81 FR 21486 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 70 (April 12, 2016)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 70 (April 12, 2016)
| Page Range | 21486-21488 | |
| FR Document | 2016-08253 |
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 70 (Tuesday, April 12, 2016)] [Proposed Rules] [Pages 21486-21488] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2016-08253] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2016-5460; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-188-AD] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A330-200 Freighter, -200, and -300 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a report of a manufacturing defect that affects the durability of affected parts in the cargo and cabin compartment. This proposed AD would require an inspection of affected structural parts in the cargo and cabin compartments to determine if proper heat-treatment has been done, and replacement if necessary. We are proposing this AD to prevent crack initiation and propagation, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the fuselage. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 27, 2016. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. Fax: 202-493-2251. Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office-EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; 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. 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-2016- 5460; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations office (telephone 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone: 425-227-1138; fax: 425-227-1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2016-5460; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-188-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed AD based on those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. Discussion The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent [[Page 21487]] for the Member States of the European Union, has issued European Airworthiness Directive 2015-0212, dated November 4, 2015, to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A330-200 Freighter, -200, and -300 series airplanes. The MCAI states: Airbus quality controls identified that several structural parts, intended for cargo or cabin compartment installation, were manufactured from improperly heat-treated materials. Subsequent review identified that some of those parts were installed on airplanes manufactured between November 2011 and February 2013. From February 2013, Airbus implemented measures into manufacturing processes to ensure detection and to prevent installation of such non-conforming parts. A detailed safety assessment was accomplished to identify the possible impact of affected parts on the airplane structure. The result of this structural analysis demonstrated the capability of the affected structure to sustain static limit loads, but failed to confirm that the affected structures met the certified fatigue life. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to crack initiation and propagation, possibly resulting in reduced structural integrity of the fuselage. To address this potentially unsafe condition, Airbus issued [Mandatory] Service Bulletin (SB) SB A330-53-3227 and SB A330-53- 3228 to provide inspection instructions for affected cargo and cabin structural parts respectively. For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires a one- time Special Detailed Inspection (SDI) [eddy current inspection] to measure the electrical conductivity of affected structural parts, to identify the presence or absence of heat treatment, and, depending on findings, corrective action [replacement]. 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-2016- 5460. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Airbus has issued the following service information: Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3227, dated August 18, 2015. The service information describes procedures to inspect affected structural parts in the cargo compartment to determine if proper heat-treatment has been done, and replacement of parts; and Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3228, dated August 18, 2015. The service information describes procedures to inspect affected structural parts in the cabin compartment to determine if proper heat-treatment has been done, and replacement of parts. 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. FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Differences Between This Proposed AD and the Service Information Figure A-GFAAA, Sheet 01, ``Inspection Flowchart,'' of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3227, dated August 18, 2015; and Figure A-GFAAA, Sheet 01, ``Inspection Flowchart'' of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3228, dated August 18, 2015, note that if any other measured (conductivity) value is found, to check the non- destructive test (NDT) tool and perform a new measurement; and if that measured value is confirmed, contact Airbus for further instructions. This proposed AD would require that if a measured value is confirmed that is outside the measurements specified in the service information, a repair must be done using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 20 airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it will take about 11 work-hours per product to comply with the basic requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $18,700, or $935 per product. In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would take about 45 work-hours for a cost of $3,825 per product. We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide cost of the parts for the on-condition actions specified in this proposed AD. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need this action. According to the manufacturer, some of the costs of this proposed AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost estimate. 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 proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed regulation: 1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and 4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: [[Page 21488]] PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 0 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. Sec. 39.13 [Amended] 0 2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): Airbus: Docket No. FAA-2016-5460; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM- 188-AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by May 27, 2016. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus Model A330-223F and -243F airplanes; A330-201, -202, -203, -223, and -243 airplanes; A330-301, -302, - 303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes, certificated in any category, manufacturer serial numbers 1175, 1180, 1287 through 1475 inclusive, 1478, 1480, 1483, and 1506. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by a report of a manufacturing defect (i.e. improperly heat-treated materials) that affects the durability of affected parts in the cargo and cabin compartment. We are issuing this AD to prevent crack initiation and propagation, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the fuselage. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Inspection of Affected Structure in the Cargo Compartment Within 72 months since first flight of the airplane, do an eddy current inspection (i.e., conductivity measurement) of affected structural parts in the cargo compartment to determine if proper heat treatment has been done as identified in, and in accordance with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330-53-3227, dated August 18, 2015. (h) Replacement of Non-Conforming Parts in the Cargo Compartment If, during the inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD, an affected structural part in the cargo compartment is identified to have a measured value greater than 26 megasiemens per meter (MS/ m) or greater than 44.8% International Annealed Copper Standard (IACS), before further flight, replace the affected structural part with a serviceable part, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3227, dated August 18, 2015. (i) Repair of Non-Conforming Parts in the Cargo Compartment If, during the inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD, an affected structural part in the cargo compartment is identified to have a measured value other than those specified in Figure A- GFAAA, Sheet 01, ``Inspection Flowchart,'' of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A320-53-3227, dated August 18, 2015, before further flight, repair using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). (j) Inspection of Affected Structure in the Cabin Compartment Within 72 months since first flight of the airplane, do an eddy current inspection of affected structural parts in the cargo compartment to determine if proper heat treatment has been done as identified in, and in accordance with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3228, dated August 18, 2015. (k) Replacement of Non-Conforming Parts in the Cabin Compartment If, during the inspection required by paragraph (j) of this AD, an affected structural part in the cabin compartment is identified to have a measured value greater than 26 MS/m or greater than 44.8% IACS, before further flight, replace the affected structural part with a serviceable part, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3228, dated August 18, 2015. (l) Repair of Non-Conforming Parts in the Cargo Compartment If, during the inspection required by paragraph (j) of this AD, an affected structural part in the cargo compartment is identified to have a measured value other than those specified in Figure A- GFAAA, Sheet 01, ``Inspection Flowchart,'' of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-53-3228, dated August 18, 2015, before further flight, repair using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). (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: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone: 425-227-1138; 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 Airbus's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any service information contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended. Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests identified as RC require approval of an AMOC. (n) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD 2015-0212, dated November 4, 2015, for related information. You may examine the MCAI on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA- 2016-5460. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office-EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; email: [email protected]; Internet: http://www.airbus.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221. Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 30, 2016. Victor Wicklund, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2016-08253 Filed 4-11-16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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(1) Airbus Service Bulletin A330–34–3271. Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind p.m., Monday through Friday, except
(2) Airbus Service Bulletin A330–34–3286. Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information Federal holidays.
(3) Airbus Service Bulletin A330–34–3301. on the availability of this material at the For service information identified in
(4) Airbus Service Bulletin A340–34–4282. FAA, call 425–227–1221. this NPRM, contact Airbus SAS,
(i) Parts Installation Limitations Issued in Renton, Washington, on March Airworthiness Office–EAL, 1 Rond
As of the effective date of this AD, 30, 2016. Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac
installation on an airplane of a T3CAS unit Victor Wicklund, Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93
having a part number specified in paragraph Acting Manager, Transport Airplane 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; email:
(g) of this AD is acceptable, provided that, Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. airworthiness.A330–A340@airbus.com;
following installation, the T3CAS unit is [FR Doc. 2016–08255 Filed 4–11–16; 8:45 am] Internet: http://www.airbus.com. You
power cycled on a recurrent basis, as may view this referenced service
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
required by paragraph (g) of this AD. information at the FAA, Transport
(j) Credit for Previous Actions Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue
This paragraph provides credit for actions DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION SW., Renton, WA. For information on
required by paragraph (g) of this AD, if those the availability of this material at the
actions were performed before the effective Federal Aviation Administration FAA, call 425–227–1221.
date of this AD using Airbus AOT A34L003–
13, dated November 25, 2013, which is not Examining the AD Docket
14 CFR Part 39
incorporated by reference in this AD. You may examine the AD docket on
[Docket No. FAA–2016–5460; Directorate the Internet at http://
(k) Other FAA AD Provisions Identifier 2015–NM–188–AD]
www.regulations.gov by searching for
The following provisions also apply to this
AD:
RIN 2120–AA64 and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance 5460; or in person at the Docket
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Management Facility between 9 a.m.
(AMOCs): The Manager, International
Branch, ANM–116, FAA, has the authority to Airplanes and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested AGENCY: Federal Aviation except Federal holidays. The AD docket
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
Administration (FAA), DOT. contains this proposed AD, the
In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your regulatory evaluation, any comments
request to your principal inspector or local ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
received, and other information. The
Flight Standards District Office, as (NPRM). street address for the Docket Operations
appropriate. If sending information directly
to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new office (telephone 800–647–5527) is in
Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, airworthiness directive (AD) for all the ADDRESSES section. Comments will
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airbus Model A330–200 Freighter, be available in the AD docket shortly
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind –200, and –300 series airplanes. This after receipt.
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; proposed AD was prompted by a report FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
telephone 425–227–1138; fax 425–227–1149. Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
of a manufacturing defect that affects
Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116- International Branch, ANM–116,
AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using the durability of affected parts in the
any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate cargo and cabin compartment. This Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
principal inspector, or lacking a principal proposed AD would require an 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA
inspector, the manager of the local flight inspection of affected structural parts in 98057–3356; telephone: 425–227–1138;
standards district office/certificate holding the cargo and cabin compartments to fax: 425–227–1149.
district office. The AMOC approval letter determine if proper heat-treatment has SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
must specifically reference this AD. been done, and replacement if
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any Comments Invited
necessary. We are proposing this AD to
requirement in this AD to obtain corrective We invite you to send any written
actions from a manufacturer, the action must prevent crack initiation and
propagation, which could result in relevant data, views, or arguments about
be accomplished using a method approved
by the Manager, International Branch, ANM– reduced structural integrity of the this proposed AD. Send your comments
116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or fuselage. to an address listed under the
the European Aviation Safety Agency ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No.
(EASA); or Airbus’s EASA Design
DATES: We must receive comments on FAA–2016–5460; Directorate Identifier
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by this proposed AD by May 27, 2016. 2015–NM–188–AD’’ at the beginning of
the DOA, the approval must include the ADDRESSES: You may send comments, your comments. We specifically invite
DOA-authorized signature. using the procedures found in 14 CFR comments on the overall regulatory,
(l) Related Information 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following economic, environmental, and energy
methods: aspects of this proposed AD. We will
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to consider all comments received by the
Airworthiness Directive 2015–0125, dated http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the closing date and may amend this
July 1, 2015, corrected on July 3, 2015, for instructions for submitting comments. proposed AD based on those comments.
related information. This MCAI may be • Fax: 202–493–2251. We will post all comments we
found in the AD docket on the Internet at • Mail: U.S. Department of receive, without change, to http://
http://www.regulations.gov by searching for Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
www.regulations.gov, including any
and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–5462. 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room personal information you provide. We
(2) For service information identified in W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness
will also post a report summarizing each
Washington, DC 20590. substantive verbal contact we receive
Office—EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte,
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of about this proposed AD.
5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 45 80; email Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room Discussion
airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com;
Internet http://www.airbus.com. You may W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., The European Aviation Safety Agency
view this service information at the FAA, Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 (EASA), which is the Technical Agent
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![Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 70 / Tuesday, April 12, 2016 / Proposed Rules 21487
for the Member States of the European have access to it through their normal covered under warranty, thereby
Union, has issued European course of business or by the means reducing the cost impact on affected
Airworthiness Directive 2015–0212, identified in the ADDRESSES section. individuals. We do not control warranty
dated November 4, 2015, to correct an coverage for affected individuals. As a
FAA’s Determination and Requirements
unsafe condition for all Airbus Model result, we have included all costs in our
of This Proposed AD
A330–200 Freighter, –200, and –300 cost estimate.
series airplanes. The MCAI states: This product has been approved by
the aviation authority of another Authority for This Rulemaking
Airbus quality controls identified that
several structural parts, intended for cargo or country, and is approved for operation Title 49 of the United States Code
cabin compartment installation, were in the United States. Pursuant to our specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
manufactured from improperly heat-treated bilateral agreement with the State of rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
materials. Subsequent review identified that Design Authority, we have been notified section 106, describes the authority of
some of those parts were installed on of the unsafe condition described in the the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII:
airplanes manufactured between November MCAI and service information Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more
2011 and February 2013. From February referenced above. We are proposing this detail the scope of the Agency’s
2013, Airbus implemented measures into
AD because we evaluated all pertinent authority.
manufacturing processes to ensure detection
and to prevent installation of such non- information and determined an unsafe We are issuing this rulemaking under
conforming parts. condition exists and is likely to exist or the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,
A detailed safety assessment was develop on other products of the same Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
accomplished to identify the possible impact type design. General requirements.’’ Under that
of affected parts on the airplane structure. section, Congress charges the FAA with
The result of this structural analysis Differences Between This Proposed AD
and the Service Information promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
demonstrated the capability of the affected
structure to sustain static limit loads, but air commerce by prescribing regulations
Figure A–GFAAA, Sheet 01, for practices, methods, and procedures
failed to confirm that the affected structures ‘‘Inspection Flowchart,’’ of Airbus
met the certified fatigue life. the Administrator finds necessary for
Mandatory Service Bulletin A330–53– safety in air commerce. This regulation
This condition, if not detected and
corrected, could lead to crack initiation and 3227, dated August 18, 2015; and Figure is within the scope of that authority
propagation, possibly resulting in reduced A–GFAAA, Sheet 01, ‘‘Inspection because it addresses an unsafe condition
structural integrity of the fuselage. Flowchart’’ of Airbus Mandatory that is likely to exist or develop on
To address this potentially unsafe Service Bulletin A330–53–3228, dated products identified in this rulemaking
condition, Airbus issued [Mandatory] Service August 18, 2015, note that if any other
Bulletin (SB) SB A330–53–3227 and SB
action.
measured (conductivity) value is found,
A330–53–3228 to provide inspection to check the non-destructive test (NDT) Regulatory Findings
instructions for affected cargo and cabin
tool and perform a new measurement; We determined that this proposed AD
structural parts respectively.
For the reasons described above, this and if that measured value is confirmed, would not have federalism implications
[EASA] AD requires a one-time Special contact Airbus for further instructions. under Executive Order 13132. This
Detailed Inspection (SDI) [eddy current This proposed AD would require that if proposed AD would not have a
inspection] to measure the electrical a measured value is confirmed that is substantial direct effect on the States, on
conductivity of affected structural parts, to outside the measurements specified in the relationship between the national
identify the presence or absence of heat the service information, a repair must be
treatment, and, depending on findings,
Government and the States, or on the
done using a method approved by the distribution of power and
corrective action [replacement]. Manager, International Branch, ANM– responsibilities among the various
You may examine the MCAI in the 116, Transport Airplane Directorate, levels of government.
AD docket on the Internet at http:// FAA; or EASA; or Airbus’s EASA For the reasons discussed above, I
www.regulations.gov by searching for Design Organization Approval (DOA). certify this proposed regulation:
and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
Costs of Compliance 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
5460.
We estimate that this proposed AD action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
Related Service Information Under 1 affects 20 airplanes of U.S. registry. 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
CFR Part 51 We also estimate that it will take DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
Airbus has issued the following about 11 work-hours per product to (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
service information: comply with the basic requirements of 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
• Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin this proposed AD. The average labor Alaska; and
A330–53–3227, dated August 18, 2015. rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on 4. Will not have a significant
The service information describes these figures, we estimate the cost of economic impact, positive or negative,
procedures to inspect affected structural this proposed AD on U.S. operators to on a substantial number of small entities
parts in the cargo compartment to be $18,700, or $935 per product. under the criteria of the Regulatory
determine if proper heat-treatment has In addition, we estimate that any Flexibility Act.
been done, and replacement of parts; necessary follow-on actions would take
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
and about 45 work-hours for a cost of $3,825
• Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin per product. We have received no Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
A330–53–3228, dated August 18, 2015. definitive data that would enable us to safety, Incorporation by reference,
The service information describes provide cost of the parts for the on- Safety.
procedures to inspect affected structural condition actions specified in this
The Proposed Amendment
parts in the cabin compartment to proposed AD. We have no way of
determine if proper heat-treatment has determining the number of aircraft that Accordingly, under the authority
been done, and replacement of parts. might need this action. delegated to me by the Administrator,
This service information is reasonably According to the manufacturer, some the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part
available because the interested parties of the costs of this proposed AD may be 39 as follows:
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PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS (i) Repair of Non-Conforming Parts in the Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356;
DIRECTIVES Cargo Compartment telephone: 425–227–1138; fax: 425–227–
If, during the inspection required by 1149. Information may be emailed to: 9-
■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 paragraph (g) of this AD, an affected ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov.
continues to read as follows: structural part in the cargo compartment is Before using any approved AMOC, notify
identified to have a measured value other your appropriate principal inspector, or
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
than those specified in Figure A–GFAAA, lacking a principal inspector, the manager of
§ 39.13 [Amended] Sheet 01, ‘‘Inspection Flowchart,’’ of Airbus the local flight standards district office/
Mandatory Service Bulletin A320–53–3227,
■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding certificate holding district office. The AMOC
dated August 18, 2015, before further flight,
the following new airworthiness repair using a method approved by the approval letter must specifically reference
directive (AD): Manager, International Branch, ANM–116, this AD.
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2016–5460;
Directorate Identifier 2015–NM–188–AD. European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
Airbus’s EASA Design Organization actions from a manufacturer, the action must
(a) Comments Due Date Approval (DOA). be accomplished using a method approved
We must receive comments by May 27, by the Manager, International Branch, ANM–
(j) Inspection of Affected Structure in the
2016. 116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or
Cabin Compartment
(b) Affected ADs the European Aviation Safety Agency
Within 72 months since first flight of the
(EASA); or Airbus’s EASA Design
None. airplane, do an eddy current inspection of
affected structural parts in the cargo Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by
(c) Applicability the DOA, the approval must include the
compartment to determine if proper heat
This AD applies to Airbus Model A330– treatment has been done as identified in, and DOA-authorized signature.
223F and –243F airplanes; A330–201, –202, in accordance with, the Accomplishment (3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any
–203, –223, and –243 airplanes; A330–301, Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service service information contains procedures or
–302, –303, –321, –322, –323, –341, –342, Bulletin A330–53–3228, dated August 18, tests that are identified as RC, those
and –343 airplanes, certificated in any 2015. procedures and tests must be done to comply
category, manufacturer serial numbers 1175,
(k) Replacement of Non-Conforming Parts in with this AD; any procedures or tests that are
1180, 1287 through 1475 inclusive, 1478,
1480, 1483, and 1506. the Cabin Compartment not identified as RC are recommended. Those
procedures and tests that are not identified
(d) Subject If, during the inspection required by
paragraph (j) of this AD, an affected as RC may be deviated from using accepted
Air Transport Association (ATA) of structural part in the cabin compartment is methods in accordance with the operator’s
America Code 53, Fuselage. identified to have a measured value greater maintenance or inspection program without
(e) Reason than 26 MS/m or greater than 44.8% IACS, obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided
before further flight, replace the affected the procedures and tests identified as RC can
This AD was prompted by a report of a
structural part with a serviceable part, in be done and the airplane can be put back in
manufacturing defect (i.e. improperly heat-
accordance with the Accomplishment an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or
treated materials) that affects the durability of
Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service changes to procedures or tests identified as
affected parts in the cargo and cabin
Bulletin A330–53–3228, dated August 18, RC require approval of an AMOC.
compartment. We are issuing this AD to
2015.
prevent crack initiation and propagation,
(n) Related Information
which could result in reduced structural (l) Repair of Non-Conforming Parts in the
integrity of the fuselage. Cargo Compartment (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing
If, during the inspection required by Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD
(f) Compliance
paragraph (j) of this AD, an affected 2015–0212, dated November 4, 2015, for
Comply with this AD within the related information. You may examine the
compliance times specified, unless already structural part in the cargo compartment is
identified to have a measured value other MCAI on the Internet at http://
done.
than those specified in Figure A–GFAAA, www.regulations.gov by searching for and
(g) Inspection of Affected Structure in the Sheet 01, ‘‘Inspection Flowchart,’’ of Airbus locating Docket No. FAA–2016–5460.
Cargo Compartment Service Bulletin A320–53–3228, dated (2) For service information identified in
Within 72 months since first flight of the August 18, 2015, before further flight, repair this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness
airplane, do an eddy current inspection (i.e., using a method approved by the Manager, Office–EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte,
conductivity measurement) of affected International Branch, ANM–116, Transport 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33
structural parts in the cargo compartment to Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European
5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; email:
determine if proper heat treatment has been Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus’s
airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com;
done as identified in, and in accordance EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA).
Internet: http://www.airbus.com. You may
with, the Accomplishment Instructions of (m) Other FAA AD Provisions view this service information at the FAA,
Airbus Service Bulletin A330–53–3227,
dated August 18, 2015. The following provisions also apply to this Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind
AD: Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information
(h) Replacement of Non-Conforming Parts in (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance on the availability of this material at the
the Cargo Compartment (AMOCs): The Manager, International FAA, call 425–227–1221.
If, during the inspection required by Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane
paragraph (g) of this AD, an affected Directorate, FAA, has the authority to Issued in Renton, Washington, on March
structural part in the cargo compartment is approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested 30, 2016.
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
identified to have a measured value greater using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Victor Wicklund,
than 26 megasiemens per meter (MS/m) or In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
greater than 44.8% International Annealed request to your principal inspector or local
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
Copper Standard (IACS), before further flight, Flight Standards District Office, as
replace the affected structural part with a appropriate. If sending information directly [FR Doc. 2016–08253 Filed 4–11–16; 8:45 am]
serviceable part, in accordance with the to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
Mandatory Service Bulletin A330–53–3227, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport
dated August 18, 2015. Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind
VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:12 Apr 11, 2016 Jkt 238001 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 9990 E:\FR\FM\12APP1.SGM 12APP1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/81_FR_21556/page/3.svg)
Document Created: 2016-04-12 00:47:18
Document Modified: 2016-04-12 00:47:18
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Proposed Rules | |
| Action | Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). | |
| Dates | We must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 27, 2016. | |
| Contact | Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone: 425-227-1138; fax: 425-227-1149. | |
| FR Citation | 81 FR 21486 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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