81 FR 1486 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 8 (January 13, 2016)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 8 (January 13, 2016)
| Page Range | 1486-1489 | |
| FR Document | 2016-00014 |
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 8 (Wednesday, January 13, 2016)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 1486-1489] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2016-00014] [[Page 1486]] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2015-0678; Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-207-AD; Amendment 39-18367; AD 2016-01-08] 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) 2013-13-04, for certain Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. AD 2013-13-04 required installing a power interruption protection circuit for the landing gear control interface unit (LGCIU). This new AD requires a new modification of any previously modified LGCIU. This new AD also requires revising the maintenance or inspection program to reduce a certain functional check interval. This new AD also adds airplanes to the applicability. This AD was prompted by a determination that additional work is necessary to adequately address the identified unsafe condition. We are issuing this AD to prevent untimely unlocking and/or retraction of the nose landing gear (NLG), which, while on the ground, could result in injury to ground personnel and damage to the airplane. DATES: This AD becomes effective February 17, 2016. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of February 17, 2016. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain other publications listed in this AD as of August 14, 2013 (78 FR 41286, July 10, 2013) . ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FAA-2015-0678; 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 final rule, contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EAS, 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- 0678 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 2013-13-04, Amendment 39-17492 (78 FR 41286, July 10, 2013). AD 2013-13-04 applied to certain Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on March 31, 2015 (80 FR 17007). The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2013-0202, dated September 5, 2013 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Model A318- 111, -112, -121, and -122 airplanes; Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, and -133 airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, - 213, -231, and -232 airplanes. The MCAI states: After a push back from the gate, an A320 aeroplane was preparing to initiate taxi, when an uncommanded nose landing gear (NLG) retraction occurred, causing the nose of the aeroplane to hit the ground. Investigations revealed that the retraction was caused by a combination of a power interruption to Landing Gear Control and Interface Units (LGCIU) and an internal hydraulic leak through the landing gear (LG) selector valve 40GA. Deeper investigations have revealed that LGCIU power interruption appears during engine start at each flight. Even though no incident has been reported in service, it has been determined that a non-compliance to the safety objective exists when combined with a dormant single failure of the selector valve seal leaking. This condition, if not corrected, could lead to further incidents of untimely unlocking and/or retraction of the NLG which, while on the ground, could result in injury to ground personnel and damage to the aeroplane. To address the possible hydraulic leak of the LG selector valve, EASA issued AD 2007-0065 [http://ad.easa.europa.eu/blob/easa_ad_2007_0065.pdf/AD_2007-0065] currently at Revision 2. To address the risk of untimely unlocking and/or retraction of the NLG, EASA issued AD 2011-0202 [http://ad.easa.europa.eu/blob/easa_ad_2011_0202.pdf/AD_2011-0202] to require installation of a power interruption protection circuit to the LGCIU and accomplishment of associated modifications. Since that [EASA] AD was issued, it has been discovered that additional work is necessary to adequately correct this unsafe condition and consequently, Airbus issued Service Bulletin (SB) A320-32-1346 to Revision 05. An update of the maintenance programme is required as well, following the required modification. For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA AD 2011-0202, which is superseded, and requires certain additional actions, as defined in the revised Airbus SB, as applicable to aeroplane model, and an update of the approved maintenance programme. The additional actions include a new modification of any previously modified LGCIU, and reducing a certain functional check interval. This AD also adds airplanes on which Airbus modification 37866 has been embodied in production to the applicability. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2015-0678-0002. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM (80 FR 17007, March 31, 2015) and the FAA's response to the comment. Request To Include Revised Service Information United Airlines (UAL) stated that paragraphs (i) and (j) of the proposed AD (80 FR 17007, March 31, 2015) would be required to be done in accordance with the instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32- 1346, Revision 05, dated January 13, 2012. UAL asked that we allow use of the latest revision available, Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 07, dated February 10, 2015, for accomplishing the modification. We agree with the commenter's request. Airbus has issued Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 06, dated January 12, 2015, and Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 07, dated February 10, 2015. [[Page 1487]] These revisions state that no additional work is necessary on airplanes changed in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 05, dated January 13, 2012, which was specified as the appropriate source of service information in the NPRM (80 FR 17007, March 31, 2015). We have changed paragraphs (i) and (j) of this AD to specify accomplishing the modification in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 07, dated February 10, 2015. We have also added a new paragraph (l)(2) to this AD (paragraph (l) of the proposed AD (80 FR 17007, March 31, 2015) has been changed to paragraph (l)(1) in this AD) to give credit for actions done before the effective date of this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 05, dated January 13, 2012; or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 06, dated January 12, 2015. Request To Include Terminating Action UAL stated that the NPRM (80 FR 17007, March 31, 2015) does not include a terminating action. UAL asked that we create a new paragraph detailing all actions that will be terminated by accomplishing the modification of the LGCIU, as specified in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 07, dated February 10, 2015. We do not agree with the request. Paragraph (i) of this AD specifies that the modification terminates the actions required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD. Therefore, no change to this AD is necessary in this regard. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this AD with the changes described previously and minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM (80 FR 17007, March 31, 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 17007, March 31, 2015). We also determined that these changes will not increase the economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this AD. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Airbus has issued Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 07, dated February 10, 2015, including Appendices 01 and 02, dated February 10, 2015; and Task 32.30.00.17, ``Functional Check of LGCIU Power Supply Relays,'' of Section C-32 of Section C, Systems and Powerplant, of the Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321 Maintenance Review Board Report, Revision 18, dated March 2013. The service information describes procedures for installing a power interruption protection circuit for the LGCIU, and for a new modification of any previously modified LGCIU. 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. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 851 airplanes of U.S. registry. The actions required by AD 2013-13-04, Amendment 39-17492 (78 FR 41286, July 10, 2013), take about 48 work-hours per product, at an average labor rate of $85 per work-hour. Required parts will cost about $8,220 per product. Based on these figures, the estimated cost of the actions that are required by AD 2013-13-04 is $12,300 per product. We estimate that it takes about 46 work-hours per product to comply with the new modification in this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Required parts will cost about $9,650 per product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the new modification on U.S. operators to be $11,539,560, or $13,560 per product. We estimate that it takes about 1 work-hour per product to revise the maintenance or inspection program in this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of revising the maintenance program on U.S. operators to be $72,335, or $85 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-2015-0678; 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) 2013-13-04, Amendment 39-17492 (78 FR 41286, July 10, 2013), and adding the following new AD: [[Page 1488]] 2016-01-08 Airbus: Amendment 39-18367. Docket No. FAA-2015-0678; Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-207-AD. (a) Effective Date This AD becomes effective February 17, 2016. (b) Affected ADs This AD replaces AD 2013-13-04, Amendment 39-17492 (78 FR 41286, July 10, 2013). (c) Applicability (1) This AD applies to Airbus Model A318-111, -112, -121, and - 122 airplanes; Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, and -133 airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes; certificated in any category; all manufacturer serial numbers. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 32, Landing Gear. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by a determination that additional work is necessary to adequately address the identified unsafe condition. We are issuing this AD to prevent untimely unlocking and/or retraction of the nose landing gear (NLG), which, while on the ground, could result in injury to ground personnel and damage to the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Retained Modification With No Changes This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 2013-13-04, Amendment 39-17492 (78 FR 41286, July 10, 2013) with no changes. For all airplanes except airplanes on which Airbus modification 37866 has been embodied in production: At the applicable compliance time specified in paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD: Install a power interruption protection circuit for the landing gear control interface unit (LGCIU), in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 04, including Appendices 01 and 02, dated April 22, 2011 (for Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes other than the Model A319CJ (corporate jet) airplanes); or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1349, Revision 03, including Appendix 1, dated October 5, 2011 (for Model A319CJ (corporate jet) airplanes). (1) For airplanes that have embodied Airbus Modification 38947 specified in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1348 during production or in service: Within 72 months after August 14, 2013 (the effective date of AD 2013-13-04, Amendment 39-17492 (78 FR 41286, July 10, 2013)). (2) For all airplanes other than those identified in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD: Within 60 months after August 14, 2013 (the effective date of AD 2013-13-04, Amendment 39-17492 (78 FR 41286, July 10, 2013)). (h) Retained Re-Identification of Identification Plates With No Changes This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD 2013-13-04, Amendment 39-17492 (78 FR 41286, July 10, 2013) with no changes. For airplanes on which the installation required by paragraph (g) of this AD has been done before August 14, 2013 (the effective date of AD 2013-13-04) using Airbus Service Bulletin A320- 32-1346, dated December 4, 2008 (for Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes other than Model A319CJ (corporate jet) airplanes): Within the applicable times specified in paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD, re-identify the identification plates, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 04, including Appendices 01 and 02, dated April 22, 2011 (for Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes other than Model A319CJ (corporate jet) airplanes). (i) New Modification For airplanes identified in paragraphs (i)(1), (i)(2), and (i)(3) of this AD except airplanes on which Airbus modification 37866 has been embodied in production: Modify the LGCIU at the applicable time specified in paragraph (i)(1), (i)(2), or (i)(3) of this AD, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 07, dated February 10, 2015, including Appendices 01 and 02, dated February 10, 2015; or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1349, Revision 03, including Appendix 1, dated October 5, 2011 (for Model A319CJ (corporate jet) airplanes), which was incorporated by reference on August 14, 2013 (78 FR 41286, July 10, 2013). Accomplishing the modification in this paragraph terminates the actions required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD. (1) For airplanes on which any landing gear (LG) selector valve having part number (P/N) 114079019 is installed and that have embodied Airbus Modification 38947 specified in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1348 during production or in service: Modify the LGCIU within 72 months after the effective date of this AD. (2) For airplanes on which any LG selector valve 40GA having a part number listed in paragraphs (i)(2)(i) through (i)(2)(xii) of this AD, provided the valve has the marking ``DI'' or ``DI-BE'' recorded on its amendment plates: Modify the LGCIU within 72 months after the effective date of this AD. (i) P/N 114079001. (ii) P/N 114079005. (iii) P/N 114079009. (iv) P/N 114079013. (v) P/N 114079001A. (vi) P/N 114079005A. (vii) P/N 114079009A. (viii) P/N 114079015. (ix) P/N 114079001AB. (x) P/N 114079005AB. (xi) P/N 114079009AB. (xii) P/N 114079017. (3) For all airplanes other than those identified in paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of this AD: Modify the LGCIU within 60 months after the effective date of this AD. (j) New Modification for Airplanes Previously Modified For airplanes that have been modified as of the effective date of this AD as specified in the applicable service information identified in paragraph (j)(1), (j)(2), (j)(3), or (j)(4) of this AD, except airplanes on which Airbus modification 37866 has been embodied in production: Within 72 months after the effective date of this AD, do the additional modification of the LGCIU, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 07, dated February 10, 2015, including Appendices 01 and 02, dated February 10, 2015. (1) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 01, dated October 27, 2009, which is not incorporated by reference in this AD. (2) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 02, dated November 4, 2009, which is not incorporated by reference in this AD. (3) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 03, dated January 7, 2010, which is not incorporated by reference in this AD. (4) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, including Appendices 01 and 02, Revision 04, dated April 22, 2011, which is incorporated by reference in AD 2013-13-04, Amendment 39-17492 (78 FR 41286, July 10, 2013). (k) New Maintenance or Inspection Program Revision Before further flight after accomplishing the actions specified in paragraph (i) or (j) of this AD or within 7 days after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later: Revise the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate Task 32.30.00.17, ``Functional Check of LGCIU Power Supply Relays,'' of Section C-32 of Section C, Systems and Powerplant, of the Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321 Maintenance Review Board Report, Revision 18, dated March 2013. The initial compliance time is within 4,000 flight hours after accomplishing the additional modification of the LGCIU. (l) Credit for Previous Actions (1) This paragraph provides credit for A319 Corporate Jet airplanes for the modification required by paragraph (g) of this AD if that modification was performed before the effective date of this AD using the following applicable service information. This service information is not incorporated by reference in this AD. (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1349, dated December 4, 2008; (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1349, Revision 01, dated August 31, 2009; (iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1349, Revision 02, dated June 16, 2010. (2) This paragraph provides credit for the modification required by paragraphs (i) and (j) of this AD, as applicable, if that modification was performed before the effective date of this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 05, dated January 13, 2012; or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 06, dated January 12, 2015. This service information is not incorporated by reference in this AD. [[Page 1489]] (m) 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]. (i) 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. (ii) AMOCs approved previously for AD 2013-13-04, Amendment 39- 17492 (78 FR 41286, July 10, 2013) are approved as AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of 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 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. (n) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2013-0202, dated September 5, 2013, for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2015-0678-0002. (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference in this AD is available at the addresses specified in paragraphs (o)(5) and (o)(6) of this AD. (o) 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 February 17, 2016. (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 07, dated February 10, 2015, including Appendices 01 and 02, dated February 10, 2015. (ii) Task 32.30.00.17, ``Functional Check of LGCIU Power Supply Relays,'' of Section C-32 of Section C, Systems and Powerplant, of the Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321 Maintenance Review Board Report, Revision 18, dated March 2013. (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on August 14, 2013 (78 FR 41286, July 10, 2013). (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1346, Revision 04, including Appendices 01 and 02, dated April 22, 2011. (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1349, Revision 03, including Appendix 1, dated October 5, 2011. (5) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EAS, 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 December 31, 2015. Philip Forde, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2016-00014 Filed 1-12-16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
![1486 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 8 / Wednesday, January 13, 2016 / Rules and Regulations
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; and/or retraction of the NLG which, while on
Internet http://www.airbus.com. You the ground, could result in injury to ground
Federal Aviation Administration may view this referenced service personnel and damage to the aeroplane.
To address the possible hydraulic leak of
information at the FAA, Transport
the LG selector valve, EASA issued AD 2007–
14 CFR Part 39 Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue 0065 [http://ad.easa.europa.eu/blob/easa_
[Docket No. FAA–2015–0678; Directorate SW., Renton, WA. For information on ad_2007_0065.pdf/AD_2007-0065] currently
Identifier 2013–NM–207–AD; Amendment the availability of this material at the at Revision 2.
39–18367; AD 2016–01–08] FAA, call 425–227–1221. It is also To address the risk of untimely unlocking
available on the Internet at http:// and/or retraction of the NLG, EASA issued
RIN 2120–AA64 AD 2011–0202 [http://ad.easa.europa.eu/
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2015– blob/easa_ad_2011_0202.pdf/AD_2011-0202]
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus to require installation of a power interruption
Airplanes 0678
protection circuit to the LGCIU and
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: accomplishment of associated modifications.
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, Since that [EASA] AD was issued, it has
Administration (FAA), Department of International Branch, ANM–116, been discovered that additional work is
Transportation (DOT). Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, necessary to adequately correct this unsafe
ACTION: Final rule. 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA condition and consequently, Airbus issued
98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1405; Service Bulletin (SB) A320–32–1346 to
SUMMARY: We are superseding Revision 05. An update of the maintenance
fax 425–227–1149.
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2013–13– programme is required as well, following the
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: required modification.
04, for certain Airbus Model A318,
A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. Discussion For the reasons described above, this
AD 2013–13–04 required installing a [EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA
We issued a notice of proposed AD 2011–0202, which is superseded, and
power interruption protection circuit for rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR requires certain additional actions, as defined
the landing gear control interface unit part 39 to supersede AD 2013–13–04, in the revised Airbus SB, as applicable to
(LGCIU). This new AD requires a new Amendment 39–17492 (78 FR 41286, aeroplane model, and an update of the
modification of any previously modified July 10, 2013). AD 2013–13–04 applied approved maintenance programme.
LGCIU. This new AD also requires to certain Airbus Model A318, A319,
revising the maintenance or inspection The additional actions include a new
A320, and A321 series airplanes. The modification of any previously modified
program to reduce a certain functional NPRM published in the Federal
check interval. This new AD also adds LGCIU, and reducing a certain
Register on March 31, 2015 (80 FR functional check interval. This AD also
airplanes to the applicability. This AD 17007).
was prompted by a determination that adds airplanes on which Airbus
The European Aviation Safety Agency modification 37866 has been embodied
additional work is necessary to (EASA), which is the Technical Agent
adequately address the identified unsafe in production to the applicability. You
for the Member States of the European may examine the MCAI in the AD
condition. We are issuing this AD to Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness
prevent untimely unlocking and/or docket on the Internet at http://
Directive 2013–0202, dated September www.regulations.gov/
retraction of the nose landing gear 5, 2013 (referred to after this as the
(NLG), which, while on the ground, #!documentDetail;D=FAA-2015-0678-
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness 0002.
could result in injury to ground Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct
personnel and damage to the airplane. an unsafe condition for Airbus Model Comments
DATES: This AD becomes effective A318–111, –112, –121, and –122 We gave the public the opportunity to
February 17, 2016. airplanes; Model A319–111, –112, –113, participate in developing this AD. The
The Director of the Federal Register –114, –115, –131, –132, and –133 following presents the comments
approved the incorporation by reference airplanes; Model A320–211, –212, –214, received on the NPRM (80 FR 17007,
of a certain publication listed in this AD –231, –232, and –233 airplanes; and March 31, 2015) and the FAA’s response
as of February 17, 2016. Model A321–111, –112, –131, –211, to the comment.
The Director of the Federal Register –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes.
approved the incorporation by reference The MCAI states: Request To Include Revised Service
of certain other publications listed in Information
After a push back from the gate, an A320
this AD as of August 14, 2013 (78 FR aeroplane was preparing to initiate taxi, United Airlines (UAL) stated that
41286, July 10, 2013) . when an uncommanded nose landing gear paragraphs (i) and (j) of the proposed
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD (NLG) retraction occurred, causing the nose AD (80 FR 17007, March 31, 2015)
docket on the Internet at http:// of the aeroplane to hit the ground. would be required to be done in
www.regulations.gov/ Investigations revealed that the retraction accordance with the instructions of
was caused by a combination of a power
#!docketDetail;D=FAA-2015-0678; or in interruption to Landing Gear Control and
Airbus Service Bulletin A320–32–1346,
person at the Docket Management Interface Units (LGCIU) and an internal Revision 05, dated January 13, 2012.
Facility, U.S. Department of hydraulic leak through the landing gear (LG) UAL asked that we allow use of the
Transportation, Docket Operations, M– selector valve 40GA. latest revision available, Airbus Service
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room Deeper investigations have revealed that Bulletin A320–32–1346, Revision 07,
asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with RULES
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., LGCIU power interruption appears during dated February 10, 2015, for
Washington, DC. engine start at each flight. Even though no accomplishing the modification.
For service information identified in incident has been reported in service, it has We agree with the commenter’s
been determined that a non-compliance to
this final rule, contact Airbus, the safety objective exists when combined
request. Airbus has issued Service
Airworthiness Office—EAS, 1 Rond with a dormant single failure of the selector Bulletin A320–32–1346, Revision 06,
Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac valve seal leaking. dated January 12, 2015, and Airbus
Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 This condition, if not corrected, could lead Service Bulletin A320–32–1346,
96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email to further incidents of untimely unlocking Revision 07, dated February 10, 2015.
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![Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 8 / Wednesday, January 13, 2016 / Rules and Regulations 1487
These revisions state that no additional ‘‘Functional Check of LGCIU Power that is likely to exist or develop on
work is necessary on airplanes changed Supply Relays,’’ of Section C–32 of products identified in this rulemaking
in accordance with Airbus Service Section C, Systems and Powerplant, of action.
Bulletin A320–32–1346, Revision 05, the Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321
Regulatory Findings
dated January 13, 2012, which was Maintenance Review Board Report,
specified as the appropriate source of Revision 18, dated March 2013. The We determined that this AD will not
service information in the NPRM (80 FR service information describes have federalism implications under
17007, March 31, 2015). procedures for installing a power Executive Order 13132. This AD will
We have changed paragraphs (i) and interruption protection circuit for the not have a substantial direct effect on
(j) of this AD to specify accomplishing LGCIU, and for a new modification of the States, on the relationship between
the modification in accordance with any previously modified LGCIU. This the national government and the States,
Airbus Service Bulletin A320–32–1346, service information is reasonably or on the distribution of power and
Revision 07, dated February 10, 2015. available because the interested parties responsibilities among the various
We have also added a new paragraph have access to it through their normal levels of government.
(l)(2) to this AD (paragraph (l) of the course of business or by the means For the reasons discussed above, I
proposed AD (80 FR 17007, March 31, identified in the ADDRESSES section. certify that this AD:
2015) has been changed to paragraph 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
Costs of Compliance
(l)(1) in this AD) to give credit for action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
actions done before the effective date of We estimate that this AD affects 851 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin airplanes of U.S. registry. DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
A320–32–1346, Revision 05, dated The actions required by AD 2013–13– (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
January 13, 2012; or Airbus Service 04, Amendment 39–17492 (78 FR 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
Bulletin A320–32–1346, Revision 06, 41286, July 10, 2013), take about 48 Alaska; and
dated January 12, 2015. work-hours per product, at an average 4. Will not have a significant
labor rate of $85 per work-hour. economic impact, positive or negative,
Request To Include Terminating Action Required parts will cost about $8,220 on a substantial number of small entities
UAL stated that the NPRM (80 FR per product. Based on these figures, the under the criteria of the Regulatory
17007, March 31, 2015) does not estimated cost of the actions that are Flexibility Act.
include a terminating action. UAL asked required by AD 2013–13–04 is $12,300
that we create a new paragraph detailing per product. Examining the AD Docket
all actions that will be terminated by We estimate that it takes about 46 You may examine the AD docket on
accomplishing the modification of the work-hours per product to comply with the Internet at http://
LGCIU, as specified in Airbus Service the new modification in this AD. The www.regulations.gov/
Bulletin A320–32–1346, Revision 07, average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. #!docketDetail;D=FAA-2015-0678; or in
dated February 10, 2015. Required parts will cost about $9,650 person at the Docket Management
We do not agree with the request. per product. Based on these figures, we Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.,
Paragraph (i) of this AD specifies that estimate the cost of the new Monday through Friday, except Federal
the modification terminates the actions modification on U.S. operators to be holidays. The AD docket contains this
required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of $11,539,560, or $13,560 per product. AD, the regulatory evaluation, any
this AD. Therefore, no change to this AD We estimate that it takes about 1 comments received, and other
is necessary in this regard. work-hour per product to revise the information. The street address for the
maintenance or inspection program in Docket Operations office (telephone
Conclusion this AD. The average labor rate is $85 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES
We reviewed the relevant data and per work-hour. Based on these figures, section.
determined that air safety and the we estimate the cost of revising the
public interest require adopting this AD maintenance program on U.S. operators List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
with the changes described previously to be $72,335, or $85 per product. Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
and minor editorial changes. We have Authority for This Rulemaking safety, Incorporation by reference,
determined that these minor changes: Safety.
• Are consistent with the intent that Title 49 of the United States Code
was proposed in the NPRM (80 FR specifies the FAA’s authority to issue Adoption of the Amendment
17007, March 31, 2015) for correcting rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, Accordingly, under the authority
the unsafe condition; and section 106, describes the authority of delegated to me by the Administrator,
• Do not add any additional burden the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
upon the public than was already Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more follows:
proposed in the NPRM (80 FR 17007, detail the scope of the Agency’s
March 31, 2015). authority. PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
We also determined that these We are issuing this rulemaking under DIRECTIVES
changes will not increase the economic the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,
burden on any operator or increase the Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
scope of this AD. General requirements.’’ Under that continues to read as follows:
asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with RULES
section, Congress charges the FAA with Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Related Service Information Under 1 promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
CFR Part 51 air commerce by prescribing regulations § 39.13 [Amended]
Airbus has issued Service Bulletin for practices, methods, and procedures ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by
A320–32–1346, Revision 07, dated the Administrator finds necessary for removing Airworthiness Directive (AD)
February 10, 2015, including safety in air commerce. This regulation 2013–13–04, Amendment 39–17492 (78
Appendices 01 and 02, dated February is within the scope of that authority FR 41286, July 10, 2013), and adding the
10, 2015; and Task 32.30.00.17, because it addresses an unsafe condition following new AD:
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![Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 8 / Wednesday, January 13, 2016 / Rules and Regulations 1489
(m) Other FAA AD Provisions 32 of Section C, Systems and Powerplant, of new AD adds repetitive high frequency
The following provisions also apply to this the Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321 eddy current (HFEC) inspections for
AD: Maintenance Review Board Report, Revision cracking of the frame inner chords
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance 18, dated March 2013.
(4) The following service information was
(forward and aft), and corrective action
(AMOCs): The Manager, International if necessary. This AD was prompted by
Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane approved for IBR on August 14, 2013 (78 FR
41286, July 10, 2013). additional cracking found in the same
Directorate, FAA, has the authority to
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–32–1346, area after completion of the one-time
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Revision 04, including Appendices 01 and detailed inspection. We are issuing this
In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your 02, dated April 22, 2011. AD to detect and correct discrepancies
request to your principal inspector or local (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–32–1349, of the frame web and inner chords,
Flight Standards District Office, as Revision 03, including Appendix 1, dated which could result in cracking,
appropriate. If sending information directly October 5, 2011.
subsequent severing of the frame, and
to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: (5) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness consequent rapid depressurization of
Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Office—EAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, the airplane.
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 DATES: This AD is effective February 17,
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email 2016.
telephone 425–227–1405; fax 425–227–1149. account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Internet
http://www.airbus.com.
The Director of the Federal Register
Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-
AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. (6) You may view this service information approved the incorporation by reference
(i) Before using any approved AMOC, at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, of a certain publication listed in this AD
notify your appropriate principal inspector, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For as of February 17, 2016.
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager information on the availability of this ADDRESSES: For service information
of the local flight standards district office/ material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
identified in this AD, contact Boeing
certificate holding district office. The AMOC (7) You may view this service information
approval letter must specifically reference that is incorporated by reference at the Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data
this AD. National Archives and Records & Services Management, P. O. Box 3707,
(ii) AMOCs approved previously for AD Administration (NARA). For information on MC 2H–65, Seattle, WA 98124–2207;
2013–13–04, Amendment 39–17492 (78 FR the availability of this material at NARA, call telephone 206–544–5000, extension 1;
41286, July 10, 2013) are approved as 202–741–6030, or go to: http:// fax 206–766–5680; Internet https://
AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view
this AD. locations.html. this referenced service information at
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: As of the
Issued in Renton, Washington, on the FAA, Transport Airplane
effective date of this AD, for any requirement
December 31, 2015. Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,
in this AD to obtain corrective actions from
a manufacturer, the action must be Philip Forde, Renton, WA. For information on the
accomplished using a method approved by Acting Manager, Transport Airplane availability of this material at the FAA,
the Manager, International Branch, ANM– Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. call 425–227–1221. It is also available
116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or [FR Doc. 2016–00014 Filed 1–12–16; 8:45 am] on the Internet at http://
the European Aviation Safety Agency www.regulations.gov by searching for
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
(EASA); or Airbus’s EASA Design and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by
the DOA, the approval must include the 1984.
DOA-authorized signature. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Examining the AD Docket
(n) Related Information Federal Aviation Administration You may examine the AD docket on
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing the Internet at http://
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA 14 CFR Part 39 www.regulations.gov by searching for
Airworthiness Directive 2013–0202, dated and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
September 5, 2013, for related information. [Docket No. FAA–2015–1984; Directorate
This MCAI may be found in the AD docket Identifier 2015–NM–022–AD; Amendment 1984; or in person at the Docket
on the Internet at http:// 39–18363; AD 2016–01–04] Management Facility between 9 a.m.
www.regulations.gov/ and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
RIN 2120–AA64
#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2015-0678-0002. except Federal holidays. The AD docket
(2) Service information identified in this Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing contains this AD, the regulatory
AD that is not incorporated by reference in evaluation, any comments received, and
Company Airplanes
this AD is available at the addresses specified other information. The address for the
in paragraphs (o)(5) and (o)(6) of this AD. AGENCY: Federal Aviation Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is
(o) Material Incorporated by Reference Administration (FAA), DOT. Docket Management Facility, U.S.
(1) The Director of the Federal Register ACTION: Final rule. Department of Transportation, Docket
approved the incorporation by reference Operations, M–30, West Building
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
SUMMARY: We are superseding Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2005–01– New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington,
part 51. 09, which applied to certain The Boeing DC 20590.
(2) You must use this service information Company Model 747–100, 747–100B,
as applicable to do the actions required by 747–100B SUD, 747–200B, 747–200C, FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with RULES
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. 747–200F, 747–300, 747–400, 747– Nathan Weigand, Aerospace Engineer,
(3) The following service information was 400D, 747–400F, and 747SR series Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA,
approved for IBR on February 17, 2016. airplanes. AD 2005–01–09 required a Seattle Aircraft Certification Office,
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–32–1346, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA
Revision 07, dated February 10, 2015,
one-time detailed inspection for
discrepancies of the frame web and 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6428; fax:
including Appendices 01 and 02, dated 425–917–6590; email:
February 10, 2015. inner chords on the forward edge frame
(ii) Task 32.30.00.17, ‘‘Functional Check of of the number 5 main entry door cutout, nathan.p.weigand@faa.gov.
LGCIU Power Supply Relays,’’ of Section C– and corrective action if necessary. This SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
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Document Created: 2016-01-13 01:00:49
Document Modified: 2016-01-13 01:00:49
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Rules and Regulations | |
| Action | Final rule. | |
| Dates | This AD becomes effective February 17, 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 | 81 FR 1486 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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