81 FR 27298 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 88 (May 6, 2016)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 88 (May 6, 2016)
| Page Range | 27298-27300 | |
| FR Document | 2016-10215 |
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 88 (Friday, May 6, 2016)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 27298-27300] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2016-10215] ======================================================================= ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2015-0250; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-216-AD; Amendment 39-18505; AD 2016-09-07] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of airspeed indication discrepancies while flying at high altitudes in inclement weather. This AD requires replacing certain pitot probes on the captain, first officer, and standby sides with certain new pitot probes. We are issuing this AD to prevent airspeed indication discrepancies during inclement weather, which, depending on the prevailing altitude, could lead to unknown accumulation of ice crystals and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane. DATES: This AD is effective June 10, 2016. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of June 10, 2016. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93 44 51; email: [email protected]; Internet: http://www.airbus.com. You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221. It is also available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-0250. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015- 0250; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The address for the Docket Office (telephone: 800- 647-5527) is Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone: 425-227-1405; fax: 425-227-1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We issued a supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM) (``the SNPRM'') to amend 14 CFR part 39 for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. The SNPRM published in the Federal Register on December 23, 2015 (80 FR 79750). We preceded the SNPRM with a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) (``the NPRM'') that published in the Federal Register on March 6, 2015 (80 FR 12094). The NPRM proposed to require replacing certain pitot probes on the captain, first officer, and standby sides with certain new pitot probes. The NPRM was prompted by reports of airspeed indication discrepancies while flying at high altitudes in inclement weather. The SNPRM proposed to revise the NPRM by reducing the proposed compliance time for replacing certain pitot probes based on a risk assessment due to additional reports of airspeed indication discrepancies while flying at high altitudes in inclement weather. We are issuing this AD to prevent airspeed indication discrepancies during inclement weather, which, depending on the prevailing altitude, could lead to unknown accumulation of ice crystals and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2015-0205, dated October 9, 2015 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. The MCAI states: Occurrences have been reported on A320 family aeroplanes of airspeed indication discrepancies while flying at high altitudes in inclement weather conditions. Investigation results indicated that A320 aeroplanes equipped with Thales Avionics Part Number (P/N) 50620-10 or P/N C16195AA pitot probes appear to have a greater susceptibility to adverse environmental conditions that aeroplanes equipped with certain other pitot probes. Prompted by earlier occurrences, DGAC [Direction G[eacute]n[eacute]rale de l'Aviation Civile] France issued [DGAC] AD 2001-362 [http://ad.easa.europa.eu/ad/F-2001-362] [which corresponds to paragraph (f) of FAA AD 2004-03-33, Amendment 39-13477 (69 FR 9936, March 3, 2004)] to require replacement of Thales (formerly known as Sextant) P/N 50620-10 pitot probes with Thales P/N C16195AA probes. Since that [DGAC] AD was issued, Thales pitot probe P/N C15195BA was designed, which improved airspeed indication behavior in heavy rain conditions, but did not demonstrate the same level of robustness to withstand high-altitude ice crystals. Based on these findings, EASA have decided to implement replacement of the affected Thales [pitot] probes as a precautionary measure to improve the safety level of the affected aeroplanes. Consequently, EASA issued AD 2014-0237 (later revised) [http://ad.easa.europa.eu/blob/easa_ad_2014_0237.pdf/AD_2014-0237], retaining the requirements of DGAC France AD 2001-362, which was superseded, and cancelling two other DGAC ADs, to require replacement of Thales Avionics pitot probes P/N C16195AA and P/N C16195BA. Since EASA issued AD 2014-0237R1 [http://ad.easa.europa.eu/ad/2014-0237R1] was issued, results of further analyses have determined that the compliance time (48 months) of that AD has to be reduced in relation to the risk assessment. For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA AD 2014-0237R1, which is superseded, but reduces the compliance time. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015- 0250. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. We considered the comment received. United Airlines has no objection to the SNPRM. [[Page 27299]] Conclusion We reviewed the available data and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this AD as proposed except for minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the SNPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the SNPRM. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed the following Airbus service information: Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 30, dated June 18, 2015. Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1456, Revision 01, dated May 15, 2012. Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1463, Revision 01, dated May 15, 2012. The service information describes procedures for replacing certain Thales Avionics pitot probes on the captain, first officer, and standby sides. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 953 airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it takes about 4 work-hours per product to comply with the new basic requirements of this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Required parts will cost about $21,930 per product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD on U.S. operators to be $21,223,310, or $22,270 per product. Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority. We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in ``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: 1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and 4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 0 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. Sec. 39.13 [Amended] 0 2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): 2016-09-07 Airbus: Amendment 39-18505. Docket No. FAA-2015-0250; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-216-AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective June 10, 2016. (b) Affected ADs This AD affects AD 2004-03-33, Amendment 39-13477 (69 FR 9936, March 3, 2004) (``AD 2004-03-33''). (c) Applicability This AD applies to the airplanes identified in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), and (c)(4) of this AD, certificated in any category, all manufacturer serial numbers. (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) Airbus Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 34, Navigation. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by reports of airspeed indication discrepancies while flying at high altitudes in inclement weather. We are issuing this AD to prevent airspeed indication discrepancies during inclement weather, which, depending on the prevailing altitude, could lead to unknown accumulation of ice crystals and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Replacement of Certain Pitot Probes on the Captain, First Officer, and Standby Sides Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD: Replace any Thales pitot probe having part number (P/N) C16195AA or P/N C16195BA, with a Goodrich pitot probe having P/N 0851HL, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 30, dated June 18, 2015. Accomplishing the replacement in this paragraph terminates the requirements of paragraph (f) of AD 2004-03-33 for that airplane only. (h) Optional Methods of Compliance for Replacement Required by Paragraph (g) of This AD (1) Replacement of the pitot probes in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1456, Revision 01, dated May 15, 2012 (pitot probes on the captain and standby sides); and Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1463, Revision 01, dated May 15, 2012 (pitot probes on the first officer side); is an acceptable method of compliance with the requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD. (2) Airplanes on which Airbus Modification 25578 was embodied in production, except for post-modification 25578 airplanes on which Airbus Modification 155737 (installation of Thales pitot probes) was also embodied in production, are compliant with the requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD, provided it can be conclusively determined that no Thales pitot probe having P/N C16195AA, P/N C16195BA, or P/N 50620-10 has been installed since the date of issuance of the original certificate of airworthiness or the date of issuance of the original export certificate of airworthiness. Post-modification 25578 airplanes on which Airbus Modification 155737 (installation of Thales pitot probes) was also embodied in production must be in compliance with the requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD. (i) Credit for Previous Actions (1) This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the [[Page 27300]] effective date of this AD using the service information identified in paragraph (i)(1)(i) through (i)(1)(xxvi) of this AD. This service information is not incorporated by reference in this AD. (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 04, dated May 24, 2000. (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 05, dated September 11, 2000. (iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 06, dated October 18, 2001. (iv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 07, dated December 4, 2001. (v) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 08, dated January 15, 2003. (vi) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 09, dated February 17, 2003. (vii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 10, dated November 21, 2003. (viii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 11, dated August 18, 2004. (ix) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 12, dated December 2, 2004. (x) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 13, dated January 18, 2005. (xi) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 14, dated April 21, 2005. (xii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 15, dated July 19, 2005. (xiii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 16, dated November 23, 2006. (xiv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 17, dated February 14, 2007. (xv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 18, dated October 9, 2009. (xvi) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 19, dated November 9, 2009. (xvii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 20, dated December 1, 2010. (xviii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 21, dated March 24, 2011. (xix) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 22, dated July 19, 2011. (xx) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 23, dated February 3, 2012. (xxi) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 24, dated April 12, 2012. (xxii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 25, dated September 4, 2012. (xxiii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 26, dated September 16, 2013. (xxiv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 27, dated March 18, 2014. (xxv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 28, dated September 1, 2014. (xxvi) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 29, dated February 16, 2015. (2) This paragraph provides credit for the replacement of pitot probes on the captain and standby sides specified in paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, if the replacement was performed before the effective date of this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34- 1456, dated December 2, 2009, which is not incorporated by reference in this AD. (3) This paragraph provides credit for the replacement of pitot probes on the first officer side as specified in paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1463, dated March 9, 2010, which is not incorporated by reference in this AD. (j) Parts Installation Limitations (1) At the applicable time specified in paragraph (j)(1)(i) or (j)(1)(ii) of this AD: No person may install on any airplane a Thales pitot probe having P/N C16195AA or P/N C16195BA. (i) For airplanes with a Thales pitot probe having P/N C16195AA or P/N C16195BA installed: After accomplishing the replacement required by paragraph (g) of this AD. (ii) For airplanes without a Thales pitot probe having P/N C16195AA or P/N C16195BA installed: As of the effective date of this AD. (2) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install on any airplane a Thales pitot probe having part number P/N 50620- 10. (k) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057- 3356; telephone: 425-227-1405; fax: 425-227-1149. Information may be emailed to: [email protected]. 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. (l) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2015-0205, dated October 9, 2015, for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-0250. (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in paragraphs (m)(3) and (m)(4) of this AD. (m) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, Revision 30, dated June 18, 2015. (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1456, Revision 01, dated May 15, 2012. (iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1463, Revision 01, dated May 15, 2012. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93 44 51; email: [email protected]; Internet: http://www.airbus.com. (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 20, 2016. John P. Piccola, Jr., Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2016-10215 Filed 5-5-16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
![27298 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 88 / Friday, May 6, 2016 / Rules and Regulations
§ 341.7 [Removed] this material at the FAA, call 425–227– for the Member States of the European
■ 6. Remove § 341.7. 1221. It is also available on the Internet Union, issued EASA Airworthiness
at http://www.regulations.gov by Directive 2015–0205, dated October 9,
By order of the Board of Directors. searching for and locating Docket No. 2015 (referred to after this as the
Dated at Washington, DC, this 26th day of FAA–2015–0250. Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness
April, 2016.
Examining the AD Docket Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. an unsafe condition for all Airbus
Robert E. Feldman, You may examine the AD docket on Model A318, A319, A320, and A321
Executive Secretary. the Internet at http:// series airplanes. The MCAI states:
[FR Doc. 2016–10529 Filed 5–5–16; 8:45 am] www.regulations.gov by searching for
Occurrences have been reported on A320
BILLING CODE 6714–01–P
and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
family aeroplanes of airspeed indication
0250; or in person at the Docket discrepancies while flying at high altitudes
Management Facility between 9 a.m. in inclement weather conditions.
and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, Investigation results indicated that A320
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
except Federal holidays. The AD docket aeroplanes equipped with Thales Avionics
Federal Aviation Administration contains this AD, the regulatory Part Number (P/N) 50620–10 or P/N
evaluation, any comments received, and C16195AA pitot probes appear to have a
14 CFR Part 39 other information. The address for the greater susceptibility to adverse
Docket Office (telephone: 800–647– environmental conditions that aeroplanes
[Docket No. FAA–2015–0250; Directorate 5527) is Docket Management Facility, equipped with certain other pitot probes.
Identifier 2014–NM–216–AD; Amendment U.S. Department of Transportation, Prompted by earlier occurrences, DGAC
39–18505; AD 2016–09–07] [Direction Générale de l’Aviation Civile]
Docket Operations, M–30, West
RIN 2120–AA64 Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, France issued [DGAC] AD 2001–362 [http://
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., ad.easa.europa.eu/ad/F-2001-362] [which
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus corresponds to paragraph (f) of FAA AD
Washington, DC 20590.
Airplanes 2004–03–33, Amendment 39–13477 (69 FR
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 9936, March 3, 2004)] to require replacement
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, of Thales (formerly known as Sextant) P/N
Administration (FAA), Department of International Branch, ANM–116, 50620–10 pitot probes with Thales P/N
Transportation (DOT). Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, C16195AA probes.
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA Since that [DGAC] AD was issued, Thales
ACTION: Final rule.
98057–3356; telephone: 425–227–1405; pitot probe P/N C15195BA was designed,
fax: 425–227–1149. which improved airspeed indication
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: behavior in heavy rain conditions, but did
airworthiness directive (AD) for all not demonstrate the same level of robustness
Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and Discussion to withstand high-altitude ice crystals. Based
A321 series airplanes. This AD was on these findings, EASA have decided to
prompted by reports of airspeed We issued a supplemental notice of
implement replacement of the affected
indication discrepancies while flying at proposed rulemaking (SNPRM) (‘‘the Thales [pitot] probes as a precautionary
high altitudes in inclement weather. SNPRM’’) to amend 14 CFR part 39 for measure to improve the safety level of the
This AD requires replacing certain pitot all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, affected aeroplanes.
probes on the captain, first officer, and and A321 series airplanes. The SNPRM Consequently, EASA issued AD 2014–0237
standby sides with certain new pitot published in the Federal Register on (later revised) [http://ad.easa.europa.eu/
probes. We are issuing this AD to December 23, 2015 (80 FR 79750). We blob/easa_ad_2014_0237.pdf/AD_2014-
prevent airspeed indication preceded the SNPRM with a notice of 0237], retaining the requirements of DGAC
discrepancies during inclement proposed rulemaking (NPRM) (‘‘the France AD 2001–362, which was superseded,
NPRM’’) that published in the Federal and cancelling two other DGAC ADs, to
weather, which, depending on the require replacement of Thales Avionics pitot
prevailing altitude, could lead to Register on March 6, 2015 (80 FR
12094). The NPRM proposed to require probes P/N C16195AA and P/N C16195BA.
unknown accumulation of ice crystals Since EASA issued AD 2014–0237R1
and consequent reduced controllability replacing certain pitot probes on the
[http://ad.easa.europa.eu/ad/2014-0237R1]
of the airplane. captain, first officer, and standby sides was issued, results of further analyses have
with certain new pitot probes. The determined that the compliance time (48
DATES: This AD is effective June 10, NPRM was prompted by reports of
2016. months) of that AD has to be reduced in
airspeed indication discrepancies while relation to the risk assessment.
The Director of the Federal Register flying at high altitudes in inclement For the reasons described above, this
approved the incorporation by reference weather. The SNPRM proposed to revise [EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA
of certain publications listed in this AD the NPRM by reducing the proposed AD 2014–0237R1, which is superseded, but
as of June 10, 2016. compliance time for replacing certain reduces the compliance time.
ADDRESSES: For service information pitot probes based on a risk assessment
identified in this final rule, contact due to additional reports of airspeed You may examine the MCAI in the
Airbus, Airworthiness Office—EIAS, 1 indication discrepancies while flying at AD docket on the Internet at http://
Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 high altitudes in inclement weather. We www.regulations.gov by searching for
Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 are issuing this AD to prevent airspeed and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93 44 51; indication discrepancies during 0250.
email: account.airworth-eas@ inclement weather, which, depending Comments
Lhorne on DSK30JT082PROD with RULES
airbus.com; Internet: http:// on the prevailing altitude, could lead to
www.airbus.com. You may view this unknown accumulation of ice crystals We gave the public the opportunity to
referenced service information at the and consequent reduced controllability participate in developing this AD. We
FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, of the airplane. considered the comment received.
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. The European Aviation Safety Agency United Airlines has no objection to the
For information on the availability of (EASA), which is the Technical Agent SNPRM.
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Conclusion products identified in this rulemaking (3) Airbus Model A320–211, –212, –214,
action. –231, –232, and –233 airplanes.
We reviewed the available data and (4) Airbus Model A321–111, –112, –131,
determined that air safety and the Regulatory Findings –211, –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes.
public interest require adopting this AD
We determined that this AD will not (d) Subject
as proposed except for minor editorial
have federalism implications under Air Transport Association (ATA) of
changes. We have determined that these
Executive Order 13132. This AD will America Code 34, Navigation.
minor changes:
• Are consistent with the intent that not have a substantial direct effect on
(e) Reason
was proposed in the SNPRM for the States, on the relationship between
the national government and the States, This AD was prompted by reports of
correcting the unsafe condition; and airspeed indication discrepancies while
• Do not add any additional burden or on the distribution of power and
flying at high altitudes in inclement weather.
upon the public than was already responsibilities among the various We are issuing this AD to prevent airspeed
proposed in the SNPRM. levels of government. indication discrepancies during inclement
For the reasons discussed above, I weather, which, depending on the prevailing
Related Service Information Under 1 certify that this AD: altitude, could lead to unknown
CFR Part 51 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory accumulation of ice crystals and consequent
We reviewed the following Airbus action’’ under Executive Order 12866; reduced controllability of the airplane.
service information: 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the (f) Compliance
• Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
Comply with this AD within the
1170, Revision 30, dated June 18, 2015. (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
compliance times specified, unless already
• Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in done.
1456, Revision 01, dated May 15, 2012. Alaska; and
• Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– 4. Will not have a significant (g) Replacement of Certain Pitot Probes on
1463, Revision 01, dated May 15, 2012. economic impact, positive or negative, the Captain, First Officer, and Standby Sides
The service information describes on a substantial number of small entities Within 24 months after the effective date
procedures for replacing certain Thales under the criteria of the Regulatory of this AD: Replace any Thales pitot probe
Avionics pitot probes on the captain, Flexibility Act. having part number (P/N) C16195AA or P/N
C16195BA, with a Goodrich pitot probe
first officer, and standby sides. This
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 having P/N 0851HL, in accordance with the
service information is reasonably Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
available because the interested parties Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation Service Bulletin A320–34–1170, Revision 30,
have access to it through their normal safety, Incorporation by reference, dated June 18, 2015. Accomplishing the
course of business or by the means Safety. replacement in this paragraph terminates the
identified in the ADDRESSES section. requirements of paragraph (f) of AD 2004–
Adoption of the Amendment 03–33 for that airplane only.
Costs of Compliance Accordingly, under the authority
(h) Optional Methods of Compliance for
We estimate that this AD affects 953 delegated to me by the Administrator, Replacement Required by Paragraph (g) of
airplanes of U.S. registry. the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as This AD
We also estimate that it takes about 4 follows:
(1) Replacement of the pitot probes in
work-hours per product to comply with accordance with the Accomplishment
the new basic requirements of this AD. PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320–
The average labor rate is $85 per work- DIRECTIVES 34–1456, Revision 01, dated May 15, 2012
hour. Required parts will cost about (pitot probes on the captain and standby
■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 sides); and Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
$21,930 per product. Based on these
continues to read as follows: 1463, Revision 01, dated May 15, 2012 (pitot
figures, we estimate the cost of this AD
on U.S. operators to be $21,223,310, or Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. probes on the first officer side); is an
acceptable method of compliance with the
$22,270 per product. § 39.13 [Amended] requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD.
Authority for This Rulemaking (2) Airplanes on which Airbus
■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding Modification 25578 was embodied in
Title 49 of the United States Code the following new airworthiness production, except for post-modification
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue directive (AD): 25578 airplanes on which Airbus
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, 2016–09–07 Airbus: Amendment 39–18505. Modification 155737 (installation of Thales
section 106, describes the authority of Docket No. FAA–2015–0250; Directorate pitot probes) was also embodied in
the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: Identifier 2014–NM–216–AD. production, are compliant with the
Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD,
(a) Effective Date provided it can be conclusively determined
detail the scope of the Agency’s
This AD is effective June 10, 2016. that no Thales pitot probe having P/N
authority. C16195AA, P/N C16195BA, or P/N 50620–10
We are issuing this rulemaking under (b) Affected ADs has been installed since the date of issuance
the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII, This AD affects AD 2004–03–33, of the original certificate of airworthiness or
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: Amendment 39–13477 (69 FR 9936, March 3, the date of issuance of the original export
General requirements.’’ Under that 2004) (‘‘AD 2004–03–33’’). certificate of airworthiness. Post-modification
section, Congress charges the FAA with 25578 airplanes on which Airbus
(c) Applicability Modification 155737 (installation of Thales
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
air commerce by prescribing regulations This AD applies to the airplanes identified pitot probes) was also embodied in
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for practices, methods, and procedures in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), and (c)(4) production must be in compliance with the
of this AD, certificated in any category, all requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD.
the Administrator finds necessary for manufacturer serial numbers.
safety in air commerce. This regulation (1) Airbus Model A318–111, –112, –121, (i) Credit for Previous Actions
is within the scope of that authority and –122 airplanes. (1) This paragraph provides credit for the
because it addresses an unsafe condition (2) Airbus Model A319–111, –112, –113, actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD,
that is likely to exist or develop on –114, –115, –131, –132, and –133 airplanes. if those actions were performed before the
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![27300 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 88 / Friday, May 6, 2016 / Rules and Regulations
effective date of this AD using the service person may install on any airplane a Thales Airworthiness Directive 2015–0205, dated
information identified in paragraph (i)(1)(i) pitot probe having P/N C16195AA or P/N October 9, 2015, for related information. This
through (i)(1)(xxvi) of this AD. This service C16195BA. MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the
information is not incorporated by reference (i) For airplanes with a Thales pitot probe Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by
in this AD. having P/N C16195AA or P/N C16195BA searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–1170, installed: After accomplishing the 2015–0250.
Revision 04, dated May 24, 2000. replacement required by paragraph (g) of this (2) Service information identified in this
(ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–1170, AD. AD that is not incorporated by reference is
Revision 05, dated September 11, 2000. (ii) For airplanes without a Thales pitot available at the addresses specified in
(iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– probe having P/N C16195AA or P/N paragraphs (m)(3) and (m)(4) of this AD.
1170, Revision 06, dated October 18, 2001. C16195BA installed: As of the effective date
(iv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– of this AD. (m) Material Incorporated by Reference
1170, Revision 07, dated December 4, 2001. (2) As of the effective date of this AD, no (1) The Director of the Federal Register
(v) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–1170, person may install on any airplane a Thales approved the incorporation by reference
Revision 08, dated January 15, 2003. pitot probe having part number P/N 50620– (IBR) of the service information listed in this
(vi) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– 10. paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
1170, Revision 09, dated February 17, 2003. part 51.
(vii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– (k) Other FAA AD Provisions (2) You must use this service information
1170, Revision 10, dated November 21, 2003. The following provisions also apply to this as applicable to do the actions required by
(viii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– AD: this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
1170, Revision 11, dated August 18, 2004. (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–1170,
(ix) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– (AMOCs): The Manager, International Revision 30, dated June 18, 2015.
1170, Revision 12, dated December 2, 2004. Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–1456,
(x) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–1170, Directorate, FAA, has the authority to Revision 01, dated May 15, 2012.
Revision 13, dated January 18, 2005. approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested (iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
(xi) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. 1463, Revision 01, dated May 15, 2012.
1170, Revision 14, dated April 21, 2005. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your (3) For service information identified in
(xii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
request to your principal inspector or local this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness
1170, Revision 15, dated July 19, 2005.
Flight Standards District Office, as Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice
(xiii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
appropriate. If sending information directly Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France;
1170, Revision 16, dated November 23, 2006.
to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61
(xiv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, 93 44 51; email: account.airworth-eas@
1170, Revision 17, dated February 14, 2007.
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport airbus.com; Internet: http://www.airbus.com.
(xv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind (4) You may view this service information
1170, Revision 18, dated October 9, 2009.
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
(xvi) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
telephone: 425–227–1405; fax: 425–227– 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For
1170, Revision 19, dated November 9, 2009.
(xvii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– 1149. Information may be emailed to: 9- information on the availability of this
1170, Revision 20, dated December 1, 2010. ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
(xviii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– Before using any approved AMOC, notify (5) You may view this service information
1170, Revision 21, dated March 24, 2011. your appropriate principal inspector, or that is incorporated by reference at the
(xix) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– lacking a principal inspector, the manager of National Archives and Records
1170, Revision 22, dated July 19, 2011. the local flight standards district office/ Administration (NARA). For information on
(xx) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– certificate holding district office. The AMOC the availability of this material at NARA, call
1170, Revision 23, dated February 3, 2012. approval letter must specifically reference 202–741–6030, or go to: http://
(xxi) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– this AD. www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-
1170, Revision 24, dated April 12, 2012. (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any locations.html.
(xxii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 20,
1170, Revision 25, dated September 4, 2012. actions from a manufacturer, the action must
2016.
(xxiii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– be accomplished using a method approved
by the Manager, International Branch, ANM– John P. Piccola, Jr.,
1170, Revision 26, dated September 16, 2013.
(xxiv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– 116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
1170, Revision 27, dated March 18, 2014. the European Aviation Safety Agency Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
(xxv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– (EASA); or Airbus’s EASA Design [FR Doc. 2016–10215 Filed 5–5–16; 8:45 am]
1170, Revision 28, dated September 1, 2014. Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
(xxvi) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– the DOA, the approval must include the
1170, Revision 29, dated February 16, 2015. DOA-authorized signature.
(2) This paragraph provides credit for the (3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
replacement of pitot probes on the captain service information contains procedures or
and standby sides specified in paragraph tests that are identified as RC, those
Federal Aviation Administration
(h)(1) of this AD, if the replacement was procedures and tests must be done to comply
performed before the effective date of this AD with this AD; any procedures or tests that are
using Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–1456, not identified as RC are recommended. Those 14 CFR Part 39
dated December 2, 2009, which is not procedures and tests that are not identified [Docket No. FAA–2016–6149; Directorate
incorporated by reference in this AD. as RC may be deviated from using accepted Identifier 2016–NM–047–AD; Amendment
(3) This paragraph provides credit for the methods in accordance with the operator’s 39–18510; AD 2016–09–12]
replacement of pitot probes on the first maintenance or inspection program without
officer side as specified in paragraph (h)(1) of obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided RIN 2120–AA64
this AD, if those actions were performed the procedures and tests identified as RC can
before the effective date of this AD using be done and the airplane can be put back in Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
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Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–1463, an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or Company Airplanes
dated March 9, 2010, which is not changes to procedures or tests identified as
incorporated by reference in this AD. RC require approval of an AMOC. AGENCY: Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
(j) Parts Installation Limitations (l) Related Information
ACTION: Final rule; request for
(1) At the applicable time specified in (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing comments.
paragraph (j)(1)(i) or (j)(1)(ii) of this AD: No Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA
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Document Created: 2016-05-06 00:30:22
Document Modified: 2016-05-06 00:30:22
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Rules and Regulations | |
| Action | Final rule. | |
| Dates | This AD is effective June 10, 2016. | |
| Contact | Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone: 425-227-1405; fax: 425-227-1149. | |
| FR Citation | 81 FR 27298 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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