2, both dated July 23, 2014. The 
initial compliance times for the actions are within the applicable 
compliance times specified in the Record of Revisions pages of 
Airbus A330 ALS Part 4--Aging Systems Maintenance, Revision 04, 
dated August 27, 2013, Airbus A330 ALS Part 4--Aging Systems 
Maintenance (ASM), Variation 4.1 and Variation 4.2, both dated July 
23, 2014, or within 6 months after the effective date of this AD, 
whichever is later, except as required by paragraph (h) of this AD.

(h) Exceptions to Initial Compliance Times

    (1) Where Airbus A330 ALS Part 4--Aging Systems Maintenance, 
Revision 04, dated August 27, 2013, defines a calendar compliance 
time for elevator servo-controls having part number (P/N) SC4800-2, 
SC4800-3, SC4800-4, SC4800-6, SC4800-7, or SC4800-8 as ``August 31, 
2004,'' the calendar compliance time is June 13, 2007 (34 months 
after August 13, 2004 (the effective date of AD 2004-13-25, 
Amendment 39-13707 (69 FR 41394, July 9, 2004))).
    (2) Where Airbus A330 ALS Part 4--Aging Systems Maintenance, 
Revision 04, dated August 27, 2013, defines a calendar compliance 
time for spoiler servo-controls (SSCs) having P/N 1386A0000-01, P/N 
1386B0000-01, P/N 1387A0000-01 or P/N 1387B0000-01 as ``December 31, 
2003,'' the calendar compliance time is November 19, 2005 (13 months 
after October 19, 2004 (the effective date of AD 2004-18-14, 
Amendment 39-13793 (69 FR 55326, September 14, 2004))).
    (3) Where Airbus A330 ALS Part 4--Aging Systems Maintenance, 
Revision 04, dated August 27, 2013, defines a calendar compliance 
time for elevator servo-controls having P/N SC4800-73, SC4800-93, 
SC4800-103 and SC4800-113 as ``June 30, 2008,'' the calendar 
compliance time is September 16, 2009 (17 months after April 16, 
2008 (the effective date of AD 2008-06-07, Amendment 39-15419 (73 FR 
13103, March 12, 2008; corrected April 15, 2008 (73 FR 20367)))).
    (4) The initial compliance time for replacement of the 
retraction brackets of the main landing gear (MLG) having a part 
number specified in paragraphs (h)(4)(i) through (h)(4)(xvi) of this 
AD is before the accumulation of 19,800 total landings on the 
affected retraction brackets of the MLG, or within 900 flight hours 
after April 9, 2012 (the effective date of AD 2012-04-07, Amendment 
39-16963 (77 FR 12989, March 5, 2012), whichever occurs later.

(i) 201478303
(ii) 201478304
(iii) 201478305
(iv) 201478306
(v) 201478307
(vi) 201478308
(vii) 201428380
(viii) 201428381
(ix) 201428382
(x) 201428383
(xi) 201428384
(xii) 201428385
(xiii) 201428378
(xiv) 201428379
(xv) 201428351
(xvi) 201428352

    (5) Where Airbus A330 ALS Part 4--Aging Systems Maintenance, 
Revision 04, dated August 27, 2013, defines a calendar compliance 
time for the modification of SSCs on three hydraulic circuits having 
part numbers MZ4339390-01X, MZ4306000-01X,

[[Page 12364]]

MZ4339390-02X, MZ4306000-02X, MZ4339390-10X, or MZ4306000-10X as 
``March 5, 2010,'' the calendar compliance time is April 14, 2011 
(18 months after October 14, 2009 (the effective date of AD 2009-18-
20, Amendment 39-16017 (74 FR 46313, September 9, 2009))).
    (6) Where Note (6) of ``ATA 27-64-00 Flight Control--Spoiler 
Hydraulic Actuation,'' of Sub-part 4-2-1, ``Life Limits,'' of Sub-
part 4-2, ``Systems Life Limited Components,'' of Airbus A330 ALS 
Part 4--Aging Systems Maintenance, Revision 04, dated August 27, 
2013, defines a calendar date of ``September 5, 2008,'' as a date 
for the determination of accumulated flight cycles since the 
aircraft initial entry into service, the date is October 14, 2009 
(the effective date of AD 2009-18-20, Amendment 39-16017 (74 FR 
46313, September 9, 2009)).
    (7) Where Note (6) of ``ATA 27-64-00 Flight Control--Spoiler 
Hydraulic Actuation,'' of Sub-part 4-2-1, ``Life Limits,'' of Sub-
part 4-2, ``Systems Life Limited Components,'' of Airbus A330 ALS 
Part 4--Aging Systems Maintenance, Revision 04, dated August 27, 
2013, defines a calendar compliance time as ``March 5, 2010,'' for 
the modification of affected servo controls, the calendar compliance 
time is April 14, 2011 (18 months after October 14, 2009 (the 
effective date of AD 2009-18-20, Amendment 39-16017 (74 FR 46313, 
September 9, 2009))).

(i) No Alternative Actions or Intervals

    After accomplishing the revision required by paragraph (g) of 
this AD, no alternative actions (e.g., inspections) or intervals may 
be used unless the actions or intervals are approved as an 
alternative method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the 
procedures specified in paragraph (j)(1) of this AD.

(j) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using 
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 
39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Vladimir 
Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1138; fax 425-227-1149. Information 
may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-ACO-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using 
any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or 
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight 
standards district office/certificate holding district office. The 
AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD.
    (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD 
to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be 
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International 
Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the 
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design 
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval 
must include the DOA-authorized signature.

(k) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2013-0268, dated 
November 7, 2013, for related information. You may examine the MCAI 
in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2013-0834-0003.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice 
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; 
fax +33 5 61 93 45 80; email airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com; 
Internet http://www.airbus.com. You may view this service 
information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind 
Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this 
material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on February 20, 2015.
Victor Wicklund,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2015-05031 Filed 3-6-15; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
12360 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 45 / Monday, March 9, 2015 / Proposed Rules

and effective September 15, 2014, which PART 71—DESIGNATION OF CLASS A, limitations are necessary. This action
is incorporated by reference in 14 CFR B, C, D, AND E AIRSPACE AREAS; AIR revises the NPRM by proposing to
71.1. The Class E airspace designation TRAFFIC SERVICE ROUTES; AND supersede AD 2007–05–12, AD 2009–
listed in this document will be REPORTING POINTS 18–20, and AD 2010–15–02 in addition
published subsequently in the Order. to those ADs already identified in the
■ 1. The authority citation for Part 71 NPRM, as well as to require more
The FAA has determined that this continues to read as follows: restrictive limitations and to add Airbus
proposed regulation only involves an
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g); 40103, 40113, Model A330–323 airplanes to the
established body of technical 40120; E.O. 10854, 24 FR 9565, 3 CFR, 1959– applicability. We are proposing this
regulations for which frequent and 1963 Comp., p. 389. supplemental NPRM (SNPRM) to
routine amendments are necessary to address the aging effects of aircraft
keep them operationally current. It, § 71.1 [Amended]
systems. Such aging effects could
therefore, (1) is not a ‘‘significant ■ 2. The incorporation by reference in change the characteristics of those
regulatory action’’ under Executive 14 CFR 71.1 of FAA Order 7400.9Y, systems, which, in isolation or in
Order 12866; (2) is not a ‘‘significant Airspace Designations and Reporting combination with one or more other
rule’’ under DOT Regulatory Policies Points, dated August 6, 2014, and specific failures or events, could result
and Procedures (44 FR 11034; February effective September 15, 2014, is in failure of certain life limited parts,
26, 1979); and (3) does not warrant amended as follows: which could reduce the structural
preparation of a Regulatory Evaluation Paragraph 6005 Class E Airspace Areas integrity of the airplane or reduce the
as the anticipated impact is so minimal. Extending Upward From 700 Feet or More controllability of the airplane. Since
Since this is a routine matter that will Above the Surface of the Earth. these actions impose an additional
only affect air traffic procedures and air * * * * * burden over those proposed in the
navigation, it is certified that this ASO AL E5 Eufaula, AL [Amended] NPRM, we are reopening the comment
proposed rule, when promulgated, will period to allow the public the chance to
Weedon Field Airport, AL
not have a significant economic impact comment on these proposed changes.
(Lat. 31°57′05″ N., long. 85°07′44″ W.)
on a substantial number of small entities That airspace extending upward from 700 DATES: We must receive comments on
under the criteria of the Regulatory feet above the surface within a 7.3-mile this SNPRM by April 23, 2015.
Flexibility Act. radius of Weedon Field Airport. ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
The FAA’s authority to issue rules Issued in College Park, Georgia, on using the procedures found in 14 CFR
regarding aviation safety is found in February 25, 2015. 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
Title 49 of the United States Code. Gerald E. Lynch, methods:
Subtitle I, Section 106 describes the Acting Manager, Operations Support Group, • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
Eastern Service Center, Air Traffic http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
authority of the FAA Administrator.
Organization. instructions for submitting comments.
Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs,
[FR Doc. 2015–05113 Filed 3–6–15; 8:45 am] • Fax: (202) 493–2251.
describes in more detail the scope of the • Mail: U.S. Department of
agency’s authority. This proposed BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
rulemaking is promulgated under the 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
authority described in Subtitle VII, Part, W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
A, Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that Washington, DC 20590.
section, the FAA is charged with Federal Aviation Administration • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of
prescribing regulations to assign the use Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
of airspace necessary to ensure the 14 CFR Part 39 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
safety of aircraft and the efficient use of W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
[Docket No. FAA–2013–0834; Directorate
airspace. This proposed regulation is Identifier 2012–NM–045–AD] Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5
within the scope of that authority as it p.m., Monday through Friday, except
would amend Class E airspace at RIN 2120–AA64 Federal holidays.
Weedon Field Airport, Eufaula, AL. For service information identified in
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus this proposed AD, contact Airbus SAS,
This proposal would be subject to an Airplanes
environmental analysis in accordance Airworthiness Office—EAL, 1 Rond
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac
with FAA Order 1050.1E,
Administration (FAA), DOT. Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36
‘‘Environmental Impacts: Policies and
ACTION: Supplemental notice of 96; fax +33 5 61 93 45 80; email
Procedures’’ prior to any FAA final airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com;
regulatory action. proposed rulemaking (NPRM);
reopening of comment period. Internet http://www.airbus.com. You
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 71 may view this referenced service
SUMMARY: We are revising an earlier information at the FAA, Transport
Airspace, Incorporation by reference, proposed Airworthiness Directive (AD) Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue
Navigation (air). for certain Airbus Model A330 series SW., Renton, WA. For information on
airplanes. The NPRM proposed to the availability of this material at the
The Proposed Amendment
tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS

require revising the maintenance FAA, call 425–227–1221.
In consideration of the foregoing, the program or inspection program, as
applicable, to incorporate certain Examining the AD Docket
Federal Aviation Administration
proposes to amend 14 CFR part 71 as maintenance requirements and You may examine the AD docket on
airworthiness limitations. The NPRM the Internet at http://
follows:
was prompted by a determination that www.regulations.gov/
more restrictive maintenance #!docketDetail;D=FAA-2013-0834 or in
requirements and airworthiness person at the Docket Management

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Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 45 / Monday, March 9, 2015 / Proposed Rules 12361

Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Discussion The NPRM proposed to supersede AD
Monday through Friday, except Federal 2003–14–11, Amendment 39–13230 (68
holidays. The AD docket contains this On February 22, 2007, we issued AD FR 41521, July 14, 2003); AD 2004–11–
proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, 2007–05–12, Amendment 39–14973 (72 08, Amendment 39–13654 (69 FR
any comments received, and other FR 10057, March 7, 2007), for certain 31874, June 8, 2004); AD 2004–13–25,
information. The street address for the Airbus Model A330, A340–200, and Amendment 39–13707 (69 FR 41394,
Docket Office (telephone: (800) 647– A340–300 series airplanes. AD 2007– July 9, 2004); AD 2004–18–14,
5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. 05–12 requires inspecting to determine Amendment 39–13793 (69 FR 55326,
Comments will be available in the AD the part number of certain spoiler servo September 14, 2004); AD 2008–06–07,
docket shortly after receipt. It is also controls (SSCs) and replacing any Amendment 39–15419 (73 FR 13103,
available on the Internet at http:// affected SSC with a new SSC. AD 2007– March 12, 2008; corrected April 15,
www.regulations.gov by searching for 05–12 resulted from a determination of 2008 (73 FR 20367)); and AD 2012–04–
and locating Docket No. FAA–2013– a new load duty cycle defined by the 07, Amendment 39–16963 (77 FR
0834. manufacturer. We issued AD 2007–05– 12989, March 5, 2012) to require actions
12 to prevent fatigue cracking of certain intended to address the aging effects of
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: SSCs, which could result in hydraulic aircraft systems. Such aging effects
Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, leakage and consequent loss of SSC could change the characteristics of those
International Branch, ANM–116, function and loss of the associated systems, which, in isolation or in
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, hydraulic system. These conditions combination with one or more other
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA could affect all three hydraulic systems, specific failures or events, could result
98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1138; which could result in reduced in failure of certain life limited parts,
fax 425–227–1149. controllability of the airplane. which could reduce the structural
On August 26, 2009, we issued AD integrity of the airplane or reduce the
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
2009–18–20, Amendment 39–16017 (74 controllability of the airplane.
Comments Invited FR 46313, September 9, 2009), for
certain Airbus Model A330–300, A340– Actions Since the NPRM (78 FR 66861,
We invite you to send any written 200, and A340–300 series airplanes. AD November 7, 2013) Was Issued
relevant data, views, or arguments about 2009–18–20 requires identification and
this proposed AD. Send your comments Since we issued the NPRM (78 FR
modification of certain SSCs. AD 2009– 66861, November 7, 2013), we received
to an address listed under the 18–20 resulted from a report of a failure
ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No.
Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations
of a SSC whose maintenance cover had Section (ALS) Part 4—Aging Systems
FAA–2013–0834; Directorate Identifier ruptured due to pressure pulse fatigue.
2012–NM–045–AD’’ at the beginning of Maintenance, Revision 04, dated August
We issued AD 2009–18–20 to prevent 27, 2013, and Airbus A330 ALS Part 4—
your comments. We specifically invite the loss of a hydraulic system due to
comments on the overall regulatory, Aging Systems Maintenance (ASM),
leakage; loss of three hydraulic systems Variation 4.1 and Variation 4.2, both
economic, environmental, and energy could result in reduced controllability
aspects of this proposed AD. We will dated July 23, 2014, which contain more
of the airplane. restrictive maintenance requirements.
consider all comments received by the On June 30, 2010, we issued AD
closing date and may amend this We determined that more restrictive
2010–15–02, Amendment 39–16368 (75 maintenance requirements and
proposed AD based on those comments. FR 42589, July 22, 2010), for certain airworthiness limitations are necessary
We will post all comments we Airbus Model A330–200 and –300 series and that Airbus Model A330–323
receive, without change, to http:// airplanes, and A340–200, –300, –500, airplanes need to be added to the
www.regulations.gov, including any and –600 series airplanes. AD 2010–15– applicability of this AD in order to
personal information you provide. We 02 requires repetitive detailed visual address the unsafe condition.
will also post a report summarizing each inspections for corrosion and wear The European Aviation Safety Agency
substantive verbal contact we receive detection of the input gear boxes (EASA) which is the Technical Agent
about this proposed AD. (IPGBs) and down drive shafts (DDSs) for the Member States of the European
on the flap tracks on both wings, and Union, also issued new EASA AD 2013–
Related Service Information Under 1
corrective actions, as applicable. AD 0268, dated November 7, 2013 (referred
CFR Part 51
2010–15–02 resulted from reports of to after this as the Mandatory
Airbus issued A330 Airworthiness corrosion and damage on the DDSs and Continuing Airworthiness Information,
Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4—Aging IPGBs on the flap tracks. We issued AD or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe
Systems Maintenance, Revision 04, 2010–15–02 to detect and correct condition on certain Airbus Model A330
dated August 27, 2013, and Airbus A330 corrosion and wear due to absence of series airplanes. EASA AD 2013–0268
ALS Part 4—Aging Systems grease in the spline interfaces which supersedes and retains the requirements
Maintenance (ASM), Variation 4.1 and could cause DDS disconnection and of four EASA ADs and requires
Variation 4.2, both dated July 23, 2014. result in a free movable flap surface, accomplishment of the actions specified
This service information describes potentially leading to aircraft in Airbus A330 Airworthiness
preventative maintenance requirements asymmetry or even flap detachment, Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4—Aging
and associated airworthiness limitations and reduce the ability of the flightcrew Systems Maintenance, Revision 04,
to maintain the safe flight and landing
tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS

applicable to aircraft systems dated August 27, 2013. The MCAI
susceptible to aging effects. The actions of the airplane. states:
described in this service information are We issued an NPRM to amend 14 CFR
The airworthiness limitations for Airbus
intended to correct the unsafe condition part 39 by adding an AD that would aeroplanes are currently published in
identified in the MCAI. This service apply to certain Airbus Model A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS)
information is reasonably available; see series airplanes. The NPRM published documents.
ADDRESSES for ways to access this in the Federal Register on November 7, The airworthiness limitations applicable to
service information. 2013 (78 FR 66861). the Ageing Systems Maintenance (ASM) are

VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:26 Mar 06, 2015 Jkt 235001 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\09MRP1.SGM 09MRP1
Document Created: 2015-12-18 12:06:00
Document Modified: 2015-12-18 12:06:00
Category		Regulatory Information
Collection		Federal Register
sudoc Class		AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106:
Publisher		Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
Section		Proposed Rules
Action		Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); reopening of comment period.
Dates		We must receive comments on this SNPRM by April 23, 2015.
Contact		Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1138; fax 425-227-1149.
FR Citation		80 FR 12360
RIN Number		2120-AA64
CFR Associated		Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety
80 FR 12360 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATIONFederal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 45 (March 9, 2015)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
