81 FR 38577 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 114 (June 14, 2016)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 114 (June 14, 2016)
| Page Range | 38577-38580 | |
| FR Document | 2016-13857 |
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 114 (Tuesday, June 14, 2016)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 38577-38580] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2016-13857] [[Page 38577]] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2016-6900; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-064-AD; Amendment 39-18559; AD 2016-12-10] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016-09-07 for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. AD 2016- 09-07 required replacing certain pitot probes on the captain, first officer, and standby sides. This new AD retains those requirements, but with a revised compliance time. Since we issued AD 2016-09-07, we received additional reports of airspeed indication discrepancies during flight at high altitudes in inclement weather. We are issuing this AD to prevent airspeed indication discrepancies caused by accumulation of ice crystals during inclement weather, which, depending on the prevailing altitude, could lead to reduced controllability of the airplane. DATES: This AD is effective June 29, 2016. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of June 10, 2016 (81 FR 27298, May 6, 2016). We must receive comments on this AD by July 29, 2016. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. Fax: 202-493-2251. Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this 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-2016- 6900. 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- 6900; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations office (telephone 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 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 On April 20, 2016, we issued AD 2016-09-07, Amendment 39-18505 (81 FR 27298, May 6, 2016) (``AD 2016-09-07''), for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. AD 2016-09-07 was prompted by reports of airspeed indication discrepancies during flight at high altitudes in inclement weather. AD 2016-09-07 required replacing certain pitot probes on the captain, first officer, and standby sides with certain new pitot probes. We issued AD 2016-09-07 to prevent airspeed indication discrepancies caused by accumulation of ice crystals during inclement weather, which, depending on the prevailing altitude, could lead to reduced controllability of the airplane. Since we issued AD 2016-09-07, we have received additional reports of airspeed indication discrepancies during flight at high altitudes in inclement weather. Certain pitot probes are susceptible to adverse environmental conditions and have a high tendency to accumulate ice crystals resulting in airspeed indication discrepancies, which could result in reduced controllability of the airplane. As we explained in AD 2016-09-07, 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 were 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 than 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 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 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 [24 months]. You may examine the MCAI on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016- 6900. [[Page 38578]] Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Airbus has issued the following 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 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. FAA's Determination and Requirements of This AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all pertinent information and determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Explanation of Compliance Time We have reduced the compliance time in this AD for the pitot probe replacement because of the new reports of airspeed indication discrepancies during flight at high altitudes in inclement weather. The MCAI requires replacement within 2 years after the effective date of the original MCAI 2014-0237 (November 12, 2014). Both EASA and Airbus recommend the pitot probe replacement in accordance with the MCAI requirement. Based on new reports of airspeed indication discrepancies, our risk assessment considered the overall risk to the fleet, including the severity of the failure and the likelihood of the failure's occurrence. In support of the MCAI compliance requirement and Airbus recommendation, we have therefore concluded that the pitot probes must be replaced by November 12, 2016. That compliance time corresponds to the date specified by the MCAI and represents an appropriate interval of time allowable for affected airplanes to continue to operate without compromising safety. In conjunction with the manufacturer, we have determined that the new compliance time will accommodate the time necessary to ensure the availability of required parts. FAA's Justification and Determination of the Effective Date An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of this AD. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public justifies waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule because airspeed indication discrepancies caused by accumulation of ice crystals during inclement weather, which, depending on the prevailing altitude, could lead to reduced controllability of the airplane. Therefore, we determined that notice and opportunity for public comment before issuing this AD are impracticable and that good cause exists for making this amendment effective in fewer than 30 days. Comments Invited This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety, and we did not precede it by notice and opportunity for public comment. We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2016-6900; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-064-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this 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 AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 953 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: Estimated Costs ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cost per Cost on U.S. Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Pitot probe replacement (retained 4 work-hours x $85 per $21,930 $22,270 $21,223,310 actions from AD 2016-09-07). hour = $340. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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. [[Page 38579]] 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 removing airworthiness directive (AD) 2016-09-07, Amendment 39-18505 (81 FR 27298, May 6, 2016), and adding the following new AD: 2016-12-10 Airbus: Amendment 39-18559. Docket No. FAA-2016-6900; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-064-AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective June 29, 2016. (b) Affected ADs (1) This AD replaces AD 2016-09-07, Amendment 39-18505 (81 FR 27298, May 6, 2016) (``AD 2016-09-07''). (2) 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 during flight at high altitudes in inclement weather. We are issuing this AD to prevent airspeed indication discrepancies caused by accumulation of ice crystals during inclement weather, which, depending on the prevailing altitude, could lead to reduced controllability of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Pitot Probe Replacement On or before November 12, 2016: 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. The replacement in this paragraph terminates the requirements of paragraph (f) of AD 2004-03-33 for that airplane only. (h) Other Acceptable Compliance (1) Replacement of the pitot probes in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of both 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 for 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 June 10, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2016-09-07), using service information identified in paragraphs (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 June 10, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2016-09-07), 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 June 10, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2016-09-07), 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 replacement with BF Goodrich pitot probe P/N 0851HL. (ii) For airplanes without a Thales pitot probe having P/N C16195AA or P/N C16195BA installed: As of June 10, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2016-09-07). (2) As of June 10, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2016-09-07), no person may install on any airplane a Thales pitot probe having 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 [[Page 38580]] 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-2016-6900. (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in paragraphs (m)(4) and (m)(5) 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. (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on June 10, 2016 (81 FR 27298). (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. (4) 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. (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 June 2, 2016. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2016-13857 Filed 6-13-16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
![Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 114 / Tuesday, June 14, 2016 / Rules and Regulations 38577
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Airworthiness Office—EIAS, 1 Rond resulting in airspeed indication
Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac discrepancies, which could result in
Federal Aviation Administration Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93 reduced controllability of the airplane.
36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93 44 51; email: As we explained in AD 2016–09–07,
14 CFR Part 39 account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; the European Aviation Safety Agency
[Docket No. FAA–2016–6900; Directorate Internet: http://www.airbus.com. You (EASA), which is the Technical Agent
Identifier 2016–NM–064–AD; Amendment may view this referenced service for the Member States of the European
39–18559; AD 2016–12–10] information at the FAA, Transport Union, issued EASA Airworthiness
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue Directive 2015–0205, dated October 9,
RIN 2120–AA64
SW., Renton, WA. For information on 2015 (referred to after this as the
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus the availability of this material at the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness
Airplanes FAA, call 425–227–1221. It is also Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct
available on the Internet at http:// an unsafe condition for all Airbus
AGENCY: Federal Aviation www.regulations.gov by searching for Model A318, A319, A320, and A321
Administration (FAA), Department of and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– series airplanes. The MCAI states:
Transportation (DOT). 6900.
ACTION: Final rule; request for Occurrences were reported on A320 family
comments. Examining the AD Docket aeroplanes of airspeed indication
You may examine the AD docket on discrepancies while flying at high altitudes
SUMMARY: We are superseding the Internet at http:// in inclement weather conditions.
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016–09– www.regulations.gov by searching for Investigation results indicated that A320
07 for all Airbus Model A318, A319, and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– aeroplanes equipped with Thales Avionics
A320, and A321 series airplanes. AD Part Number (P/N) 50620–10 or P/N
6900; or in person at the Docket
2016–09–07 required replacing certain C16195AA pitot probes appear to have a
Management Facility between 9 a.m.
pitot probes on the captain, first officer, greater susceptibility to adverse
and 5 p.m., proposed AD, the regulatory environmental conditions than aeroplanes
and standby sides. This new AD retains evaluation, any comments received, and
those requirements, but with a revised equipped with certain other pitot probes.
other information. The street address for Prompted by earlier occurrences, DGAC
compliance time. Since we issued AD the Docket Operations office (telephone
2016–09–07, we received additional [Direction Générale de l’Aviation Civile]
800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES France issued [DGAC] AD 2001–362 [http://
reports of airspeed indication section. Comments will be available in
discrepancies during flight at high ad.easa.europa.eu/ad/F-2001-362] [which
the AD docket shortly after receipt. corresponds to paragraph (f) of FAA AD
altitudes in inclement weather. We are
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 2004–03–33, Amendment 39–13477 (69 FR
issuing this AD to prevent airspeed
Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, 9936, March 3, 2004)] to require replacement
indication discrepancies caused by of Thales (formerly known as Sextant) P/N
accumulation of ice crystals during International Branch, ANM–116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 50620–10 pitot probes with Thales P/N
inclement weather, which, depending C16195AA probes.
on the prevailing altitude, could lead to 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA
98057–3356; telephone: 425–227–1405; Since that [DGAC] AD was issued, Thales
reduced controllability of the airplane. pitot probe P/N C15195BA was designed,
fax: 425–227–1149.
DATES: This AD is effective June 29, which improved airspeed indication
2016. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
behavior in heavy rain conditions, but did
The Director of the Federal Register Discussion not demonstrate the same level of robustness
approved the incorporation by reference to withstand high-altitude ice crystals. Based
of certain publications listed in this AD On April 20, 2016, we issued AD on these findings, EASA decided to
as of June 10, 2016 (81 FR 27298, May 2016–09–07, Amendment 39–18505 (81 implement replacement of the affected
6, 2016). FR 27298, May 6, 2016) (‘‘AD 2016–09– Thales [pitot] probes as a precautionary
We must receive comments on this 07’’), for all Airbus Model A318, A319, measure to improve the safety level of the
AD by July 29, 2016. A320, and A321 series airplanes. AD affected aeroplanes.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
2016–09–07 was prompted by reports of Consequently, EASA issued AD 2014–0237
using the procedures found in 14 CFR airspeed indication discrepancies (later revised) [http://ad.easa.europa.eu/
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following during flight at high altitudes in blob/easa_ad_2014_0237.pdf/AD_2014-
methods: inclement weather. AD 2016–09–07 0237], retaining the requirements of DGAC
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to required replacing certain pitot probes France AD 2001–362, which was superseded,
on the captain, first officer, and standby and cancelling two other [DGAC] ADs, to
http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
sides with certain new pitot probes. We require replacement of Thales Avionics pitot
instructions for submitting comments.
issued AD 2016–09–07 to prevent probes P/N C16195AA and P/N C16195BA.
• Fax: 202–493–2251.
Since EASA AD 2014–0237R1 [http://
• Mail: U.S. Department of airspeed indication discrepancies
caused by accumulation of ice crystals ad.easa.europa.eu/ad/2014-0237R1] was
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
during inclement weather, which, issued, results of further analyses have
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room determined that the compliance time (48
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., depending on the prevailing altitude,
months) of that AD has to be reduced in
Washington, DC 20590. could lead to reduced controllability of
relation to the risk assessment.
• Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of the airplane. For the reasons described above, this
Transportation, Docket Operations, M– Since we issued AD 2016–09–07, we [EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA
sradovich on DSK3TPTVN1PROD with RULES
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room have received additional reports of AD 2014–0237R1, which is superseded, but
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., airspeed indication discrepancies reduces the compliance time [24 months].
Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 during flight at high altitudes in
p.m., Monday through Friday, except inclement weather. Certain pitot probes You may examine the MCAI on the
Federal holidays. are susceptible to adverse Internet at http://www.regulations.gov
For service information identified in environmental conditions and have a by searching for and locating Docket No.
this final rule, contact Airbus, high tendency to accumulate ice crystals FAA–2016–6900.
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![Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 114 / Tuesday, June 14, 2016 / Rules and Regulations 38579
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 (g) Pitot Probe Replacement (xiii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
On or before November 12, 2016: Replace 1170, Revision 16, dated November 23, 2006.
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation any Thales pitot probe having part number (xiv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
safety, Incorporation by reference, (P/N) C16195AA or P/N C16195BA with a 1170, Revision 17, dated February 14, 2007.
Safety. Goodrich pitot probe having P/N 0851HL, in (xv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
accordance with the Accomplishment 1170, Revision 18, dated October 9, 2009.
Adoption of the Amendment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320– (xvi) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
34–1170, Revision 30, dated June 18, 2015. 1170, Revision 19, dated November 9, 2009.
Accordingly, under the authority The replacement in this paragraph terminates (xvii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
delegated to me by the Administrator, the requirements of paragraph (f) of AD 1170, Revision 20, dated December 1, 2010.
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as 2004–03–33 for that airplane only. (xviii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
follows: 1170, Revision 21, dated March 24, 2011.
(h) Other Acceptable Compliance (xix) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS (1) Replacement of the pitot probes in 1170, Revision 22, dated July 19, 2011.
DIRECTIVES accordance with the Accomplishment (xx) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
Instructions of both Airbus Service Bulletin 1170, Revision 23, dated February 3, 2012.
A320–34–1456, Revision 01, dated May 15, (xxi) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 2012 (pitot probes on the captain and 1170, Revision 24, dated April 12, 2012.
continues to read as follows: standby sides); and Airbus Service Bulletin (xxii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. A320–34–1463, Revision 01, dated May 15, 1170, Revision 25, dated September 4, 2012.
2012 (pitot probes on the first officer side); (xxiii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
§ 39.13 [Amended] is an acceptable method of compliance for 1170, Revision 26, dated September 16, 2013.
the requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD. (xxiv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by (2) Airplanes on which Airbus 1170, Revision 27, dated March 18, 2014.
removing airworthiness directive (AD) Modification 25578 was embodied in (xxv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
2016–09–07, Amendment 39–18505 (81 production, except for post-modification 1170, Revision 28, dated September 1, 2014.
FR 27298, May 6, 2016), and adding the 25578 airplanes on which Airbus (xxvi) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
following new AD: Modification 155737 (installation of Thales 1170, Revision 29, dated February 16, 2015.
pitot probes) was also embodied in (2) This paragraph provides credit for the
2016–12–10 Airbus: Amendment 39–18559. production, are compliant with the replacement of pitot probes on the captain
Docket No. FAA–2016–6900; Directorate requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD, and standby sides specified in paragraph
Identifier 2016–NM–064–AD. provided it can be conclusively determined (h)(1) of this AD, if the replacement was
that no Thales pitot probe having P/N
(a) Effective Date performed before June 10, 2016 (the effective
C16195AA, P/N C16195BA, or P/N 50620–10
This AD is effective June 29, 2016. date of AD 2016–09–07), using Airbus
has been installed since the date of issuance
Service Bulletin A320–34–1456, dated
(b) Affected ADs of the original certificate of airworthiness or
December 2, 2009, which is not incorporated
the date of issuance of the original export
(1) This AD replaces AD 2016–09–07, certificate of airworthiness. Post- by reference in this AD.
Amendment 39–18505 (81 FR 27298, May 6, modification-25578 airplanes on which (3) This paragraph provides credit for the
2016) (‘‘AD 2016–09–07’’). Airbus Modification 155737 (installation of replacement of pitot probes on the first
(2) This AD affects AD 2004–03–33, Thales pitot probes) was also embodied in officer side as specified in paragraph (h)(1) of
Amendment 39–13477 (69 FR 9936, March 3, production must be in compliance with the this AD, if those actions were performed
2004) (‘‘AD 2004–03–33’’). requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD. before June 10, 2016 (the effective date of AD
2016–09–07), using Airbus Service Bulletin
(c) Applicability (i) Credit for Previous Actions A320–34–1463, dated March 9, 2010, which
This AD applies to the airplanes identified (1) This paragraph provides credit for the is not incorporated by reference in this AD.
in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), and (c)(4) actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD, (j) Parts Installation Limitations
of this AD, certificated in any category, all if those actions were performed before June
manufacturer serial numbers. 10, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2016–09– (1) At the applicable time specified in
(1) Airbus Model A318–111, –112, –121, 07), using service information identified in paragraph (j)(1)(i) or (j)(1)(ii) of this AD: No
and –122 airplanes. paragraphs (i)(1)(i) through (i)(1)(xxvi) of this person may install on any airplane a Thales
(2) Airbus Model A319–111, –112, –113, AD. This service information is not pitot probe having P/N C16195AA or P/N
–114, –115, –131, –132, and –133 airplanes. incorporated by reference in this AD. C16195BA.
(3) Airbus Model A320–211, –212, –214, (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–1170, (i) For airplanes with a Thales pitot probe
–231, –232, and –233 airplanes. Revision 04, dated May 24, 2000. having P/N C16195AA or P/N C16195BA
(4) Airbus Model A321–111, –112, –131, (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–1170, installed: After replacement with BF
–211, –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes. Revision 05, dated September 11, 2000. Goodrich pitot probe P/N 0851HL.
(iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– (ii) For airplanes without a Thales pitot
(d) Subject 1170, Revision 06, dated October 18, 2001. probe having P/N C16195AA or P/N
Air Transport Association (ATA) of (iv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– C16195BA installed: As of June 10, 2016 (the
America Code 34, Navigation. 1170, Revision 07, dated December 4, 2001. effective date of AD 2016–09–07).
(v) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–1170, (2) As of June 10, 2016 (the effective date
(e) Reason Revision 08, dated January 15, 2003. of AD 2016–09–07), no person may install on
This AD was prompted by reports of (vi) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– any airplane a Thales pitot probe having
airspeed indication discrepancies during 1170, Revision 09, dated February 17, 2003. P/N 50620–10.
flight at high altitudes in inclement weather. (vii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–
(k) Other FAA AD Provisions
We are issuing this AD to prevent airspeed 1170, Revision 10, dated November 21, 2003.
indication discrepancies caused by (viii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– The following provisions also apply to this
accumulation of ice crystals during 1170, Revision 11, dated August 18, 2004. AD:
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inclement weather, which, depending on the (ix) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
prevailing altitude, could lead to reduced 1170, Revision 12, dated December 2, 2004. (AMOCs): The Manager, International
controllability of the airplane. (x) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–1170, Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane
Revision 13, dated January 18, 2005. Directorate, FAA, has the authority to
(f) Compliance (xi) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
Comply with this AD within the 1170, Revision 14, dated April 21, 2005. using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
compliance times specified, unless already (xii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your
done. 1170, Revision 15, dated July 19, 2005. request to your principal inspector or local
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![38580 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 114 / Tuesday, June 14, 2016 / Rules and Regulations
Flight Standards District Office, as (4) For service information identified in also available for inspection at the
appropriate. If sending information directly this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness National Archives and Records
to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Administration (NARA). For
Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France;
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61
information on the availability of FAA
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind 93 44 51; email: account.airworth-eas@ Order 7400.9Z at NARA, call (202) 741–
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; airbus.com; Internet: http://www.airbus.com. 6030, or go to http://www.archives.gov/
telephone: 425–227–1405; fax: 425–227– (5) You may view this service information federal_register/code_of_federal-
1149. Information may be emailed to: 9- at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, regulations/ibr_locations.html.
ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For FAA Order 7400.9, Airspace
Before using any approved AMOC, notify information on the availability of this
your appropriate principal inspector, or
Designations and Reporting Points, is
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of (6) You may view this service information published yearly and effective on
the local flight standards district office/ that is incorporated by reference at the September 15.
certificate holding district office. The AMOC National Archives and Records FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Paul
approval letter must specifically reference Administration (NARA). For information on
this AD.
Gallant, Airspace Policy Group, Office
the availability of this material at NARA, call
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any of Airspace Services, Federal Aviation
202–741–6030, or go to: http://
requirement in this AD to obtain corrective www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- Administration, 800 Independence
actions from a manufacturer, the action must locations.html. Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591;
be accomplished using a method approved telephone: (202) 267–8783.
by the Manager, International Branch, ANM– Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 2,
2016. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or
the European Aviation Safety Agency Michael Kaszycki, Authority for This Rulemaking
(EASA); or Airbus’s EASA Design Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. The FAA’s authority to issue rules
the DOA, the approval must include the [FR Doc. 2016–13857 Filed 6–13–16; 8:45 am] regarding aviation safety is found in
DOA-authorized signature. Title 49 of the United States Code.
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any Subtitle I, Section 106 describes the
service information contains procedures or
authority of the FAA Administrator.
tests that are identified as RC, those
procedures and tests must be done to comply DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs,
with this AD; any procedures or tests that are describes in more detail the scope of the
not identified as RC are recommended. Those Federal Aviation Administration agency’s authority. This rulemaking is
procedures and tests that are not identified promulgated under the authority
as RC may be deviated from using accepted 14 CFR Part 71 described in Subtitle VII, Part A,
methods in accordance with the operator’s Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that
maintenance or inspection program without [Docket No. FAA–2016–5573; Airspace
Docket No. 16–ASO–7] section, the FAA is charged with
obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided
prescribing regulations to assign the use
the procedures and tests identified as RC can RIN 2120–AA66
be done and the airplane can be put back in of the airspace necessary to ensure the
an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or safety of aircraft and the efficient use of
Modification of VOR Federal Airway
changes to procedures or tests identified as airspace. This regulation is within the
V–552; Mississippi
RC require approval of an AMOC. scope of that authority as it modifies the
(l) Related Information AGENCY: Federal Aviation air traffic service route.
Administration (FAA), DOT.
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing History
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA ACTION: Final rule.
Airworthiness Directive 2015–0205, dated VOR Federal airway V–552 extends
SUMMARY: This action modifies VOR between Beaumont, TX, and
October 9, 2015, for related information. This
MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Federal airway V–552 by amending the Monroeville, AL. In that segment of the
Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by route description to exclude the airway between the Picayune, MS, VOR/
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA– airspace within restricted area R–4403F, DME and the CAESA, MS, navigation
2016–6900. Stennis Space Center, MS, during fix, restricted area R–4403F infringes on
(2) Service information identified in this periods when the restricted area is in the 4 nautical mile (NM) wide protected
AD that is not incorporated by reference is use.
available at the addresses specified in
airspace on the south side of the airway.
paragraphs (m)(4) and (m)(5) of this AD. DATES: Effective date 0901 UTC, The northernmost point of R–4403F is
September 15, 2016. The Director of the approximately 3.73 NM from the
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference Federal Register approves this centerline of the airway instead of the
(1) The Director of the Federal Register incorporation by reference action under required 4 NM clearance. R–4403F is
approved the incorporation by reference Title 1, Code of Federal Regulations, subject to intermittent use by Notice to
(IBR) of the service information listed in this part 51, subject to the annual revision of Airmen (NOTAM) issued at least 24
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
FAA, Order 7400.9 and publication of hours in advance. This action amends
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information conforming amendments. the V–552 airway description to exclude
as applicable to do the actions required by ADDRESSES: FAA Order 7400.9Z, the airspace in R–4403F from the airway
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. Airspace Designations and Reporting while the restricted area is activated.
(3) The following service information was Points, and subsequent amendments can VOR Federal airways are published in
sradovich on DSK3TPTVN1PROD with RULES
approved for IBR on June 10, 2016 (81 FR be viewed online at http://www.faa.gov/ paragraph 6010(a) of FAA Order
27298). air_traffic/publications/. For further 7400.9Z dated August 6, 2015, and
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–1170,
Revision 30, dated June 18, 2015.
information, you can contact the effective September 15, 2015, which is
(ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34–1456, Airspace Policy Group, Federal Aviation incorporated by reference in 14 CFR
Revision 01, dated May 15, 2012. Administration, 800 Independence 71.1. The VOR Federal airway listed in
(iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–34– Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591; this document will be subsequently
1463, Revision 01, dated May 15, 2012. telephone: (202) 267–8783. The Order is amended in the Order.
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Document Created: 2016-06-14 02:59:04
Document Modified: 2016-06-14 02:59:04
| 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; request for comments. | |
| Dates | This AD is effective June 29, 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 38577 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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