81 FR 26487 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 85 (May 3, 2016)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 85 (May 3, 2016)
| Page Range | 26487-26490 | |
| FR Document | 2016-09789 |
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 85 (Tuesday, May 3, 2016)] [Proposed Rules] [Pages 26487-26490] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2016-09789] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2016-6144; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-088-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 certain Airbus Model A318, A319, and A320 series airplanes; Model A330- 200, -200 Freighter, and -300 series airplanes; and Model A340-200, - 300, -500, and -600 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- [[Page 26488]] 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- 6144; 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: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-2125; fax 425-227-1149. 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-2016-6144; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-088-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 (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 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 fuel vapors, could result in fuel tank explosions and consequent loss of the airplane. Model A320/330/340 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, SFAR 88--Mandatory Action Decision Criteria, dated February 25, 2003 (http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgPolicy.nsf/ 0/dc94c3a46396950386256d5e006aed11/$FILE/Feb2503.pdf), the FAA determined that this ignition source risk combined with the fleet average flammability for the center wing tank on airplanes affected by this NPRM 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 (inner and outer) and tail trim tank 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 This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. 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. In accordance with FAA policy memo SFAR 88--Mandatory Action Decision Criteria, dated February 25, 2003, we have determined that the unsafe condition warrants issuance of an AD to mandate the actions proposed in this NPRM. 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 fuel quantity indicating (FQI) computer and the center fuel tank, provided repetitive BITE (built-in test equipment) checks of the FQI computer are also performed. [[Page 26489]] Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 1 airplane of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would take about 1,200 work-hours per product to comply with the basic requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide cost estimates for the parts needed to do the actions specified in this proposed AD. Based on these figures, we estimate the labor cost of this proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $102,000. We have not received definitive information on the costs for the alternative wire separation modification specified in this NPRM. The cost for this action in similar rulemaking on other airplanes, however, suggests that this modification could take about 74 work-hours with parts costing about $10,000, for a total estimated cost to U.S. operators of $16,290 per product. We estimate that the repetitive FQIS tank circuit checks associated with the alternative wire separation modification would take about 1 work-hour per check. We estimate the cost of this check on U.S. operators to be $85 per product, per check. 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: 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-2016-6144; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM- 088-AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by June 17, 2016. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes, certificated in any category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1) through (c)(6) of this AD, except 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 14 CFR 25.981(b) or 14 CFR 26.33(c)(1). (1) Airbus Model A318-111, -112, -121, and -122 airplanes. (2) Airbus Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, and -133 airplanes. (3) Airbus Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes. (4) Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, -223F, -243, and -243F airplanes. (5) Model A330-301, -302, -303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes fitted with a center fuel tank. (6) Model A340-211, -212, -213, -311, -312, -313, -541, and -642 airplanes. (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 by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA. (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. 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 fuel quantity indicating (FQI) computer, and then do a BITE check (check of built-in test equipment) of the FQI computer, using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA. If any 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 fault found, using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA. 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 FQI computer and the center fuel tank wall penetrations, including any circuits that might pass through a main fuel tank, from other airplane wiring that is not intrinsically safe, using methods approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA. [[Page 26490]] (i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, 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. (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. (j) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057- 3356; telephone 425-227-2125; fax 425-227-1149. Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 15, 2016. Victor Wicklund, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2016-09789 Filed 5-2-16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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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–
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Costs of Compliance For the reasons discussed above, I (d) Subject
We estimate that this proposed AD certify this proposed regulation: Air Transport Association (ATA) of
affects 1 airplane of U.S. registry. (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory America Code 28, Fuel.
We also estimate that it would take action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (e) Unsafe Condition
about 1,200 work-hours per product to (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under
This AD was prompted by fuel system
comply with the basic requirements of the DOT Regulatory Policies and reviews conducted by the manufacturer. We
this proposed AD. The average labor Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, are issuing this AD to prevent ignition
rate is $85 per work-hour. We have 1979), sources inside the center fuel tank, which, in
received no definitive data that would (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation combination with flammable fuel vapors,
enable us to provide cost estimates for in Alaska, and could result in a fuel tank explosion and
the parts needed to do the actions (4) Will not have a significant consequent loss of the airplane.
specified in this proposed AD. Based on economic impact, positive or negative, (f) Compliance
these figures, we estimate the labor cost on a substantial number of small entities Comply with this AD within the
of this proposed AD on U.S. operators under the criteria of the Regulatory compliance times specified, unless already
to be $102,000. Flexibility Act. done.
We have not received definitive
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 (g) Modification
information on the costs for the
alternative wire separation modification Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation Within 60 months after the effective date
safety, Incorporation by reference, of this AD, modify the fuel quantity
specified in this NPRM. The cost for this indicating system (FQIS) to prevent
action in similar rulemaking on other Safety. development of an ignition source inside the
airplanes, however, suggests that this The Proposed Amendment center fuel tank due to electrical fault
modification could take about 74 work- conditions, using a method approved by the
hours with parts costing about $10,000, Accordingly, under the authority Manager, International Branch, ANM–116,
for a total estimated cost to U.S. delegated to me by the Administrator, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA.
operators of $16,290 per product. the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part (h) Alternative Actions for Cargo Airplanes
We estimate that the repetitive FQIS 39 as follows:
For airplanes used exclusively for cargo
tank circuit checks associated with the operations: As an alternative to the
alternative wire separation modification PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD, do
would take about 1 work-hour per DIRECTIVES the actions specified in paragraphs (h)(1) and
check. We estimate the cost of this (h)(2) of this AD. To exercise this alternative,
check on U.S. operators to be $85 per ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 operators must perform the first inspection
product, per check. continues to read as follows: required under paragraph (h)(1) of this AD
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. within 6 months after the effective date of
Authority for This Rulemaking this AD. To exercise this alternative for
Title 49 of the United States Code § 39.13 [Amended] airplanes returned to service after conversion
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding of the airplane from a passenger
the following new airworthiness configuration to an all-cargo configuration
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
more than 6 months after the effective date
section 106, describes the authority of directive (AD): of this AD, operators must perform the first
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2016–6144; inspection required under paragraph (h)(1) of
Aviation Programs, describes in more Directorate Identifier 2015–NM–088–AD. this AD prior to further flight after the
detail the scope of the Agency’s conversion.
(a) Comments Due Date
authority. (1) Within 6 months after the effective date
We are issuing this rulemaking under We must receive comments by June 17, of this AD, record the existing fault codes
the authority described in Subtitle VII, 2016. stored in the fuel quantity indicating (FQI)
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: computer, and then do a BITE check (check
(b) Affected ADs
‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that of built-in test equipment) of the FQI
None. computer, using a method approved by the
section, Congress charges the FAA with Manager, International Branch, ANM–116,
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in (c) Applicability
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA. If any
air commerce by prescribing regulations This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes, fault code is recorded prior to the BITE check
for practices, methods, and procedures certificated in any category, identified in or as a result of the BITE check, before
the Administrator finds necessary for paragraphs (c)(1) through (c)(6) of this AD, further flight, do all applicable repairs and
safety in air commerce. This regulation except airplanes equipped with a repeat the BITE check until a successful test
is within the scope of that authority flammability reduction means (FRM) is performed with no fault found, using a
approved by the FAA as compliant with the method approved by the Manager,
because it addresses an unsafe condition Fuel Tank Flammability Reduction (FTFR) International Branch, ANM–116, Transport
that is likely to exist or develop on rule (73 FR 42444, July 21, 2008) Airplane Directorate, FAA. Repeat these
products identified in this rulemaking requirements of 14 CFR 25.981(b) or 14 CFR actions thereafter at intervals not to exceed
action. 26.33(c)(1). 650 flight hours. Modification as specified in
(1) Airbus Model A318–111, –112, –121, paragraph (h)(2) of this AD does not
Regulatory Findings and –122 airplanes. terminate the repetitive BITE check
We determined that this proposed AD (2) Airbus Model A319–111, –112, –113, requirement of this paragraph.
asabaliauskas on DSK9F6TC42PROD with PROPOSALS
would not have federalism implications –114, –115, –131, –132, and –133 airplanes. (2) Within 60 months after the effective
under Executive Order 13132. This (3) Airbus Model A320–211, –212, –214, date of this AD, modify the airplane by
proposed AD would not have a –231, –232, and –233 airplanes. separating FQIS wiring that runs between the
substantial direct effect on the States, on (4) Model A330–201, –202, –203, –223, FQI computer and the center fuel tank wall
–223F, –243, and –243F airplanes. penetrations, including any circuits that
the relationship between the national (5) Model A330–301, –302, –303, –321, might pass through a main fuel tank, from
Government and the States, or on the –322, –323, –341, –342, and –343 airplanes other airplane wiring that is not intrinsically
distribution of power and fitted with a center fuel tank. safe, using methods approved by the
responsibilities among the various (6) Model A340–211, –212, –213, –311, Manager, International Branch, ANM–116,
levels of government. –312, –313, –541, and –642 airplanes. Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA.
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(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance fuel tank explosion and consequent loss Comments Invited
(AMOCs) of the airplane. We invite you to send any written
(1) The Manager, International Branch, DATES: We must receive comments on relevant data, views, or arguments about
ANM–116, FAA, has the authority to approve
this proposed AD by June 17, 2016. this proposal. Send your comments to
AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In ADDRESSES: You may send comments, an address listed under the ADDRESSES
accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your using the procedures found in 14 CFR section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–
request to your principal inspector or local 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following 2016–6145; Directorate Identifier 2015–
Flight Standards District Office, as methods: NM–056–AD’’ at the beginning of your
appropriate. If sending information directly comments. We specifically invite
to the manager of the ACO, send it to the • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
comments on the overall regulatory,
attention of the person identified in http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
economic, environmental, and energy
paragraph (j) of this AD. instructions for submitting comments.
aspects of this proposed AD. We will
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, • Fax: 202–493–2251. consider all comments received by the
notify your appropriate principal inspector, • Mail: U.S. Department of
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager closing date and may amend this
Transportation, Docket Operations, M– proposed AD because of those
of the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office. 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room comments.
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., We will post all comments we
(j) Related Information Washington, DC 20590. receive, without change, to http://
For more information about this AD, • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail www.regulations.gov, including any
contact Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, address above between 9 a.m. and 5 personal information you provide. We
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport p.m., Monday through Friday, except will also post a report summarizing each
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356;
Federal holidays. substantive verbal contact we receive
telephone 425–227–2125; fax 425–227–1149. For service information identified in about this proposed AD.
this NPRM, contact Boeing Commercial Discussion
Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 15,
2016. Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services
Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, The FAA has examined the
Victor Wicklund, underlying safety issues involved in fuel
Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane tank explosions on several large
206–544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. transport airplanes, including the
766–5680; Internet https://
[FR Doc. 2016–09789 Filed 5–2–16; 8:45 am] adequacy of existing regulations, the
www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
this referenced service information at service history of airplanes subject to
the FAA, Transport Airplane those regulations, and existing
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., maintenance practices for fuel tank
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION systems. As a result of those findings,
Renton, WA. For information on the
availability of this material at the FAA, we issued a regulation titled ‘‘Transport
Federal Aviation Administration
call 425–227–1221. It is also available Airplane Fuel Tank System Design
on the internet at http:// Review, Flammability Reduction and
14 CFR Part 39
www.regulations.gov by searching for Maintenance and Inspection
[Docket No. FAA–2016–6145; Directorate and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– Requirements’’ (66 FR 23086, May 7,
Identifier 2015–NM–056–AD] 6145. 2001). In addition to new airworthiness
standards for transport airplanes and
RIN 2120–AA64 Examining the AD Docket new maintenance requirements, this
You may examine the AD docket on rule included Special Federal Aviation
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
the Internet at http:// Regulation No. 88 (‘‘SFAR 88’’),
Company Airplanes
www.regulations.gov by searching for Amendment 21–78. Subsequently,
AGENCY: Federal Aviation and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– SFAR 88 was amended by: Amendment
Administration (FAA), DOT. 6145; or in person at the Docket 21–82 (67 FR 57490, September 10,
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking Management Facility between 9 a.m. 2002; corrected at 67 FR 70809,
(NPRM). and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, November 26, 2002) and Amendment
except Federal holidays. The AD docket 21–83 (67 FR 72830, December 9, 2002;
SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new contains this proposed AD, the corrected at 68 FR 37735, June 25, 2003,
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain regulatory evaluation, any comments to change ‘‘21–82’’ to ‘‘21–83’’).
The Boeing Company Model 747–400, received, and other information. The Among other actions, SFAR 88
747–400D, and 747–400F series street address for the Docket Office requires holders of certain type designs
airplanes. This proposed AD was (phone: 800–647–5527) is in the (i.e., type certificates (TCs) and
prompted by fuel system reviews ADDRESSES section. Comments will be supplemental type certificate (STCs)) to
conducted by the manufacturer. This available in the AD docket shortly after substantiate that their fuel tank systems
proposed AD would require modifying receipt. can prevent ignition sources in the fuel
the fuel quantity indicating system tanks. This requirement applies to type
asabaliauskas on DSK9F6TC42PROD with PROPOSALS
(FQIS) to prevent development of an FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jon design holders for large turbine-
ignition source inside the center fuel Regimbal, Aerospace Engineer, powered transport airplanes and for
tank due to electrical fault conditions. Propulsion Branch, ANM–140S, FAA, subsequent modifications to those
This proposed AD would also provide Seattle Aircraft Certification Office airplanes. It requires them to perform
alternative actions for cargo airplanes. (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, design reviews and to develop design
We are proposing this AD to prevent WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6506; changes and maintenance procedures if
ignition sources inside the center fuel fax: 425–917–6590; email: their designs do not meet the new fuel
tank, which, in combination with Jon.Regimbal@faa.gov. tank safety standards. As explained in
flammable fuel vapors, could result in a SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: the preamble to the rule, we intended to
VerDate Sep<11>2014 22:30 May 02, 2016 Jkt 238001 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\03MYP1.SGM 03MYP1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/81_FR_26572/page/4.svg)
Document Created: 2016-05-03 00:30:31
Document Modified: 2016-05-03 00:30:31
| 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 June 17, 2016. | |
| Contact | Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-2125; fax 425-227-1149. | |
| FR Citation | 81 FR 26487 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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