80 FR 45857 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 148 (August 3, 2015)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 148 (August 3, 2015)
| Page Range | 45857-45860 | |
| FR Document | 2015-18564 |
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 148 (Monday, August 3, 2015)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 45857-45860] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2015-18564] [[Page 45857]] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2014-0652; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-076-AD; Amendment 39-18223; AD 2015-15-13] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A319 series airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, - 232, and -233 airplanes; and Model A321 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of cracks that could be initiated at the waste water service panel area and the potable water service panel area. This AD requires modification of the potable water service panel and waste water service panel, including doing applicable related investigative and corrective actions. We are issuing this AD to prevent any cracking at the waste water service panel area and the potable water service panel area, which could affect the structural integrity of the airplane. DATES: This AD becomes effective September 8, 2015. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of September 8, 2015. ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FAA-2014-0652 or in person at the Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC. 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 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. It is also available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2014- 0652. 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: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Airbus Model A319 series airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes; and Model A321 series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on October 1, 2014 (79 FR 59160). The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014-0081, dated March 31, 2014 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus Model A319 series airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes; and Model A321 series airplanes. The MCAI states: During the full scale fatigue test on A320-200, it has been noticed that, due to fatigue, cracks could be initiated at the waste water service panel area and the potable water service panel area. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could affect the structural integrity of the aeroplane. Prompted by these findings, ALS [airworthiness limitations section] Part 2 tasks have been introduced for the affected A320 family aeroplanes. Since those actions were taken, Airbus developed production mod 160055 and mod 160056 to embody reinforcements (cold working on certain rivet rows) of the potable water and waste water service panels, and published associated Airbus Service Bulletin (SB) A320-53-1272 (retrofit mod 153074) and SB A320-53-1267 (retrofit mod 153073) for in-service embodiment. Following complementary Design Office studies, it appears that the Sharklet installations on certain aeroplanes have a significant impact on the aeroplane structure (particularly, A319 and A320 post- mod 160001, and A321 post-mod 160021), leading to different compliance times, depending on aeroplane configuration. For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires reinforcement of the potable water and waste water service panels. Accomplishment of these modifications cancels the need for the related ALS Part 2 Tasks. The modification includes doing applicable related investigative and corrective actions. Related investigative actions include measuring the diameter of a hole of a fastener and doing a rotating probe inspection. Corrective actions include repairs. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2014-0652-0003. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM (79 FR 59160, October 1, 2014) and the FAA's response to each comment. Request To Include Latest Service Information United Airlines (UAL) and Airbus requested that we revise the NPRM (79 FR 59160, October 1, 2014) to include the latest service information. UAL explained that Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1267, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2014, has similar modification requirements to those specified in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1267, Revision 01, dated October 2, 2013, but also has updates including two new airplane configurations, which update compliance times corresponding to the times listed in paragraph (g)(2) of the NPRM. Airbus stated that Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1267, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2014, updates the effectivity and compliance times in the service information. We agree to include Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1267, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2014, in this AD. Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53- 1267, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2014, was issued to provide updated compliance times and effectivity. Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1267, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2014, does not add additional requirements for AD compliance times. Also, we have added Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1267, Revision 01, dated October 2, 2013, to paragraph (j)(2) of this AD to offer credit for the corresponding actions performed before the effective date of this AD. Request To Omit Paragraph (h) of the NPRM (79 FR 59160, October 1, 2014) UAL requested that we revise the NPRM (79 FR 59160, October 1, 2014) to omit paragraph (h) of the proposed AD. UAL explained that Task 534126-01-3, of the Airworthiness Limitation Section (ALS) Part 2, ``Damage-Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items'' of the [[Page 45858]] Airbus A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness Limitation Items is addressed separately in other rulemaking, NPRM Docket No. FAA-2013-0692, Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-024-AD (78 FR 49213, August 13, 2013), and that NPRM contains the instructions for the corrective actions in paragraph (o)(2) of that NPRM. UAL concluded that paragraph (h) of the NPRM (79 FR 59160, October 1, 2014), which specifies corrective actions for Task 534126-01-3, might cause confusion. UAL also suggested that, as an alternative to omitting paragraph (h) of NPRM (79 FR 59160, October 1, 2014), paragraph (h) of the NPRM could be revised so that the Task 534126-01-3 requirement refers to the other rulemaking, NPRM Docket No. FAA-2013-0692, Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-024-AD (78 FR 49213, August 13, 2013), which has since been issued as AD 2014-23-15, Amendment 39-18031 (80 FR 3871, January 26, 2015). (AD 2014-23-15 has since been superseded by AD 2015-05-02, Amendment 39-18112 (80 FR 15152, March 23, 2015)). We disagree to omit or revise paragraph (h) of this AD. Paragraph (h) of this AD is not a duplicated action. Paragraph (h) of this AD specifies that for Airbus A320 airplanes having pre-modification 160001, that have exceeded 46,400 flight cycles or 92,800 flight hours, whichever occurred first since the airplane's first flight, operators must repair cracks found during accomplishment of Task 534126-01-3, 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. This specific condition and corrective action is not included in paragraph (p)(2) of AD 2015-05-02, Amendment 39-18112 (80 FR 15152, March 23, 2015, which corresponds to paragraph (o)(2) of NPRM Docket No. FAA- 2013-0692, Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-024-AD (78 FR 49213, August 13, 2013). AD 2015-05-02, does not mandate corrective actions associated with Task 534126-01-3, of the Airworthiness Limitation Section (ALS) Part 2, ``Damage-Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items'' of the Airbus A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness Limitation Items, but instead mandates incorporation of that task into operators' maintenance or inspection programs. We have made no changes to this AD in this regard. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this AD with the changes described previously and minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM (79 FR 59160, October 1, 2014) for correcting the unsafe condition; and Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM (79 FR 59160, October 1, 2014). We also determined that these changes will not increase the economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this AD. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Airbus has issued Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1267, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2014; and Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1272, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2014. The service information describes procedures for a modification, which includes measuring the diameter of a hole of a fastener and doing a rotating probe inspection, and repairs if necessary. 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 AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 851 airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it will take about 25 work-hours per product to comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Required parts will cost about $420 per product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD on U.S. operators to be $2,165,795, or $2,545 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. Regulatory Findings We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will 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 that this AD: 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. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FAA-2014-0652; 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 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. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 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): [[Page 45859]] 2015-15-13 Airbus: Amendment 39-18223. Docket No. FAA-2014-0652; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-076-AD. (a) Effective Date This AD becomes effective September 8, 2015. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to the airplanes identified in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), and (c)(3) of this AD, certificated in any category, all manufacturer serial numbers, except those on which Airbus Modification 160055 or Airbus Modification 160056 has been embodied in production. (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 was prompted by reports of cracks that could be initiated at the waste water service panel area and the potable water service panel area. We are issuing this AD to prevent any cracking at the waste water service panel area and the potable water service panel area, which could affect the structural integrity of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Modification (1) Within the compliance time specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i), (g)(1)(ii), (g)(1)(iii), (g)(1)(iv), and (g)(1)(v) of this AD, as applicable, modify the potable water service panel, including doing all applicable related investigative and corrective actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1272, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2014, except where Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1272, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2014, specifies to contact Airbus, 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). Do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions within the compliance time specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i), (g)(1)(ii), (g)(1)(iii), (g)(1)(iv), and (g)(1)(v) of this AD. (i) For Model A319 airplanes pre-modification 160001: Within 48,500 flight cycles or 97,000 flight hours, whichever occurs first since the airplane's first flight. (ii) For Model A319 airplanes post-modification 160001: Within 46,000 flight cycles or 92,000 flight hours, whichever occurs first since the airplane's first flight. (iii) For Model A320 airplanes pre-modification 160001: Within 54,200 flight cycles or 108,400 flight hours, whichever occurs first since the airplane's first flight. (iv) For Model A320 airplanes post-modification 160001: Within 36,000 flight cycles or 72,000 flight hours, whichever occurs first since the airplane's first flight. (v) For Model A321 airplanes: Within 60,000 flight cycles or 120,000 flight hours, whichever occurs first since the airplane's first flight. (2) Within the compliance time specified in paragraphs (g)(2)(i), (g)(2)(ii), (g)(2)(iii), (g)(2)(iv), (g)(2)(v), and (g)(2)(vi) of this AD, as applicable, modify the waste water service panel, including doing all applicable related investigative and corrective actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1267, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2014, except where Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53- 1267, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2014, specifies to contact Airbus, repair before further flight using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the EASA; or Airbus's EASA DOA. Do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions within the compliance time specified in paragraphs (g)(2)(i), (g)(2)(ii), (g)(2)(iii), (g)(2)(iv), and (g)(2)(v) of this AD. (i) For Airbus A319 airplanes pre-modification 160001: Within 44,400 flight cycles or 88,800 flight hours, whichever occurs first since the airplane's first flight. (ii) For Airbus A319 airplanes post-modification 160001: Within 43,600 flight cycles or 87,200 flight hours, whichever occurs first since the airplane's first flight. (iii) For Airbus A320 airplanes pre-modification 160001, within the compliance times specified in paragraph (g)(2)(iii)(A) or (g)(2)(iii)(B) of this AD, whichever occurs later: (A) Within 46,400 flight cycles or 92,800 flight hours, whichever occurs first since the airplane's first flight. (B) Within 2,300 flight cycles or 4,600 flight hours, whichever occurs first since last accomplishment of Task No. 534126-01-3, of the Airworthiness Limitation Section (ALS) Part 2, ``Damage-Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items'' of the Airbus A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness Limitation Items, without exceeding 48,000 flight cycles or 96,000 flight hours, whichever occurs first since the airplane's first flight. (iv) For Airbus A320 airplanes post-modification 160001: Within 39,200 flight cycles or 78,400 flight hours, whichever occurs first since the airplane's first flight. (v) For Airbus A321 airplanes pre-modification 160021: Within 51,600 flight cycles or 103,200 flight hours, whichever occurs first since the airplane's first flight. (vi) For Airbus A321 airplanes post-modification 160021: Within 51,200 flight cycles or 102,400 flight hours, whichever occurs first since the airplane's first flight. (h) Corrective Action For Airbus A320 airplanes having pre-modification 160001, that have exceeded 46,400 flight cycles or 92,800 flight hours, whichever occurred first since the airplane's first flight: If any crack is found during accomplishment of Task No. 534126-01-3, of the ALS Part 2, ``Damage-Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items'' of the Airbus A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness Limitation Items, before further flight, repair using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the EASA; or Airbus's EASA DOA. (i) Terminating Action for ALS Task (1) Modification of an airplane as required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, terminates the requirement for the task in the ALS Part 2, ``Damage-Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items'' of the Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness Limitation Items for that airplane, as identified in paragraphs (i)(1)(i), (i)(1)(ii), (i)(1)(iii), (i)(1)(iv), (i)(1)(v), and (i)(1)(vi) of this AD, as applicable. (i) For Airbus A319 airplanes pre-modification 160001: Task No. 534125-01-2. (ii) For Airbus A319 airplanes post-modification 160001: Task No. 534125-01-5. (iii) For Airbus A320 airplanes pre-modification 160001: Task No. 534125-01-3. (iv) For Airbus A320 airplanes post-modification 160001: Task No. 534125-01-6. (v) For Airbus A321 airplanes pre-modification 160021: Task No. 534125-01-4. (vi) For Airbus A321 airplanes post-modification 160021: Task No. 534125-01-7. (2) Modification of an airplane as required by paragraphs (g)(2) and (g)(3) of this AD, terminates the requirement for the task in the ALS Part 2, ``Damage-Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items'' of the Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness Limitation Items for that airplane, as identified in paragraphs (i)(2)(i), (i)(2)(ii), (i)(2)(iii), (i)(2)(iv), (i)(2)(v), and (i)(2)(vi) of this AD, as applicable. (i) For Airbus A319 airplanes pre-modification 160001: Task No. 534126-01-2. (ii) For Airbus A319 airplanes post-modification 160001: Task No. 534126-01-5. (iii) For Airbus A320 airplanes pre-modification 160001: Task No. 534126-01-3. (iv) For Airbus A320 airplanes post-modification 160001: Task No. 534126-01-6. (v) For Airbus A321 airplanes pre-modification 160021: Task No. 534126-01-4. (vi) For Airbus A321 airplanes post-modification 160021: Task No. 534126-01-7. (j) Credit for Previous Actions (1) This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53- 1272, dated January 10, 2013; or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53- 1272, Revision 01, dated August 6, 2013; which are not incorporated by reference in this AD. (2) This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by paragraph (g)(2) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53- 1267, dated June 24, 2013; or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1267, Revision 01, dated October 2, 2013; which are not incorporated by reference in this AD. (k) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: [[Page 45860]] (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 the EASA; or Airbus's EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (l) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014-0081, dated March 31, 2014, for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FAA- 2014-0652-0003. (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in paragraphs (m)(3) and (m)(4) of this AD. (m) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1267, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2014. (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-1272, Revision 02, dated May 19, 2014. (3) 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. (4) 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. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 22, 2015. Victor Wicklund, Acting Manager,Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2015-18564 Filed 7-31-15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
![Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 148 / Monday, August 3, 2015 / Rules and Regulations 45857
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION searching for and locating Docket No. The modification includes doing
FAA–2014–0652. applicable related investigative and
Federal Aviation Administration FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: corrective actions. Related investigative
Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, actions include measuring the diameter
14 CFR Part 39 International Branch, ANM–116, of a hole of a fastener and doing a
[Docket No. FAA–2014–0652; Directorate Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, rotating probe inspection. Corrective
Identifier 2014–NM–076–AD; Amendment 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA actions include repairs. You may
39–18223; AD 2015–15–13] 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1405; examine the MCAI in the AD docket on
fax 425–227–1149. the Internet at http://
RIN 2120–AA64 www.regulations.gov/
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus #!documentDetail;D=FAA-2014-0652-
Discussion 0003.
Airplanes
We issued a notice of proposed Comments
AGENCY: Federal Aviation rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
Administration (FAA), Department of We gave the public the opportunity to
part 39 by adding an AD that would
Transportation (DOT). participate in developing this AD. The
apply to certain Airbus Model A319
ACTION: Final rule.
following presents the comments
series airplanes; Model A320–211, –212,
received on the NPRM (79 FR 59160,
–214, –231, –232, and –233 airplanes;
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new October 1, 2014) and the FAA’s
and Model A321 series airplanes. The
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain response to each comment.
NPRM published in the Federal
Airbus Model A319 series airplanes; Request To Include Latest Service
Register on October 1, 2014 (79 FR
Model A320–211, –212, –214, –231, Information
59160).
–232, and –233 airplanes; and Model
The European Aviation Safety Agency United Airlines (UAL) and Airbus
A321 series airplanes. This AD was
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent requested that we revise the NPRM (79
prompted by reports of cracks that could
for the Member States of the European FR 59160, October 1, 2014) to include
be initiated at the waste water service
Community, has issued EASA the latest service information. UAL
panel area and the potable water service
Airworthiness Directive 2014–0081, explained that Airbus Service Bulletin
panel area. This AD requires
dated March 31, 2014 (referred to after A320–53–1267, Revision 02, dated May
modification of the potable water
this as the Mandatory Continuing 19, 2014, has similar modification
service panel and waste water service
Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the requirements to those specified in
panel, including doing applicable
MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition Airbus Service Bulletin A320–53–1267,
related investigative and corrective
for certain Airbus Model A319 series Revision 01, dated October 2, 2013, but
actions. We are issuing this AD to
airplanes; Model A320–211, –212, –214, also has updates including two new
prevent any cracking at the waste water
–231, –232, and –233 airplanes; and airplane configurations, which update
service panel area and the potable water
Model A321 series airplanes. The MCAI compliance times corresponding to the
service panel area, which could affect
states: times listed in paragraph (g)(2) of the
the structural integrity of the airplane.
During the full scale fatigue test on A320– NPRM. Airbus stated that Airbus
DATES: This AD becomes effective
200, it has been noticed that, due to fatigue, Service Bulletin A320–53–1267,
September 8, 2015. cracks could be initiated at the waste water Revision 02, dated May 19, 2014,
The Director of the Federal Register service panel area and the potable water updates the effectivity and compliance
approved the incorporation by reference service panel area. times in the service information.
of certain publications listed in this AD This condition, if not detected and We agree to include Airbus Service
as of September 8, 2015. corrected, could affect the structural integrity
of the aeroplane.
Bulletin A320–53–1267, Revision 02,
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD dated May 19, 2014, in this AD. Airbus
Prompted by these findings, ALS
docket on the Internet at http:// Service Bulletin A320–53–1267,
[airworthiness limitations section] Part 2
www.regulations.gov/ tasks have been introduced for the affected Revision 02, dated May 19, 2014, was
#!docketDetail;D=FAA-2014-0652 or in A320 family aeroplanes. Since those actions issued to provide updated compliance
person at the Docket Management were taken, Airbus developed production times and effectivity. Airbus Service
Facility, U.S. Department of mod 160055 and mod 160056 to embody Bulletin A320–53–1267, Revision 02,
Transportation, Docket Operations, M– reinforcements (cold working on certain rivet dated May 19, 2014, does not add
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room rows) of the potable water and waste water additional requirements for AD
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., service panels, and published associated
Airbus Service Bulletin (SB) A320–53–1272
compliance times.
Washington, DC. Also, we have added Airbus Service
For service information identified in (retrofit mod 153074) and SB A320–53–1267
(retrofit mod 153073) for in-service Bulletin A320–53–1267, Revision 01,
this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness embodiment. dated October 2, 2013, to paragraph
Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Following complementary Design Office (j)(2) of this AD to offer credit for the
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; studies, it appears that the Sharklet corresponding actions performed before
telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 installations on certain aeroplanes have a the effective date of this AD.
61 93 44 51; email account.airworth- significant impact on the aeroplane structure
eas@airbus.com; Internet http:// (particularly, A319 and A320 post-mod Request To Omit Paragraph (h) of the
www.airbus.com. You may view this 160001, and A321 post-mod 160021), leading NPRM (79 FR 59160, October 1, 2014)
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referenced service information at the to different compliance times, depending on UAL requested that we revise the
FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, aeroplane configuration. NPRM (79 FR 59160, October 1, 2014)
For the reasons described above, this
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. [EASA] AD requires reinforcement of the
to omit paragraph (h) of the proposed
For information on the availability of potable water and waste water service panels. AD. UAL explained that Task 534126–
this material at the FAA, call 425–227– Accomplishment of these modifications 01–3, of the Airworthiness Limitation
1221. It is also available on the Internet cancels the need for the related ALS Part 2 Section (ALS) Part 2, ‘‘Damage-Tolerant
at http://www.regulations.gov by Tasks. Airworthiness Limitation Items’’ of the
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![45858 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 148 / Monday, August 3, 2015 / Rules and Regulations
Airbus A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness determined that air safety and the because it addresses an unsafe condition
Limitation Items is addressed separately public interest require adopting this AD that is likely to exist or develop on
in other rulemaking, NPRM Docket No. with the changes described previously products identified in this rulemaking
FAA–2013–0692, Directorate Identifier and minor editorial changes. We have action.
2012–NM–024–AD (78 FR 49213, determined that these minor changes:
• Are consistent with the intent that Regulatory Findings
August 13, 2013), and that NPRM
contains the instructions for the was proposed in the NPRM (79 FR We determined that this AD will not
corrective actions in paragraph (o)(2) of 59160, October 1, 2014) for correcting have federalism implications under
that NPRM. UAL concluded that the unsafe condition; and Executive Order 13132. This AD will
paragraph (h) of the NPRM (79 FR • Do not add any additional burden not have a substantial direct effect on
59160, October 1, 2014), which specifies upon the public than was already the States, on the relationship between
corrective actions for Task 534126–01– proposed in the NPRM (79 FR 59160, the national government and the States,
3, might cause confusion. UAL also October 1, 2014). or on the distribution of power and
suggested that, as an alternative to We also determined that these responsibilities among the various
omitting paragraph (h) of NPRM (79 FR changes will not increase the economic levels of government.
59160, October 1, 2014), paragraph (h) burden on any operator or increase the For the reasons discussed above, I
of the NPRM could be revised so that scope of this AD. certify that this AD:
the Task 534126–01–3 requirement 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
Related Service Information Under 1
refers to the other rulemaking, NPRM action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
CFR Part 51
Docket No. FAA–2013–0692, Directorate 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
Identifier 2012–NM–024–AD (78 FR Airbus has issued Airbus Service
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
49213, August 13, 2013), which has Bulletin A320–53–1267, Revision 02,
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
since been issued as AD 2014–23–15, dated May 19, 2014; and Airbus Service
Bulletin A320–53–1272, Revision 02, 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
Amendment 39–18031 (80 FR 3871,
dated May 19, 2014. The service Alaska; and
January 26, 2015). (AD 2014–23–15 has
information describes procedures for a 4. Will not have a significant
since been superseded by AD 2015–05–
02, Amendment 39–18112 (80 FR modification, which includes measuring economic impact, positive or negative,
15152, March 23, 2015)). the diameter of a hole of a fastener and on a substantial number of small entities
We disagree to omit or revise doing a rotating probe inspection, and under the criteria of the Regulatory
paragraph (h) of this AD. Paragraph (h) repairs if necessary. This service Flexibility Act.
of this AD is not a duplicated action. information is reasonably available Examining the AD Docket
Paragraph (h) of this AD specifies that because the interested parties have
for Airbus A320 airplanes having pre- access to it through their normal course You may examine the AD docket on
modification 160001, that have of business or by the means identified the Internet at http://
exceeded 46,400 flight cycles or 92,800 in the ADDRESSES section of this AD. www.regulations.gov/
flight hours, whichever occurred first #!docketDetail;D=FAA-2014-0652; or in
since the airplane’s first flight, operators Costs of Compliance person at the Docket Management
must repair cracks found during We estimate that this AD affects 851 Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.,
accomplishment of Task 534126–01–3, airplanes of U.S. registry. Monday through Friday, except Federal
using a method approved by the We also estimate that it will take holidays. The AD docket contains this
Manager, International Branch, ANM– about 25 work-hours per product to AD, the regulatory evaluation, any
116, Transport Airplane Directorate, comply with the basic requirements of comments received, and other
FAA; or the European Aviation Safety this AD. The average labor rate is $85 information. The street address for the
Agency (EASA); or Airbus’s EASA per work-hour. Required parts will cost Docket Operations office (telephone
Design Organization Approval. This about $420 per product. Based on these 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES
specific condition and corrective action figures, we estimate the cost of this AD section.
is not included in paragraph (p)(2) of on U.S. operators to be $2,165,795, or List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
AD 2015–05–02, Amendment 39–18112 $2,545 per product.
(80 FR 15152, March 23, 2015, which Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
Authority for This Rulemaking safety, Incorporation by reference,
corresponds to paragraph (o)(2) of
NPRM Docket No. FAA–2013–0692, Title 49 of the United States Code Safety.
Directorate Identifier 2012–NM–024–AD specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
Adoption of the Amendment
(78 FR 49213, August 13, 2013). AD rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
2015–05–02, does not mandate section 106, describes the authority of Accordingly, under the authority
corrective actions associated with Task the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: delegated to me by the Administrator,
534126–01–3, of the Airworthiness Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
Limitation Section (ALS) Part 2, detail the scope of the Agency’s follows:
‘‘Damage-Tolerant Airworthiness authority.
Limitation Items’’ of the Airbus A319/ We are issuing this rulemaking under PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
A320/A321 Airworthiness Limitation the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII, DIRECTIVES
Items, but instead mandates Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
General requirements.’’ Under that ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
incorporation of that task into operators’
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section, Congress charges the FAA with continues to read as follows:
maintenance or inspection programs.
We have made no changes to this AD in promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
this regard. air commerce by prescribing regulations
§ 39.13 [Amended]
for practices, methods, and procedures
Conclusion the Administrator finds necessary for ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
We reviewed the relevant data, safety in air commerce. This regulation the following new airworthiness
considered the comments received, and is within the scope of that authority directive (AD):
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![45860 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 148 / Monday, August 3, 2015 / Rules and Regulations
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance the availability of this material at NARA, call 2. The FAA Air Traffic Organization
(AMOCs): The Manager, International 202–741–6030, or go to: http:// Service Area in which the affected
Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- airport is located;
Directorate, FAA, has the authority to locations.html. 3. The office of Aeronautical
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 22, Navigation Products, 6500 South
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
2015. MacArthur Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK
In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your
request to your principal inspector or local Victor Wicklund, 73169 or,
Flight Standards District Office, as Acting Manager,Transport Airplane 4. The National Archives and Records
appropriate. If sending information directly Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. Administration (NARA). For
to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: [FR Doc. 2015–18564 Filed 7–31–15; 8:45 am] information on the availability of this
Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, BILLING CODE 4910–13–P material at NARA, call 202–741–6030,
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport or go to: http://www.archives.gov/
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind federal_register/code_of_federal_
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356;
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION regulations/ibr_locations.html.
telephone 425–227–1405; fax 425–227–1149.
Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116- Availability
Federal Aviation Administration
AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using
any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate All SIAPs and Takeoff Minimums and
principal inspector, or lacking a principal 14 CFR Part 97 ODPs are available online free of charge.
inspector, the manager of the local flight Visit the National Flight Data Center at
standards district office/certificate holding [Docket No. 31028; Amdt. No. 3653] nfdc.faa.gov to register. Additionally,
district office. The AMOC approval letter individual SIAP and Takeoff Minimums
must specifically reference this AD. Standard Instrument Approach and ODP copies may be obtained from
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any Procedures, and Takeoff Minimums the FAA Air Traffic Organization
requirement in this AD to obtain corrective and Obstacle Departure Procedures; Service Area in which the affected
actions from a manufacturer, the action must
be accomplished using a method approved
Miscellaneous Amendments airport is located.
by the Manager, International Branch, ANM– FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
AGENCY: Federal Aviation
116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or
Administration (FAA), DOT. Richard A. Dunham III, Flight Procedure
the EASA; or Airbus’s EASA DOA. If Standards Branch (AFS–420), Flight
approved by the DOA, the approval must ACTION: Final rule. Technologies and Programs Divisions,
include the DOA-authorized signature. Flight Standards Service, Federal
SUMMARY: This rule establishes, amends, Aviation Administration, Mike
(l) Related Information
suspends, or removes Standard Monroney Aeronautical Center, 6500
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Instrument Approach Procedures
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA South MacArthur Blvd., Oklahoma City,
(SIAPs) and associated Takeoff OK 73169 (Mail Address: P.O. Box
Airworthiness Directive 2014–0081, dated
March 31, 2014, for related information. This
Minimums and Obstacle Departure 25082, Oklahoma City, OK 73125)
MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Procedures (ODPs) for operations at Telephone: (405) 954–4164.
Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/ certain airports. These regulatory
actions are needed because of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This rule
#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2014-0652-0003.
(2) Service information identified in this adoption of new or revised criteria, or amends Title 14 of the Code of Federal
AD that is not incorporated by reference is because of changes occurring in the Regulations, Part 97 (14 CFR part 97), by
available at the addresses specified in National Airspace System, such as the establishing, amending, suspending, or
paragraphs (m)(3) and (m)(4) of this AD. commissioning of new navigational removes SIAPS, Takeoff Minimums
facilities, adding new obstacles, or and/or ODPS. The complete regulatory
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference
changing air traffic requirements. These description of each SIAP and its
(1) The Director of the Federal Register associated Takeoff Minimums or ODP
approved the incorporation by reference changes are designed to provide safe
and efficient use of the navigable for an identified airport is listed on FAA
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR airspace and to promote safe flight form documents which are incorporated
part 51. operations under instrument flight rules by reference in this amendment under 5
(2) You must use this service information at the affected airports. U.S.C. 552(a), 1 CFR part 51, and 14
as applicable to do the actions required by CFR part § 97.20. The applicable FAA
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. DATES: This rule is effective August 3, forms are FAA Forms 8260–3, 8260–4,
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–53–1267, 2015. The compliance date for each 8260–5, 8260–15A, and 8260–15B when
Revision 02, dated May 19, 2014. SIAP, associated Takeoff Minimums, required by an entry on 8260–15A.
(ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–53–1272, and ODP is specified in the amendatory The large number of SIAPs, Takeoff
Revision 02, dated May 19, 2014. provisions. Minimums and ODPs, their complex
(3) For service information identified in The incorporation by reference of
this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness
nature, and the need for a special format
certain publications listed in the make publication in the Federal
Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice
regulations is approved by the Director Register expensive and impractical.
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France;
telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 of the Federal Register as of August 3, Further, airmen do not use the
93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@ 2015. regulatory text of the SIAPs, Takeoff
airbus.com; Internet http://www.airbus.com. ADDRESSES: Availability of matters Minimums or ODPs, but instead refer to
(4) You may view this service information incorporated by reference in the their graphic depiction on charts
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at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, amendment is as follows: printed by publishers of aeronautical
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For materials. Thus, the advantages of
information on the availability of this For Examination
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
incorporation by reference are realized
(5) You may view this service information 1. U.S. Department of Transportation, and publication of the complete
that is incorporated by reference at the Docket Ops-M30, 1200 New Jersey description of each SIAP, Takeoff
National Archives and Records Avenue SE., West Bldg., Ground Floor, Minimums and ODP listed on FAA form
Administration (NARA). For information on Washington, DC 20590–0001. documents is unnecessary. This
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Document Created: 2018-02-23 10:51:14
Document Modified: 2018-02-23 10:51:14
| 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 | Rules and Regulations | |
| Action | Final rule. | |
| Dates | This AD becomes effective September 8, 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 45857 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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