81 FR 4901 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 18 (January 28, 2016)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 18 (January 28, 2016)
| Page Range | 4901-4903 | |
| FR Document | 2016-01580 |
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 18 (Thursday, January 28, 2016)] [Proposed Rules] [Pages 4901-4903] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2016-01580] [[Page 4901]] ======================================================================= ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2016-0461; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-159-AD] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a report that a main landing gear (MLG) door could not be closed due to rupture of the actuator fitting. Later reports indicated that the forward monoblock fitting of the MLG door actuator (referred to as the nerve area) could be damaged after rupture of the actuator fitting. This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections of the MLG door actuator fitting and its components for cracking, and corrective actions if necessary. This proposed AD would also require eventual replacement of all affected MLG door actuator fittings with new monoblock fittings, which would terminate the repetitive inspections. We are proposing this AD to prevent rupture of the door actuator fittings, which could result in detachment of an MLG door and subsequent exterior damage and consequent reduced structural integrity of the airplane. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by March 14, 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 proposed 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 account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; 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. 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- 0461; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket 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: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2016-0461; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-159-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed AD based on those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. Discussion The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014-0166, dated July 16, 2014 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. The MCAI states: On one A320 aeroplane, it was reported that one of the main landing gear (MLG) doors could not be closed. Investigations revealed the rupture of the actuator fitting at the actuator attachment area on the door side. The MLG door is attached to the aeroplane by 2 hinge fittings. This condition, if not corrected, could, under certain circumstances, lead to detachment of a MLG door from the aeroplane, possibly resulting in damage to the aeroplane, and/or injury to persons on the ground. Prompted by these findings, [Direction G[eacute]n[eacute]rale de l'Aviation Civile] France issued * * * [an AD] * * *, to require a MLG door actuator fitting inspection for cracks and to check the grain direction on a batch of aeroplanes. Subsequently, DGAC France issued * * * [an AD], retaining the requirements of DGAC France AD * * *, which was superseded, to require an inspection of the lower part of the MLG door actuator fitting. After that [DGAC] AD was issued, additional investigations revealed that damage could also appear on the nerve area [of the forward monoblock fitting], in the upper part of the MLG door actuator fitting in the area of the hinge. Consequently, DGAC France issued F2003-434, dated December 10, 2003 [http://ad.easa.europa.eu/ad/F-2003-454] (EASA approval 2003- 1436), retaining the requirements of [a] DGAC France AD * * *, which was superseded, to require additional repetitive inspections. That [DGAC] AD also included an optional terminating action, by replacing the MLG door actuator fittings in accordance with the instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin (SB) A320-52-1073. Since that [DGAC] AD was issued, in the framework of the extended service goal campaign, it has been decided to make replacement of the MLG door actuator fittings a required modification. For the reasons described above, this AD retains the requirements of DGAC France AD F-2003-434, which is superseded, and requires replacement of the MLG door actuator fittings with new monoblock fittings, which constitutes terminating action for the repetitive inspections. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016- 0461. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Airbus has issued Service Bulletins A320-52-1073, Revision 05, dated September 28, 2006; A320-52A1086, Revision 01, dated September 10, 1999; and A320-52-1096, Revision 02, dated July 12, 2006. This service information describes procedures for inspections of [[Page 4902]] the MLG door actuator fitting and its components for cracking, and corrective actions if necessary. This service information also describes procedures for replacement of all affected MLG door actuator fittings with new monoblock fittings. 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 Proposed 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 proposing this AD because we evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of these same type designs. Difference Between Proposed AD and Service Information Unlike the procedures described in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52- 1096, Revision 02, dated July 12, 2006, this proposed AD would not permit further flight if cracks are detected in the MLG door actuator fittings. We have determined that, because of the safety implications and consequences associated with that cracking, any cracked MLG door actuator fittings must be repaired or modified before further flight. This difference has been coordinated with the EASA. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 71 airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would take about 38 work-hours per product to comply with the inspection requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost for the inspection specified in this proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $229,330, or $3,230 per product. We estimate that it would take about 98 work-hours per product to comply with the MLG actuator replacement requirements of this proposed AD. Required parts would cost about $6,258 per product. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost for the actuator replacement specified in this proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $1,035,748, or $14,588 per product. Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority. We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in ``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed regulation: 1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and 4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 0 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. Sec. 39.13 [Amended] 0 2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): Airbus: Docket No. FAA-2016-0461; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM- 159-AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by March 14, 2016. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes, certificated in any category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), and (c)(3) of this AD, all manufacturer serial numbers. (1) Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, and -133 airplanes. (2) Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes. (3) Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 52, Doors. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by a report that a main landing gear (MLG) door could not be closed due to rupture of the actuator fitting. Later reports indicated that the forward monoblock fitting of the MLG door actuator (referred to as the nerve area) could be damaged after rupture of the actuator fitting. We are issuing this AD to prevent rupture of the door actuator fittings, which could result in detachment of an MLG door and subsequent exterior damage and consequent reduced structural integrity of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Repetitive Inspections of MLG Door Actuator Fittings For airplanes equipped with MLG door actuator fittings having part number (P/N) D52880224 000/001 that were installed before the first flight of the airplane on MLG doors identified in paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD, as applicable: Within 500 flight hours since the most recent high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection done as specified in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52A1086, Revision 01, dated September 10, 1999, or within 30 days after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later, perform an HFEC inspection for cracking of the MLG door fittings, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52A1086, Revision 01, dated September 10, 1999. Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 500 flight hours, except as provided by paragraph (i)(1) of this AD. (1) Left-hand MLG doors with S/Ns 1206 through 1237 inclusive, 1239 through 1247 inclusive, and 1249 through 1251 inclusive. [[Page 4903]] (2) Right-hand MLG doors with S/Ns 1208 through 1239 inclusive, 1241 through 1249 inclusive, and 1251. (h) Repetitive Inspections of MLG Hinge and Nerve Areas For airplanes equipped with MLG door actuator fittings having P/ N D52880224 000/001 or D52880235 000/001: Within 400 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD, or before the accumulation of 9,000 total flight cycles since first flight of the airplane, whichever occurs later, perform an HFEC inspection of both hinge and nerve areas of the MLG doors for cracking, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1096, Revision 02, dated July 12, 2006. Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 800 flight cycles. (i) Inspections/Corrective Actions (1) If any cracking is found during any inspection required by paragraph (g) or (h) of this AD: Before further flight, replace the affected MLG door actuator fittings with new monoblock fittings, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1073, Revision 05, dated September 28, 2006. Accomplishing this replacement terminates the repetitive inspections required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD. (2) If, during any HFEC inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no cracking is found: At the time specified in paragraph (g) of this AD, perform a low frequency eddy current (LFEC) inspection to determine the grain direction of the raw material of each MLG actuator fitting, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52A1086, Revision 01, dated September 10, 1999. (i) If the grain direction of the raw material is correct, the repetitive inspections required by paragraph (g) of this AD may be terminated. (ii) If the grain direction of the raw material is incorrect, repeat the HFEC inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD at the time specified in paragraph (g) of this AD. Replacement of the MLG door actuator fittings with new monoblock fittings as specified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD, terminates the repetitive inspections required by paragraphs (g) and (i) of this AD. (j) MLG Door Actuator Fitting Replacement For airplanes equipped with any MLG door actuator fitting having P/N D52880102000 and P/N D52880102001, or P/N D52880220000 and P/N D52880220001, or P/N D52880224000 and P/N D52880224001, or P/N D52880235000 and P/N D52880235001: At the later of the times specified in paragraphs (j)(1) and (j)(2) of this AD, replace the MLG door actuator fittings with new monoblock fittings, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1073, Revision 05, dated September 28, 2006. Accomplishing this replacement terminates the repetitive inspections required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD. (1) Before the accumulation of 48,000 total flight cycles or 96,000 total flight hours, whichever occurs later since the first flight of the airplane; or (2) Within 30 days after the effective date of this AD. (k) Optional Terminating Action Replacement of the MLG door actuator fittings with new monoblock fittings, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1073, Revision 05, dated September 28, 2006, terminates the repetitive inspections required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD. (l) Airplanes Excluded From AD Requirements For airplanes on which Airbus Modification 24903, 25372, or 36979 has been embodied in production, no action is required by this AD, provided that no MLG door actuator fitting having any part number identified in paragraph (j) of this AD has been reinstalled on the airplane since first flight. (m) Parts Installation Limitation As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install a MLG door actuator fitting having any part number identified in paragraph (j) of this AD on any airplane. (n) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057- 3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. 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. (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. (o) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) European Aviation Safety Agency Airworthiness Directive 2014- 0166, dated July 16, 2014, 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-2016-0461. (2) 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 account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Internet http://www.airbus.com. 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. Issued in Renton, Washington, on January 20, 2016. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2016-01580 Filed 1-27-16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
![Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 18 / Thursday, January 28, 2016 / Proposed Rules 4901
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Airworthiness Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness
Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct
Federal Aviation Administration Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 an unsafe condition for all Airbus
96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email Model A319, A320, and A321 series
14 CFR Part 39 account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; airplanes. The MCAI states:
[Docket No. FAA–2016–0461; Directorate Internet http://www.airbus.com. You On one A320 aeroplane, it was reported
Identifier 2014–NM–159–AD] may view this referenced service that one of the main landing gear (MLG)
information at the FAA, Transport doors could not be closed. Investigations
RIN 2120–AA64 Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue revealed the rupture of the actuator fitting at
SW., Renton, WA. For information on the actuator attachment area on the door side.
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus the availability of this material at the The MLG door is attached to the aeroplane
Airplanes FAA, call 425–227–1221. by 2 hinge fittings.
This condition, if not corrected, could,
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Examining the AD Docket under certain circumstances, lead to
Administration (FAA), DOT. detachment of a MLG door from the
You may examine the AD docket on
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking aeroplane, possibly resulting in damage to
the Internet at http://
(NPRM). www.regulations.gov by searching for
the aeroplane, and/or injury to persons on
the ground.
SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– Prompted by these findings, [Direction
airworthiness directive (AD) for all 0461; or in person at the Docket Générale de l’Aviation Civile] France issued
Airbus Model A319, A320, and A321 Management Facility between 9 a.m. * * * [an AD] * * *, to require a MLG door
series airplanes. This proposed AD was and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, actuator fitting inspection for cracks and to
prompted by a report that a main except Federal holidays. The AD docket check the grain direction on a batch of
contains this proposed AD, the aeroplanes.
landing gear (MLG) door could not be Subsequently, DGAC France issued * * *
closed due to rupture of the actuator regulatory evaluation, any comments
received, and other information. The [an AD], retaining the requirements of DGAC
fitting. Later reports indicated that the France AD * * *, which was superseded, to
forward monoblock fitting of the MLG street address for the Docket Operations
require an inspection of the lower part of the
door actuator (referred to as the nerve office (telephone 800–647–5527) is in MLG door actuator fitting.
area) could be damaged after rupture of the ADDRESSES section. Comments will After that [DGAC] AD was issued,
the actuator fitting. This proposed AD be available in the AD docket shortly additional investigations revealed that
would require repetitive inspections of after receipt. damage could also appear on the nerve area
the MLG door actuator fitting and its FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: [of the forward monoblock fitting], in the
Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, upper part of the MLG door actuator fitting
components for cracking, and corrective in the area of the hinge.
actions if necessary. This proposed AD International Branch, ANM–116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, Consequently, DGAC France issued F2003–
would also require eventual 434, dated December 10, 2003 [http://
replacement of all affected MLG door 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA ad.easa.europa.eu/ad/F–2003–454] (EASA
actuator fittings with new monoblock 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1405; approval 2003–1436), retaining the
fittings, which would terminate the fax 425–227–1149. requirements of [a] DGAC France AD * * *,
repetitive inspections. We are proposing SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: which was superseded, to require additional
this AD to prevent rupture of the door repetitive inspections. That [DGAC] AD also
Comments Invited included an optional terminating action, by
actuator fittings, which could result in
detachment of an MLG door and We invite you to send any written replacing the MLG door actuator fittings in
relevant data, views, or arguments about accordance with the instructions of Airbus
subsequent exterior damage and Service Bulletin (SB) A320–52–1073.
consequent reduced structural integrity this proposed AD. Send your comments
to an address listed under the Since that [DGAC] AD was issued, in the
of the airplane. framework of the extended service goal
ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No.
DATES: We must receive comments on campaign, it has been decided to make
FAA–2016–0461; Directorate Identifier replacement of the MLG door actuator fittings
this proposed AD by March 14, 2016. 2014–NM–159–AD’’ at the beginning of a required modification.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments, your comments. We specifically invite For the reasons described above, this AD
using the procedures found in 14 CFR comments on the overall regulatory, retains the requirements of DGAC France AD
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following economic, environmental, and energy F–2003–434, which is superseded, and
methods: aspects of this proposed AD. We will requires replacement of the MLG door
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to consider all comments received by the actuator fittings with new monoblock fittings,
http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the closing date and may amend this which constitutes terminating action for the
instructions for submitting comments. repetitive inspections.
proposed AD based on those comments.
• Fax: 202–493–2251. We will post all comments we You may examine the MCAI in the
• Mail: U.S. Department of receive, without change, to http:// AD docket on the Internet at http://
Transportation, Docket Operations, M– www.regulations.gov, including any www.regulations.gov by searching for
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room personal information you provide. We and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., will also post a report summarizing each 0461.
Washington, DC 20590. substantive verbal contact we receive
• Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Related Service Information Under 1
about this proposed AD.
CFR Part 51
wgreen on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room Discussion Airbus has issued Service Bulletins
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., The European Aviation Safety Agency A320–52–1073, Revision 05, dated
Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 (EASA), which is the Technical Agent September 28, 2006; A320–52A1086,
p.m., Monday through Friday, except for the Member States of the European Revision 01, dated September 10, 1999;
Federal holidays. Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness and A320–52–1096, Revision 02, dated
For service information identified in Directive 2014–0166, dated July 16, July 12, 2006. This service information
this proposed AD, contact Airbus, 2014 (referred to after this as the describes procedures for inspections of
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![4902 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 18 / Thursday, January 28, 2016 / Proposed Rules
the MLG door actuator fitting and its Authority for This Rulemaking § 39.13 [Amended]
components for cracking, and corrective Title 49 of the United States Code ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
actions if necessary. This service specifies the FAA’s authority to issue the following new airworthiness
information also describes procedures rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, directive (AD):
for replacement of all affected MLG door
section 106, describes the authority of Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2016–0461;
actuator fittings with new monoblock
the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: Directorate Identifier 2014–NM–159–AD.
fittings. This service information is
Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more
reasonably available because the (a) Comments Due Date
detail the scope of the Agency’s
interested parties have access to it We must receive comments by March 14,
authority.
through their normal course of business 2016.
We are issuing this rulemaking under
or by the means identified in the
the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII, (b) Affected ADs
ADDRESSES section.
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: None.
FAA’s Determination and Requirements General requirements.’’ Under that
of This Proposed AD section, Congress charges the FAA with (c) Applicability
This product has been approved by promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes,
air commerce by prescribing regulations certificated in any category, identified in
the aviation authority of another
for practices, methods, and procedures paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), and (c)(3) of this AD,
country, and is approved for operation all manufacturer serial numbers.
in the United States. Pursuant to our the Administrator finds necessary for
safety in air commerce. This regulation (1) Model A319–111, –112, –113, –114,
bilateral agreement with the State of –115, –131, –132, and –133 airplanes.
Design Authority, we have been notified is within the scope of that authority (2) Model A320–211, –212, –214, –231,
of the unsafe condition described in the because it addresses an unsafe condition –232, and –233 airplanes.
MCAI and service information that is likely to exist or develop on (3) Model A321–111, –112, –131, –211,
referenced above. We are proposing this products identified in this rulemaking –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes.
AD because we evaluated all pertinent action.
(d) Subject
information and determined an unsafe Regulatory Findings Air Transport Association (ATA) of
condition exists and is likely to exist or America Code 52, Doors.
develop on other products of these same We determined that this proposed AD
type designs. would not have federalism implications (e) Reason
under Executive Order 13132. This This AD was prompted by a report that a
Difference Between Proposed AD and proposed AD would not have a main landing gear (MLG) door could not be
Service Information substantial direct effect on the States, on closed due to rupture of the actuator fitting.
Unlike the procedures described in the relationship between the national Later reports indicated that the forward
Airbus Service Bulletin A320–52–1096, Government and the States, or on the monoblock fitting of the MLG door actuator
Revision 02, dated July 12, 2006, this distribution of power and (referred to as the nerve area) could be
responsibilities among the various damaged after rupture of the actuator fitting.
proposed AD would not permit further We are issuing this AD to prevent rupture of
flight if cracks are detected in the MLG levels of government.
the door actuator fittings, which could result
door actuator fittings. We have For the reasons discussed above, I in detachment of an MLG door and
determined that, because of the safety certify this proposed regulation: subsequent exterior damage and consequent
implications and consequences 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory reduced structural integrity of the airplane.
associated with that cracking, any action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
(f) Compliance
cracked MLG door actuator fittings must 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
be repaired or modified before further DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures Comply with this AD within the
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); compliance times specified, unless already
flight. This difference has been done.
coordinated with the EASA. 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
Alaska; and (g) Repetitive Inspections of MLG Door
Costs of Compliance 4. Will not have a significant Actuator Fittings
We estimate that this proposed AD economic impact, positive or negative, For airplanes equipped with MLG door
affects 71 airplanes of U.S. registry. on a substantial number of small entities actuator fittings having part number (P/N)
We also estimate that it would take under the criteria of the Regulatory D52880224 000/001 that were installed
about 38 work-hours per product to Flexibility Act. before the first flight of the airplane on MLG
comply with the inspection doors identified in paragraphs (g)(1) and
requirements of this proposed AD. The List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 (g)(2) of this AD, as applicable: Within 500
average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. flight hours since the most recent high
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection
Based on these figures, we estimate the safety, Incorporation by reference, done as specified in Airbus Service Bulletin
cost for the inspection specified in this Safety. A320–52A1086, Revision 01, dated
proposed AD on U.S. operators to be September 10, 1999, or within 30 days after
$229,330, or $3,230 per product. The Proposed Amendment
the effective date of this AD, whichever
We estimate that it would take about Accordingly, under the authority occurs later, perform an HFEC inspection for
98 work-hours per product to comply delegated to me by the Administrator, cracking of the MLG door fittings, in
with the MLG actuator replacement the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part accordance with the Accomplishment
wgreen on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
requirements of this proposed AD. 39 as follows: Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320–
Required parts would cost about $6,258 52A1086, Revision 01, dated September 10,
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS 1999. Repeat the inspection thereafter at
per product. The average labor rate is
DIRECTIVES intervals not to exceed 500 flight hours,
$85 per work-hour. Based on these except as provided by paragraph (i)(1) of this
figures, we estimate the cost for the AD.
actuator replacement specified in this ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
(1) Left-hand MLG doors with S/Ns 1206
proposed AD on U.S. operators to be continues to read as follows: through 1237 inclusive, 1239 through 1247
$1,035,748, or $14,588 per product. Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. inclusive, and 1249 through 1251 inclusive.
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![Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 18 / Thursday, January 28, 2016 / Proposed Rules 4903
(2) Right-hand MLG doors with S/Ns 1208 whichever occurs later since the first flight of http://www.regulations.gov by searching for
through 1239 inclusive, 1241 through 1249 the airplane; or and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–0461.
inclusive, and 1251. (2) Within 30 days after the effective date (2) For service information identified in
of this AD. this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness
(h) Repetitive Inspections of MLG Hinge and Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice
Nerve Areas (k) Optional Terminating Action Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France;
For airplanes equipped with MLG door Replacement of the MLG door actuator telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61
actuator fittings having P/N D52880224 000/ fittings with new monoblock fittings, in 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@
001 or D52880235 000/001: Within 400 flight accordance with the Accomplishment airbus.com; Internet http://www.airbus.com.
cycles after the effective date of this AD, or Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320– You may view this service information at the
before the accumulation of 9,000 total flight 52–1073, Revision 05, dated September 28, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601
cycles since first flight of the airplane, 2006, terminates the repetitive inspections Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For
whichever occurs later, perform an HFEC required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD. information on the availability of this
inspection of both hinge and nerve areas of material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
the MLG doors for cracking, in accordance (l) Airplanes Excluded From AD
Requirements Issued in Renton, Washington, on January
with the Accomplishment Instructions of 20, 2016.
Airbus Service Bulletin A320–52–1096, For airplanes on which Airbus
Revision 02, dated July 12, 2006. Repeat the Modification 24903, 25372, or 36979 has Michael Kaszycki,
inspection thereafter at intervals not to been embodied in production, no action is Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
exceed 800 flight cycles. required by this AD, provided that no MLG Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
door actuator fitting having any part number [FR Doc. 2016–01580 Filed 1–27–16; 8:45 am]
(i) Inspections/Corrective Actions identified in paragraph (j) of this AD has BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
(1) If any cracking is found during any been reinstalled on the airplane since first
inspection required by paragraph (g) or (h) of flight.
this AD: Before further flight, replace the
affected MLG door actuator fittings with new (m) Parts Installation Limitation DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
monoblock fittings, in accordance with the As of the effective date of this AD, no
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus person may install a MLG door actuator Federal Aviation Administration
Service Bulletin A320–52–1073, Revision 05, fitting having any part number identified in
dated September 28, 2006. Accomplishing paragraph (j) of this AD on any airplane. 14 CFR Part 71
this replacement terminates the repetitive
inspections required by paragraphs (g) and (n) Other FAA AD Provisions [Docket No. FAA–2015–3994; Airspace
(h) of this AD. The following provisions also apply to this Docket No. 15–ANM–23]
(2) If, during any HFEC inspection required AD:
by paragraph (g) of this AD, no cracking is (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance Proposed Establishment of Class E
found: At the time specified in paragraph (g) (AMOCs): The Manager, International Airspace, Shelton, WA
of this AD, perform a low frequency eddy Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane
current (LFEC) inspection to determine the Directorate, FAA, has the authority to AGENCY: Federal Aviation
grain direction of the raw material of each approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested Administration (FAA), DOT.
MLG actuator fitting, in accordance with the using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your (NPRM).
Service Bulletin A320–52A1086, Revision 01, request to your principal inspector or local
dated September 10, 1999. Flight Standards District Office, as SUMMARY: This action proposes to
(i) If the grain direction of the raw material appropriate. If sending information directly establish Class E airspace at Sanderson
is correct, the repetitive inspections required to the International Branch, send it to ATTN:
Field Airport, Shelton, WA, to
by paragraph (g) of this AD may be Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,
terminated. International Branch, ANM–116, Transport accommodate new Standard Instrument
(ii) If the grain direction of the raw material Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Approach Procedures developed at the
is incorrect, repeat the HFEC inspection Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; airport. Controlled airspace is necessary
required by paragraph (g) of this AD at the telephone 425–227–1405; fax 425–227–1149. for the safety and management of
time specified in paragraph (g) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116- Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) operations
Replacement of the MLG door actuator AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using at the airport.
fittings with new monoblock fittings as any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
DATES: Comments must be received on
specified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD, principal inspector, or lacking a principal
terminates the repetitive inspections required inspector, the manager of the local flight or before March 14, 2016.
by paragraphs (g) and (i) of this AD. standards district office/certificate holding ADDRESSES: Send comments on this
district office. proposal to the U.S. Department of
(j) MLG Door Actuator Fitting Replacement (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
For airplanes equipped with any MLG door requirement in this AD to obtain corrective 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
actuator fitting having P/N D52880102000 actions from a manufacturer, the action must W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
and P/N D52880102001, or P/N be accomplished using a method approved
D52880220000 and P/N D52880220001, or P/ Washington, DC 20590; telephone (202)
by the Manager, International Branch, ANM–
N D52880224000 and P/N D52880224001, or 116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or 366–9826. You must identify FAA
P/N D52880235000 and P/N D52880235001: the European Aviation Safety Agency Docket No. FAA–2015–3994; Airspace
At the later of the times specified in (EASA); or Airbus’s EASA Design Docket No. 15–ANM–23, at the
paragraphs (j)(1) and (j)(2) of this AD, replace Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by beginning of your comments. You may
the MLG door actuator fittings with new the DOA, the approval must include the also submit comments through the
wgreen on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
monoblock fittings, in accordance with the DOA-authorized signature. Internet at http://www.regulations.gov.
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus You may review the public docket
Service Bulletin A320–52–1073, Revision 05, (o) Related Information
containing the proposal, any comments
dated September 28, 2006. Accomplishing (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing
this replacement terminates the repetitive Airworthiness Information (MCAI) European received, and any final disposition in
inspections required by paragraphs (g) and Aviation Safety Agency Airworthiness person in the Dockets Office between
(h) of this AD. Directive 2014–0166, dated July 16, 2014, for 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday
(1) Before the accumulation of 48,000 total related information. This MCAI may be through Friday, except Federal holidays.
flight cycles or 96,000 total flight hours, found in the AD docket on the Internet at The Docket Office (telephone 1–800–
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Document Created: 2018-02-02 12:40:56
Document Modified: 2018-02-02 12:40:56
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Proposed Rules | |
| Action | Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). | |
| Dates | We must receive comments on this proposed AD by March 14, 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 4901 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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