80 FR 45457 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 146 (July 30, 2015)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 146 (July 30, 2015)
| Page Range | 45457-45460 | |
| FR Document | 2015-18534 |
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 146 (Thursday, July 30, 2015)] [Proposed Rules] [Pages 45457-45460] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2015-18534] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2015-2964; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-206-AD] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. This proposed AD is intended to complete certain mandated programs intended to support the airplane reaching its limit of validity (LOV) of the engineering data that support the established structural maintenance program. This proposed AD would require reinforcing the forward pressure bulkhead at a certain stringer on both the left-hand and right-hand sides, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. We are proposing this AD to prevent fatigue cracking of the forward pressure [[Page 45458]] bulkhead, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by September 14, 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, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@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 by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015- 2964; or in person at the Docket Management 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 Operations office (telephone 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1405; 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-2015-2964; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-206-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. Discussion As described in FAA Advisory Circular 120-104 (http://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/120-104.pdf), several programs have been developed to support initiatives that will ensure the continued airworthiness of aging airplane structure. The last element of those initiatives is the requirement to establish a LOV of the engineering data that support the structural maintenance program under 14 CFR 26.21. This proposed AD is the result of an assessment of the previously established programs by the design approval holder (DAH) during the process of establishing the LOV for Model A319, A320, and Model A321 series airplanes. The actions specified in this proposed AD are necessary to complete certain programs to ensure the continued airworthiness of aging airplane structure and to support an airplane reaching its LOV. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014-0209, dated September 19, 2014 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition on all Model A319, A320, and Model A321 series airplanes. The MCAI states: During the A320 fatigue test campaign for Extended Service Goal (ESG), it was determined that fatigue damage could develop on the forward pressure bulkhead at Frame (FR) 35 on left hand (LH) side and right hand (RH) side. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could affect the structural integrity of the aeroplane. To address this potential unsafe condition, a reinforcement modification was developed, which has been published through Airbus Service Bulletin (SB) A320-53-1268 for in-service application to allow aeroplanes to operate up to the new ESG limit. For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires reinforcement of the centre fuselage forward pressure bulkhead at FR35. The forward pressure bulkhead reinforcement includes related investigative actions of measuring the diameters of certain fastener holes, and if they are not oversized, doing a rotating probe inspection for cracking of the fastener holes. Required corrective actions include cold expanding crack-free holes or repairing oversize or cracked holes by using a method approved by the FAA, EASA, or Airbus's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015- 2964. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Airbus has issued Service Bulletin A320-53-1268, Revision 02, dated July 15, 2014. The service information describes procedures for reinforcing the forward pressure bulkhead at frame 35, stringer 30, on both the left-hand and right-hand sides; and repairs. The actions described in this service information are intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section of this NPRM. FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD 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. Explanation of ``RC'' Procedures and Tests in Service Information The FAA worked in conjunction with industry, under the Airworthiness Directives Implementation Aviation [[Page 45459]] Rulemaking Committee (AD ARC), to enhance the AD system. One enhancement was a new process for annotating which procedures and tests in the service information are required for compliance with an AD. Differentiating these procedures and tests from other tasks in the service information is expected to improve an owner's/operator's understanding of crucial AD requirements and help provide consistent judgment in AD compliance. The actions specified in the service information identified previously include procedures and tests that are identified as RC (required for compliance) because these procedures have a direct effect on detecting, preventing, resolving, or eliminating an identified unsafe condition. As specified in a NOTE under the Accomplishment Instructions of the specified service information, procedures and tests that are identified as RC in any service information must be done to comply with the proposed AD. However, procedures and tests that are not identified as RC are recommended. Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval of an alternative method of compliance (AMOC), provided the procedures and tests identified as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in a serviceable condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests identified as RC will require approval of an AMOC. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 48 airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would take about 21 work-hours per product to comply with the basic requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $85,680, or $1,785 per product. According to the manufacturer, some of the costs of this proposed AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost estimate. 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. 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 adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): Airbus: Docket No. FAA-2015-2964; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM- 206-AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by September 14, 2015. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes identified in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), and (c)(3) of this AD, certificated in any category, all manufacturer serial numbers. (1) Airbus Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, and -133 airplanes. (2) Airbus Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes. (3) Airbus Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Reason This AD is intended to complete certain mandated programs intended to support the airplane reaching its limit of validity (LOV) of the engineering data that support the established structural maintenance program. We are issuing this AD to prevent fatigue cracking of the forward pressure bulkhead, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Reinforcement, Related Investigative Actions, and Corrective Actions Before the accumulation of 48,000 total flight cycles or 96,000 total flight hours, whichever occurs first: Reinforce the forward pressure bulkhead at frame 35, stringer 30, on both the left-hand and right-hand sides; and do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions; in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1268, Revision 02, dated July 15, 2014, except as provided by paragraph (h) of this AD. Do all corrective actions before further flight. (h) Exception to Service Information Specifications Although Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1268, Revision 02, dated July 15, 2014, specifies to contact Airbus for repair instructions, and specifies that action as ``RC'' (Required for Compliance), this AD requires repair before further flight 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). (i) Credit for Previous Actions This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1268, dated January 8, 2013; or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1268, Revision 01, dated July 23, 2013. This service [[Page 45460]] information is not incorporated by reference in 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: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057- 3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-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 EASA; or Airbus's EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except as required by paragraph (h) of this AD, if any service information contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended. Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in a serviceable condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests identified as RC require approval of an AMOC. (k) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD 2014-0209, dated September 19, 2014, for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-2964. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@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 July 17, 2015. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2015-18534 Filed 7-29-15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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accordance with Part 5 of the 00–00, ‘‘Structures-General,’’ of Part 6—Eddy (4) AMOCs approved for AD 2012–17–13,
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing 707 Current, of the Boeing 707/720 Amendment 39–17176 (77 FR 55681,
Alert Service Bulletin A3515, dated Nondestructive Test Manual, Document D6– September 11, 2012), are approved as
December 19, 2007, or Boeing 707 Alert 48023, Revision 118, dated July 15, 2011. AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of
Service Bulletin A3515, Revision 1, dated (2) Subject 55–10–07, ‘‘Horizontal this AD.
October 10, 2014; or replace the chord, in Stabilizer,’’ of Part 6—Eddy Current, of the
accordance with Part 6 of the Boeing 707/720 Nondestructive Test Manual, (s) Related Information
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing 707 Document D6–48023, Revision 118, dated (1) For more information about this AD,
Alert Service Bulletin A3515, dated July 15, 2011. contact Chandra Ramdoss, Aerospace
December 19, 2007, or Boeing 707 Alert (3) Subject 51–01–00, ‘‘Orientation and Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM–120L,
Service Bulletin A3515, Revision 1, dated Preparation for Testing’’ of Part 1—General, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification
October 10, 2014. of the Boeing 707/720 Nondestructive Test Office (ACO), 3960 Paramount Boulevard,
Manual, Document D6–48023, Revision 118, Lakewood, CA 90712–4137; phone: 562–627–
(m) Retained Supplemental Structural dated July 15, 2011. 5239; fax: 562–627–5210; email:
Inspection Document Inspections
(p) Retained Parts Installation Prohibition chandraduth.ramdoss@faa.gov.
This paragraph restates the actions (2) For service information identified in
required by paragraph (m) of AD 2012–17– As of October 16, 2012 (the effective date this AD, contact Boeing Commercial
13, Amendment 39–17176 (77 FR 55681, of AD 2012–17–13, Amendment 39–17176 Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services
September 11, 2012). For all airplanes: (77 FR 55681, September 11, 2012)), no Management, 3855 Lakewood Boulevard, MC
Within 180 days or 1,000 flight cycles after person may install any horizontal stabilizer D800–0019, Long Beach, CA 90846–0001;
October 16, 2012 (the effective date of AD assembly with any chord segment having a telephone 206–544–5000, extension 2; fax
2012–17–13), whichever occurs first, do the part number other than that identified in 206–766–5683; Internet https://
inspections of the applicable structurally paragraph 2.C.2. of Boeing 707 Alert Service www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this
significant items specified in and in Bulletin A3515, dated December 19, 2007, or referenced service information at the FAA,
accordance with the Accomplishment Boeing 707 Alert Service Bulletin A3515, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind
Instructions of Boeing 707 Alert Service Revision 1, dated October 10, 2014, on any Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information
Bulletin A3516, dated April 4, 2008. If any airplane. on the availability of this material at the
cracking is found, before further flight, repair FAA, call 425–227–1221.
in accordance with the procedures specified (q) New Replacement of 7079 Aluminum
in paragraph (r) of this AD. The inspections Components Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 16,
required by AD 85–12–01 R1, Amendment Within 48 months after the effective date 2015.
39–5439 (51 FR 36002, October 8, 1986), are of this AD: Replace all 7079 aluminum chord Suzanne Masterson,
still required, except, as of October 16, 2012 segments of the upper and lower chords Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
(the effective date of AD 2012–17–13), the installed on the horizontal stabilizer with Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
flight-cycle interval for the repetitive 7075 aluminum chord segments, in
inspections specified in paragraph 1.E., accordance with Part 6 of the [FR Doc. 2015–18559 Filed 7–29–15; 8:45 am]
‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing 707 Alert Service Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing 707 BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
Bulletin A3516, dated April 4, 2008, must be Alert Service Bulletin A3515, Revision 1,
counted in accordance with the requirements dated October 10, 2014. Within 4,000 flight
of paragraph (g) of this AD. cycles after accomplishing the replacements DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
required by this paragraph, repeat the
(n) Retained Exception to Certain Service inspection required by paragraph (j) of this Federal Aviation Administration
Information: Contacting FAA for Crack AD; and repeat the inspection thereafter at
Repair intervals not to exceed 500 flight cycles, and 14 CFR Part 39
This paragraph restates the actions before further flight after any replacement of
required by paragraph (n) of AD 2012–17–13, the horizontal stabilizer. [Docket No. FAA–2015–2964; Directorate
Amendment 39–17176 (77 FR 55681, Identifier 2014–NM–206–AD]
(r) Alternative Methods of Compliance
September 11, 2012), with revised service
information. If any cracking is found during (AMOCs) RIN 2120–AA64
any inspection required by this AD, and (1) The Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft
Boeing 707 Alert Service Bulletin A3515, Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
dated December 19, 2007, or Boeing 707 authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if Airplanes
Alert Service Bulletin A3515, Revision 1, requested using the procedures found in 14
dated October 10, 2014, specifies to contact CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, AGENCY: Federal Aviation
Boeing for appropriate action: Before further send your request to your principal inspector Administration (FAA), DOT.
flight, repair the cracking using a method or local Flight Standards District Office, as ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
approved in accordance with the procedures appropriate. If sending information directly (NPRM).
specified in paragraph (r) of this AD. to the manager of the ACO, send it to the
attention of the person identified in SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new
(o) Retained Exception to Certain Service paragraph (s)(1) of this AD. Information may
Information: Nondestructive Test
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
be emailed to: 9-ANM-LAACO-AMOC- Airbus Model A319, A320, and A321
Compliance Procedures Requests@faa.gov. series airplanes. This proposed AD is
This paragraph restates the requirements of (2) Before using any approved AMOC,
paragraph (o) of AD 2012–17–13, notify your appropriate principal inspector, intended to complete certain mandated
Amendment 39–17176 (77 FR 55681, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager programs intended to support the
September 11, 2012), with revised service of the local flight standards district office/ airplane reaching its limit of validity
information. Where Boeing 707 Alert Service certificate holding district office. (LOV) of the engineering data that
Bulletin A3515, dated December 19, 2007, or (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable support the established structural
Lhorne on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
Boeing 707 Alert Service Bulletin A3515, level of safety may be used for any repair maintenance program. This proposed
Revision 1, dated October 10, 2014, specifies required by this AD if it is approved by the AD would require reinforcing the
that operators ‘‘refer to’’ nondestructive test Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization forward pressure bulkhead at a certain
(NDT) procedures, the procedures must be Designation Authorization (ODA) that has
done in accordance with the service been authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles stringer on both the left-hand and right-
information identified in paragraphs (o)(1), ACO, to make those findings. For a repair hand sides, and related investigative
(o)(2), and (o)(3) of this AD, as applicable. method to be approved, the repair must meet and corrective actions if necessary. We
(1) Figure 20, ‘‘Electrical Conductivity the certification basis of the airplane, and the are proposing this AD to prevent fatigue
Measurement for Aluminum,’’ of Subject 51– approval must specifically refer to this AD. cracking of the forward pressure
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bulkhead, which could result in Comments Invited To address this potential unsafe condition,
reduced structural integrity of the a reinforcement modification was developed,
We invite you to send any written which has been published through Airbus
airplane.
relevant data, views, or arguments about Service Bulletin (SB) A320–53–1268 for in-
DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD. Send your comments service application to allow aeroplanes to
this proposed AD by September 14, to an address listed under the operate up to the new ESG limit.
2015. ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. For the reasons described above, this
[EASA] AD requires reinforcement of the
FAA–2015–2964; Directorate Identifier centre fuselage forward pressure bulkhead at
ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
2014–NM–206–AD’’ at the beginning of FR35.
using the procedures found in 14 CFR
your comments. We specifically invite
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following The forward pressure bulkhead
comments on the overall regulatory,
methods: reinforcement includes related
economic, environmental, and energy
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to aspects of this proposed AD. We will investigative actions of measuring the
http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the consider all comments received by the diameters of certain fastener holes, and
instructions for submitting comments. closing date and may amend this if they are not oversized, doing a
• Fax: 202–493–2251. proposed AD based on those comments. rotating probe inspection for cracking of
• Mail: U.S. Department of the fastener holes.
We will post all comments we Required corrective actions include
Transportation, Docket Operations, M– receive, without change, to http://
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room cold expanding crack-free holes or
www.regulations.gov, including any repairing oversize or cracked holes by
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., personal information you provide. We
Washington, DC 20590. using a method approved by the FAA,
will also post a report summarizing each EASA, or Airbus’s EASA Design
• Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of substantive verbal contact we receive Organization Approval (DOA).
Transportation, Docket Operations, M– about this proposed AD. You may examine the MCAI in the
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room AD docket on the Internet at http://
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Discussion
www.regulations.gov by searching for
Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 As described in FAA Advisory and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
p.m., Monday through Friday, except Circular 120–104 (http://www.faa.gov/ 2964.
Federal holidays. documentLibrary/media/Advisory_
For service information identified in Circular/120–104.pdf), several programs Related Service Information Under 1
this proposed AD, contact Airbus, have been developed to support CFR Part 51
Airworthiness Office—EIAS, 1 Rond initiatives that will ensure the Airbus has issued Service Bulletin
Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac continued airworthiness of aging A320–53–1268, Revision 02, dated July
Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 airplane structure. The last element of 15, 2014. The service information
96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email those initiatives is the requirement to describes procedures for reinforcing the
account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; establish a LOV of the engineering data forward pressure bulkhead at frame 35,
Internet http://www.airbus.com. You that support the structural maintenance stringer 30, on both the left-hand and
may view this referenced service program under 14 CFR 26.21. This right-hand sides; and repairs. The
information at the FAA, Transport proposed AD is the result of an actions described in this service
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue assessment of the previously established information are intended to correct the
SW., Renton, WA. For information on programs by the design approval holder unsafe condition identified in the
the availability of this material at the (DAH) during the process of establishing MCAI. This service information is
FAA, call 425–227–1221. the LOV for Model A319, A320, and reasonably available because the
Model A321 series airplanes. The interested parties have access to it
Examining the AD Docket
actions specified in this proposed AD through their normal course of business
You may examine the AD docket on are necessary to complete certain or by the means identified in the
the Internet at http:// programs to ensure the continued ADDRESSES section of this NPRM.
www.regulations.gov by searching for airworthiness of aging airplane structure
FAA’s Determination and Requirements
and locating Docket No. FAA–2015– and to support an airplane reaching its
of This Proposed AD
2964; or in person at the Docket LOV.
Management Facility between 9 a.m. The European Aviation Safety Agency This product has been approved by
and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, (EASA), which is the Technical Agent the aviation authority of another
except Federal holidays. The AD docket for the Member States of the European country, and is approved for operation
contains this proposed AD, the Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness in the United States. Pursuant to our
regulatory evaluation, any comments Directive 2014–0209, dated September bilateral agreement with the State of
received, and other information. The 19, 2014 (referred to after this as the Design Authority, we have been notified
street address for the Docket Operations Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness of the unsafe condition described in the
office (telephone 800–647–5527) is in Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct MCAI and service information
the ADDRESSES section. Comments will an unsafe condition on all Model A319, referenced above. We are proposing this
be available in the AD docket shortly A320, and Model A321 series airplanes. AD because we evaluated all pertinent
after receipt. The MCAI states: information and determined an unsafe
condition exists and is likely to exist or
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Lhorne on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
During the A320 fatigue test campaign for develop on other products of these same
Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, Extended Service Goal (ESG), it was
determined that fatigue damage could
type designs.
International Branch, ANM–116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, develop on the forward pressure bulkhead at Explanation of ‘‘RC’’ Procedures and
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA Frame (FR) 35 on left hand (LH) side and Tests in Service Information
98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1405; right hand (RH) side.
This condition, if not detected and The FAA worked in conjunction with
fax 425–227–1149. corrected, could affect the structural integrity industry, under the Airworthiness
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: of the aeroplane. Directives Implementation Aviation
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![Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 146 / Thursday, July 30, 2015 / Proposed Rules 45459
Rulemaking Committee (AD ARC), to Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more (a) Comments Due Date
enhance the AD system. One detail the scope of the Agency’s We must receive comments by September
enhancement was a new process for authority. 14, 2015.
annotating which procedures and tests We are issuing this rulemaking under
(b) Affected ADs
in the service information are required the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,
for compliance with an AD. Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: None.
Differentiating these procedures and General requirements.’’ Under that (c) Applicability
tests from other tasks in the service section, Congress charges the FAA with This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes
information is expected to improve an promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in identified in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), and
owner’s/operator’s understanding of air commerce by prescribing regulations (c)(3) of this AD, certificated in any category,
crucial AD requirements and help for practices, methods, and procedures all manufacturer serial numbers.
provide consistent judgment in AD the Administrator finds necessary for (1) Airbus Model A319–111, –112, –113,
compliance. The actions specified in the safety in air commerce. This regulation –114, –115, –131, –132, and –133 airplanes.
service information identified is within the scope of that authority (2) Airbus Model A320–211, –212, –214,
previously include procedures and tests because it addresses an unsafe condition –231, –232, and –233 airplanes.
that are identified as RC (required for (3) Airbus Model A321–111, –112, –131,
that is likely to exist or develop on
compliance) because these procedures –211, –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes.
products identified in this rulemaking
have a direct effect on detecting, action. (d) Subject
preventing, resolving, or eliminating an Air Transport Association (ATA) of
identified unsafe condition. Regulatory Findings
America Code 53, Fuselage.
As specified in a NOTE under the We determined that this proposed AD
Accomplishment Instructions of the (e) Reason
would not have federalism implications
specified service information, under Executive Order 13132. This This AD is intended to complete certain
procedures and tests that are identified proposed AD would not have a mandated programs intended to support the
as RC in any service information must airplane reaching its limit of validity (LOV)
substantial direct effect on the States, on
of the engineering data that support the
be done to comply with the proposed the relationship between the national established structural maintenance program.
AD. However, procedures and tests that Government and the States, or on the We are issuing this AD to prevent fatigue
are not identified as RC are distribution of power and cracking of the forward pressure bulkhead,
recommended. Those procedures and responsibilities among the various which could result in reduced structural
tests that are not identified as RC may levels of government. integrity of the airplane.
be deviated from using accepted For the reasons discussed above, I
(f) Compliance
methods in accordance with the certify this proposed regulation:
operator’s maintenance or inspection 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory Comply with this AD within the
program without obtaining approval of action’’ under Executive Order 12866; compliance times specified, unless already
done.
an alternative method of compliance 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
(AMOC), provided the procedures and DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (g) Reinforcement, Related Investigative
tests identified as RC can be done and (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); Actions, and Corrective Actions
the airplane can be put back in a 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Before the accumulation of 48,000 total
serviceable condition. Any substitutions Alaska; and flight cycles or 96,000 total flight hours,
or changes to procedures or tests 4. Will not have a significant whichever occurs first: Reinforce the forward
identified as RC will require approval of economic impact, positive or negative, pressure bulkhead at frame 35, stringer 30, on
an AMOC. on a substantial number of small entities both the left-hand and right-hand sides; and
under the criteria of the Regulatory do all applicable related investigative and
Costs of Compliance Flexibility Act. corrective actions; in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
We estimate that this proposed AD Service Bulletin A320–53–1268, Revision 02,
affects 48 airplanes of U.S. registry. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
dated July 15, 2014, except as provided by
We also estimate that it would take Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation paragraph (h) of this AD. Do all corrective
about 21 work-hours per product to safety, Incorporation by reference, actions before further flight.
comply with the basic requirements of Safety.
this proposed AD. The average labor (h) Exception to Service Information
The Proposed Amendment Specifications
rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on
these figures, we estimate the cost of Accordingly, under the authority Although Airbus Service Bulletin A320–
this proposed AD on U.S. operators to delegated to me by the Administrator, 53–1268, Revision 02, dated July 15, 2014,
the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part specifies to contact Airbus for repair
be $85,680, or $1,785 per product. instructions, and specifies that action as
According to the manufacturer, some 39 as follows: ‘‘RC’’ (Required for Compliance), this AD
of the costs of this proposed AD may be requires repair before further flight using a
covered under warranty, thereby PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS method approved by the Manager,
reducing the cost impact on affected DIRECTIVES International Branch, ANM–116, Transport
individuals. We do not control warranty Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European
■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus’s
coverage for affected individuals. As a
continues to read as follows: EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA).
result, we have included all costs in our
Lhorne on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
cost estimate. Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. (i) Credit for Previous Actions
Authority for This Rulemaking § 39.13 [Amended] This paragraph provides credit for actions
■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding required by paragraph (g) of this AD, if those
Title 49 of the United States Code actions were performed before the effective
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue the following new airworthiness
date of this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, directive (AD): A320–53–1268, dated January 8, 2013; or
section 106, describes the authority of Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2015–2964; Airbus Service Bulletin A320–53–1268,
the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: Directorate Identifier 2014–NM–206–AD. Revision 01, dated July 23, 2013. This service
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![45460 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 146 / Thursday, July 30, 2015 / Proposed Rules
information is not incorporated by reference Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 17, Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data
in this AD. 2015. & Services Management, P.O. Box 3707,
(j) Other FAA AD Provisions Michael Kaszycki, MC 2H–65, Seattle, WA 98124–2207;
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane telephone 206–544–5000, extension 1;
The following provisions also apply to this
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. fax 206–766–5680; Internet https://
AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance [FR Doc. 2015–18534 Filed 7–29–15; 8:45 am] www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view
(AMOCs): The Manager, International BILLING CODE 4910–13–P this referenced service information at
Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane the FAA, Transport Airplane
Directorate, FAA, has the authority to Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Renton, WA. For information on the
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your availability of this material at the FAA,
Federal Aviation Administration call 425–227–1221. It is also available
request to your principal inspector or local
Flight Standards District Office, as on the Internet at http://
appropriate. If sending information directly
14 CFR Part 39 www.regulations.gov by searching for
to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: [Docket No. FAA–2015–2966; Directorate and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, Identifier 2015–NM–051–AD] 2966.
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind RIN 2120–AA64 Examining the AD Docket
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356;
telephone 425–227–1405; fax 425–227–1149. Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing You may examine the AD docket on
Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116- Company Airplanes the Internet at http://
AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using www.regulations.gov by searching for
any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate AGENCY: Federal Aviation
and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
principal inspector, or lacking a principal Administration (FAA), DOT.
2966; or in person at the Docket
inspector, the manager of the local flight ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking Management Facility between 9 a.m.
standards district office/certificate holding (NPRM). and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
district office. The AMOC approval letter
must specifically reference this AD. SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new except Federal holidays. The AD docket
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any airworthiness directive (AD) for certain contains this proposed AD, the
requirement in this AD to obtain corrective The Boeing Company Model 787–8 regulatory evaluation, any comments
actions from a manufacturer, the action must airplanes. This proposed AD was received, and other information. The
be accomplished using a method approved prompted by a report of fuel leaking street address for the Docket Office
by the Manager, International Branch, ANM– (phone: 800–647–5527) is in the
onto the hot exhaust portion of an
116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or ADDRESSES section. Comments will be
EASA; or Airbus’s EASA DOA. If approved engine as a result of an un-intended leak
path from the leading edge through the available in the AD docket shortly after
by the DOA, the approval must include the
DOA-authorized signature. pylons. This proposed AD would receipt.
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except require installing new seal dams in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
as required by paragraph (h) of this AD, if inboard and outboard corners of the aft Sherry Vevea, Aerospace Engineer,
any service information contains procedures pylon frame on the left and right Propulsion Branch, ANM–140S, FAA,
or tests that are identified as RC, those engines, including an inspection for
procedures and tests must be done to comply
Seattle Aircraft Certification Office
damage of the outboard blade seal and (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton,
with this AD; any procedures or tests that are
applicable corrective actions. We are WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6514;
not identified as RC are recommended. Those
procedures and tests that are not identified proposing this AD to prevent fuel fax: 425–917–6590; email:
as RC may be deviated from using accepted leaking from an unintended drain path sherry.vevea@faa.gov.
methods in accordance with the operator’s from the leading edge through the
maintenance or inspection program without pylons and onto the hot engine parts or SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided brakes, which could lead to a major Comments Invited
the procedures and tests identified as RC can ground fire.
be done and the airplane can be put back in DATES: We must receive comments on We invite you to send any written
a serviceable condition. Any substitutions or relevant data, views, or arguments about
changes to procedures or tests identified as
this proposed AD by September 14,
2015. this proposal. Send your comments to
RC require approval of an AMOC.
an address listed under the ADDRESSES
ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
(k) Related Information section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 2015–2966; Directorate Identifier 2015–
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following NM–051–AD’’ at the beginning of your
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD
2014–0209, dated September 19, 2014, for methods: comments. We specifically invite
related information. This MCAI may be • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
comments on the overall regulatory,
found in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
economic, environmental, and energy
http://www.regulations.gov by searching for instructions for submitting comments.
• Fax: 202–493–2251. aspects of this proposed AD. We will
and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–2964.
(2) For service information identified in • Mail: U.S. Department of consider all comments received by the
this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness Transportation, Docket Operations, M– closing date and may amend this
Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room proposed AD because of those
comments.
Lhorne on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 We will post all comments we
Washington, DC 20590.
93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail receive, without change, to http://
airbus.com; Internet http://www.airbus.com.
You may view this service information at the address above between 9 a.m. and 5 www.regulations.gov, including any
FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 p.m., Monday through Friday, except personal information you provide. We
Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For Federal holidays. will also post a report summarizing each
information on the availability of this For service information identified in substantive verbal contact we receive
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. this proposed AD, contact Boeing about this proposed AD.
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Document Created: 2018-02-23 09:30:10
Document Modified: 2018-02-23 09:30:10
| 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 | Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). | |
| Dates | We must receive comments on this proposed AD by September 14, 2015. | |
| Contact | Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149. | |
| FR Citation | 80 FR 45457 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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