80_FR_55407 80 FR 55229 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

80 FR 55229 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 178 (September 15, 2015)

Page Range55229-55232
FR Document2015-22924

We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 97-07-14, for certain Airbus Model A320-111, -211, and -231 airplanes. AD 97-07-14 required modification of an area on the front spar of the wing center section by installing shims and new fasteners to reinforce pressure floor fittings. This new AD continues to require modifying the rib flange on the front spar of the wing center section by installing shims and new fasteners to reinforce pressure floor fittings; and requires repetitive high frequency eddy current inspections for cracking of the radius of the rib flanges and vertical stiffener at frame 36, a rototest inspection for cracking of the fastener holes of the rib flanges, repair if needed, and adding additional airplanes to the applicability. This AD was prompted by the need for repetitive inspections on airplanes on which the modification of the rib flange on the front spar of the wing center section has been done. We are issuing this AD to prevent fatigue cracking on the rib flange area of the front spar of the wing center section, which can reduce the structural integrity of fuselage frame 36 and the wing center section.

Federal Register, Volume 80 Issue 178 (Tuesday, September 15, 2015)
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 178 (Tuesday, September 15, 2015)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 55229-55232]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2015-22924]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2015-0926; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-121-AD; 
Amendment 39-18263; AD 2015-18-05]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 97-07-14, for 
certain Airbus Model A320-111, -211, and -231 airplanes. AD 97-07-14 
required modification of an area on the front spar of the wing center 
section by installing shims and new fasteners to reinforce pressure 
floor fittings. This new AD continues to require modifying the rib 
flange on the front spar of the wing center section by installing shims 
and new fasteners to reinforce pressure floor fittings; and requires 
repetitive high frequency eddy current inspections for cracking of the 
radius of the rib flanges and vertical stiffener at frame 36, a 
rototest inspection for cracking of the fastener holes of the rib 
flanges, repair if needed, and adding additional airplanes to the 
applicability. This AD was prompted by the need for repetitive 
inspections on airplanes on which the modification of the rib flange on 
the front spar of the wing center section has been done. We are issuing 
this AD to prevent fatigue cracking on the rib flange area of the front 
spar of the wing center section, which can reduce the structural 
integrity of fuselage frame 36 and the wing center section.

DATES: This AD becomes effective October 20, 2015.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of October 20, 
2015.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference

[[Page 55230]]

of a certain other publication listed in this AD as of May 12, 1997 (62 
FR 16473, April 7, 1997).

ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FAA-2015-0926; 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 [email protected]; 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-2015-
0926.

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 to supersede AD 97-07-14, Amendment 39-9988 (62 FR 16473, April 
7, 1997). AD 97-07-14 applied to certain Airbus Model A320-111, -211, 
and -231 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on April 
24, 2015 (80 FR 22943).
    Since we issued AD 97-07-14, Amendment 39-9988 (62 FR 16473, April 
7, 1997), we have determined the need for repetitive inspections on 
airplanes on which Airbus Modification 20976 (modification of the rib 
flange on the front spar of the wing center section) was done in 
production, or was done using Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1013, 
dated April 12, 1989; or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1013, Revision 
1, dated September 29, 1992.
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA 
Airworthiness Directive 2014-0053, dated March 7, 2014 (referred to 
after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or 
``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition on certain Airbus Model 
A320-211 and -231 airplanes. The MCAI states:

    During full scale fatigue tests on the Airbus A320 test 
specimen, cracks were found in the rib flange on the front spar side 
perpendicular to vertical posts at frame (FR) 36. It was determined 
that similar cracks could develop on certain in-service aeroplanes.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could affect the 
wing structural integrity.
    To reduce the risk of crack initiation, two modifications for 
aeroplanes in production and one modification for in-service 
aeroplanes were developed by Airbus: Prior to [manufacturer serial 
number] MSN 0085, the adaptation modification (Mod) 20976 was 
applied in production, consisting in installing shims under the 
fasteners linking the rib flange, the lower corner, the front spar 
and its vertical stiffener; from MSN 0085 onwards, the serial Mod 
20908 was applied in production, consisting in installing reinforced 
lower surface rib flanges at front spar level.
    Airbus issued Service Bulletin (SB) A320-57-1013 for affected 
in-service aeroplanes, and [Directorate General for Civil Aviation] 
DGAC France issued AD [F-19]95-098-066 [dated May 24, 1995, which 
corresponds to FAA AD 97-07-14, Amendment 39-9988 (62 FR 16473, 
April 7, 1997), http://ad.easa.europa.eu/ad/F-1995-098-066] to 
require installation of shims under the fasteners linking the rib 
flange, the lower corner, the front spar and its vertical stiffener.
    Following a recent analysis, Airbus identified the need for 
repetitive [HFEC and rototest] inspections for aeroplanes on which 
Airbus SB A320-57-1013 or production Mod 20976 has been embodied.
    For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD retains the 
requirements of DGAC France AD [F-19]95-098-066, [dated May 24, 
1995, which corresponds to FAA AD 97-07-14, Amendment 39-9988 (62 FR 
16473, April 7, 1997), http://ad.easa.europa.eu/ad/F-1995-098-066], 
which is superseded, and requires repetitive [HFEC and rototest] 
inspections of the center wing lower ribs at FR 36 and, depending on 
findings, accomplishment of a repair.
    After EASA issued PAD 14-013, it was discovered that additional 
work [removal of shims and fasteners on the rib flange on the front 
spar side and doing an HFEC inspection for cracking of the radius of 
the rib flanges and a rototest inspection for cracking of the 
fastener holes during each inspection] to be included in Revision 01 
of Airbus SB A320-57-1175, is required to accomplish the 
inspections. This Final [EASA] AD has been amended accordingly.

    Airplanes having MSNs 001, 009, and 015 were not included in the 
applicability of AD 97-07-14, Amendment 39-9988 (62 FR 16473, April 7, 
1997). EASA AD 2014-0053, dated March 7, 2014, expanded the 
applicability to all airplanes having manufacturer serial numbers up to 
MSN 0084 inclusive. We included paragraph (h) of this AD to require the 
modification for the airplanes having MSNs 001, 009, and 015. You may 
examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2015-0926-0002.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. We received no comments on the NPRM (80 FR 22943, April 24, 
2015) or on the determination of the cost to the public.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the available data and determined that air safety and 
the public interest require adopting this AD as proposed except for 
minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM (80 FR 22943, April 24, 2015) for correcting the unsafe condition; 
and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM (80 FR 22943, April 24, 2015).

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus has issued Service Bulletin A320-57-1175, Revision 01, 
including Appendix 01, dated May 28, 2014. The service information 
describes procedures for repetitive high frequency eddy current 
inspections for cracking of the radius of the rib flanges and vertical 
stiffener at frame 36, a rototest inspection for cracking of the 
fastener holes of the rib flanges, and repair. 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.

Explanation of ``RC'' Procedures and Tests in Service Information

    The FAA worked in conjunction with industry, under the 
Airworthiness Directive Implementation Aviation Rulemaking Committee 
(ARC), to enhance the AD system. One enhancement was a new process for 
annotating which procedures and tests in the service information are 
required for compliance with an AD. Differentiating these procedures 
and tests from other tasks in the service information is expected to 
improve an owner's/operator's understanding of crucial AD requirements 
and help

[[Page 55231]]

provide consistent judgment in AD compliance. The procedures and tests 
identified as Required for Compliance (RC) in any service information 
have a direct effect on detecting, preventing, resolving, or 
eliminating an identified unsafe condition.
    As specified in a NOTE under the Accomplishment Instructions of the 
specified service information, procedures and tests that are identified 
as RC in any service information must be done to comply with the AD. 
However, procedures and tests that are not identified as RC are 
recommended. Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC 
may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the 
operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval 
of an alternative method of compliance (AMOC), provided the procedures 
and tests identified as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back 
in a serviceable condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures 
or tests identified as RC will require approval of an AMOC.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 11 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    The actions required by AD 97-07-14, Amendment 39-9988 (62 FR 
16473, April 7, 1997), and retained in this AD take about 13 work-hours 
per product, at an average labor rate of $85 per work-hour. Required 
parts cost about $576 per product. Based on these figures, the 
estimated cost of the actions that were required by AD 97-07-14 is 
$1,681 per product.
    We also estimate that it will take about 45 work-hours per product 
to comply with the new basic requirements of this AD. The average labor 
rate is $85 per work-hour. Required parts will cost about $1,600 per 
product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD on 
U.S. operators to be $59,675, or $5,425 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-2015-0926; 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 removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
97-07-14, Amendment 39-9988 (62 FR 16473, April 7, 1997), and adding 
the following new AD:

2015-18-05 Airbus: Amendment 39-18263. Docket No. FAA-2015-0926; 
Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-121-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective October 20, 2015.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 97-07-14, Amendment 39-9988 (62 FR 16473, 
April 7, 1997).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Model A320-211 and -231 airplanes, 
certificated in any category, all manufacturer serial numbers (MSN) 
up to MSN 0084 inclusive.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 57, Wings.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by the determination that repetitive 
inspections are needed on airplanes on which the modification of the 
rib flange on the front spar of the wing center section has been 
done. We are issuing this AD to prevent fatigue cracking on the rib 
flange area of the front spar of the wing center section, which can 
reduce the structural integrity of fuselage frame 36 and the wing 
center section.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Retained Modification

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (a) of AD 
97-07-14, Amendment 39-9988 (62 FR 16473, April 7, 1997). For 
airplanes with manufacturer serial numbers (MSN) 005 through 008 
inclusive, MSNs 010 through 014 inclusive, and MSNs 016 through 042 
inclusive: Prior to the accumulation of 16,000 total landings, or 
within 3 months after May 12, 1997 (the effective date of AD 97-07-
14), whichever occurs later, modify the rib flange on the front spar 
of the wing center section by installing shims and new fasteners to 
reinforce pressure floor fittings, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1013, 
Revision 1, dated September 29, 1992.

(h) New Requirement of This AD: Modification for Airplanes With MSNs 
001, 009, and 015

    Prior to the accumulation of 16,000 total landings since first 
flight, or within 30 days after the effective date of this AD, 
whichever occurs later, modify the rib flange on the front spar of 
the wing center section by installing shims and new fasteners to 
reinforce pressure floor fittings, in

[[Page 55232]]

accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service 
Bulletin A320-57-1013, Revision 1, dated September 29, 1992.

(i) New Requirement of This AD: Repetitive Inspections

    Within the applicable compliance times specified in paragraphs 
(i)(1) and (i)(2) of this AD, do a high frequency eddy current 
(HFEC) inspection for cracking of the radius of the rib flanges and 
vertical stiffener at frame 36, and do a rototest inspection for 
cracking of the fastener holes of the rib flanges and vertical 
stiffener, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1175, Revision 01, including 
Appendix 01, dated May 28, 2014. During each inspection, remove the 
shims and fasteners on the rib flange on the front spar side and do 
an HFEC inspection for cracking of the radius of the rib flanges and 
a rototest inspection for cracking of the fastener holes. If no 
cracking is found, oversize the holes of the rib flange and the 
holes of the shims, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1175, Revision 01, 
including Appendix 01, dated May 28, 2014. Repeat the inspections 
thereafter at intervals not to exceed 32,500 flight cycles or 65,000 
flight hours, whichever occurs first.
    (1) For airplanes having Airbus Modification 20976 embodied: At 
the later of the times specified in paragraphs (i)(1)(i) or 
(i)(1)(ii) of this AD.
    (i) Before exceeding 47,800 flight cycles or 95,600 flight 
hours, whichever occurs first, since the airplane's first flight.
    (ii) Within 850 flight cycles or 1,700 flight hours, whichever 
occurs first, after the effective date of this AD.
    (2) For airplanes on which the modification of the front spar of 
the wing center section was accomplished using Airbus Service 
Bulletin A320-57-1013, Revision 1, dated September 29, 1992: At the 
later of the times specified in paragraphs (i)(2)(i) or (i)(2)(ii) 
of this AD.
    (i) Before exceeding 10,700 flight cycles or 21,500 flight 
hours, whichever occurs first, after the modification of the rib 
flange on the front spar of the wing center section was done using 
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1013, Revision 1, dated September 
29, 1992.
    (ii) Within 850 flight cycles or 1,700 flight hours, whichever 
occurs first, after the effective date of this AD.

(j) Repair

    If, during any inspection required by paragraph (i) of this AD, 
any cracking is found, before further flight, repair 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).

(k) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph restates the requirements of Note 2 of paragraph 
(g) of AD 97-07-14, Amendment 39-9988 (62 FR 16473, April 7, 1997): 
This paragraph provides credit for the modification of the rib 
flange required by paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were 
performed before May 12, 1997 (the effective date of AD 97-07-14), 
using Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1013, dated April 12, 1989, 
which is not incorporated by reference in this AD.

(l) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using 
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 
39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Sanjay 
Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-
3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149. Information may be 
emailed to: [email protected]. 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: As of the effective date of 
this AD, for any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions 
from a manufacturer, the action must be accomplished using a method 
approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus's EASA DOA. If 
approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized 
signature.
    (3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except as required by 
paragraph (j) of this AD, if the service information contains 
procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those procedures and 
tests must be done to comply with this AD; any procedures and tests 
that are not identified as RC are recommended. Those procedures and 
tests that are not identified as RC may be deviated from using 
accepted methods in accordance with the operator's maintenance or 
inspection program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided 
the procedures and tests identified as RC can be done and the 
airplane can be put back in a serviceable condition. Any 
substitutions or changes to procedures or tests identified as RC 
require approval of an AMOC.

(m) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014-0053, dated March 7, 2014, 
for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on 
the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and 
locating Docket No. FAA-2015-0926.
    (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not 
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in 
paragraphs (n)(5) and (n)(6) of this AD.

(n) 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.
    (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
October 20, 2015.
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1175, Revision 01, including 
Appendix 01, dated May 28, 2014.
    (ii) Reserved.
    (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
May 12, 1997 (62 FR 16473, April 7, 1997).
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1013, Revision 1, dated 
September 29, 1992.

    Note 1 to paragraph (n)(4)(i): Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-
1013, Revision 1, dated September 29, 1992, contains the following 
list of effective pages: Pages 1 through 3 show revision level 1, 
dated September 29, 1992; pages 4 through 11 are from the original 
issue, dated April 12, 1989.

    (ii) Reserved.
    (5) 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 [email protected]; Internet http://www.airbus.com.
    (6) 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.
    (7) 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 September 2, 2015.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2015-22924 Filed 9-14-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P



                                                                 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 178 / Tuesday, September 15, 2015 / Rules and Regulations                                            55229

                                                the type-certification basis under                      Conclusion                                            special condition 3, above, must not
                                                § 21.17(a)(2).                                            This action affects only certain novel              prevent continued safe flight and
                                                                                                        or unusual design features on one model               landing.
                                                Novel or Unusual Design Features
                                                                                                        series of airplane. It is not a rule of                 Issued in Renton, Washington, on
                                                  The Model GVII–G500 airplane will                     general applicability.                                September 1, 2015.
                                                incorporate the following novel or                                                                            Michael Kaszycki,
                                                unusual design features: Large-bypass                   List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 25
                                                                                                                                                              Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
                                                engines capable of larger and more                        Aircraft, Aviation safety, Reporting                Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
                                                complex dynamic loads than were                         and recordkeeping requirements.                       [FR Doc. 2015–23100 Filed 9–14–15; 8:45 am]
                                                envisioned when the 14 CFR 25.361(b)                      The authority citation for these                    BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
                                                rule was developed in 1957, thereby                     special conditions is as follows:
                                                requiring issuance of special conditions                  Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701,
                                                to establish appropriate design                         44702, 44704.                                         DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
                                                standards for the Model GVII–G500
                                                airplane.                                               The Special Conditions                                Federal Aviation Administration
                                                                                                           Accordingly, pursuant to the
                                                Discussion                                                                                                    14 CFR Part 39
                                                                                                        authority delegated to me by the
                                                   The limit engine torque load imposed                 Administrator, the following special                  [Docket No. FAA–2015–0926; Directorate
                                                by sudden engine stoppage due to                        conditions are issued as part of the type             Identifier 2014–NM–121–AD; Amendment
                                                malfunction or structural failure (such                 certification basis for the Gulfstream                39–18263; AD 2015–18–05]
                                                as a compressor jamming) has been a                     Aerospace Corporation Model GVII–
                                                                                                        G500 airplane.                                        RIN 2120–AA64
                                                specific requirement for transport-
                                                category airplanes since 1957. In the                      In lieu of § 25.361(b) the following
                                                                                                                                                              Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
                                                past, the design torque loads associated                special conditions apply:
                                                                                                           1. For turbine engine installations, the           Airplanes
                                                with typical failure scenarios have been
                                                estimated by the engine manufacturer                    engine mounts, pylons, and adjacent                   AGENCY:  Federal Aviation
                                                and were provided to the airframe                       supporting airframe structure must be                 Administration (FAA), Department of
                                                manufacturer as limit loads. These limit                designed to withstand 1g level flight                 Transportation (DOT).
                                                loads were considered simple, pure-                     loads acting simultaneously with the                  ACTION: Final rule.
                                                torque static loads.                                    maximum limit torque loads imposed
                                                                                                        by each of the following:                             SUMMARY:    We are superseding
                                                   It is evident from service history that                 a. Sudden engine deceleration due to               Airworthiness Directive (AD) 97–07–14,
                                                the engine-failure events that tend to                  a malfunction that could result in a                  for certain Airbus Model A320–111,
                                                cause the most severe loads are fan-                    temporary loss of power or thrust, and                –211, and –231 airplanes. AD 97–07–14
                                                blade failures, and these events occur                     b. The maximum acceleration of the                 required modification of an area on the
                                                much less frequently than the typical                   engine.                                               front spar of the wing center section by
                                                ‘‘limit’’ load condition.                                  2. For auxiliary power unit (APU)                  installing shims and new fasteners to
                                                   To maintain the level of safety                      installations, the power unit mounts                  reinforce pressure floor fittings. This
                                                envisioned by § 25.361(b), more                         and adjacent supporting airframe                      new AD continues to require modifying
                                                comprehensive criteria are required for                 structure must be designed to withstand               the rib flange on the front spar of the
                                                the new generation of high-bypass                       1g level-flight loads acting                          wing center section by installing shims
                                                engines. These special conditions                       simultaneously with the maximum limit                 and new fasteners to reinforce pressure
                                                distinguish between the more common                     torque loads imposed by each of the                   floor fittings; and requires repetitive
                                                engine-failure events and those rare                    following:                                            high frequency eddy current inspections
                                                events resulting from structural failures.                 a. Sudden APU deceleration due to                  for cracking of the radius of the rib
                                                The more-common events are regarded                     malfunction or structural failure; and                flanges and vertical stiffener at frame 36,
                                                as static torque limit load conditions.                    b. The maximum acceleration of the
                                                                                                                                                              a rototest inspection for cracking of the
                                                The more-severe events resulting from                   APU.
                                                                                                                                                              fastener holes of the rib flanges, repair
                                                                                                           3. For engine supporting structure, an
                                                extreme engine-failure conditions (such                                                                       if needed, and adding additional
                                                                                                        ultimate loading condition must be
                                                as loss of a full fan blade at redline                                                                        airplanes to the applicability. This AD
                                                                                                        considered that combines 1g flight loads
                                                speed) are regarded as full dynamic load                                                                      was prompted by the need for repetitive
                                                                                                        with the transient dynamic loads
                                                conditions. These are considered                                                                              inspections on airplanes on which the
                                                                                                        resulting from:
                                                ultimate loads, and include all transient                  a. The loss of any fan, compressor, or             modification of the rib flange on the
                                                loads associated with the event. An                     turbine blade; and separately,                        front spar of the wing center section has
                                                additional safety factor is applied to the                 b. Where applicable to a specific                  been done. We are issuing this AD to
                                                more-critical airframe supporting                       engine design, any other engine                       prevent fatigue cracking on the rib
                                                structure.                                              structural failure that results in higher             flange area of the front spar of the wing
                                                Applicability                                           loads.                                                center section, which can reduce the
                                                                                                           4. The ultimate loads developed from               structural integrity of fuselage frame 36
                                                  As discussed above, these special                     the conditions specified in special                   and the wing center section.
                                                conditions are applicable to the Model                  conditions 3(a) and 3(b), above, are to be            DATES: This AD becomes effective
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                                                GVII–G500 airplane. Should Gulfstream                   multiplied by a factor of 1.0 when                    October 20, 2015.
                                                Aerospace apply at a later date for a                   applied to engine mounts and pylons,                     The Director of the Federal Register
                                                change to the type certificate to include               and multiplied by a factor of 1.25 when               approved the incorporation by reference
                                                another model incorporating the same                    applied to adjacent supporting airframe               of a certain publication listed in this AD
                                                novel or unusual design feature, the                    structure.                                            as of October 20, 2015.
                                                special conditions would apply to that                     5. Any permanent deformation that                     The Director of the Federal Register
                                                model as well.                                          results from the conditions specified in              approved the incorporation by reference


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                                                55230            Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 178 / Tuesday, September 15, 2015 / Rules and Regulations

                                                of a certain other publication listed in                Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct             manufacturer serial numbers up to MSN
                                                this AD as of May 12, 1997 (62 FR                       an unsafe condition on certain Airbus                 0084 inclusive. We included paragraph
                                                16473, April 7, 1997).                                  Model A320–211 and –231 airplanes.                    (h) of this AD to require the
                                                ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD                       The MCAI states:                                      modification for the airplanes having
                                                docket on the Internet at http://                          During full scale fatigue tests on the Airbus      MSNs 001, 009, and 015. You may
                                                www.regulations.gov/                                    A320 test specimen, cracks were found in the          examine the MCAI in the AD docket on
                                                #!docketDetail;D=FAA-2015-0926; or in                   rib flange on the front spar side                     the Internet at http://
                                                person at the Docket Management                         perpendicular to vertical posts at frame (FR)         www.regulations.gov/
                                                Facility, U.S. Department of                            36. It was determined that similar cracks             #!documentDetail;D=FAA-2015-0926-
                                                                                                        could develop on certain in-service                   0002.
                                                Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
                                                                                                        aeroplanes.
                                                30, West Building Ground Floor, Room                       This condition, if not detected and                Comments
                                                W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,                    corrected, could affect the wing structural
                                                Washington, DC.                                                                                                 We gave the public the opportunity to
                                                                                                        integrity.
                                                   For service information identified in                   To reduce the risk of crack initiation, two        participate in developing this AD. We
                                                this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness                  modifications for aeroplanes in production            received no comments on the NPRM (80
                                                Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice                       and one modification for in-service                   FR 22943, April 24, 2015) or on the
                                                Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France;                  aeroplanes were developed by Airbus: Prior            determination of the cost to the public.
                                                telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5                  to [manufacturer serial number] MSN 0085,
                                                                                                        the adaptation modification (Mod) 20976 was           Conclusion
                                                61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-                    applied in production, consisting in
                                                eas@airbus.com; Internet http://                                                                                We reviewed the available data and
                                                                                                        installing shims under the fasteners linking          determined that air safety and the
                                                www.airbus.com. You may view this                       the rib flange, the lower corner, the front spar
                                                referenced service information at the                                                                         public interest require adopting this AD
                                                                                                        and its vertical stiffener; from MSN 0085
                                                FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,                    onwards, the serial Mod 20908 was applied
                                                                                                                                                              as proposed except for minor editorial
                                                1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA.                       in production, consisting in installing               changes. We have determined that these
                                                For information on the availability of                  reinforced lower surface rib flanges at front         minor changes:
                                                                                                        spar level.                                             • Are consistent with the intent that
                                                this material at the FAA, call 425–227–
                                                                                                           Airbus issued Service Bulletin (SB) A320–          was proposed in the NPRM (80 FR
                                                1221. It is also available on the Internet
                                                                                                        57–1013 for affected in-service aeroplanes,           22943, April 24, 2015) for correcting the
                                                at http://www.regulations.gov by                        and [Directorate General for Civil Aviation]          unsafe condition; and
                                                searching for and locating Docket No.                   DGAC France issued AD [F–19]95–098–066                  • Do not add any additional burden
                                                FAA–2015–0926.                                          [dated May 24, 1995, which corresponds to             upon the public than was already
                                                FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:                        FAA AD 97–07–14, Amendment 39–9988 (62                proposed in the NPRM (80 FR 22943,
                                                Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,                      FR 16473, April 7, 1997), http://
                                                                                                                                                              April 24, 2015).
                                                International Branch, ANM–116,                          ad.easa.europa.eu/ad/F-1995-098-066] to
                                                Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,                    require installation of shims under the               Related Service Information Under 1
                                                                                                        fasteners linking the rib flange, the lower           CFR Part 51
                                                1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA                        corner, the front spar and its vertical
                                                98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1405;                     stiffener.                                               Airbus has issued Service Bulletin
                                                fax 425–227–1149.                                          Following a recent analysis, Airbus                A320–57–1175, Revision 01, including
                                                SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:                              identified the need for repetitive [HFEC and          Appendix 01, dated May 28, 2014. The
                                                                                                        rototest] inspections for aeroplanes on which         service information describes
                                                Discussion                                              Airbus SB A320–57–1013 or production Mod              procedures for repetitive high frequency
                                                  We issued a notice of proposed                        20976 has been embodied.                              eddy current inspections for cracking of
                                                rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR                          For the reason described above, this               the radius of the rib flanges and vertical
                                                                                                        [EASA] AD retains the requirements of DGAC
                                                part 39 to supersede AD 97–07–14,                                                                             stiffener at frame 36, a rototest
                                                                                                        France AD [F–19]95–098–066, [dated May
                                                Amendment 39–9988 (62 FR 16473,                         24, 1995, which corresponds to FAA AD 97–             inspection for cracking of the fastener
                                                April 7, 1997). AD 97–07–14 applied to                  07–14, Amendment 39–9988 (62 FR 16473,                holes of the rib flanges, and repair. This
                                                certain Airbus Model A320–111, –211,                    April 7, 1997), http://ad.easa.europa.eu/ad/          service information is reasonably
                                                and –231 airplanes. The NPRM                            F-1995-098-066], which is superseded, and             available because the interested parties
                                                published in the Federal Register on                    requires repetitive [HFEC and rototest]               have access to it through their normal
                                                April 24, 2015 (80 FR 22943).                           inspections of the center wing lower ribs at          course of business or by the means
                                                  Since we issued AD 97–07–14,                          FR 36 and, depending on findings,                     identified in the ADDRESSES section of
                                                Amendment 39–9988 (62 FR 16473,                         accomplishment of a repair.                           this AD.
                                                April 7, 1997), we have determined the                     After EASA issued PAD 14–013, it was
                                                                                                        discovered that additional work [removal of           Explanation of ‘‘RC’’ Procedures and
                                                need for repetitive inspections on                      shims and fasteners on the rib flange on the
                                                airplanes on which Airbus Modification                                                                        Tests in Service Information
                                                                                                        front spar side and doing an HFEC inspection
                                                20976 (modification of the rib flange on                for cracking of the radius of the rib flanges           The FAA worked in conjunction with
                                                the front spar of the wing center section)              and a rototest inspection for cracking of the         industry, under the Airworthiness
                                                was done in production, or was done                     fastener holes during each inspection] to be          Directive Implementation Aviation
                                                using Airbus Service Bulletin A320–57–                  included in Revision 01 of Airbus SB A320–            Rulemaking Committee (ARC), to
                                                1013, dated April 12, 1989; or Airbus                   57–1175, is required to accomplish the                enhance the AD system. One
                                                Service Bulletin A320–57–1013,                          inspections. This Final [EASA] AD has been            enhancement was a new process for
                                                Revision 1, dated September 29, 1992.                   amended accordingly.                                  annotating which procedures and tests
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                                                  The European Aviation Safety Agency                     Airplanes having MSNs 001, 009, and                 in the service information are required
                                                (EASA), which is the Technical Agent                    015 were not included in the                          for compliance with an AD.
                                                for the Member States of the European                   applicability of AD 97–07–14,                         Differentiating these procedures and
                                                Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness                    Amendment 39–9988 (62 FR 16473,                       tests from other tasks in the service
                                                Directive 2014–0053, dated March 7,                     April 7, 1997). EASA AD 2014–0053,                    information is expected to improve an
                                                2014 (referred to after this as the                     dated March 7, 2014, expanded the                     owner’s/operator’s understanding of
                                                Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness                      applicability to all airplanes having                 crucial AD requirements and help


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                                                                 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 178 / Tuesday, September 15, 2015 / Rules and Regulations                                          55231

                                                provide consistent judgment in AD                       for practices, methods, and procedures                § 39.13    [Amended]
                                                compliance. The procedures and tests                    the Administrator finds necessary for                 ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by
                                                identified as Required for Compliance                   safety in air commerce. This regulation               removing Airworthiness Directive (AD)
                                                (RC) in any service information have a                  is within the scope of that authority                 97–07–14, Amendment 39–9988 (62 FR
                                                direct effect on detecting, preventing,                 because it addresses an unsafe condition              16473, April 7, 1997), and adding the
                                                resolving, or eliminating an identified                 that is likely to exist or develop on                 following new AD:
                                                unsafe condition.                                       products identified in this rulemaking
                                                  As specified in a NOTE under the                                                                            2015–18–05 Airbus: Amendment 39–18263.
                                                                                                        action.                                                   Docket No. FAA–2015–0926; Directorate
                                                Accomplishment Instructions of the                                                                                Identifier 2014–NM–121–AD.
                                                specified service information,                          Regulatory Findings
                                                procedures and tests that are identified                                                                      (a) Effective Date
                                                                                                          We determined that this AD will not
                                                as RC in any service information must                   have federalism implications under                      This AD becomes effective October 20,
                                                be done to comply with the AD.                          Executive Order 13132. This AD will                   2015.
                                                However, procedures and tests that are                  not have a substantial direct effect on               (b) Affected ADs
                                                not identified as RC are recommended.                   the States, on the relationship between                 This AD replaces AD 97–07–14,
                                                Those procedures and tests that are not                 the national government and the States,               Amendment 39–9988 (62 FR 16473, April 7,
                                                identified as RC may be deviated from                   or on the distribution of power and                   1997).
                                                using accepted methods in accordance                    responsibilities among the various
                                                with the operator’s maintenance or                                                                            (c) Applicability
                                                                                                        levels of government.
                                                inspection program without obtaining                                                                             This AD applies to Airbus Model A320–
                                                                                                          For the reasons discussed above, I                  211 and -231 airplanes, certificated in any
                                                approval of an alternative method of                    certify that this AD:
                                                compliance (AMOC), provided the                                                                               category, all manufacturer serial numbers
                                                procedures and tests identified as RC                     1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory                (MSN) up to MSN 0084 inclusive.
                                                can be done and the airplane can be put                 action’’ under Executive Order 12866;                 (d) Subject
                                                back in a serviceable condition. Any                      2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the            Air Transport Association (ATA) of
                                                substitutions or changes to procedures                  DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures                America Code 57, Wings.
                                                or tests identified as RC will require                  (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
                                                                                                                                                              (e) Reason
                                                approval of an AMOC.                                      3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
                                                                                                        Alaska; and                                              This AD was prompted by the
                                                Costs of Compliance                                                                                           determination that repetitive inspections are
                                                                                                          4. Will not have a significant                      needed on airplanes on which the
                                                   We estimate that this AD affects 11                  economic impact, positive or negative,                modification of the rib flange on the front
                                                airplanes of U.S. registry.                             on a substantial number of small entities             spar of the wing center section has been
                                                   The actions required by AD 97–07–14,                 under the criteria of the Regulatory                  done. We are issuing this AD to prevent
                                                Amendment 39–9988 (62 FR 16473,                         Flexibility Act.                                      fatigue cracking on the rib flange area of the
                                                April 7, 1997), and retained in this AD                                                                       front spar of the wing center section, which
                                                take about 13 work-hours per product,                   Examining the AD Docket                               can reduce the structural integrity of fuselage
                                                at an average labor rate of $85 per work-                                                                     frame 36 and the wing center section.
                                                                                                          You may examine the AD docket on
                                                hour. Required parts cost about $576 per                the Internet at http://                               (f) Compliance
                                                product. Based on these figures, the                    www.regulations.gov/                                     Comply with this AD within the
                                                estimated cost of the actions that were                 #!docketDetail;D=FAA-2015-0926; or in                 compliance times specified, unless already
                                                required by AD 97–07–14 is $1,681 per                   person at the Docket Management                       done.
                                                product.                                                Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.,
                                                   We also estimate that it will take                                                                         (g) Retained Modification
                                                                                                        Monday through Friday, except Federal                    This paragraph restates the requirements of
                                                about 45 work-hours per product to
                                                                                                        holidays. The AD docket contains this                 paragraph (a) of AD 97–07–14, Amendment
                                                comply with the new basic
                                                                                                        AD, the regulatory evaluation, any                    39–9988 (62 FR 16473, April 7, 1997). For
                                                requirements of this AD. The average
                                                                                                        comments received, and other                          airplanes with manufacturer serial numbers
                                                labor rate is $85 per work-hour.                                                                              (MSN) 005 through 008 inclusive, MSNs 010
                                                                                                        information. The street address for the
                                                Required parts will cost about $1,600                                                                         through 014 inclusive, and MSNs 016
                                                                                                        Docket Operations office (telephone
                                                per product. Based on these figures, we                                                                       through 042 inclusive: Prior to the
                                                                                                        800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES
                                                estimate the cost of this AD on U.S.                                                                          accumulation of 16,000 total landings, or
                                                                                                        section.
                                                operators to be $59,675, or $5,425 per                                                                        within 3 months after May 12, 1997 (the
                                                product.                                                List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39                    effective date of AD 97–07–14), whichever
                                                                                                                                                              occurs later, modify the rib flange on the
                                                Authority for This Rulemaking                             Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation              front spar of the wing center section by
                                                  Title 49 of the United States Code                    safety, Incorporation by reference,                   installing shims and new fasteners to
                                                specifies the FAA’s authority to issue                  Safety.                                               reinforce pressure floor fittings, in
                                                                                                                                                              accordance with the Accomplishment
                                                rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,                   Adoption of the Amendment                             Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320–
                                                section 106, describes the authority of                                                                       57–1013, Revision 1, dated September 29,
                                                the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII:                    Accordingly, under the authority                    1992.
                                                Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more                  delegated to me by the Administrator,
                                                                                                        the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as                      (h) New Requirement of This AD:
                                                detail the scope of the Agency’s
                                                                                                        follows:                                              Modification for Airplanes With MSNs 001,
                                                authority.
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                                                                                                                                                              009, and 015
                                                  We are issuing this rulemaking under
                                                the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,              PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS                                    Prior to the accumulation of 16,000 total
                                                                                                        DIRECTIVES                                            landings since first flight, or within 30 days
                                                Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:                                                                           after the effective date of this AD, whichever
                                                General requirements.’’ Under that                                                                            occurs later, modify the rib flange on the
                                                section, Congress charges the FAA with                  ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
                                                                                                                                                              front spar of the wing center section by
                                                promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in              continues to read as follows:                         installing shims and new fasteners to
                                                air commerce by prescribing regulations                     Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.        reinforce pressure floor fittings, in



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                                                55232            Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 178 / Tuesday, September 15, 2015 / Rules and Regulations

                                                accordance with the Accomplishment                      performed before May 12, 1997 (the effective          (n) Material Incorporated by Reference
                                                Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320–           date of AD 97–07–14), using Airbus Service               (1) The Director of the Federal Register
                                                57–1013, Revision 1, dated September 29,                Bulletin A320–57–1013, dated April 12,                approved the incorporation by reference
                                                1992.                                                   1989, which is not incorporated by reference          (IBR) of the service information listed in this
                                                (i) New Requirement of This AD: Repetitive              in this AD.                                           paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
                                                Inspections                                             (l) Other FAA AD Provisions                           part 51.
                                                                                                                                                                 (2) You must use this service information
                                                   Within the applicable compliance times                  The following provisions also apply to this        as applicable to do the actions required by
                                                specified in paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of this       AD:                                                   this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
                                                AD, do a high frequency eddy current (HFEC)                (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
                                                inspection for cracking of the radius of the                                                                     (3) The following service information was
                                                                                                        (AMOCs): The Manager, International                   approved for IBR on October 20, 2015.
                                                rib flanges and vertical stiffener at frame 36,         Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane
                                                and do a rototest inspection for cracking of                                                                     (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–57–1175,
                                                                                                        Directorate, FAA, has the authority to                Revision 01, including Appendix 01, dated
                                                the fastener holes of the rib flanges and
                                                                                                        approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested               May 28, 2014.
                                                vertical stiffener, in accordance with the
                                                                                                        using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.              (ii) Reserved.
                                                Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
                                                                                                        In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your               (4) The following service information was
                                                Service Bulletin A320–57–1175, Revision 01,
                                                including Appendix 01, dated May 28, 2014.              request to your principal inspector or local          approved for IBR on May 12, 1997 (62 FR
                                                During each inspection, remove the shims                Flight Standards District Office, as                  16473, April 7, 1997).
                                                and fasteners on the rib flange on the front            appropriate. If sending information directly             (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–57–1013,
                                                spar side and do an HFEC inspection for                 to the International Branch, send it to ATTN:         Revision 1, dated September 29, 1992.
                                                cracking of the radius of the rib flanges and           Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,                       Note 1 to paragraph (n)(4)(i): Airbus
                                                a rototest inspection for cracking of the               International Branch, ANM–116, Transport              Service Bulletin A320–57–1013, Revision 1,
                                                fastener holes. If no cracking is found,                Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind                  dated September 29, 1992, contains the
                                                oversize the holes of the rib flange and the            Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356;                    following list of effective pages: Pages 1
                                                holes of the shims, in accordance with the              telephone 425–227–1405; fax 425–227–1149.             through 3 show revision level 1, dated
                                                Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus                   Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-             September 29, 1992; pages 4 through 11 are
                                                Service Bulletin A320–57–1175, Revision 01,             AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using                   from the original issue, dated April 12, 1989.
                                                including Appendix 01, dated May 28, 2014.              any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate               (ii) Reserved.
                                                Repeat the inspections thereafter at intervals          principal inspector, or lacking a principal              (5) For service information identified in
                                                not to exceed 32,500 flight cycles or 65,000            inspector, the manager of the local flight            this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness
                                                flight hours, whichever occurs first.                   standards district office/certificate holding         Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice
                                                   (1) For airplanes having Airbus                      district office. The AMOC approval letter             Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France;
                                                Modification 20976 embodied: At the later of            must specifically reference this AD.                  telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61
                                                the times specified in paragraphs (i)(1)(i) or             (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: As of the         93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@
                                                (i)(1)(ii) of this AD.                                  effective date of this AD, for any requirement        airbus.com; Internet http://www.airbus.com.
                                                   (i) Before exceeding 47,800 flight cycles or         in this AD to obtain corrective actions from             (6) You may view this service information
                                                95,600 flight hours, whichever occurs first,            a manufacturer, the action must be                    at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
                                                since the airplane’s first flight.                      accomplished using a method approved by               1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For
                                                   (ii) Within 850 flight cycles or 1,700 flight        the Manager, International Branch, ANM–               information on the availability of this
                                                hours, whichever occurs first, after the                116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or          material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
                                                effective date of this AD.                              EASA; or Airbus’s EASA DOA. If approved                  (7) You may view this service information
                                                   (2) For airplanes on which the                       by the DOA, the approval must include the             that is incorporated by reference at the
                                                modification of the front spar of the wing              DOA-authorized signature.                             National Archives and Records
                                                center section was accomplished using                      (3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except           Administration (NARA). For information on
                                                Airbus Service Bulletin A320–57–1013,                   as required by paragraph (j) of this AD, if the       the availability of this material at NARA, call
                                                Revision 1, dated September 29, 1992: At the            service information contains procedures or            202–741–6030, or go to: http://
                                                later of the times specified in paragraphs              tests that are identified as RC, those                www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-
                                                (i)(2)(i) or (i)(2)(ii) of this AD.                     procedures and tests must be done to comply           locations.html.
                                                   (i) Before exceeding 10,700 flight cycles or         with this AD; any procedures and tests that
                                                21,500 flight hours, whichever occurs first,            are not identified as RC are recommended.               Issued in Renton, Washington, on
                                                after the modification of the rib flange on the         Those procedures and tests that are not               September 2, 2015.
                                                front spar of the wing center section was               identified as RC may be deviated from using           Jeffrey E. Duven,
                                                done using Airbus Service Bulletin A320–                accepted methods in accordance with the               Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
                                                57–1013, Revision 1, dated September 29,                operator’s maintenance or inspection                  Aircraft Certification Service.
                                                1992.                                                   program without obtaining approval of an
                                                   (ii) Within 850 flight cycles or 1,700 flight                                                              [FR Doc. 2015–22924 Filed 9–14–15; 8:45 am]
                                                                                                        AMOC, provided the procedures and tests
                                                hours, whichever occurs first, after the                                                                      BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
                                                                                                        identified as RC can be done and the airplane
                                                effective date of this AD.
                                                                                                        can be put back in a serviceable condition.
                                                (j) Repair                                              Any substitutions or changes to procedures
                                                                                                        or tests identified as RC require approval of         DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
                                                   If, during any inspection required by
                                                paragraph (i) of this AD, any cracking is               an AMOC.
                                                                                                                                                              Federal Aviation Administration
                                                found, before further flight, repair using a            (m) Related Information
                                                method approved by the Manager,
                                                International Branch, ANM–116, Transport                  (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing                   14 CFR Part 39
                                                Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European              Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA
                                                                                                                                                              [Docket No. FAA–2014–0363; Directorate
                                                Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus’s              Airworthiness Directive 2014–0053, dated
                                                                                                                                                              Identifier 2014–NE–08–AD; Amendment 39–
                                                EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA).                March 7, 2014, for related information. This
                                                                                                                                                              18252; AD 2015–17–19]
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                                                                                                        MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the
                                                (k) Credit for Previous Actions                         Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by             RIN 2120–AA64
                                                  This paragraph restates the requirements of           searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–
                                                Note 2 of paragraph (g) of AD 97–07–14,                 2015–0926.                                            Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce
                                                Amendment 39–9988 (62 FR 16473, April 7,                  (2) Service information identified in this          plc Turbofan Engines
                                                1997): This paragraph provides credit for the           AD that is not incorporated by reference is
                                                modification of the rib flange required by              available at the addresses specified in               AGENCY:Federal Aviation
                                                paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were         paragraphs (n)(5) and (n)(6) of this AD.              Administration (FAA), DOT.


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Document Created: 2015-12-15 10:09:20
Document Modified: 2015-12-15 10:09:20
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionRules and Regulations
ActionFinal rule.
DatesThis AD becomes effective October 20, 2015.
ContactSanjay 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 Citation80 FR 55229 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

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