81_FR_26570 81 FR 26485 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

81 FR 26485 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 85 (May 3, 2016)

Page Range26485-26487
FR Document2016-09793

We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by fuel system reviews conducted by the manufacturer. This proposed AD would require modifying the fuel quantity indicating system (FQIS) to prevent development of an ignition source inside the center fuel tank due to electrical fault conditions. This proposed AD would also provide alternative actions for cargo airplanes. We are proposing this AD to prevent ignition sources inside the center fuel tank, which, in combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result in a fuel tank explosion and consequent loss of the airplane.

Federal Register, Volume 81 Issue 85 (Tuesday, May 3, 2016) 
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 85 (Tuesday, May 3, 2016)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 26485-26487]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2016-09793]


========================================================================
Proposed Rules
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of 
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these 
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in 
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.

========================================================================


Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 85 / Tuesday, May 3, 2016 / Proposed 
Rules

[[Page 26485]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2016-6139; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-061-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
certain The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and 
-900ER series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by fuel system 
reviews conducted by the manufacturer. This proposed AD would require 
modifying the fuel quantity indicating system (FQIS) to prevent 
development of an ignition source inside the center fuel tank due to 
electrical fault conditions. This proposed AD would also provide 
alternative actions for cargo airplanes. We are proposing this AD to 
prevent ignition sources inside the center fuel tank, which, in 
combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result in a fuel tank 
explosion and consequent loss of the airplane.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 17, 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: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

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-
6139; 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 
Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will 
be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jon Regimbal, Aerospace Engineer, 
Propulsion Branch, ANM-140S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office 
(ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-
6506; fax: 425-917-6590; email: Jon.Regimbal@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed 
under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2016-6139; 
Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-061-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 because of 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 FAA has examined the underlying safety issues involved in fuel 
tank explosions on several large transport airplanes, including the 
adequacy of existing regulations, the service history of airplanes 
subject to those regulations, and existing maintenance practices for 
fuel tank systems. As a result of those findings, we issued a 
regulation titled ``Transport Airplane Fuel Tank System Design Review, 
Flammability Reduction and Maintenance and Inspection Requirements'' 
(66 FR 23086, May 7, 2001). In addition to new airworthiness standards 
for transport airplanes and new maintenance requirements, this rule 
included Special Federal Aviation Regulation No. 88 (``SFAR 88''), 
Amendment 21-78. Subsequently, SFAR 88 was amended by: Amendment 21-82 
(67 FR 57490, September 10, 2002; corrected at 67 FR 70809, November 
26, 2002) and Amendment 21-83 (67 FR 72830, December 9, 2002; corrected 
at 68 FR 37735, June 25, 2003, to change ``21-82'' to ``21-83'').
    Among other actions, SFAR 88 requires certain type design approval 
(i.e., type certificate (TC) and supplemental type certificate (STC)) 
holders to substantiate that their fuel tank systems can prevent 
ignition sources in the fuel tanks. This requirement applies to type 
design approval holders for large turbine-powered transport airplanes 
and for subsequent modifications to those airplanes. It requires them 
to perform design reviews and to develop design changes and maintenance 
procedures if their designs do not meet the new fuel tank safety 
standards. As explained in the preamble to the rule, we intended to 
adopt airworthiness directives to mandate any changes found necessary 
to address unsafe conditions identified as a result of these reviews.
    In evaluating these design reviews, we have established four 
criteria intended to define the unsafe conditions associated with fuel 
tank systems that require corrective actions. The percentage of 
operating time during which fuel tanks are exposed to flammable 
conditions is one of these criteria. The other three criteria address 
the failure types under evaluation: Single failures, combination of 
failures, and unacceptable (failure) experience. For all three failure 
criteria, the evaluations included consideration of previous actions 
taken that may mitigate the need for further action.
    We have determined that the actions identified in this proposed AD 
are necessary to reduce the potential of ignition sources inside fuel 
tanks, which, in combination with flammable

[[Page 26486]]

fuel vapors, could result in fuel tank explosions and consequent loss 
of the airplane.

Model 737NG FQIS Design

    The design of the in-tank FQIS components and wiring has the 
potential for a latent FQIS electrical fault condition inside the fuel 
tank combined with an electrical hot short condition connecting a high 
power source to the FQIS wiring to cause an ignition source in a fuel 
tank.
    Under the policy contained in FAA Policy Memo PS-ANM100-2003-112-15 
[http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgPolicy.nsf/0/DC94C3A46396950386256D5E006AED11?OpenDocument&Highlight=anm-100-2003-112-15], the FAA determined that this ignition source risk combined 
with the fleet average flammability for the center wing tank on Model 
737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER series airplanes created 
an unsafe condition for the center fuel tank. Applying that same 
policy, the FAA determined that due to a lower fleet average 
flammability, that same unsafe condition does not exist in the main 
(wing) tanks of these airplanes.

Related Rulemaking

    On March 21, 2016, we issued AD 2016-07-07, Amendment 39-18452 (81 
FR 19472, April 5, 2016), for certain Boeing Model 757-200, -200PF, -
200CB, and -300 series airplanes. AD 2016-07-07 requires similar 
actions to those proposed in this NPRM. AD 2016-07-07 addressed the 
numerous public comments that were submitted on the proposal.

FAA's Determination

    We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant 
information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is 
likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would require modifying the FQIS to prevent 
development of an ignition source inside the center fuel tank due to 
electrical fault conditions. As an alternative for cargo airplanes, 
this proposed AD would provide the alternative to modify the airplane 
by separating FQIS wiring routed between the FQIS processor and the 
center fuel tank, provided repetitive BITE checks (checks of built-in 
test equipment) of the FQIS are also performed.

Costs of Compliance

    There are approximately 1,393 U.S.-registered Model 737-600, -700, 
-700C, -800, -900, and -900ER series airplanes in service. All of those 
airplanes are currently operated as passenger airplanes. Beginning with 
line number 2620, however, Boeing has delivered airplanes with 
flammability reductions means (FRM)/nitrogen generation system (NGS) 
installed. We estimate that 831 affected airplanes on the U.S. Register 
were delivered without FRM installed, but we do not know the number of 
airplanes that have had FRM installed post-production. However, because 
of the requirement in 14 CFR 121.1117 to install FRM on U.S. air-
carrier passenger airplanes by the end of 2017, it is likely that no 
U.S. airplanes would actually be affected by this proposed AD. For any 
affected airplane, we estimate the following costs to comply with this 
proposed AD:

                                        Estimated Costs--Required Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Cost per
                 Action                                Labor cost                  Parts cost        product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Modification............................  1,200 work-hours x $85 per hour =           $200,000         $302,000
                                           $102,000.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                      Estimated Costs--Alternative Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                            Labor cost                Parts cost        Cost per product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BITE check..........................  1 work-hour x $85 per hour = $85              $0   $85 per check (4 checks
                                       per check.                                         per year, $340 per
                                                                                          year).
Wire separation.....................  230 work-hours x $85 per hour =          $10,000   $29,550.
                                       $19,550.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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.

[[Page 26487]]

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

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

The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA-2016-6139; Directorate Identifier 
2015-NM-061-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by June 17, 2016.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, -
700C, -800, -900, and -900ER series airplanes, certificated in any 
category, excluding airplanes equipped with a flammability reduction 
means (FRM) approved by the FAA as compliant with the Fuel Tank 
Flammability Reduction (FTFR) rule (73 FR 42444, July 21, 2008) 
requirements of section 25.981(b) or section 26.33(c)(1) of the 
Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 25.981(b) or 14 CFR 
26.33(c)(1)).

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 28, Fuel.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by fuel system reviews conducted by the 
manufacturer. We are issuing this AD to prevent ignition sources 
inside the center fuel tank, which, in combination with flammable 
fuel vapors, could result in a fuel tank explosion and consequent 
loss of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Modification

    Within 60 months after the effective date of this AD, modify the 
fuel quantity indicating system (FQIS) to prevent development of an 
ignition source inside the center fuel tank due to electrical fault 
conditions, using a method approved in accordance with the 
procedures specified in paragraph (i) of this AD.

(h) Alternative Actions for Cargo Airplanes

    For airplanes used exclusively for cargo operations: As an 
alternative to the requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD, do the 
actions specified in paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD, using 
methods approved in accordance with the procedures specified in 
paragraph (i) of this AD. To exercise this alternative, operators 
must perform the first inspection required under paragraph (h)(1) of 
this AD within 6 months after the effective date of this AD. To 
exercise this alternative for airplanes returned to service after 
conversion of the airplane from a passenger configuration to an all-
cargo configuration more than 6 months after the effective date of 
this AD, operators must perform the first inspection required under 
paragraph (h)(1) of this AD prior to further flight after the 
conversion.
    (1) Within 6 months after the effective date of this AD, record 
the existing fault codes stored in the FQIS processor and then do a 
BITE check (check of built-in test equipment) of the FQIS. If any 
nondispatchable fault code is recorded prior to the BITE check or as 
a result of the BITE check, before further flight, do all applicable 
repairs and repeat the BITE check until a successful test is 
performed with no nondispatchable faults found, using a method 
approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph 
(i) of this AD. Repeat these actions thereafter at intervals not to 
exceed 650 flight hours. Modification as specified in paragraph 
(h)(2) of this AD does not terminate the repetitive BITE check 
requirement of this paragraph.
    (2) Within 60 months after the effective date of this AD, modify 
the airplane by separating FQIS wiring that runs between the FQIS 
processor and the center tank wing spar penetrations, including any 
circuits that might pass through a main fuel tank, from other 
airplane wiring that is not intrinsically safe, using methods 
approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph 
(i) of this AD.

(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 
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 manager of the ACO, send it to the 
attention of the person identified in paragraph (j) of this AD. 
Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
    (2) 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.
    (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be 
used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD 
if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization 
Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the 
Manager, Seattle ACO, to make those findings. To be approved, the 
repair method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation must 
meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must 
specifically refer to this AD.

(j) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Jon Regimbal, 
Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Branch, ANM-140S, FAA, Seattle 
Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6506; fax: 425-917-6590; email: 
Jon.Regimbal@faa.gov.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 15, 2016.
Victor Wicklund,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-09793 Filed 5-2-16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

26485 Proposed Rules Federal Register Vol. 81, No. 85 Tuesday, May 3, 2016 This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER p.m., Monday through Friday, except maintenance practices for fuel tank contains notices to the public of the proposed Federal holidays. systems. As a result of those findings, issuance of rules and regulations. The we issued a regulation titled ‘‘Transport purpose of these notices is to give interested Examining the AD Docket Airplane Fuel Tank System Design persons an opportunity to participate in the You may examine the AD docket on Review, Flammability Reduction and rule making prior to the adoption of the final the Internet at http:// rules. Maintenance and Inspection www.regulations.gov by searching for Requirements’’ (66 FR 23086, May 7, and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– 2001). In addition to new airworthiness DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 6139; or in person at the Docket standards for transport airplanes and Management Facility between 9 a.m. new maintenance requirements, this Federal Aviation Administration and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, rule included Special Federal Aviation except Federal holidays. The AD docket Regulation No. 88 (‘‘SFAR 88’’), 14 CFR Part 39 contains this proposed AD, the Amendment 21–78. Subsequently, regulatory evaluation, any comments SFAR 88 was amended by: Amendment [Docket No. FAA–2016–6139; Directorate received, and other information. The 21–82 (67 FR 57490, September 10, Identifier 2015–NM–061–AD] street address for the Docket Office 2002; corrected at 67 FR 70809, RIN 2120–AA64 (phone: 800–647–5527) is in the November 26, 2002) and Amendment ADDRESSES section. Comments will be 21–83 (67 FR 72830, December 9, 2002; Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing available in the AD docket shortly after corrected at 68 FR 37735, June 25, 2003, Company Airplanes receipt. to change ‘‘21–82’’ to ‘‘21–83’’). AGENCY: Federal Aviation FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jon Among other actions, SFAR 88 Administration (FAA), DOT. Regimbal, Aerospace Engineer, requires certain type design approval ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking Propulsion Branch, ANM–140S, FAA, (i.e., type certificate (TC) and (NPRM). Seattle Aircraft Certification Office supplemental type certificate (STC)) (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, holders to substantiate that their fuel SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6506; tank systems can prevent ignition airworthiness directive (AD) for certain fax: 425–917–6590; email: sources in the fuel tanks. This The Boeing Company Model 737–600, Jon.Regimbal@faa.gov. requirement applies to type design –700, –700C, –800, –900, and –900ER SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: approval holders for large turbine- series airplanes. This proposed AD was powered transport airplanes and for prompted by fuel system reviews Comments Invited subsequent modifications to those conducted by the manufacturer. This We invite you to send any written airplanes. It requires them to perform proposed AD would require modifying relevant data, views, or arguments about design reviews and to develop design the fuel quantity indicating system this proposal. Send your comments to changes and maintenance procedures if (FQIS) to prevent development of an an address listed under the ADDRESSES their designs do not meet the new fuel ignition source inside the center fuel section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA– tank safety standards. As explained in tank due to electrical fault conditions. 2016–6139; Directorate Identifier 2015– the preamble to the rule, we intended to This proposed AD would also provide NM–061–AD’’ at the beginning of your adopt airworthiness directives to alternative actions for cargo airplanes. comments. We specifically invite mandate any changes found necessary We are proposing this AD to prevent comments on the overall regulatory, to address unsafe conditions identified ignition sources inside the center fuel economic, environmental, and energy as a result of these reviews. tank, which, in combination with aspects of this proposed AD. We will In evaluating these design reviews, we flammable fuel vapors, could result in a consider all comments received by the have established four criteria intended fuel tank explosion and consequent loss closing date and may amend this to define the unsafe conditions of the airplane. proposed AD because of those associated with fuel tank systems that DATES: We must receive comments on comments. require corrective actions. The this proposed AD by June 17, 2016. We will post all comments we percentage of operating time during ADDRESSES: You may send comments, receive, without change, to http:// which fuel tanks are exposed to using the procedures found in 14 CFR www.regulations.gov, including any flammable conditions is one of these 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following personal information you provide. We criteria. The other three criteria address methods: will also post a report summarizing each the failure types under evaluation: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to substantive verbal contact we receive Single failures, combination of failures, http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the about this proposed AD. and unacceptable (failure) experience. asabaliauskas on DSK9F6TC42PROD with PROPOSALS instructions for submitting comments. For all three failure criteria, the Discussion • Fax: 202–493–2251. evaluations included consideration of • Mail: U.S. Department of The FAA has examined the previous actions taken that may mitigate Transportation, Docket Operations, M– underlying safety issues involved in fuel the need for further action. 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room tank explosions on several large We have determined that the actions W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., transport airplanes, including the identified in this proposed AD are Washington, DC 20590. adequacy of existing regulations, the necessary to reduce the potential of • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail service history of airplanes subject to ignition sources inside fuel tanks, address above between 9 a.m. and 5 those regulations, and existing which, in combination with flammable VerDate Sep<11>2014 22:30 May 02, 2016 Jkt 238001 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\03MYP1.SGM 03MYP1

26486 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 85 / Tuesday, May 3, 2016 / Proposed Rules fuel vapors, could result in fuel tank Related Rulemaking the FQIS processor and the center fuel explosions and consequent loss of the tank, provided repetitive BITE checks On March 21, 2016, we issued AD airplane. (checks of built-in test equipment) of the 2016–07–07, Amendment 39–18452 (81 Model 737NG FQIS Design FR 19472, April 5, 2016), for certain FQIS are also performed. The design of the in-tank FQIS Boeing Model 757–200, –200PF, Costs of Compliance components and wiring has the –200CB, and –300 series airplanes. AD potential for a latent FQIS electrical 2016–07–07 requires similar actions to There are approximately 1,393 U.S.- fault condition inside the fuel tank those proposed in this NPRM. AD 2016– registered Model 737–600, –700, –700C, combined with an electrical hot short 07–07 addressed the numerous public –800, –900, and –900ER series airplanes condition connecting a high power comments that were submitted on the in service. All of those airplanes are source to the FQIS wiring to cause an proposal. currently operated as passenger ignition source in a fuel tank. FAA’s Determination airplanes. Beginning with line number Under the policy contained in FAA 2620, however, Boeing has delivered Policy Memo PS–ANM100–2003–112– We are proposing this AD because we airplanes with flammability reductions 15 [http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_ evaluated all the relevant information means (FRM)/nitrogen generation Guidance_Library/rgPolicy.nsf/0/ and determined the unsafe condition system (NGS) installed. We estimate DC94C3A46396950386256D5E006A described previously is likely to exist or that 831 affected airplanes on the U.S. ED11?OpenDocument&Highlight=anm- develop in other products of the same Register were delivered without FRM 100-2003-112-15], the FAA determined type design. installed, but we do not know the that this ignition source risk combined number of airplanes that have had FRM Proposed AD Requirements with the fleet average flammability for installed post-production. However, the center wing tank on Model 737–600, This proposed AD would require because of the requirement in 14 CFR –700, –700C, –800, –900, and –900ER modifying the FQIS to prevent 121.1117 to install FRM on U.S. air- series airplanes created an unsafe development of an ignition source condition for the center fuel tank. inside the center fuel tank due to carrier passenger airplanes by the end of Applying that same policy, the FAA electrical fault conditions. As an 2017, it is likely that no U.S. airplanes determined that due to a lower fleet alternative for cargo airplanes, this would actually be affected by this average flammability, that same unsafe proposed AD would provide the proposed AD. For any affected airplane, condition does not exist in the main alternative to modify the airplane by we estimate the following costs to (wing) tanks of these airplanes. separating FQIS wiring routed between comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS—REQUIRED ACTIONS Cost per Action Labor cost Parts cost product Modification ............................................... 1,200 work-hours × $85 per hour = $102,000 ................................. $200,000 $302,000 ESTIMATED COSTS—ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS Cost per Action Labor cost Parts cost product BITE check ......................................... 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 per check ........................ $0 $85 per check (4 checks per year, $340 per year). Wire separation .................................. 230 work-hours × $85 per hour = $19,550 ............................ $10,000 $29,550. Authority for This Rulemaking is within the scope of that authority (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory Title 49 of the United States Code because it addresses an unsafe condition action’’ under Executive Order 12866, specifies the FAA’s authority to issue that is likely to exist or develop on (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, products identified in this rulemaking the DOT Regulatory Policies and section 106, describes the authority of action. Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Regulatory Findings 1979), Aviation Programs, describes in more (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation detail the scope of the Agency’s We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications in Alaska, and authority. We are issuing this rulemaking under under Executive Order 13132. This (4) Will not have a significant asabaliauskas on DSK9F6TC42PROD with PROPOSALS the authority described in Subtitle VII, proposed AD would not have a economic impact, positive or negative, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: substantial direct effect on the States, on on a substantial number of small entities ‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that the relationship between the national under the criteria of the Regulatory section, Congress charges the FAA with Government and the States, or on the Flexibility Act. promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in distribution of power and List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 air commerce by prescribing regulations responsibilities among the various for practices, methods, and procedures levels of government. Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation the Administrator finds necessary for For the reasons discussed above, I safety, Incorporation by reference, safety in air commerce. This regulation certify this proposed regulation: Safety. VerDate Sep<11>2014 22:30 May 02, 2016 Jkt 238001 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\03MYP1.SGM 03MYP1

Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 85 / Tuesday, May 3, 2016 / Proposed Rules 26487 The Proposed Amendment (h)(2) of this AD, using methods approved in (j) Related Information accordance with the procedures specified in For more information about this AD, Accordingly, under the authority paragraph (i) of this AD. To exercise this delegated to me by the Administrator, contact Jon Regimbal, Aerospace Engineer, alternative, operators must perform the first Propulsion Branch, ANM–140S, FAA, Seattle the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part inspection required under paragraph (h)(1) of Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind 39 as follows: this AD within 6 months after the effective Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; date of this AD. To exercise this alternative phone: 425–917–6506; fax: 425–917–6590; PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS for airplanes returned to service after email: Jon.Regimbal@faa.gov. DIRECTIVES conversion of the airplane from a passenger configuration to an all-cargo configuration Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 15, ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 more than 6 months after the effective date 2016. continues to read as follows: of this AD, operators must perform the first Victor Wicklund, inspection required under paragraph (h)(1) of Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. this AD prior to further flight after the Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. § 39.13 [Amended] conversion. [FR Doc. 2016–09793 Filed 5–2–16; 8:45 am] (1) Within 6 months after the effective date ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding of this AD, record the existing fault codes BILLING CODE 4910–13–P the following new airworthiness stored in the FQIS processor and then do a directive (AD): BITE check (check of built-in test equipment) The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA– of the FQIS. If any nondispatchable fault DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 2016–6139; Directorate Identifier 2015– code is recorded prior to the BITE check or NM–061–AD. as a result of the BITE check, before further Federal Aviation Administration flight, do all applicable repairs and repeat the (a) Comments Due Date BITE check until a successful test is 14 CFR Part 39 We must receive comments by June 17, performed with no nondispatchable faults 2016. found, using a method approved in [Docket No. FAA–2016–6144; Directorate accordance with the procedures specified in Identifier 2015–NM–088–AD] (b) Affected ADs paragraph (i) of this AD. Repeat these actions RIN 2120–AA64 None. thereafter at intervals not to exceed 650 flight hours. Modification as specified in paragraph Airworthiness Directives; Airbus (c) Applicability (h)(2) of this AD does not terminate the This AD applies to The Boeing Company repetitive BITE check requirement of this Airplanes Model 737–600, –700, –700C, –800, –900, paragraph. and –900ER series airplanes, certificated in AGENCY: Federal Aviation (2) Within 60 months after the effective Administration (FAA), DOT. any category, excluding airplanes equipped date of this AD, modify the airplane by with a flammability reduction means (FRM) separating FQIS wiring that runs between the ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking approved by the FAA as compliant with the FQIS processor and the center tank wing spar (NPRM). Fuel Tank Flammability Reduction (FTFR) penetrations, including any circuits that rule (73 FR 42444, July 21, 2008) might pass through a main fuel tank, from SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new requirements of section 25.981(b) or section other airplane wiring that is not intrinsically airworthiness directive (AD) for certain 26.33(c)(1) of the Federal Aviation safe, using methods approved in accordance Airbus Model A318, A319, and A320 Regulations (14 CFR 25.981(b) or 14 CFR with the procedures specified in paragraph series airplanes; Model A330–200, –200 26.33(c)(1)). (i) of this AD. Freighter, and –300 series airplanes; and (d) Subject (i) Alternative Methods of Compliance Model A340–200, –300, –500, and –600 Air Transport Association (ATA) of (AMOCs) series airplanes. This proposed AD was America Code 28, Fuel. (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft prompted by fuel system reviews (e) Unsafe Condition Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the conducted by the manufacturer. This authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if proposed AD would require modifying This AD was prompted by fuel system requested using the procedures found in 14 the fuel quantity indicating system reviews conducted by the manufacturer. We CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, (FQIS) to prevent development of an are issuing this AD to prevent ignition send your request to your principal inspector ignition source inside the center fuel sources inside the center fuel tank, which, in or local Flight Standards District Office, as tank due to electrical fault conditions. combination with flammable fuel vapors, appropriate. If sending information directly could result in a fuel tank explosion and This proposed AD would also provide to the manager of the ACO, send it to the consequent loss of the airplane. alternative actions for cargo airplanes. attention of the person identified in (f) Compliance paragraph (j) of this AD. Information may be We are proposing this AD to prevent emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC- ignition sources inside the center fuel Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already Requests@faa.gov. tank, which, in combination with done. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, flammable fuel vapors, could result in a notify your appropriate principal inspector, fuel tank explosion and consequent loss (g) Modification or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the airplane. Within 60 months after the effective date of the local flight standards district office/ DATES: We must receive comments on of this AD, modify the fuel quantity certificate holding district office. indicating system (FQIS) to prevent (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable this proposed AD by June 17, 2016. development of an ignition source inside the level of safety may be used for any repair, ADDRESSES: You may send comments, asabaliauskas on DSK9F6TC42PROD with PROPOSALS center fuel tank due to electrical fault modification, or alteration required by this using the procedures found in 14 CFR conditions, using a method approved in AD if it is approved by the Boeing 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following accordance with the procedures specified in Commercial Airplanes Organization methods: paragraph (i) of this AD. Designation Authorization (ODA) that has • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to been authorized by the Manager, Seattle (h) Alternative Actions for Cargo Airplanes ACO, to make those findings. To be http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the For airplanes used exclusively for cargo approved, the repair method, modification instructions for submitting comments. operations: As an alternative to the deviation, or alteration deviation must meet • Fax: 202–493–2251. requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD, do the certification basis of the airplane, and the • Mail: U.S. Department of the actions specified in paragraphs (h)(1) and approval must specifically refer to this AD. Transportation, Docket Operations, M– VerDate Sep<11>2014 22:30 May 02, 2016 Jkt 238001 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\03MYP1.SGM 03MYP1


Document Created: 2016-05-03 00:31:03
Document Modified: 2016-05-03 00:31:03
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionProposed Rules
ActionNotice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
DatesWe must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 17, 2016.
ContactJon Regimbal, Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Branch, ANM-140S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917- 6506; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected]
FR Citation81 FR 26485 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety
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