81_FR_18531 81 FR 18469 - Airworthiness Directives; BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Airplanes

81 FR 18469 - Airworthiness Directives; BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 62 (March 31, 2016)

Page Range18469-18471
FR Document2016-07020

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Model BAe 146 series airplanes and Model Avro 146-RJ series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of cracking of the main fitting of the nose landing gear (NLG) and a determination that a new safe-life limitation for affected NLG main fittings has not been mandated. This AD requires replacing affected NLG main fittings that have exceeded the safe-life limitation with a new or serviceable fitting. We are issuing this AD to prevent collapse of the NLG, which if not corrected, could lead to degradation of direction control on the ground or an un-commanded turn to the left, and a consequent loss of control of the airplane on the ground, possibly resulting in damage to the airplane and injury to occupants.

Federal Register, Volume 81 Issue 62 (Thursday, March 31, 2016)
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 62 (Thursday, March 31, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 18469-18471]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2016-07020]



[[Page 18469]]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2015-4212; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-010-AD; 
Amendment 39-18451; AD 2016-07-06]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; BAE Systems (Operations) Limited 
Airplanes

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all BAE 
Systems (Operations) Limited Model BAe 146 series airplanes and Model 
Avro 146-RJ series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of 
cracking of the main fitting of the nose landing gear (NLG) and a 
determination that a new safe-life limitation for affected NLG main 
fittings has not been mandated. This AD requires replacing affected NLG 
main fittings that have exceeded the safe-life limitation with a new or 
serviceable fitting. We are issuing this AD to prevent collapse of the 
NLG, which if not corrected, could lead to degradation of direction 
control on the ground or an un-commanded turn to the left, and a 
consequent loss of control of the airplane on the ground, possibly 
resulting in damage to the airplane and injury to occupants.

DATES: This AD becomes effective May 5, 2016.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of May 5, 2016.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact BAE Systems (Operations) Limited, Customer Information 
Department, Prestwick International Airport, Ayrshire, KA9 2RW, 
Scotland, United Kingdom; telephone +44 1292 675207; fax +44 1292 
675704; email [email protected]; Internet http://www.baesystems.com/Businesses/RegionalAircraft/index.htm. 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-2015-4212.

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-
4212; 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 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 FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Todd Thompson, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1175; 
fax 425-227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all BAE Systems 
(Operations) Limited Model BAe 146 series airplanes and Model Avro 146-
RJ series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on 
November 12, 2015 (80 FR 69903) (``the NPRM'').
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA 
Airworthiness Directive 2012-0191R1, dated November 6, 2012 (referred 
to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or 
``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for all BAE Systems 
(Operations) Limited Model BAe 146 series airplanes and Model Avro 146-
RJ series airplanes. The MCAI states:

    Several occurrences of the aeroplane`s Nose Landing Gear (NLG) 
Main Fitting cracking have been reported. Subsequently in different 
cases, NLG Main Fitting crack lead to collapsed NLG, locked NLG 
steering and an aeroplane`s un-commanded steering to the left.
    Cracks in the NLG Bell Housing are not detectable with the NLG 
fitted to the aeroplane and are difficult to detect during overhaul 
without substantial disassembly of the gear.
    This condition, if not corrected, could lead to degradation of 
directional control on the ground or an un-commanded turn to the 
left and a consequent loss of control of the aeroplane on the 
ground, possibly resulting in damage to the aeroplane and injury to 
occupants.
    Prompted by these findings, BAE Systems (Operations) Ltd issued 
Inspection Service Bulletin (ISB) 32-186 (hereafter referred to as 
the ISB) to introduce a new safe life of 16,000 flight cycles (FC) 
for certain NLG main fittings, having a Part Number (P/N) as 
identified in Paragraph 1A, tables 1, 2 and 3 of the ISB.
    To correct this unsafe condition, EASA issued [EASA] AD 2012-
0191 to require implementation of the new safe-life limitation for 
the affected NLG main fittings and replacement of fittings that have 
already exceeded the new limit.
* * * * *
    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-
4212.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. We received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of 
the cost to the public.

Conclusion

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

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    BAE Systems (Operations) Limited has issued Inspection Service 
Bulletin ISB.32-186, dated April 12, 2012. This service information 
describes procedures for reviewing airplane records to determine the 
part number for the NLG main fittings, and determining the compliance 
times for replacing the NLG main fittings, and replacing the fitting 
with a new or serviceable fitting. 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 4 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We also estimate that it takes about 36 work-hours per product to 
comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average labor rate 
is $85 per work-hour. Required parts will cost $81,000 per product. 
Based on these figures, we

[[Page 18470]]

estimate the cost of this AD on U.S. operators to be $336,240, or 
$84,060 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.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

Adoption of the Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

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

2016-07-06 BAE Systems (Operations) Limited: Amendment 39-18451. 
Docket No. FAA-2015-4212; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-010-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective May 5, 2016.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Model BAe 
146-100A, -200A, and -300A airplanes; and Model Avro 146-RJ70A, 146-
RJ85A, and 146-RJ100A airplanes; certificated in any category; all 
models, all serial numbers.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 05, Time Limits/
Maintenance Checks.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by reports of cracking of the main fitting 
of the nose landing gear (NLG) and a determination that a new safe-
life limitation for affected NLG main fittings has not been 
mandated. We are issuing this AD to prevent collapse of the NLG, 
which if not corrected, could lead to degradation of direction 
control on the ground or an uncommanded turn to the left, and a 
consequent loss of control of the airplane on the ground, possibly 
resulting in damage to the airplane and injury to occupants.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Repetitive Replacement of NLG Main Fitting

    At the applicable compliance time specified in paragraphs (g)(1) 
through (g)(4) of this AD: Replace each affected NLG main fitting, 
having a part number (P/N) as identified in paragraph 1.A, tables 
1., 2., and 3. of BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Inspection 
Service Bulletin ISB.32-186, dated April 12, 2012, in accordance 
with the Accomplishment Instructions of that BAE Systems 
(Operations) Limited Inspection Service Bulletin ISB.32-186, dated 
April 12, 2012. Thereafter, before the accumulation of 16,000 flight 
cycles on any affected NLG main fitting having a part number as 
identified in paragraph 1.A, tables 1., 2., and 3. of BAE Systems 
(Operations) Limited Inspection Service Bulletin ISB.32-186, dated 
April 12, 2012, replace each affected NLG main fitting, in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of that BAE Systems 
(Operations) Limited Inspection Service Bulletin ISB.32-186, dated 
April 12, 2012.
    (1) For NLG main fittings that have accumulated 29,000 flight 
cycles or more since first installation on an airplane: Within 12 
months after the effective date of this AD.
    (2) For NLG main fittings that have accumulated 20,000 flight 
cycles or more but less than 29,000 flight cycles since first 
installation on an airplane: Within 24 months after the effective 
date of this AD.
    (3) For NLG main fittings that have accumulated 16,000 flight 
cycles or more but less than 20,000 flight cycles since first 
installation on an airplane: Within 36 months after the effective 
date of this AD.
    (4) For NLG main fittings that have accumulated less than 16,000 
flight cycles since first installation on an airplane: Before 
accumulating 16,000 flight cycles since first installation on an 
airplane, or within 36 months after the effective date of this AD, 
whichever occurs later.

(h) Parts Installation Limitation

    As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install an 
NLG main fitting having a part number identified in paragraph 1.A., 
tables 1., 2., and 3., of BAE Systems (Operations) Limited 
Inspection Service Bulletin ISB.32-186, dated April 12, 2012, unless 
that fitting is in compliance with the requirements 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: Todd 
Thompson, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1175; fax 425-227-1149. Information 
may be emailed to: [email protected]. Before using any 
approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or 
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight 
standards district office/certificate holding district office. The 
AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD.
    (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: 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 BAE Systems (Operations) 
Limited's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by 
the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature.

(j) Related Information

    Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) 
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2012-0191R1, dated November 6, 2012, 
for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on 
the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov

[[Page 18471]]

by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-4212.

(k) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Inspection Service Bulletin 
ISB.32-186, dated April 12, 2012.
    (ii) Reserved.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact BAE 
Systems (Operations) Limited, Customer Information Department, 
Prestwick International Airport, Ayrshire, KA9 2RW, Scotland, United 
Kingdom; telephone +44 1292 675207; fax +44 1292 675704; email 
[email protected]; Internet http://www.baesystems.com/Businesses/RegionalAircraft/index.htm.
    (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
425-227-1221.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 20, 2016.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-07020 Filed 3-30-16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P



                                                                  Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 62 / Thursday, March 31, 2016 / Rules and Regulations                                             18469

                                                DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION                            Examining the AD Docket                                  Prompted by these findings, BAE Systems
                                                                                                                                                              (Operations) Ltd issued Inspection Service
                                                                                                          You may examine the AD docket on                    Bulletin (ISB) 32–186 (hereafter referred to as
                                                Federal Aviation Administration                         the Internet at http://                               the ISB) to introduce a new safe life of 16,000
                                                                                                        www.regulations.gov by searching for                  flight cycles (FC) for certain NLG main
                                                14 CFR Part 39                                          and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–                     fittings, having a Part Number (P/N) as
                                                [Docket No. FAA–2015–4212; Directorate                  4212; or in person at the Docket                      identified in Paragraph 1A, tables 1, 2 and 3
                                                Identifier 2015–NM–010–AD; Amendment                    Management Facility between 9 a.m.                    of the ISB.
                                                39–18451; AD 2016–07–06]                                and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,                       To correct this unsafe condition, EASA
                                                                                                        except Federal holidays. The AD docket                issued [EASA] AD 2012–0191 to require
                                                RIN 2120–AA64                                                                                                 implementation of the new safe-life
                                                                                                        contains this AD, the regulatory
                                                                                                                                                              limitation for the affected NLG main fittings
                                                Airworthiness Directives; BAE                           evaluation, any comments received, and
                                                                                                                                                              and replacement of fittings that have already
                                                Systems (Operations) Limited                            other information. The street address for             exceeded the new limit.
                                                Airplanes                                               the Docket Operations office (telephone
                                                                                                        800–647–5527) is Docket Management                    *     *    *    *    *
                                                AGENCY:  Federal Aviation                               Facility, U.S. Department of                            You may examine the MCAI in the
                                                Administration (FAA), Department of                     Transportation, Docket Operations, M–                 AD docket on the Internet at http://
                                                Transportation (DOT).                                   30, West Building Ground Floor, Room                  www.regulations.gov by searching for
                                                ACTION: Final rule.                                     W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,                  and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
                                                                                                        Washington, DC.                                       4212.
                                                SUMMARY:    We are adopting a new                       FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:                      Comments
                                                airworthiness directive (AD) for all BAE                Todd Thompson, Aerospace Engineer,
                                                Systems (Operations) Limited Model                                                                              We gave the public the opportunity to
                                                                                                        International Branch, ANM–116,                        participate in developing this AD. We
                                                BAe 146 series airplanes and Model                      Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
                                                Avro 146–RJ series airplanes. This AD                                                                         received no comments on the NPRM or
                                                                                                        1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA                      on the determination of the cost to the
                                                was prompted by reports of cracking of                  98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1175;
                                                the main fitting of the nose landing gear                                                                     public.
                                                                                                        fax 425–227–1149.
                                                (NLG) and a determination that a new                                                                          Conclusion
                                                                                                        SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                                safe-life limitation for affected NLG
                                                main fittings has not been mandated.                    Discussion                                              We reviewed the available data and
                                                This AD requires replacing affected NLG                                                                       determined that air safety and the
                                                                                                          We issued a notice of proposed                      public interest require adopting this AD
                                                main fittings that have exceeded the                    rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
                                                safe-life limitation with a new or                                                                            as proposed, except for minor editorial
                                                                                                        part 39 by adding an AD that would                    changes. We have determined that these
                                                serviceable fitting. We are issuing this                apply to all BAE Systems (Operations)
                                                AD to prevent collapse of the NLG,                                                                            minor changes:
                                                                                                        Limited Model BAe 146 series airplanes                  • Are consistent with the intent that
                                                which if not corrected, could lead to                   and Model Avro 146–RJ series airplanes.
                                                degradation of direction control on the                                                                       was proposed in the NPRM for
                                                                                                        The NPRM published in the Federal                     correcting the unsafe condition; and
                                                ground or an un-commanded turn to the                   Register on November 12, 2015 (80 FR
                                                left, and a consequent loss of control of                                                                       • Do not add any additional burden
                                                                                                        69903) (‘‘the NPRM’’).                                upon the public than was already
                                                the airplane on the ground, possibly                      The European Aviation Safety Agency
                                                resulting in damage to the airplane and                                                                       proposed in the NPRM.
                                                                                                        (EASA), which is the Technical Agent
                                                injury to occupants.                                    for the Member States of the European                 Related Service Information Under 1
                                                DATES: This AD becomes effective May                    Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness                  CFR Part 51
                                                5, 2016.                                                Directive 2012–0191R1, dated                            BAE Systems (Operations) Limited
                                                   The Director of the Federal Register                 November 6, 2012 (referred to after this              has issued Inspection Service Bulletin
                                                approved the incorporation by reference                 as the Mandatory Continuing                           ISB.32–186, dated April 12, 2012. This
                                                of a certain publication listed in this AD              Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the                   service information describes
                                                as of May 5, 2016.                                      MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition               procedures for reviewing airplane
                                                ADDRESSES: For service information                      for all BAE Systems (Operations)                      records to determine the part number
                                                identified in this final rule, contact BAE              Limited Model BAe 146 series airplanes                for the NLG main fittings, and
                                                Systems (Operations) Limited, Customer                  and Model Avro 146–RJ series airplanes.               determining the compliance times for
                                                Information Department, Prestwick                       The MCAI states:                                      replacing the NLG main fittings, and
                                                International Airport, Ayrshire, KA9                       Several occurrences of the aeroplane‘s             replacing the fitting with a new or
                                                2RW, Scotland, United Kingdom;                          Nose Landing Gear (NLG) Main Fitting                  serviceable fitting. This service
                                                telephone +44 1292 675207; fax +44                      cracking have been reported. Subsequently in          information is reasonably available
                                                1292 675704; email RApublications@                      different cases, NLG Main Fitting crack lead          because the interested parties have
                                                baesystems.com; Internet http://                        to collapsed NLG, locked NLG steering and
                                                                                                        an aeroplane‘s un-commanded steering to the
                                                                                                                                                              access to it through their normal course
                                                www.baesystems.com/Businesses/                          left.                                                 of business or by the means identified
                                                RegionalAircraft/index.htm. You may                        Cracks in the NLG Bell Housing are not             in the ADDRESSES section.
                                                view this referenced service information                detectable with the NLG fitted to the
                                                at the FAA, Transport Airplane                          aeroplane and are difficult to detect during
                                                                                                                                                              Costs of Compliance
                                                Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,                      overhaul without substantial disassembly of             We estimate that this AD affects 4
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES




                                                Renton, WA. For information on the                      the gear.                                             airplanes of U.S. registry.
                                                availability of this material at the FAA,                  This condition, if not corrected, could lead         We also estimate that it takes about 36
                                                call 425–227–1221. It is also available                 to degradation of directional control on the          work-hours per product to comply with
                                                                                                        ground or an un-commanded turn to the left
                                                on the Internet at http://                              and a consequent loss of control of the               the basic requirements of this AD. The
                                                www.regulations.gov by searching for                    aeroplane on the ground, possibly resulting           average labor rate is $85 per work-hour.
                                                and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–                       in damage to the aeroplane and injury to              Required parts will cost $81,000 per
                                                4212.                                                   occupants.                                            product. Based on these figures, we


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                                                18470             Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 62 / Thursday, March 31, 2016 / Rules and Regulations

                                                estimate the cost of this AD on U.S.                        Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.        since first installation on an airplane: Within
                                                operators to be $336,240, or $84,060 per                                                                      12 months after the effective date of this AD.
                                                                                                        § 39.13   [Amended]                                      (2) For NLG main fittings that have
                                                product.
                                                                                                        ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding                 accumulated 20,000 flight cycles or more but
                                                Authority for This Rulemaking                           the following new airworthiness                       less than 29,000 flight cycles since first
                                                                                                                                                              installation on an airplane: Within 24 months
                                                   Title 49 of the United States Code                   directive (AD):                                       after the effective date of this AD.
                                                specifies the FAA’s authority to issue                  2016–07–06 BAE Systems (Operations)                      (3) For NLG main fittings that have
                                                rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,                       Limited: Amendment 39–18451. Docket               accumulated 16,000 flight cycles or more but
                                                section 106, describes the authority of                     No. FAA–2015–4212; Directorate                    less than 20,000 flight cycles since first
                                                the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII:                      Identifier 2015–NM–010–AD.                        installation on an airplane: Within 36 months
                                                Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more                                                                        after the effective date of this AD.
                                                                                                        (a) Effective Date
                                                detail the scope of the Agency’s                                                                                 (4) For NLG main fittings that have
                                                                                                          This AD becomes effective May 5, 2016.              accumulated less than 16,000 flight cycles
                                                authority.
                                                                                                                                                              since first installation on an airplane: Before
                                                   We are issuing this rulemaking under                 (b) Affected ADs
                                                                                                                                                              accumulating 16,000 flight cycles since first
                                                the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,                None.                                               installation on an airplane, or within 36
                                                Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:                                                                           months after the effective date of this AD,
                                                                                                        (c) Applicability
                                                General requirements.’’ Under that                                                                            whichever occurs later.
                                                section, Congress charges the FAA with                     This AD applies to BAE Systems
                                                                                                        (Operations) Limited Model BAe 146–100A,              (h) Parts Installation Limitation
                                                promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
                                                                                                        –200A, and –300A airplanes; and Model                   As of the effective date of this AD, no
                                                air commerce by prescribing regulations                 Avro 146–RJ70A, 146–RJ85A, and 146–
                                                for practices, methods, and procedures                                                                        person may install an NLG main fitting
                                                                                                        RJ100A airplanes; certificated in any                 having a part number identified in paragraph
                                                the Administrator finds necessary for                   category; all models, all serial numbers.             1.A., tables 1., 2., and 3., of BAE Systems
                                                safety in air commerce. This regulation                                                                       (Operations) Limited Inspection Service
                                                                                                        (d) Subject
                                                is within the scope of that authority                                                                         Bulletin ISB.32–186, dated April 12, 2012,
                                                because it addresses an unsafe condition                  Air Transport Association (ATA) of
                                                                                                                                                              unless that fitting is in compliance with the
                                                                                                        America Code 05, Time Limits/Maintenance
                                                that is likely to exist or develop on                   Checks.
                                                                                                                                                              requirements of this AD.
                                                products identified in this rulemaking                                                                        (i) Other FAA AD Provisions
                                                action.                                                 (e) Reason
                                                                                                                                                                 The following provisions also apply to this
                                                                                                           This AD was prompted by reports of
                                                Regulatory Findings                                     cracking of the main fitting of the nose
                                                                                                                                                              AD:
                                                                                                                                                                 (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
                                                  We determined that this AD will not                   landing gear (NLG) and a determination that
                                                                                                                                                              (AMOCs): The Manager, International
                                                have federalism implications under                      a new safe-life limitation for affected NLG
                                                                                                                                                              Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane
                                                Executive Order 13132. This AD will                     main fittings has not been mandated. We are
                                                                                                                                                              Directorate, FAA, has the authority to
                                                                                                        issuing this AD to prevent collapse of the
                                                not have a substantial direct effect on                                                                       approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
                                                                                                        NLG, which if not corrected, could lead to
                                                the States, on the relationship between                 degradation of direction control on the               using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
                                                the national government and the States,                 ground or an uncommanded turn to the left,            In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your
                                                or on the distribution of power and                     and a consequent loss of control of the               request to your principal inspector or local
                                                responsibilities among the various                      airplane on the ground, possibly resulting in         Flight Standards District Office, as
                                                                                                        damage to the airplane and injury to                  appropriate. If sending information directly
                                                levels of government.                                                                                         to the International Branch, send it to ATTN:
                                                  For the reasons discussed above, I                    occupants.
                                                                                                                                                              Todd Thompson, Aerospace Engineer,
                                                certify that this AD:                                   (f) Compliance                                        International Branch, ANM–116, Transport
                                                  1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory                                                                        Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind
                                                                                                           Comply with this AD within the
                                                action’’ under Executive Order 12866;                   compliance times specified, unless already            Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356;
                                                  2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the            done.                                                 telephone 425–227–1175; fax 425–227–1149.
                                                DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures                                                                        Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-
                                                (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);                       (g) Repetitive Replacement of NLG Main                AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using
                                                  3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in             Fitting                                               any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
                                                Alaska; and                                                At the applicable compliance time                  principal inspector, or lacking a principal
                                                  4. Will not have a significant                        specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(4)         inspector, the manager of the local flight
                                                                                                        of this AD: Replace each affected NLG main            standards district office/certificate holding
                                                economic impact, positive or negative,
                                                                                                        fitting, having a part number (P/N) as                district office. The AMOC approval letter
                                                on a substantial number of small entities               identified in paragraph 1.A, tables 1., 2., and       must specifically reference this AD.
                                                under the criteria of the Regulatory                    3. of BAE Systems (Operations) Limited                   (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
                                                Flexibility Act.                                        Inspection Service Bulletin ISB.32–186,               requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
                                                                                                        dated April 12, 2012, in accordance with the          actions from a manufacturer, the action must
                                                List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
                                                                                                        Accomplishment Instructions of that BAE               be accomplished using a method approved
                                                  Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation                Systems (Operations) Limited Inspection               by the Manager, International Branch, ANM–
                                                safety, Incorporation by reference,                     Service Bulletin ISB.32–186, dated April 12,          116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or
                                                Safety.                                                 2012. Thereafter, before the accumulation of          the European Aviation Safety Agency
                                                                                                        16,000 flight cycles on any affected NLG              (EASA); or BAE Systems (Operations)
                                                Adoption of the Amendment                               main fitting having a part number as                  Limited’s EASA Design Organization
                                                  Accordingly, under the authority                      identified in paragraph 1.A, tables 1., 2., and       Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA,
                                                                                                        3. of BAE Systems (Operations) Limited                the approval must include the DOA-
                                                delegated to me by the Administrator,                   Inspection Service Bulletin ISB.32–186,               authorized signature.
                                                the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
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                                                                                                        dated April 12, 2012, replace each affected
                                                follows:                                                NLG main fitting, in accordance with the              (j) Related Information
                                                                                                        Accomplishment Instructions of that BAE                  Refer to Mandatory Continuing
                                                PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS                                   Systems (Operations) Limited Inspection               Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA
                                                DIRECTIVES                                              Service Bulletin ISB.32–186, dated April 12,          Airworthiness Directive 2012–0191R1, dated
                                                                                                        2012.                                                 November 6, 2012, for related information.
                                                ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39                    (1) For NLG main fittings that have                This MCAI may be found in the AD docket
                                                continues to read as follows:                           accumulated 29,000 flight cycles or more              on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov



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                                                                  Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 62 / Thursday, March 31, 2016 / Rules and Regulations                                                  18471

                                                by searching for and locating Docket No.                provision is that the airspace from                   1962). Section 71.15 addressed positive
                                                FAA–2015–4212.                                          18,000 feet MSL up to and including                   control areas, and § 71.193 (published
                                                (k) Material Incorporated by Reference                  Flight Level (FL) 600 (within the                     separately) contained those areas
                                                   (1) The Director of the Federal Register
                                                                                                        excluded areas) is classified as Class G              designated as positive control areas.
                                                approved the incorporation by reference                 (uncontrolled) airspace which limits the              Over several years, the airspace
                                                (IBR) of the service information listed in this         flexibility for air traffic control                   designated as positive control areas
                                                paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR               operations.                                           continued to expand as anticipated with
                                                part 51.                                                DATES: Effective date 0901 UTC March                  the FAA’s increased capability to
                                                   (2) You must use this service information            31, 2016.                                             control air traffic. In 1965, the FAA
                                                as applicable to do the actions required by                                                                   established an expansive area of
                                                this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.            ADDRESSES: For information on where to
                                                                                                                                                              positive control airspace designated the
                                                   (i) BAE Systems (Operations) Limited                 obtain copies of rulemaking documents
                                                                                                                                                              ‘‘continental positive control area.’’ 30
                                                Inspection Service Bulletin ISB.32–186,                 and other information related to this
                                                                                                                                                              FR 1836 (February 10, 1965). The FAA
                                                dated April 12, 2012.                                   final rule, see ‘‘How To Obtain
                                                                                                                                                              excluded from that positive control area
                                                   (ii) Reserved.                                       Additional Information’’ in the
                                                   (3) For service information identified in                                                                  the airspace over Santa Barbara Island
                                                                                                        SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section of
                                                this AD, contact BAE Systems (Operations)                                                                     and the Farallon Islands, and the
                                                                                                        this document.
                                                Limited, Customer Information Department,                                                                     airspace south of the latitude 25°04′00″
                                                                                                        FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Paul
                                                Prestwick International Airport, Ayrshire,                                                                    North.
                                                KA9 2RW, Scotland, United Kingdom;                      Gallant, Airspace Policy Group, Office
                                                telephone +44 1292 675207; fax +44 1292                 of Airspace Services, Federal Aviation                Class A Airspace
                                                675704; email RApublications@                           Administration, 800 Independence                         In 1991, the FAA issued a final rule
                                                baesystems.com; Internet http://                        Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591;                     reclassifying ‘‘positive control areas’’ as
                                                www.baesystems.com/Businesses/                          telephone: (202) 267–8783.                            Class A airspace.1 56 FR 65638, 65639
                                                RegionalAircraft/index.htm.                             SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:                            (Dec. 17, 1991).2 In that final rule, new
                                                   (4) You may view this service information                                                                  § 71.33 defined Class A airspace and
                                                at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,             Authority for This Rulemaking
                                                1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For
                                                                                                                                                              continued to exclude from Class A
                                                                                                           The FAA’s authority to issue rules                 airspace that airspace over Santa
                                                information on the availability of this                 regarding aviation safety is found in
                                                material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.                                                                       Barbara Island, the Farallon Islands, and
                                                   (5) You may view this service information
                                                                                                        Title 49 of the United States Code.                   south of latitude 25°04′00″ North that
                                                that is incorporated by reference at the                Subtitle I, Section 106 describes the                 was originally established in 1965.
                                                National Archives and Records                           authority of the FAA Administrator.                      Unless otherwise specified, Class A
                                                Administration (NARA). For information on               Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs,                      airspace in the United States consists of
                                                the availability of this material at NARA, call         describes in more detail the scope of the             that airspace from 18,000 feet MSL up
                                                202–741–6030, or go to: http://                         agency’s authority. This rulemaking is                to and including flight level (FL) 600.
                                                www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-              promulgated under the authority                       Unless otherwise authorized, all persons
                                                locations.html.                                         described in Subtitle VII, Part A,                    must operate their aircraft under
                                                  Issued in Renton, Washington, on March                Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that                  instrument flight rules in airspace
                                                20, 2016.                                               section, the FAA is charged with                      designated as Class A and comply with
                                                Michael Kaszycki,                                       prescribing regulations to assign the use             the applicable requirements of 14 CFR
                                                Acting Manager, Transport Airplane                      of the airspace necessary to ensure the               part 91. ‘‘Class A airspace’’ includes, in
                                                Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.            safety of aircraft and the efficient use of           part, ‘‘that airspace overlying the waters
                                                [FR Doc. 2016–07020 Filed 3–30–16; 8:45 am]             airspace. This regulation is within the               within 12 nautical miles of the coast of
                                                BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
                                                                                                        scope of that authority as it removes                 the 48 contiguous States, from 18,000
                                                                                                        from 14 CFR 71.33(a) a provision that                 feet MSL to and including FL600
                                                                                                        excludes the airspace in the vicinity of              excluding the states of Alaska and
                                                DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION                            the Santa Barbara and Farallon Islands                Hawaii, Santa Barbara Island, Farallon
                                                                                                        and the Florida Keys from U.S. Class A                Island, and the airspace south of
                                                Federal Aviation Administration                         airspace in order to maintain the safe                latitude 25°04′00″ North.’’
                                                                                                        and efficient flow of air traffic.                       The airspace excluded from Class A
                                                14 CFR Part 71                                          Background                                            airspace over the Santa Barbara and
                                                [Docket No. FAA–2016–5391; Airspace                                                                           Farallon Islands and the airspace south
                                                Docket No. 16–AWA–3]
                                                                                                        Positive Control Areas                                of 25°04′00″ North renders those
                                                                                                           In 1958, the Civil Aeronautics Board               portions of U.S. domestic airspace (i.e.,
                                                RIN 2120–AA66                                                                                                 within 12 nautical miles (NM) of the
                                                                                                        delegated to the Administrator the
                                                                                                        authority to designate positive control               baseline of the United States) as Class G
                                                Removal of Class A Airspace Area                                                                              (uncontrolled) airspace, which limits
                                                Exclusion                                               route segments in any portion of the
                                                                                                        airspace between 17,000 to 35,000 feet,               the provision of air traffic control
                                                AGENCY:  Federal Aviation                               within which certain operational                      services in those areas.
                                                Administration (FAA), DOT.                              requirements would be applicable. That                   As these excluded areas lie within the
                                                                                                        same year the Administrator designated                12 NM territorial limits of the United
                                                ACTION: Final rule.
                                                                                                        in 14 CFR part 601 specific airways as                States, the airspace would ordinarily be
                                                SUMMARY:  This action removes a                         positive control airspace, noting that                classified as Class A airspace. When the
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                                                provision in part 71 that excludes from                 ‘‘with experience and the acquisition of              exclusions were implemented decades
                                                Class A airspace, that portion of U.S.                  more and better equipment, the positive               ago, air traffic control services in the
                                                domestic airspace that overlies the                     control area will undoubtedly, from
                                                                                                                                                                1 The reclassification adopted the International
                                                Santa Barbara and Farallon Islands and                  time to time, be expanded.’’ 23 FR 3917               Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) letter
                                                the airspace south of latitude 25°04′00″                (June 5, 1958).                                       classifications. (56 FR 65638; December 17, 1991).
                                                North (overlying and in the vicinity of                    In 1962, the FAA redesignated part                   2 The effective date for the reclassification was

                                                the Florida Keys). The effect of this                   601 as part 71. 27 FR 10353 (Oct. 24,                 September 16, 1993.



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Document Created: 2016-03-31 00:56:04
Document Modified: 2016-03-31 00:56:04
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionRules and Regulations
ActionFinal rule.
DatesThis AD becomes effective May 5, 2016.
ContactTodd Thompson, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1175; fax 425-227-1149.
FR Citation81 FR 18469 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

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