80 FR 55045 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 177 (September 14, 2015)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 177 (September 14, 2015)
| Page Range | 55045-55049 | |
| FR Document | 2015-22724 |
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 177 (Monday, September 14, 2015)] [Proposed Rules] [Pages 55045-55049] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2015-22724] ======================================================================= ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2015-3628; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-025-AD] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2012-12- 04, which applies to certain The Boeing Company Model 737-300, -400, and -500 series airplanes. AD 2012-12-04 currently requires repetitive external detailed inspections and nondestructive inspections to detect cracks in the fuselage skin along the chem-mill steps at stringers S-1 and S-2R, between station (STA) 400 and STA 460, and repair if necessary. Since we issued AD 2012-12-04, we have determined that, for certain airplanes, the skin pockets adjacent to the Air Traffic Control (ATC) antenna are susceptible to widespread fatigue damage. This proposed AD would require a preventive modification of the fuselage skin at crown stringers S-1 and S-2R. This proposed AD would reduce inspection thresholds and repetitive intervals for certain airplanes. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking of the fuselage skin panels at the chem-mill steps, which could result in sudden fracture and failure of the fuselage skin panels, [[Page 55046]] and consequent rapid decompression of the airplane. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by October 29, 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: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544- 5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.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-2015- 3628. 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- 3628; 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 Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Wayne Lockett, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6447; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected]. 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-2015-3628; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-025-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 because of 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 On May 31, 2012, we issued AD 2012-12-04, Amendment 39-17083 (77 FR 36134, June 18, 2012), for certain The Boeing Company Model 737-300, - 400, and -500 series airplanes. AD 2012-12-04 requires repetitive external detailed inspections and nondestructive inspections to detect cracks in the fuselage skin along the chem-mill steps at stringers S-1 and S-2R, between station (STA) 400 and STA 460, and repair if necessary. AD 2012-12-04 resulted from reports of crack findings of the fuselage skin at the chem-mill steps. We issued AD 2012-12-04 to detect and correct fatigue cracking of the fuselage skin panels at the chem- mill steps, which could result in sudden fracture and failure of the fuselage skin panels, and consequent rapid decompression of the airplane. Widespread Fatigue Damage Structural fatigue damage is progressive. It begins as minute cracks, and those cracks grow under the action of repeated stresses. This can happen because of normal operational conditions and design attributes, or because of isolated situations or incidents such as material defects, poor fabrication quality, or corrosion pits, dings, or scratches. Fatigue damage can occur locally, in small areas or structural design details, or globally. Global fatigue damage is general degradation of large areas of structure with similar structural details and stress levels. Multiple-site damage is global damage that occurs in a large structural element such as a single rivet line of a lap splice joining two large skin panels. Global damage can also occur in multiple elements such as adjacent frames or stringers. Multiple- site-damage and multiple-element-damage cracks are typically too small initially to be reliably detected with normal inspection methods. Without intervention, these cracks will grow, and eventually compromise the structural integrity of the airplane, in a condition known as widespread fatigue damage (WFD). As an airplane ages, WFD will likely occur, and will certainly occur if the airplane is operated long enough without any intervention. The FAA's WFD final rule (75 FR 69746, November 15, 2010) became effective on January 14, 2011. The WFD rule requires certain actions to prevent structural failure due to WFD throughout the operational life of certain existing transport category airplanes and all of these airplanes that will be certificated in the future. For existing and future airplanes subject to the WFD rule, the rule requires that DAHs establish a limit of validity (LOV) of the engineering data that support the structural maintenance program. Operators affected by the WFD rule may not fly an airplane beyond its LOV, unless an extended LOV is approved. The WFD rule (75 FR 69746, November 15, 2010) does not require identifying and developing maintenance actions if the DAHs can show that such actions are not necessary to prevent WFD before the airplane reaches the LOV. Many LOVs, however, do depend on accomplishment of future maintenance actions. As stated in the WFD rule, any maintenance actions necessary to reach the LOV will be mandated by airworthiness directives through separate rulemaking actions. In the context of WFD, this action is necessary to enable DAHs to propose LOVs that allow operators the longest operational lives for their airplanes, and still ensure that WFD will not occur. This approach allows for an implementation strategy that provides flexibility to DAHs in determining the timing of service information development (with FAA approval), while providing operators with certainty regarding the LOV applicable to their airplanes. Actions Since AD 2012-12-04, Amendment 39-17083 (77 FR 36134, June 18, 2012), Was Issued The preamble to AD 2012-12-04, Amendment 39-17083 (77 FR 36134, June 18, 2012), specified that we considered the requirements ``interim action.'' AD 2012-12-04 explained that we might consider further rulemaking if final action is later identified. We now [[Page 55047]] have determined that it is necessary to initiate further rulemaking to require modification of the fuselage skin at crown stringers S-1 and S- 2R, and to reduce inspection thresholds and repetitive intervals for certain airplanes. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23, 2015. The service information describes procedures for repetitive external detailed inspections and non-destructive inspections to detect cracks in the fuselage skin along the chem-mill steps at stringers S-1 and S-2R, between STA 400 and STA 460, and repair of any cracking. The service information also describes procedures for a modification of the chem-milled steps at the locations identified, including related investigative actions and corrective actions. 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 We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design. Proposed AD Requirements Although this proposed AD does not explicitly restate the requirements of AD 2012-12-04, Amendment 39-17083 (77 FR 36134, June 18, 2012), this proposed AD would retain all of the requirements. Those requirements are referenced in the service information identified previously, which, in turn, is referenced in this proposed AD. This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions specified in the service information described previously, except as discussed under ``Difference Between This Proposed AD and the Service Bulletin.'' For information on the procedures and compliance times, see this service information at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-3628. The phrase ``related investigative actions'' is used in this proposed AD. ``Related investigative actions'' are follow-on actions that (1) are related to the primary action, and (2) further investigate the nature of any condition found. Related investigative actions in an AD could include, for example, inspections. The phrase ``corrective actions'' is used in this proposed AD. ``Corrective actions'' are actions that correct or address any condition found. Corrective actions in an AD could include, for example, repairs. Explanation of Compliance Time The compliance time for the modification specified in this proposed AD for addressing WFD was established to ensure that discrepant structure is modified before WFD develops in airplanes. Standard inspection techniques cannot be relied on to detect WFD before it becomes a hazard to flight. We will not grant any extensions of the compliance time to complete any AD-mandated service bulletin related to WFD without extensive new data that would substantiate and clearly warrant such an extension. Difference Between This Proposed AD and the Service Bulletin Although Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23, 2015, specifies that operators may contact the manufacturer for disposition of certain repair conditions, this proposed AD would require repairing those conditions in one of the following ways: In accordance with a method that we approve; or Using data that meet the certification basis of the airplane, and that have been approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) whom we have authorized to make those findings. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 186 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: Estimated Costs ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cost on U.S. Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product operators ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Retained inspections from AD 2012- Between 7 and 15 $0 Between $595 and Between $110,670 and 12-04, Amendment 39-17083 (77 FR work-hours x $85 $1,275 per $237,150 per 36134, June 18, 2012). per hour, depending inspection cycle. inspection cycle. on airplane configuration = between $595 and $1,275 per inspection cycle. New modification................. 236 work-hours x $85 (\1\) $20,060............. $3,731,160. per hour = $20,060. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- \1\ We currently have no specific cost estimates associated with the parts necessary for the proposed modification. We cannot determine the cost of the materials because the modification parts must be sized at the time the modification is installed, taking into account any existing repairs in the area. We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide a cost estimate for the on-condition actions specified in this proposed AD. 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 have 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 [[Page 55048]] on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the 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 removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2012-12-04, Amendment 39-17083 (77 FR 36134, June 18, 2012), and adding the following new AD: The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA-2015-3628; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-025-AD. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by October 29, 2015. (b) Affected ADs This AD replaces AD 2012-12-04, Amendment 39-17083 (77 FR 36134, June 18, 2012). (c) Applicability This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 737-300, -400, and - 500 series airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23, 2015. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of cracks found on the fuselage skin at the chem-mill steps, and the determination that, for certain airplanes, the skin pockets adjacent to the Air Traffic Control (ATC) antenna are susceptible to widespread fatigue damage. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking of the fuselage skin panels at the chem-mill steps, which could result in sudden fracture and failure of the fuselage skin panels, and consequent rapid decompression of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Inspections At the applicable time specified in tables 1, 2, 3, and 5 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23, 2015, except as required by paragraphs (j)(1) and (j)(2) of this AD: Do the actions specified in paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737- 53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23, 2015, except as required by paragraph (j)(3) of this AD. Repeat the applicable inspections thereafter at the applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23, 2015. (1) Do an external detailed inspection for cracking of the fuselage skin chem-mill steps. (2) Do an external non-destructive (medium frequency eddy current, magneto optical imaging, C-Scan, or ultrasonic phased array) inspection for cracking of the fuselage skin chem-mill steps. (h) Preventive Modification or Repair If any cracking is found during any inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD, do the applicable actions specified in paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of this AD. (1) Repair before further flight in accordance with Part 2 of the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23, 2015. (2) At the applicable time specified in tables 1, 2, 3, and 5 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23, 2015, except as required by paragraphs (j)(1) and (j)(2) of this AD: Do a preventive modification of the fuselage skin at crown stringers S-1 and S-2R, including all applicable related investigative actions in accordance with Part 9 of the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23, 2015. Do all applicable related investigative actions concurrently with the modification. (i) Post-Repair Inspections/Post-Modification Inspections The post-repair/post-modification inspections specified in tables 4 and 6 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23, 2015, are not required by this AD. Note 1 to paragraph (h) of this AD: The post-repair/post- modification inspections specified in tables 4 and 6 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23, 2015, may be used in support of compliance with section 121.1109(c)(2) or 129.109(c)(2) of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 121.1109(c)(2) or 14 CFR 129.109(c)(2)). The corresponding actions specified in the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737- 53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23, 2015, are not required by this AD. (j) Exceptions to Service Bulletin Specifications (1) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23, 2015, specifies a compliance time ``after the Revision 3 date of this service bulletin,'' this AD requires compliance within the specified compliance time after the effective date of this AD. (2) Where the Condition column of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23, 2015, specifies a condition based on when an airplane has or has not been inspected, this AD bases the condition on whether an airplane has or has not been inspected on the effective date of this AD. (3) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23, 2015, specifies to contact Boeing for repair instructions: Before further flight, repair using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (k) of this AD. (k) Credit for Previous Actions (1) This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD, if those actions were performed before July 23, 2012 (the effective date of AD 2012-12-04, Amendment 39-17083 (77 FR 36134, June 18, 2012)), using Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1293, Revision 1, dated July 7, 2010, which is not incorporated by reference in this AD. (2) This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1293, Revision 2, dated August 10, 2011, which was incorporated by reference in AD 2012-12-04, Amendment 39-17083 (77 FR 36134, June 18, 2012). (l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 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 manager of the ACO, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (l)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected]. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, [[Page 55049]] or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding district office. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair required by this AD if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles ACO, to make those findings. For a repair method to be approved, the repair must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. (4) AMOCs approved for AD 2012-12-04, Amendment 39-17083 (77 FR 36134, June 18, 2012), are approved as AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of paragraph (g) of this AD. (m) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Wayne Lockett, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle ACO, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6447; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected]. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544- 5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.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. Issued in Renton, Washington, on September 1, 2015. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2015-22724 Filed 9-11-15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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IV. Submission of Comments provides after you have successfully the submitting person that would result
DOE will accept comments, data, and uploaded your comment. from public disclosure; (6) when such
Submitting comments via email, hand information might lose its confidential
information regarding this analysis
delivery/courier, or mail. Comments and character due to the passage of time; and
before or after the public meeting, but
documents submitted via email, hand (7) why disclosure of the information
no later than the date provided in the
delivery/courier, or mail also will be would be contrary to the public interest.
DATES section at the beginning of this
posted to www.regulations.gov. If you It is DOE’s policy that all comments
document. Interested parties may
do not want your personal contact may be included in the public docket,
submit comments, data, and other
information to be publicly viewable, do without change and as received,
information using any of the methods
not include it in your comment or any including any personal information
described in the ADDRESSES section at
accompanying documents. Instead, provided in the comments (except
the beginning of this document.
provide your contact information in a information deemed to be exempt from
Submitting comments via
cover letter. Include your first and last public disclosure).
www.regulations.gov. The
names, email address, telephone
www.regulations.gov Web page will Issued in Washington, DC, on September 4,
number, and optional mailing address. 2015.
require you to provide your name and
The cover letter will not be publicly
contact information. Your contact viewable as long as it does not include
Kathleen B. Hogan,
information will be viewable to DOE any comments Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy
Building Technologies staff only. Your Include contact information each time Efficiency, Energy Efficiency and Renewable
contact information will not be publicly Energy.
you submit comments, data, documents,
viewable except for your first and last and other information to DOE. If you [FR Doc. 2015–23021 Filed 9–11–15; 8:45 am]
names, organization name (if any), and submit via mail or hand delivery/ BILLING CODE 6450–01–P
submitter representative name (if any). courier, please provide all items on a
If your comment is not processed CD, if feasible, in which case it is not
properly because of technical necessary to submit printed copies. No DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
difficulties, DOE will use this telefacsimiles (faxes) will be accepted.
information to contact you. If DOE Comments, data, and other Federal Aviation Administration
cannot read your comment due to information submitted to DOE
technical difficulties and cannot contact electronically should be provided in 14 CFR Part 39
you for clarification, DOE may not be PDF (preferred), Microsoft Word or
able to consider your comment. Excel, WordPerfect, or text (ASCII) file [Docket No. FAA–2015–3628; Directorate
However, your contact information format. Provide documents that are not Identifier 2015–NM–025–AD]
will be publicly viewable if you include secured, that are written in English, and RIN 2120–AA64
it in the comment itself or in any that are free of any defects or viruses.
documents attached to your comment. Documents should not contain special Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
Any information that you do not want characters or any form of encryption Company Airplanes
to be publicly viewable should not be and, if possible, they should carry the
included in your comment, nor in any electronic signature of the author. AGENCY: Federal Aviation
document attached to your comment. Confidential Business Information. Administration (FAA), DOT.
Otherwise, persons viewing comments Pursuant to 10 CFR 1004.11, any person ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
will see only first and last names, submitting information that he or she (NPRM).
organization names, correspondence believes to be confidential and exempt
containing comments, and any by law from public disclosure should SUMMARY: We propose to supersede
documents submitted with the submit via email, postal mail, or hand Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2012–12–
comments. delivery/courier two well-marked 04, which applies to certain The Boeing
Do not submit to www.regulations.gov copies: One copy of the document Company Model 737–300, –400, and
information for which disclosure is marked ‘‘confidential’’ including all the –500 series airplanes. AD 2012–12–04
restricted by statute, such as trade information believed to be confidential, currently requires repetitive external
secrets and commercial or financial and one copy of the document marked detailed inspections and nondestructive
information (hereinafter referred to as ‘‘non-confidential’’ with the information inspections to detect cracks in the
Confidential Business Information believed to be confidential deleted. fuselage skin along the chem-mill steps
(CBI)). Comments submitted through Submit these documents via email or on at stringers S–1 and S–2R, between
www.regulations.gov cannot be claimed a CD, if feasible. DOE will make its own station (STA) 400 and STA 460, and
as CBI. Comments received through the determination about the confidential repair if necessary. Since we issued AD
Web site will waive any CBI claims for status of the information and treat it 2012–12–04, we have determined that,
the information submitted. For according to its determination. for certain airplanes, the skin pockets
information on submitting CBI, see the Factors of interest to DOE when adjacent to the Air Traffic Control (ATC)
Confidential Business Information evaluating requests to treat submitted antenna are susceptible to widespread
section below. information as confidential include: (1) fatigue damage. This proposed AD
DOE processes submissions made A description of the items; (2) whether would require a preventive modification
through www.regulations.gov before and why such items are customarily of the fuselage skin at crown stringers
tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
posting. Normally, comments will be treated as confidential within the S–1 and S–2R. This proposed AD would
posted within a few days of being industry; (3) whether the information is reduce inspection thresholds and
submitted. However, if large volumes of generally known by or available from repetitive intervals for certain airplanes.
comments are being processed other sources; (4) whether the We are proposing this AD to detect and
simultaneously, your comment may not information has previously been made correct fatigue cracking of the fuselage
be viewable for up to several weeks. available to others without obligation skin panels at the chem-mill steps,
Please keep the comment tracking concerning its confidentiality; (5) an which could result in sudden fracture
number that www.regulations.gov explanation of the competitive injury to and failure of the fuselage skin panels,
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on the distribution of power and airplanes, the skin pockets adjacent to the Air specified in tables 4 and 6 of paragraph 1.E.,
responsibilities among the various Traffic Control (ATC) antenna are susceptible ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service
levels of government. to widespread fatigue damage. We are issuing Bulletin 737–53A1293, Revision 3, dated
this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking January 23, 2015, may be used in support of
For the reasons discussed above, I
of the fuselage skin panels at the chem-mill compliance with section 121.1109(c)(2) or
certify that the proposed regulation: steps, which could result in sudden fracture 129.109(c)(2) of the Federal Aviation
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory and failure of the fuselage skin panels, and Regulations (14 CFR 121.1109(c)(2) or 14 CFR
action’’ under Executive Order 12866, consequent rapid decompression of the 129.109(c)(2)). The corresponding actions
(2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under airplane. specified in the Accomplishment
the DOT Regulatory Policies and (f) Compliance
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 737–53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23,
1979), Comply with this AD within the 2015, are not required by this AD.
compliance times specified, unless already
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation done. (j) Exceptions to Service Bulletin
in Alaska, and Specifications
(4) Will not have a significant (g) Inspections
(1) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
economic impact, positive or negative, At the applicable time specified in tables
737–53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23,
on a substantial number of small entities 1, 2, 3, and 5 of paragraph 1.E.,
2015, specifies a compliance time ‘‘after the
under the criteria of the Regulatory ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 737–53A1293, Revision 3, dated Revision 3 date of this service bulletin,’’ this
Flexibility Act. AD requires compliance within the specified
January 23, 2015, except as required by
paragraphs (j)(1) and (j)(2) of this AD: Do the compliance time after the effective date of
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
actions specified in paragraphs (g)(1) and this AD.
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation (g)(2) of this AD, in accordance with the (2) Where the Condition column of
safety, Incorporation by reference, Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing
Safety. Service Bulletin 737–53A1293, Revision 3, Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1293,
dated January 23, 2015, except as required by Revision 3, dated January 23, 2015, specifies
The Proposed Amendment paragraph (j)(3) of this AD. Repeat the a condition based on when an airplane has
Accordingly, under the authority applicable inspections thereafter at the or has not been inspected, this AD bases the
applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E., condition on whether an airplane has or has
delegated to me by the Administrator, not been inspected on the effective date of
the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 737–53A1293, Revision 3, dated this AD.
39 as follows: January 23, 2015. (3) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
(1) Do an external detailed inspection for 737–53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23,
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS cracking of the fuselage skin chem-mill steps. 2015, specifies to contact Boeing for repair
DIRECTIVES (2) Do an external non-destructive instructions: Before further flight, repair
(medium frequency eddy current, magneto using a method approved in accordance with
■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 optical imaging, C-Scan, or ultrasonic phased the procedures specified in paragraph (k) of
continues to read as follows: array) inspection for cracking of the fuselage this AD.
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. skin chem-mill steps. (k) Credit for Previous Actions
(h) Preventive Modification or Repair (1) This paragraph provides credit for
§ 39.13 [Amended]
If any cracking is found during any actions required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of
■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by this AD, if those actions were performed
inspection required by paragraph (g) of this
removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) AD, do the applicable actions specified in before July 23, 2012 (the effective date of AD
2012–12–04, Amendment 39–17083 (77 paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of this AD. 2012–12–04, Amendment 39–17083 (77 FR
FR 36134, June 18, 2012), and adding (1) Repair before further flight in 36134, June 18, 2012)), using Boeing Alert
the following new AD: accordance with Part 2 of the Service Bulletin 737–53A1293, Revision 1,
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert dated July 7, 2010, which is not incorporated
The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA–
Service Bulletin 737–53A1293, Revision 3, by reference in this AD.
2015–3628; Directorate Identifier 2015–
dated January 23, 2015. (2) This paragraph provides credit for
NM–025–AD.
(2) At the applicable time specified in actions required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of
(a) Comments Due Date tables 1, 2, 3, and 5 of paragraph 1.E., this AD, if those actions were performed
The FAA must receive comments on this ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service before the effective date of this AD using
AD action by October 29, 2015. Bulletin 737–53A1293, Revision 3, dated Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1293,
January 23, 2015, except as required by Revision 2, dated August 10, 2011, which
(b) Affected ADs paragraphs (j)(1) and (j)(2) of this AD: Do a was incorporated by reference in AD 2012–
This AD replaces AD 2012–12–04, preventive modification of the fuselage skin 12–04, Amendment 39–17083 (77 FR 36134,
Amendment 39–17083 (77 FR 36134, June at crown stringers S–1 and S–2R, including June 18, 2012).
18, 2012). all applicable related investigative actions in
accordance with Part 9 of the (l) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(c) Applicability Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert (AMOCs)
This AD applies to The Boeing Company Service Bulletin 737–53A1293, Revision 3, (1) The Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft
Model 737–300, –400, and –500 series dated January 23, 2015. Do all applicable Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the
airplanes, certificated in any category, as related investigative actions concurrently authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if
identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin with the modification. requested using the procedures found in 14
737–53A1293, Revision 3, dated January 23, CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,
(i) Post-Repair Inspections/Post-Modification
2015. send your request to your principal inspector
Inspections
or local Flight Standards District Office, as
tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
(d) Subject The post-repair/post-modification appropriate. If sending information directly
Air Transport Association (ATA) of inspections specified in tables 4 and 6 of to the manager of the ACO, send it to the
America Code 53, Fuselage. paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing attention of the person identified in
Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1293, paragraph (l)(1) of this AD. Information may
(e) Unsafe Condition Revision 3, dated January 23, 2015, are not be emailed to: 9-ANM-LAACO-AMOC-
This AD was prompted by reports of cracks required by this AD. Requests@faa.gov.
found on the fuselage skin at the chem-mill Note 1 to paragraph (h) of this AD: The (2) Before using any approved AMOC,
steps, and the determination that, for certain post-repair/post-modification inspections notify your appropriate principal inspector,
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![Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 177 / Monday, September 14, 2015 / Proposed Rules 55049
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager ADDRESSES: Send comments on this by submitting such written data, views,
of the local flight standards district office/ proposal to the U.S. Department of or arguments as they may desire.
certificate holding district office. Transportation, Docket Operations, M– Comments that provide the factual basis
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable
level of safety may be used for any repair
30, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., West supporting the views and suggestions
required by this AD if it is approved by the Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, presented are particularly helpful in
Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Washington, DC 20590–0001; telephone: developing reasoned regulatory
Designation Authorization (ODA) that has (202) 366–9826. You must identify FAA decisions on the proposal. Comments
been authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles Docket No. FAA–2015–3361 and are specifically invited on the overall
ACO, to make those findings. For a repair Airspace Docket No. 15–AEA–4 at the regulatory, aeronautical, economic,
method to be approved, the repair must meet beginning of your comments. You may environmental, and energy-related
the certification basis of the airplane, and the
also submit comments through the aspects of the proposal.
approval must specifically refer to this AD.
(4) AMOCs approved for AD 2012–12–04, Internet at http://www.regulations.gov. Communications should identify both
Amendment 39–17083 (77 FR 36134, June FAA Order 7400.9Y, Airspace docket numbers (FAA Docket No. FAA–
18, 2012), are approved as AMOCs for the Designations and Reporting Points, and 2015–3361 and Airspace Docket No. 15–
corresponding provisions of paragraph (g) of subsequent amendments can be viewed AEA–4) and be submitted in triplicate to
this AD. online at http://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/ the Docket Management Facility (see
(m) Related Information publications/. For further information, ADDRESSES section for address and
(1) For more information about this AD,
you can contact the Airspace Policy and phone number). You may also submit
contact Wayne Lockett, Aerospace Engineer, Regulations Group, Federal Aviation comments through the Internet at
Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle Administration, 800 Independence http://www.regulations.gov.
ACO, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA Avenue, SW., Washington, DC, 20591; Commenters wishing the FAA to
98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6447; fax: 425– telephone: 202–267–8783. The Order is acknowledge receipt of their comments
917–6590; email: wayne.lockett@faa.gov. also available for inspection at the on this action must submit with those
(2) For service information identified in National Archives and Records comments a self-addressed, stamped
this AD, contact Boeing Commercial
Administration (NARA). For postcard on which the following
Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services
Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, information on the availability of this statement is made: ‘‘Comments to FAA
Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone 206– material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, Docket No. FAA–2015–3361 and
544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–5680; or go to http://www.archives.gov/ Airspace Docket No. 15–AEA–4.’’ The
Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You federal_register/code_of_federal- postcard will be date/time stamped and
may view this referenced service information regulations/ibr_locations.html. returned to the commenter.
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA Order 7400.9, Airspace All communications received on or
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For Designations and Reporting Points, is
information on the availability of this before the specified comment closing
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. published yearly and effective on date will be considered before taking
September 15. action on the proposed rule. The
Issued in Renton, Washington, on
September 1, 2015. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Paul proposal contained in this action may
Gallant, Airspace Policy and be changed in light of comments
Michael Kaszycki,
Regulations Group, Office of Airspace received. All comments submitted will
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. Services, Federal Aviation be available for examination in the
Administration, 800 Independence public docket both before and after the
[FR Doc. 2015–22724 Filed 9–11–15; 8:45 am]
Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591; comment closing date. A report
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
telephone: (202) 267–8783. summarizing each substantive public
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: contact with FAA personnel concerned
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION with this rulemaking will be filed in the
Authority for This Rulemaking docket.
Federal Aviation Administration The FAA’s authority to issue rules Availability of NPRMs
regarding aviation safety is found in
14 CFR Part 71 Title 49 of the United States Code. An electronic copy of this document
Subtitle I, Section 106 describes the may be downloaded through the
[Docket No. FAA–2015–3361; Airspace Internet at http://www.regulations.gov.
Docket No. 15–AEA–4] authority of the FAA Administrator.
Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs, You may review the public docket
RIN 2120–AA66 describes in more detail the scope of the containing the proposal, any comments
agency’s authority. This rulemaking is received and any final disposition in
Proposed Amendment of Air Traffic promulgated under the authority person in the Dockets Office (see
Service (ATS) Routes; Northeast described in Subtitle VII, Part A, ADDRESSES section for address and
United States Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that phone number) between 9:00 a.m. and
AGENCY: Federal Aviation section, the FAA is charged with 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday,
Administration (FAA), DOT. prescribing regulations to assign the use except Federal holidays. An informal
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking of the airspace necessary to ensure the docket may also be examined during
(NPRM). safety of aircraft and the efficient use of normal business hours at the office of
airspace. This regulation is within the the Eastern Service Center, Federal
SUMMARY: This action proposes to Aviation Administration, Room 210,
tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
scope of that authority as it modifies the
modify jet routes J–6, J–97, and J–222, air traffic service route structure in the 1701 Columbia Ave., College Park, GA,
and VOR Federal airways V–196, and northeast United States to maintain the 30337.
V–489, in the northeastern United States efficient flow of air traffic. Persons interested in being placed on
due to the planned decommissioning of a mailing list for future NPRMs should
the Plattsburgh, NY, VORTAC facility. Comments Invited contact the FAA’s Office of Rulemaking,
DATES: Comments must be received on Interested parties are invited to (202) 267–9677, for a copy of Advisory
or before October 29, 2015. participate in this proposed rulemaking Circular No. 11–2A, Notice of Proposed
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Document Created: 2018-02-26 10:15:07
Document Modified: 2018-02-26 10:15:07
| 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 October 29, 2015. | |
| Contact | Wayne Lockett, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6447; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 80 FR 55045 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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