81 FR 3313 - Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, Inc. Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 13 (January 21, 2016)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 13 (January 21, 2016)
| Page Range | 3313-3316 | |
| FR Document | 2016-00378 |
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 13 (Thursday, January 21, 2016)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 3313-3316] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2016-00378] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2014-0447; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-019-AD; Amendment 39-18368; AD 2016-01-09] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, Inc. Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier Model DHC-8-400 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report of several cracks found on the forward passenger airstair door step assembly. This AD requires an inspection to determine the serial number of the airstair door step assembly, and if necessary, an electronic tap test, reidentification of the airstair door step assembly, and replacement of the airstair door step assembly. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks in the forward passenger airstair door step assembly; such cracking could propagate and result in the structural failure of the steps and impede the evacuation of passengers in the event of an emergency egress situation. DATES: This AD becomes effective February 25, 2016. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of February 25, 2016. ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FAA-2014-0447; or in person at the Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC. For service information identified in this final rule, contact Bombardier, Inc., Q-Series Technical Help Desk, 123 Garratt Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario M3K 1Y5, Canada; telephone 416-375-4000; fax 416-375- 4539; email [email protected]; Internet http://www.bombardier.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-2014- 0447. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jeffrey Zimmer, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe and Mechanical Systems Branch, ANE-171, FAA, New York Aircraft Certification Office, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516-228-7306; fax 516-794-5531. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Bombardier Model DHC-8-400 series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on July 17, 2014 (79 FR 41661). The NPRM was prompted by a report of several cracks found on the forward passenger airstair door step assembly. The NPRM proposed to require an inspection to determine the serial number of the airstair door step assembly, and if necessary, an electronic tap test, reidentification of the airstair door step assembly, and replacement of the airstair door step assembly. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks in the forward passenger airstair door step assembly; such cracking could propagate and result in the structural failure of the steps and impede the evacuation of passengers in the event of an emergency egress situation. Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA), which is the aviation authority for Canada, has issued Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF- 2013-20R1, dated December 30, 2013 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: There has been one in-service report of several cracks being found on the forward passenger airstair door step assembly between the steps and the sidewall panels. The investigation revealed that the application of potting compound may have been omitted during the bonding at the joint of the airstair door steps and the sidewalls. The omission of potting compound could cause the bonding sealant to crack. The cracks, if not detected, could propagate to result in the structural failure of the steps. In the event of an emergency egress situation, the failure of the airstair step assembly could impede the evacuation of passengers. This [Canadian] AD mandates the replacement of the affected forward passenger airstair step assembly with a new or reworked step assembly. Revision 1 of this [Canadian] AD provides additional instructions for performing an electronic tap test of the airstair step assembly if the Serial Number (S/N) of the airstair step assembly cannot be found. Required actions include an inspection to determine the serial number of the airstair door step assembly, and if necessary, an electronic tap test and reidentification and replacement of the assembly. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2014-0447-0004. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM (79 FR 41661, July 17, 2014) and the FAA's response to each comment. Request To Refer to Latest Service Information Republic Airlines and Horizon Air requested that we revise the NPRM (79 FR 41661, July 17, 2014) to refer to the latest service information. We agree with the request. The revised service information, Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-52-77, Revision C, dated June 5, 2014, provides minor wording changes but does not change the procedures or add any airplanes. We have revised paragraphs (g) and (h) in this AD to refer to the new service information, and added Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-52-77, Revision B, dated October 31, 2013, to paragraph (i) of this AD, to provide credit for previous actions done before the effective date of this AD. Request To Allow Records Review Horizon Air requested that we revise paragraph (g) of the proposed AD (79 FR 41661, July 17, 2014) to allow a review of aircraft records, in addition to a physical inspection, as a way to determine the serial number of the airstair door step assembly. We disagree with the request. A review of aircraft records may provide an appropriate means to determine serial numbers. For the airstair door step assembly, however, we understand that operators may remove and exchange the [[Page 3314]] assemblies within their fleet for repair, and replace them relatively quickly to minimize airplane downtime. In these cases, there may be a lag between the removal and replacement action and updating the records typically used to conduct a records review. In coordination with TCCA, we have determined that airplane records may not reliably reflect the serial numbers of all airstair door step assemblies present on the affected airplanes. However, under the provisions of paragraph (j)(1) of this AD, we will consider requests for approval of an alternative method of compliance for determining serial numbers, if sufficient data are submitted to substantiate that the new method would provide an acceptable level of safety. We have not changed this final rule regarding this issue. Request To Allow Maintenance Manual Tasks for Airstair Replacement Horizon Air requested that we revise paragraph (g)(1)(ii) of the proposed AD (79 FR 41661, July 17, 2014), which would conditionally require replacing the airstair door step assembly in accordance with Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-52-77, Revision B, dated October 31, 2013. For this action, Horizon Air requested that we also allow the replacement to be done using maintenance manual tasks 52-11-01-000-801 and 52-11-01-400-801. Horizon Air stated that the service information specified in the NPRM does not include any actions beyond those specified in the maintenance manual tasks. We disagree with the request. Part 3, ``Procedure,'' of the Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-52-77, Revision C, dated June 5, 2014, does, in fact, specify additional tasks not included in the maintenance manual tasks referenced by the commenter. The additional tasks include verification of the serial number of the new airstair door step assembly before installation, and adjustment and a functional check of the new door. We have not changed this AD regarding this issue. Request To Limit Requirements to Steps That Correct the Unsafe Condition Horizon Air requested that we revise the NPRM (79 FR 41661, July 17, 2014) to require only the section of the Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-52-77, Revision C, dated June 5, 2014, that directly corrects the unsafe condition: paragraph 3.B., ``Procedure.'' Horizon Air stated that the unsafe condition is not directly corrected by accomplishment of the actions specified in paragraph 3.A., ``Job Set-up,'' and paragraph 3.C., ``Close Out,'' of the Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-52- 77, Revision C, dated June 5, 2014. Horizon Air added that incorporating the Job Set-up and Close Out as a requirement of the AD would restrict an operator's ability to perform other maintenance in conjunction with the incorporation of the service information. We agree with the request and the commenter's rationale. We have revised paragraph (g) of this AD accordingly. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this AD with the changes described previously and minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM (79 FR 41661, July 17, 2014) for correcting the unsafe condition; and Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM (79 FR 41661, July 17, 2014). We also determined that these changes will not increase the economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this AD. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Bombardier has issued Service Bulletin 84-52-77, Revision C, dated June 5, 2014, including Appendix A, and with the attached Short Brothers Service Bulletin D8400-52-0011, Revision C, dated February 26, 2014. The service information describes procedures for determining the airstair door step assembly serial number, doing an electronic tap test, and reidentifying and replacing the assembly. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by means identified in the ADDRESSES section of this AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 76 airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it will take about 1 work-hour per product to comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Required parts would cost about $0 per product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD on U.S. operators to be $6,460, or $85 per product. In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would take up to 9 work-hours and require parts costing $206,175, for a cost of $206,940 per product. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need these actions. 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. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FAA-2014-0447; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations office (telephone [[Page 3315]] 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. 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): 2016-01-09 Bombardier, Inc.: Amendment 39-18368. Docket No. FAA- 2014-0447; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-019-AD. (a) Effective Date This AD becomes effective February 25, 2016. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Bombardier, Inc. Model DHC-8-400, -401, and - 402 airplanes, certificated in any category, serial numbers 4001 and subsequent. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 52, Doors. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by a report of several cracks found on the forward passenger airstair door step assembly. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks in the forward passenger airstair door step assembly, which could propagate and result in the structural failure of the steps and impede the evacuation of passengers in the event of an emergency egress situation. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Inspection, Electronic Tap Test, Reidentification, and Replacement of the Airstair Door Step Assembly For airplanes having serial numbers 4001 through 4393: Within 320 days after the effective date of this AD, do an inspection to determine the serial number of the airstair door step assembly, in accordance with paragraph 3.B., ``Procedure,'' of the Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-52-77, Revision C, dated June 5, 2014, including Appendix A, and with the attached Short Brothers Service Bulletin D8400-52-0011, Revision C, dated February 26, 2014. (1) If the serial number of the airstair door step assembly cannot be found, or if the serial number is illegible: Before further flight, do an electronic tap test to determine the existence of epoxy compound, in accordance with paragraph 3.B., ``Procedure,'' of the Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-52-77, Revision C, dated June 5, 2014, including Appendix A, and with the attached Short Brothers Service Bulletin D8400-52-0011, Revision C, dated February 26, 2014. (i) If the existence of epoxy compound is confirmed, before further flight, reidentify the airstair door step assembly, in accordance with paragraph 3.B., ``Procedure,'' of the Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-52-77, Revision C, dated June 5, 2014, including Appendix A, and with the attached Short Brothers Service Bulletin D8400-52-0011, Revision C, dated February 26, 2014. (ii) If the existence of epoxy compound is not confirmed: Within 6,000 flight hours after the effective date of this AD, replace the airstair door step assembly, in accordance with paragraph 3.B., ``Procedure,'' of the Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-52-77, Revision C, dated June 5, 2014, including Appendix A, and with the attached Short Brothers Service Bulletin D8400-52-0011, Revision C, dated February 26, 2014. (2) If the serial number of the airstair door step assembly is in the affected range specified in paragraph 1.A., ``Effectivity,'' of Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-52-77, Revision C, dated June 5, 2014: Within 6,000 flight hours after the effective date of this AD, replace the airstair door step assembly, in accordance with paragraph 3.B., ``Procedure,'' of the Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-52-77, Revision C, dated June 5, 2014, including Appendix A, and with the attached Short Brothers Service Bulletin D8400-52-0011, Revision C, dated February 26, 2014. (h) Parts Installation Prohibition As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install on any airplane an airstair door step assembly with part number 85217008-001 containing a serial number in the affected range specified in paragraph 1.A., ``Effectivity,'' of Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-52-77, Revision C, dated June 5, 2014, including Appendix A, and with the attached Short Brothers Service Bulletin D8400-52-0011, Revision C, dated February 26, 2014. (i) Credit for Previous Actions This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD if the serial number is known, and if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-52-77, Revision A, dated April 24, 2013; or Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-52-77, Revision B, dated October 31, 2013. This service information is not incorporated by reference in this AD. (j) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, New York Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), ANE-170, 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 ACO, send it to ATTN: Program Manager, Continuing Operational Safety, FAA, New York ACO, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516-228-7300; fax 516-794-5531. 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, New York ACO, ANE-170, FAA; or Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA); or Bombardier, Inc.'s TCCA Design Approval Organization (DAO). If approved by the DAO, the approval must include the DAO-authorized signature. (k) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF-2013-20R1, dated December 30, 2013, for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2014-0447-0004. (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in paragraphs (l)(3) and (l)(5) of this AD. (l) 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) Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-52-77, Revision C, dated June 5, 2014, including Appendix A, which is undated, and attached Short Brothers Service Bulletin D8400-52-0011, Revision C, dated February 26, 2014. (ii) Reserved. (3) For Bombardier service information identified in this AD, contact Bombardier, Inc., Q-Series Technical Help Desk, 123 Garratt Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario M3K 1Y5, Canada; telephone 416-375-4000; fax 416-375-4539; email [email protected]; Internet http://www.bombardier.com. (4) For Short Brothers service information identified in this AD, contact Short Brothers PLC, Airworthiness, P.O. Box 241, Airport Road, Belfast, BT3 9DZ Northern Ireland; [[Page 3316]] telephone +44(0)2890-462469; fax +44(0)2890 468444; email [email protected]; Internet http://www.bombardier.com. (5) 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. (6) 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 January 4, 2016. Victor Wicklund, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2016-00378 Filed 1-20-16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on January 6, 4000; fax 416–375–4539; email cracks, if not detected, could propagate to
2016. thd.qseries@aero.bombardier.com; result in the structural failure of the steps.
Bruce E. Cain, Internet http://www.bombardier.com. In the event of an emergency egress
You may view this referenced service situation, the failure of the airstair step
Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate,
assembly could impede the evacuation of
Aircraft Certification Service. information at the FAA, Transport passengers.
[FR Doc. 2016–00664 Filed 1–20–16; 8:45 am] Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue This [Canadian] AD mandates the
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P SW., Renton, WA. For information on replacement of the affected forward
the availability of this material at the passenger airstair step assembly with a new
FAA, call 425–227–1221. It is also or reworked step assembly.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION available on the Internet at http:// Revision 1 of this [Canadian] AD provides
www.regulations.gov by searching for additional instructions for performing an
Federal Aviation Administration and locating Docket No. FAA–2014– electronic tap test of the airstair step
0447. assembly if the Serial Number (S/N) of the
14 CFR Part 39 airstair step assembly cannot be found.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Required actions include an
[Docket No. FAA–2014–0447; Directorate Jeffrey Zimmer, Aerospace Engineer,
Identifier 2014–NM–019–AD; Amendment inspection to determine the serial
Airframe and Mechanical Systems number of the airstair door step
39–18368; AD 2016–01–09]
Branch, ANE–171, FAA, New York assembly, and if necessary, an electronic
RIN 2120–AA64 Aircraft Certification Office, 1600 tap test and reidentification and
Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, replacement of the assembly. You may
Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, NY 11590; telephone 516–228–7306; fax
Inc. Airplanes examine the MCAI in the AD docket on
516–794–5531. the Internet at http://
AGENCY: Federal Aviation SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: www.regulations.gov/
Administration (FAA), Department of Discussion #!documentDetail;D=FAA-2014-0447-
Transportation (DOT). 0004.
ACTION: Final rule. We issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR Comments
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new part 39 by adding an AD that would We gave the public the opportunity to
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain apply to certain Bombardier Model participate in developing this AD. The
Bombardier Model DHC–8–400 series DHC–8–400 series airplanes. The NPRM following presents the comments
airplanes. This AD was prompted by a published in the Federal Register on received on the NPRM (79 FR 41661,
report of several cracks found on the July 17, 2014 (79 FR 41661). The NPRM July 17, 2014) and the FAA’s response
forward passenger airstair door step was prompted by a report of several to each comment.
assembly. This AD requires an cracks found on the forward passenger Request To Refer to Latest Service
inspection to determine the serial airstair door step assembly. The NPRM Information
number of the airstair door step proposed to require an inspection to
assembly, and if necessary, an electronic determine the serial number of the Republic Airlines and Horizon Air
tap test, reidentification of the airstair airstair door step assembly, and if requested that we revise the NPRM (79
door step assembly, and replacement of necessary, an electronic tap test, FR 41661, July 17, 2014) to refer to the
the airstair door step assembly. We are reidentification of the airstair door step latest service information.
issuing this AD to detect and correct assembly, and replacement of the We agree with the request. The
cracks in the forward passenger airstair airstair door step assembly. We are revised service information, Bombardier
door step assembly; such cracking could issuing this AD to detect and correct Service Bulletin 84–52–77, Revision C,
propagate and result in the structural cracks in the forward passenger airstair dated June 5, 2014, provides minor
failure of the steps and impede the door step assembly; such cracking could wording changes but does not change
evacuation of passengers in the event of propagate and result in the structural the procedures or add any airplanes. We
an emergency egress situation. failure of the steps and impede the have revised paragraphs (g) and (h) in
evacuation of passengers in the event of this AD to refer to the new service
DATES: This AD becomes effective
an emergency egress situation. information, and added Bombardier
February 25, 2016. Service Bulletin 84–52–77, Revision B,
The Director of the Federal Register Transport Canada Civil Aviation
(TCCA), which is the aviation authority dated October 31, 2013, to paragraph (i)
approved the incorporation by reference of this AD, to provide credit for
of a certain publication listed in this AD for Canada, has issued Canadian
Airworthiness Directive CF–2013–20R1, previous actions done before the
as of February 25, 2016. effective date of this AD.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD
dated December 30, 2013 (referred to
docket on the Internet at http:// after this as the Mandatory Continuing Request To Allow Records Review
www.regulations.gov/ Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the
Horizon Air requested that we revise
#!docketDetail;D=FAA-2014-0447; or in MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition
paragraph (g) of the proposed AD (79 FR
person at the Docket Management for the specified products. The MCAI
41661, July 17, 2014) to allow a review
Facility, U.S. Department of states:
of aircraft records, in addition to a
Transportation, Docket Operations, M– There has been one in-service report of physical inspection, as a way to
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room several cracks being found on the forward determine the serial number of the
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., passenger airstair door step assembly airstair door step assembly.
Washington, DC. between the steps and the sidewall panels. We disagree with the request. A
The investigation revealed that the
For service information identified in application of potting compound may have
review of aircraft records may provide
this final rule, contact Bombardier, Inc., been omitted during the bonding at the joint an appropriate means to determine
Q-Series Technical Help Desk, 123 of the airstair door steps and the sidewalls. serial numbers. For the airstair door step
Garratt Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario The omission of potting compound could assembly, however, we understand that
M3K 1Y5, Canada; telephone 416–375– cause the bonding sealant to crack. The operators may remove and exchange the
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800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES with the attached Short Brothers Service (j) Other FAA AD Provisions
section. Bulletin D8400–52–0011, Revision C, dated The following provisions also apply to this
February 26, 2014. AD:
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 (1) If the serial number of the airstair door (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation step assembly cannot be found, or if the (AMOCs): The Manager, New York Aircraft
safety, Incorporation by reference, serial number is illegible: Before further Certification Office (ACO), ANE–170, FAA,
flight, do an electronic tap test to determine has the authority to approve AMOCs for this
Safety.
the existence of epoxy compound, in AD, if requested using the procedures found
Adoption of the Amendment accordance with paragraph 3.B., in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR
‘‘Procedure,’’ of the Accomplishment 39.19, send your request to your principal
Accordingly, under the authority inspector or local Flight Standards District
Instructions of Bombardier Service Bulletin
delegated to me by the Administrator, 84–52–77, Revision C, dated June 5, 2014, Office, as appropriate. If sending information
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as including Appendix A, and with the attached directly to the ACO, send it to ATTN:
follows: Short Brothers Service Bulletin D8400–52– Program Manager, Continuing Operational
0011, Revision C, dated February 26, 2014. Safety, FAA, New York ACO, 1600 Stewart
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS (i) If the existence of epoxy compound is Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590;
DIRECTIVES confirmed, before further flight, reidentify telephone 516–228–7300; fax 516–794–5531.
the airstair door step assembly, in accordance Before using any approved AMOC, notify
■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 with paragraph 3.B., ‘‘Procedure,’’ of the your appropriate principal inspector, or
continues to read as follows: Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier lacking a principal inspector, the manager of
Service Bulletin 84–52–77, Revision C, dated the local flight standards district office/
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. certificate holding district office. The AMOC
June 5, 2014, including Appendix A, and
§ 39.13 [Amended] with the attached Short Brothers Service approval letter must specifically reference
Bulletin D8400–52–0011, Revision C, dated this AD.
■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
February 26, 2014.
the following new airworthiness (ii) If the existence of epoxy compound is
requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
directive (AD): actions from a manufacturer, the action must
not confirmed: Within 6,000 flight hours after
be accomplished using a method approved
2016–01–09 Bombardier, Inc.: Amendment the effective date of this AD, replace the
by the Manager, New York ACO, ANE–170,
39–18368. Docket No. FAA–2014–0447; airstair door step assembly, in accordance
FAA; or Transport Canada Civil Aviation
Directorate Identifier 2014–NM–019–AD. with paragraph 3.B., ‘‘Procedure,’’ of the
(TCCA); or Bombardier, Inc.’s TCCA Design
Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Approval Organization (DAO). If approved by
(a) Effective Date Service Bulletin 84–52–77, Revision C, dated the DAO, the approval must include the
This AD becomes effective February 25, June 5, 2014, including Appendix A, and DAO-authorized signature.
2016. with the attached Short Brothers Service
Bulletin D8400–52–0011, Revision C, dated (k) Related Information
(b) Affected ADs
February 26, 2014. (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing
None. (2) If the serial number of the airstair door Airworthiness Information (MCAI) Canadian
(c) Applicability step assembly is in the affected range Airworthiness Directive CF–2013–20R1,
specified in paragraph 1.A., ‘‘Effectivity,’’ of dated December 30, 2013, for related
This AD applies to Bombardier, Inc. Model Bombardier Service Bulletin 84–52–77,
DHC–8–400, –401, and –402 airplanes, information. This MCAI may be found in the
Revision C, dated June 5, 2014: Within 6,000 AD docket on the Internet at http://
certificated in any category, serial numbers flight hours after the effective date of this AD,
4001 and subsequent. www.regulations.gov/
replace the airstair door step assembly, in #!documentDetail;D=FAA-2014-0447-0004.
(d) Subject accordance with paragraph 3.B., (2) Service information identified in this
Air Transport Association (ATA) of ‘‘Procedure,’’ of the Accomplishment AD that is not incorporated by reference is
America Code 52, Doors. Instructions of Bombardier Service Bulletin available at the addresses specified in
84–52–77, Revision C, dated June 5, 2014, paragraphs (l)(3) and (l)(5) of this AD.
(e) Reason including Appendix A, and with the attached
Short Brothers Service Bulletin D8400–52– (l) Material Incorporated by Reference
This AD was prompted by a report of
several cracks found on the forward 0011, Revision C, dated February 26, 2014. (1) The Director of the Federal Register
passenger airstair door step assembly. We are approved the incorporation by reference
(h) Parts Installation Prohibition (IBR) of the service information listed in this
issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks
in the forward passenger airstair door step As of the effective date of this AD, no paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
assembly, which could propagate and result person may install on any airplane an airstair part 51.
in the structural failure of the steps and door step assembly with part number (2) You must use this service information
impede the evacuation of passengers in the 85217008–001 containing a serial number in as applicable to do the actions required by
event of an emergency egress situation. the affected range specified in paragraph this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
1.A., ‘‘Effectivity,’’ of Bombardier Service (i) Bombardier Service Bulletin 84–52–77,
(f) Compliance Bulletin 84–52–77, Revision C, dated June 5, Revision C, dated June 5, 2014, including
Comply with this AD within the 2014, including Appendix A, and with the Appendix A, which is undated, and attached
compliance times specified, unless already attached Short Brothers Service Bulletin Short Brothers Service Bulletin D8400–52–
done. D8400–52–0011, Revision C, dated February 0011, Revision C, dated February 26, 2014.
26, 2014. (ii) Reserved.
(g) Inspection, Electronic Tap Test, (3) For Bombardier service information
Reidentification, and Replacement of the (i) Credit for Previous Actions identified in this AD, contact Bombardier,
Airstair Door Step Assembly This paragraph provides credit for actions Inc., Q-Series Technical Help Desk, 123
For airplanes having serial numbers 4001 required by paragraph (g) of this AD if the Garratt Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario M3K
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES
through 4393: Within 320 days after the serial number is known, and if those actions 1Y5, Canada; telephone 416–375–4000; fax
effective date of this AD, do an inspection to were performed before the effective date of 416–375–4539; email thd.qseries@
determine the serial number of the airstair this AD using Bombardier Service Bulletin aero.bombardier.com; Internet http://
door step assembly, in accordance with 84–52–77, Revision A, dated April 24, 2013; www.bombardier.com.
paragraph 3.B., ‘‘Procedure,’’ of the or Bombardier Service Bulletin 84–52–77, (4) For Short Brothers service information
Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Revision B, dated October 31, 2013. This identified in this AD, contact Short Brothers
Service Bulletin 84–52–77, Revision C, dated service information is not incorporated by PLC, Airworthiness, P.O. Box 241, Airport
June 5, 2014, including Appendix A, and reference in this AD. Road, Belfast, BT3 9DZ Northern Ireland;
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![3316 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 13 / Thursday, January 21, 2016 / Rules and Regulations
telephone +44(0)2890–462469; fax reduced structural integrity of the these findings indicated that a number of in-
+44(0)2890 468444; email airframe. service aeroplanes could be similarly
michael.mulholland@aero.bombardier.com; affected.
Internet http://www.bombardier.com. DATES: This AD becomes effective This condition, if not detected and
(5) You may view this service information February 25, 2016. corrected, could lead to crack propagation
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, The Director of the Federal Register and consequent deterioration of the
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For approved the incorporation by reference structural integrity of the aeroplane.
information on the availability of this of a certain publication listed in this AD To address this potential unsafe condition,
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. as of February 25, 2016. [Directorate General for Civil Aviation]
(6) You may view this service information DGAC France AD 97–311–105 [which
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD
that is incorporated by reference at the corresponds to FAA AD 98–18–26,
docket on the Internet at http:// Amendment 39–10742 (63 FR 47423,
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
www.regulations.gov/ September 8, 1998)] was issued to require
the availability of this material at NARA, call #!docketDetail;D=FAA-2015-1422; or in repetitive [HFEC] inspections [for cracking]
202–741–6030, or go to: http:// person at the Docket Management in accordance with the instruction of Airbus
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- Facility, U.S. Department of Service Bulletin (SB) A320–57–1016. At the
locations.html. Transportation, Docket Operations, M– same time, the modification provided by
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room Airbus SB A320–57–1017 was considered to
Issued in Renton, Washington, on January be terminating action for the repetitive
4, 2016. W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., inspections required by DGAC France AD
Victor Wicklund, Washington, DC. 97–311–105.
For service information identified in Since that [DGAC] AD was issued, and
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness following new analysis, modification per
Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Airbus SB A320–57–1017 is no longer
[FR Doc. 2016–00378 Filed 1–20–16; 8:45 am]
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; considered to be terminating action for the
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P repetitive inspections as required by DGAC
telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5
61 93 44 51; email account.airworth- France AD 97–311–105.
eas@airbus.com; Internet http:// Aeroplanes with [manufacturer serial
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION number] MSN 0080 up to 0155 inclusive
www.airbus.com. You may view this have been delivered with the addition of a 5
Federal Aviation Administration referenced service information at the [millimeter] mm thick light alloy shim under
FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, the heads of 2 fasteners at the top end of the
14 CFR Part 39 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. front spar vertical stringers (Airbus
For information on the availability of modification 21290P1546, which is the
[Docket No. FAA–2015–1422; Directorate this material at the FAA, call 425–227– production line equivalent to in-service
Identifier 2014–NM–125–AD; Amendment modification through Airbus SB A320–57–
1221. It is also available on the Internet
39–18370; AD 2016–01–11] 1017). From MSN 0156 and higher, all
at http://www.regulations.gov by
aeroplanes are delivered with vertical
RIN 2120–AA64 searching for and locating Docket stiffeners of the forward wing spar upper end
Number FAA–2015–1422. with stiffener cap thickness increased from 4
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: to 6 mm (Airbus modification 21290P1547).
Airplanes Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, Prompted by these findings, Airbus issued
AGENCY: Federal Aviation International Branch, ANM–116, SB A320–57–1178 to introduce new
Administration (FAA), Department of Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, repetitive inspections with new thresholds
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA and intervals.
Transportation (DOT). For the reasons described above, DGAC
ACTION: Final rule. 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1405; France AD 97–311–105 is superseded and
fax 425–227–1149. this [EASA] AD requires the repetitive
SUMMARY: We are superseding SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: inspections at new thresholds and intervals.
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 98–18–26, After EASA issued [proposed
for certain Airbus Model A320 series Discussion airworthiness directive] PAD 14–021, it was
airplanes. AD 98–18–26 required We issued a notice of proposed discovered that additional work [HFEC
repetitive inspections to detect fatigue rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR inspections for cracking of the radius of spar
cracking of the front spar vertical part 39 to supersede AD 98–18–26, vertical stringers and horizontal beam in the
stringers on the wings; and repair, if center fuselage of frame 36, and a rototest
Amendment 39–10742 (63 FR 47423,
inspection for cracking of the fastener holes
necessary. This new AD requires September 8, 1998). AD 98–18–26 of the spar vertical stringers radius on Frame
repetitive high frequency eddy current applied to certain Airbus Model A320 36 and repair if necessary], to be included in
(HFEC) inspections for cracking of the series airplanes. The NPRM published Revision 01 of Airbus SB A320–57–1178, is
radius of the front spar vertical stringers in the Federal Register on June 5, 2015 required to accomplish the inspections. This
and the horizontal floor beam on frame (80 FR 32063). Final [EASA] AD has been amended
36, a rototest inspection for cracking of The European Aviation Safety Agency accordingly.
the fastener holes of the front spar (EASA), which is the Technical Agent You may examine the MCAI in the
vertical stringers on frame 36, and repair for the Member States of the European AD docket on the Internet at http://
if necessary. This AD was prompted by Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness www.regulations.gov/
reports that indicate new repetitive Directive 2014–0069, dated March 19, #!documentDetail;D=FAA-2015-1422-
inspections having new thresholds and 2014 (referred to after this as the 0002.
intervals are needed and that additional Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES
work is needed to accomplish the Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct Comments
inspections on airplanes on which a an unsafe condition on certain Airbus We gave the public the opportunity to
previous modification has been Model A320–211, –212, and –231 participate in developing this AD. The
accomplished. We are issuing this AD to airplanes. The MCAI states: following presents the comments
detect and correct fatigue cracking of the During center fuselage certification full received on the NPRM (80 FR 32063,
front spar vertical stringers on the scale fatigue test, cracks were found on the June 5, 2015) and the FAA’s response to
wings, which could result in the front vertical stringer at frame 36. Analysis of the comments.
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Document Created: 2018-02-02 12:34:03
Document Modified: 2018-02-02 12:34:03
| 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 becomes effective February 25, 2016. | |
| Contact | Jeffrey Zimmer, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe and Mechanical Systems Branch, ANE-171, FAA, New York Aircraft Certification Office, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516-228-7306; fax 516-794-5531. | |
| FR Citation | 81 FR 3313 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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