80 FR 81792 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 251 (December 31, 2015)

Page Range		81792-81795
FR Document		2015-32885

We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a report of cracks found during maintenance inspections on certain lugs of the 10VU rack side fittings in the cockpit. This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections for cracking of the lugs on the 10VU rack side fittings, and repair of any cracking. We are proposing this AD to prevent loss of flight-critical information displayed to the flightcrew during a critical phase of flight, such as an approach or takeoff, which could result in loss of airplane control at an altitude insufficient for recovery.

Federal Register, Volume 80 Issue 251 (Thursday, December 31, 2015)

[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 251 (Thursday, December 31, 2015)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 81792-81795]
From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2015-32885]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2015-8132; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-127-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64

Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. This
proposed AD was prompted by a report of cracks found during maintenance
inspections on certain lugs of the 10VU rack side fittings in the
cockpit. This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections for
cracking of the lugs on the 10VU rack side fittings, and repair of any
cracking. We are proposing this AD to prevent loss of flight-critical
information displayed to the flightcrew during a critical phase of
flight, such as an approach or takeoff, which could result in loss of
airplane control at an altitude insufficient for recovery.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by February 16,
2016.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
Fax: 202-493-2251.
Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact
Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte,
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61
93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Internet http://www.airbus.com.
You may view this referenced service information at the FAA,
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-
227-1221.

Examining the AD Docket

You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-
8132; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments
received, and other information. The street address for the Docket
Operations office (telephone 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section.
Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1405;
fax 425-227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

[[Page 81793]]

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-2015-8132;
Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-127-AD'' at the beginning of your
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend
this proposed AD based on those comments.
We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA
Airworthiness Directive 2015-0170, dated August 18, 2015 (referred to
after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or
``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus Model
A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. The MCAI states:

During an unscheduled maintenance operation on an A330
aeroplane, the 10VU rack was removed for access and cracks were
discovered on 10VU rack side fittings on lugs 1, 3, and 4. As a
similar design is installed on A320 family aeroplanes, a sampling
review was done to determine the possible fleet impact. The result
showed that several aeroplanes had cracked or broken 10VU rack side
fittings.
This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to a
high vibration level on the primary flight- and navigation displays
during critical flight phases (takeoff and landing), possibly
creating reading difficulties for the crew.
Prompted by these findings, Airbus developed mod 35869 to
reinforce the affected rack fitting lugs. For in-service aeroplanes,
Airbus published Service Bulletin (SB) A320-92-1087 to provide
inspection and repair instructions.
For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires
repetitive detailed inspections (DET) of the affected 10VU rack
fitting lugs and, depending on findings, accomplishment of a repair.

You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-
8132.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

Airbus has issued Service Bulletin A320-92-1087, Revision 02, dated
November 25, 2014. The service information describes procedures for
repetitive inspections for cracking of the lugs on the 10VU rack side
fittings, and repair of any cracking. 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.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD

This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant
to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have
been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service
information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we
evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition
exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of these
same type designs.

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

The FAA worked in conjunction with industry, under the
Airworthiness 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 provide consistent judgment in AD compliance. The procedures
and tests identified as RC (required for compliance) 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
proposed AD. However, procedures and tests that are not identified as
RC are recommended. Those procedures and tests that are not identified
as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with
the operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining
approval of an alternative method of compliance (AMOC), provided the
procedures and tests identified as RC can be done and the airplane can
be put back in an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or changes to
procedures or tests identified as RC will require approval of an AMOC.

Costs of Compliance

We estimate that this proposed AD affects 959 airplanes of U.S.
registry.
We also estimate that it would take about 2 work-hours per product
to comply with the basic requirements of this proposed AD, and 1 work-
hour per product to report inspection findings. The average labor rate
is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of
this proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $244,545, or $255 per product.
In addition, we estimate that any necessary repair would take about
84 work-hours, for a cost of $7,140 per product. We have received no
definitive data that would enable us to provide part cost estimates for
the on-condition actions specified in this proposed AD. We have no way
of determining the number of aircraft that might need these actions.

Paperwork Reduction Act

A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not
required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to penalty for
failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the
requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of
information displays a current valid OMB control number. The control
number for the collection of information required by this AD is 2120-
0056. The paperwork cost associated with this AD has been detailed in
the Costs of Compliance section of this document and includes time for
reviewing instructions, as well as completing and reviewing the
collection of information. Therefore, all reporting associated with
this AD is mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden
and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to the FAA
at 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, ATTN: Information
Collection Clearance Officer, AES-200.

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

[[Page 81794]]

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

Regulatory Findings

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

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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

Sec. 39.13 [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):

Airbus: Docket No. FAA-2015-8132; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-
127-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

We must receive comments by February 16, 2016.

(b) Affected ADs

None.

This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes identified in paragraphs
(c)(1) through (c)(4) of this AD, certificated in any category;
except airplanes on which Airbus Modification 35869 has been
embodied in production.
(1) Airbus Model A318-111, -112, -121, and -122 airplanes.
(2) Airbus Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132,
and -133 airplanes.
(3) Airbus Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233
airplanes.
(4) Airbus Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231,
and -232 airplanes.

(d) Subject

Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 25, Equipment/
Furnishings.

(e) Reason

This AD was prompted by a report of cracks found during
maintenance inspections on certain lugs of the 10VU rack side
fittings in the cockpit. We are issuing this AD to prevent loss of
flight-critical information displayed to the flightcrew during a
critical phase of flight, such as an approach or takeoff, which
could result in loss of airplane control at an altitude insufficient
for recovery.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Repetitive Inspections and Repair

At the later of the times specified in paragraphs (g)(1) and
(g)(2) of this AD: Do a detailed inspection for cracking of the lugs
on the 10VU rack side fittings in the cockpit, in accordance with
the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-92-
1087, Revision 02, dated November 25, 2014. If any crack is found,
before further flight, repair in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-92-1087, Revision 02,
dated November 25, 2014. Repeat the inspection thereafter at
intervals not to exceed 20,000 flight cycles or 40,000 flight hours,
whichever occurs first. Repair of the 10VU rack lugs does not
terminate the repetitive inspections required by this paragraph.
(1) Before the accumulation of 30,000 total flight cycles or
60,000 total flight hours, whichever occurs first since the
airplane's first flight.
(2) Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD.

(h) Reporting Requirement

Submit a report of any findings (positive and negative) of any
inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD to Airbus at the
address specified in paragraph (j)(2) of this AD, at the applicable
time specified in paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of this AD.
(1) If the inspection was done on or after the effective date of
this AD: Submit the report within 90 days after the inspection.
(2) If the inspection was done before the effective date of this
AD: Submit the report within 90 days after the effective date of
this AD.

(i) Other FAA AD Provisions

The following provisions also apply to this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR
39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information
directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Sanjay
Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-
3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149. Information may be
emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any
approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight
standards district office/certificate holding district office. The
AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD.
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD
to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International
Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval
must include the DOA-authorized signature.
(3) Reporting Requirements: A federal agency may not conduct or
sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a
person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with a
collection of information subject to the requirements of the
Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information
displays a current valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Control Number
for this information collection is 2120-0056. Public reporting for
this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 5
minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions,
completing and reviewing the collection of information. All
responses to this collection of information are mandatory. Comments
concerning the accuracy of this burden and suggestions for reducing
the burden should be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave.
SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: Information Collection Clearance
Officer, AES-200.
(4) Required for Compliance (RC): If any service information
contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those
procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any
procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended.
Those procedures and tests that are not identified

[[Page 81795]]

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 an airworthy
condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests
identified as RC require approval of an AMOC.

(j) Related Information

(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information
(MCAI) European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Airworthiness
Directive 2015-0170, dated August 18, 2015, 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-
2015-8132.
(2) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte,
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5
61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Internet http://www.airbus.com. You may view this service information at the FAA,
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA.
For information on the availability of this material at the FAA,
call 425-227-1221.

Issued in Renton, Washington, on December 18, 2015.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2015-32885 Filed 12-30-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

81792 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 251 / Thursday, December 31, 2015 / Proposed Rules

52948, September 2, 2015, at the modified identified in an RC step, must be done to prevent loss of flight-critical
area only. comply with the AD. An AMOC is required information displayed to the flightcrew
(2) Accomplishing the actions specified in for any deviations to RC steps, including during a critical phase of flight, such as
paragraphs (i)(2)(i) and (i)(2)(ii) of this AD substeps and identified figures.
terminates the inspections required by
an approach or takeoff, which could
(ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be
paragraph (g) of AD 2014–20–10, deviated from using accepted methods in result in loss of airplane control at an
Amendment 39–17983 (79 FR 60331, October accordance with the operator’s maintenance altitude insufficient for recovery.
7, 2014), at the modified area only, provided or inspection program without obtaining DATES: We must receive comments on
the actions are accomplished concurrently, or approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps, this proposed AD by February 16, 2016.
the actions specified in paragraph (i)(2)(ii) of including substeps and identified figures, can ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
this AD are done after accomplishing the still be done as specified, and the airplane
actions specified in paragraph (i)(2)(i) of this using the procedures found in 14 CFR
can be put back in an airworthy condition.
AD. 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
(i) The actions specified in paragraphs (l) Related Information methods:
(g)(1) through (g)(4) of this AD on the left and (1) For more information about this AD, • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
right struts are done in accordance with the contact Kevin Nguyen, Aerospace Engineer, http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Propulsion Branch, ANM–140S, FAA, Seattle instructions for submitting comments.
Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–71– Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind • Fax: 202–493–2251.
0055, Revision 1, dated April 15, 2015; and Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; • Mail: U.S. Department of
the revision specified in paragraph (g)(5) of phone: 425–917–6501; fax: 425–917–6590;
this AD is done. Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
email: kevin.nguyen@faa.gov. 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
(ii) A one-time general visual inspection (2) For service information identified in
for hydraulic fluid contamination (including this AD, contact Boeing Commercial
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
contamination caused by hydraulic fluid in Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Washington, DC 20590.
its liquid, vapor, and/or solid (coked) form) Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of
of the interior of the strut forward dry bay, Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone 206– Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
and all applicable related investigative and 544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–5680; 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
corrective actions (including checking drain Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
lines for blockage due to hydraulic fluid may view this referenced service information
coking, and cleaning or replacing drain lines
Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, p.m., Monday through Friday, except
to allow drainage) are done in accordance 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For
with the Accomplishment Instructions of Federal holidays.
information on the availability of this For service information identified in
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
777–54–0028, Revision 1, dated December this proposed AD, contact Airbus,
10, 2013, except where Boeing Special Issued in Renton, Washington, on Airworthiness Office—EIAS, 1 Rond
Attention Service Bulletin 777–54–0028, December 21, 2015. Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac
Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013, Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36
specifies to contact Boeing for repair, the Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email
repair must be done using a method
approved in accordance with the procedures Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. account.airworth-eas@airbus.com;
specified in paragraph (k) of this AD. [FR Doc. 2015–32852 Filed 12–30–15; 8:45 am] Internet http://www.airbus.com.
You may view this referenced service
(j) Credit for Previous Actions BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
information at the FAA, Transport
This paragraph provides credit for actions Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue
required by paragraph (g) of this AD, if those SW., Renton, WA. For information on
actions were performed before the effective DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
the availability of this material at the
date of this AD using Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 777–71–0055, Federal Aviation Administration FAA, call 425–227–1221.
dated June 12, 2014, which is not Examining the AD Docket
incorporated by reference in this AD. 14 CFR Part 39
You may examine the AD docket on
(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance [Docket No. FAA–2015–8132; Directorate the Internet at http://
(AMOCs) Identifier 2015–NM–127–AD]
www.regulations.gov by searching for
(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft RIN 2120–AA64 and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the 8132; or in person at the Docket
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Management Facility between 9 a.m.
requested using the procedures found in 14 Airplanes
CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
send your request to your principal inspector AGENCY: Federal Aviation except Federal holidays. The AD docket
or local Flight Standards District Office, as Administration (FAA), DOT. contains this proposed AD, the
appropriate. If sending information directly regulatory evaluation, any comments
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
to the manager of the ACO, send it to the received, and other information. The
attention of the person identified in (NPRM). street address for the Docket Operations
paragraph (l)(1) of this AD. Information may office (telephone 800–647–5527) is in
be emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC- SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain the ADDRESSES section. Comments will
Requests@faa.gov.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and be available in the AD docket shortly
notify your appropriate principal inspector, A321 series airplanes. This proposed after receipt.
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS

AD was prompted by a report of cracks
of the local flight standards district office/ found during maintenance inspections Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,
certificate holding district office. on certain lugs of the 10VU rack side International Branch, ANM–116,
(3) For service information that contains Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
steps that are labeled as Required for
fittings in the cockpit. This proposed
AD would require repetitive inspections 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA
Compliance (RC), the provisions of
paragraphs (k)(3)(i) and (k)(3)(ii) apply. for cracking of the lugs on the 10VU 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1405;
(i) The steps labeled as RC, including rack side fittings, and repair of any fax 425–227–1149.
substeps under an RC step and any figures cracking. We are proposing this AD to SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:32 Dec 30, 2015 Jkt 238001 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\31DEP1.SGM 31DEP1

Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 251 / Thursday, December 31, 2015 / Proposed Rules 81793

Comments Invited Related Service Information Under 1 program without obtaining approval of
CFR Part 51 an alternative method of compliance
We invite you to send any written (AMOC), provided the procedures and
relevant data, views, or arguments about Airbus has issued Service Bulletin
A320–92–1087, Revision 02, dated tests identified as RC can be done and
this proposed AD. Send your comments the airplane can be put back in an
to an address listed under the November 25, 2014. The service
information describes procedures for airworthy condition. Any substitutions
ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. or changes to procedures or tests
FAA–2015–8132; Directorate Identifier repetitive inspections for cracking of the
lugs on the 10VU rack side fittings, and identified as RC will require approval of
2015–NM–127–AD’’ at the beginning of an AMOC.
your comments. We specifically invite repair of any cracking. This service
comments on the overall regulatory, information is reasonably available Costs of Compliance
economic, environmental, and energy because the interested parties have
access to it through their normal course We estimate that this proposed AD
aspects of this proposed AD. We will affects 959 airplanes of U.S. registry.
consider all comments received by the of business or by the means identified
in the ADDRESSES section of this AD. We also estimate that it would take
closing date and may amend this about 2 work-hours per product to
proposed AD based on those comments. FAA’s Determination and Requirements comply with the basic requirements of
We will post all comments we of This Proposed AD this proposed AD, and 1 work-hour per
receive, without change, to http:// This product has been approved by product to report inspection findings.
www.regulations.gov, including any the aviation authority of another The average labor rate is $85 per work-
personal information you provide. We country, and is approved for operation hour. Based on these figures, we
will also post a report summarizing each in the United States. Pursuant to our estimate the cost of this proposed AD on
substantive verbal contact we receive bilateral agreement with the State of U.S. operators to be $244,545, or $255
about this proposed AD. Design Authority, we have been notified per product.
Discussion of the unsafe condition described in the In addition, we estimate that any
MCAI and service information necessary repair would take about 84
The European Aviation Safety Agency referenced above. We are proposing this work-hours, for a cost of $7,140 per
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent AD because we evaluated all pertinent product. We have received no definitive
for the Member States of the European information and determined an unsafe data that would enable us to provide
Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness condition exists and is likely to exist or part cost estimates for the on-condition
Directive 2015–0170, dated August 18, develop on other products of these same actions specified in this proposed AD.
2015 (referred to after this as the type designs. We have no way of determining the
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness number of aircraft that might need these
Explanation of ‘‘RC’’ Procedures and actions.
Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct
Tests in Service Information
an unsafe condition for certain Airbus Paperwork Reduction Act
Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 The FAA worked in conjunction with
series airplanes. The MCAI states: industry, under the Airworthiness A federal agency may not conduct or
Directive Implementation Aviation sponsor, and a person is not required to
During an unscheduled maintenance
operation on an A330 aeroplane, the 10VU
Rulemaking Committee (ARC), to respond to, nor shall a person be subject
rack was removed for access and cracks were
enhance the AD system. One to penalty for failure to comply with a
discovered on 10VU rack side fittings on lugs enhancement was a new process for collection of information subject to the
1, 3, and 4. As a similar design is installed annotating which procedures and tests requirements of the Paperwork
on A320 family aeroplanes, a sampling in the service information are required Reduction Act unless that collection of
review was done to determine the possible for compliance with an AD. information displays a current valid
fleet impact. The result showed that several Differentiating these procedures and OMB control number. The control
aeroplanes had cracked or broken 10VU rack tests from other tasks in the service number for the collection of information
side fittings. information is expected to improve an required by this AD is 2120–0056. The
This condition, if not detected and owner’s/operator’s understanding of paperwork cost associated with this AD
corrected, could lead to a high vibration level crucial AD requirements and help has been detailed in the Costs of
on the primary flight- and navigation provide consistent judgment in AD Compliance section of this document
displays during critical flight phases (takeoff compliance. The procedures and tests and includes time for reviewing
and landing), possibly creating reading identified as RC (required for instructions, as well as completing and
difficulties for the crew. compliance) in any service information reviewing the collection of information.
Prompted by these findings, Airbus have a direct effect on detecting, Therefore, all reporting associated with
developed mod 35869 to reinforce the preventing, resolving, or eliminating an this AD is mandatory. Comments
affected rack fitting lugs. For in-service identified unsafe condition. concerning the accuracy of this burden
aeroplanes, Airbus published Service As specified in a Note under the and suggestions for reducing the burden
Bulletin (SB) A320–92–1087 to provide
Accomplishment Instructions of the should be directed to the FAA at 800
inspection and repair instructions.
specified service information, Independence Ave. SW., Washington,
For the reasons described above, this
[EASA] AD requires repetitive detailed
procedures and tests that are identified DC 20591, ATTN: Information
inspections (DET) of the affected 10VU rack as RC in any service information must Collection Clearance Officer, AES–200.
tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS

fitting lugs and, depending on findings, be done to comply with the proposed
Authority for This Rulemaking
accomplishment of a repair. AD. However, procedures and tests that
are not identified as RC are Title 49 of the United States Code
You may examine the MCAI in the recommended. Those procedures and specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
AD docket on the Internet at http:// tests that are not identified as RC may rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
www.regulations.gov by searching for be deviated from using accepted section 106, describes the authority of
and locating Docket No. FAA–2015– methods in accordance with the the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII:
8132. operator’s maintenance or inspection Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more

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81794 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 251 / Thursday, December 31, 2015 / Proposed Rules

detail the scope of the Agency’s (a) Comments Due Date (1) If the inspection was done on or after
authority. We must receive comments by February the effective date of this AD: Submit the
16, 2016. report within 90 days after the inspection.
We are issuing this rulemaking under
(2) If the inspection was done before the
the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII, (b) Affected ADs effective date of this AD: Submit the report
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: within 90 days after the effective date of this
None.
General requirements.’’ Under that AD.
section, Congress charges the FAA with (c) Applicability
(i) Other FAA AD Provisions
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes
air commerce by prescribing regulations identified in paragraphs (c)(1) through (c)(4) The following provisions also apply to this
for practices, methods, and procedures of this AD, certificated in any category; AD:
except airplanes on which Airbus (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
the Administrator finds necessary for (AMOCs): The Manager, International
safety in air commerce. This regulation Modification 35869 has been embodied in
production. Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane
is within the scope of that authority (1) Airbus Model A318–111, –112, –121, Directorate, FAA, has the authority to
because it addresses an unsafe condition and –122 airplanes. approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
that is likely to exist or develop on (2) Airbus Model A319–111, –112, –113, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
products identified in this rulemaking –114, –115, –131, –132, and –133 airplanes. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your
action. (3) Airbus Model A320–211, –212, –214, request to your principal inspector or local
–231, –232, and –233 airplanes. Flight Standards District Office, as
Regulatory Findings (4) Airbus Model A321–111, –112, –131, appropriate. If sending information directly
–211, –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes. to the International Branch, send it to ATTN:
We determined that this proposed AD Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,
would not have federalism implications (d) Subject International Branch, ANM–116, Transport
under Executive Order 13132. This Air Transport Association (ATA) of Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind
proposed AD would not have a America Code 25, Equipment/Furnishings. Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356;
substantial direct effect on the States, on telephone 425–227–1405; fax 425–227–1149.
(e) Reason
the relationship between the national Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-
Government and the States, or on the This AD was prompted by a report of AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using
distribution of power and cracks found during maintenance inspections any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
on certain lugs of the 10VU rack side fittings principal inspector, or lacking a principal
responsibilities among the various in the cockpit. We are issuing this AD to inspector, the manager of the local flight
levels of government. prevent loss of flight-critical information standards district office/certificate holding
For the reasons discussed above, I displayed to the flightcrew during a critical district office. The AMOC approval letter
certify this proposed regulation: phase of flight, such as an approach or must specifically reference this AD.
1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory takeoff, which could result in loss of airplane (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
action’’ under Executive Order 12866; control at an altitude insufficient for requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
recovery. actions from a manufacturer, the action must
2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (f) Compliance be accomplished using a method approved
by the Manager, International Branch, ANM–
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); Comply with this AD within the 116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in compliance times specified, unless already the European Aviation Safety Agency
Alaska; and done. (EASA); or Airbus’s EASA Design
4. Will not have a significant (g) Repetitive Inspections and Repair Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by
economic impact, positive or negative, At the later of the times specified in
the DOA, the approval must include the
on a substantial number of small entities DOA-authorized signature.
paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD: Do a
under the criteria of the Regulatory detailed inspection for cracking of the lugs (3) Reporting Requirements: A federal
Flexibility Act. on the 10VU rack side fittings in the cockpit, agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a
in accordance with the Accomplishment person is not required to respond to, nor
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320– shall a person be subject to a penalty for
92–1087, Revision 02, dated November 25, failure to comply with a collection of
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation information subject to the requirements of
safety, Incorporation by reference, 2014. If any crack is found, before further
flight, repair in accordance with the the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that
Safety. Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus collection of information displays a current
Service Bulletin A320–92–1087, Revision 02, valid OMB Control Number. The OMB
The Proposed Amendment Control Number for this information
dated November 25, 2014. Repeat the
Accordingly, under the authority inspection thereafter at intervals not to collection is 2120–0056. Public reporting for
delegated to me by the Administrator, exceed 20,000 flight cycles or 40,000 flight this collection of information is estimated to
the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part hours, whichever occurs first. Repair of the be approximately 5 minutes per response,
10VU rack lugs does not terminate the including the time for reviewing instructions,
39 as follows:
repetitive inspections required by this completing and reviewing the collection of
paragraph. information. All responses to this collection
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
(1) Before the accumulation of 30,000 total of information are mandatory. Comments
DIRECTIVES concerning the accuracy of this burden and
flight cycles or 60,000 total flight hours,
whichever occurs first since the airplane’s suggestions for reducing the burden should
■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence
first flight.
continues to read as follows: (2) Within 24 months after the effective Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn:
Information Collection Clearance Officer,
tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS

Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. date of this AD.
AES–200.
§ 39.13 [Amended] (h) Reporting Requirement (4) Required for Compliance (RC): If any
■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding Submit a report of any findings (positive service information contains procedures or
and negative) of any inspection required by tests that are identified as RC, those
the following new airworthiness
paragraph (g) of this AD to Airbus at the procedures and tests must be done to comply
directive (AD): address specified in paragraph (j)(2) of this with this AD; any procedures or tests that are
Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2015–8132; AD, at the applicable time specified in not identified as RC are recommended. Those
Directorate Identifier 2015–NM–127–AD. paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of this AD. procedures and tests that are not identified

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Document Created: 2015-12-31 02:14:30
Document Modified: 2015-12-31 02:14:30

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 February 16, 2016.
Contact		Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149.
FR Citation		80 FR 81792
RIN Number		2120-AA64
CFR Associated		Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

80 FR 81792 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATIONFederal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 251 (December 31, 2015)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration