81 FR 76848 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 214 (November 4, 2016)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 214 (November 4, 2016)
| Page Range | 76848-76851 | |
| FR Document | 2016-26629 |
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 214 (Friday, November 4, 2016)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 76848-76851] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2016-26629] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2016-9306; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-169-AD; Amendment 39-18707; AD 2016-22-18] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Boeing Company Model MD-90-30 airplanes. This AD requires a detailed inspection of the forward and aft surfaces on the left and right sides at the cant station 1520 bulkhead for any crack in the upper cap and (cap) doubler, webs and doublers, stiffeners, and the lower tee cap between longerons 3 through 11, and repairs if necessary. This AD was prompted by a report of cracking in various structures in the fuselage cant station 1520 bulkhead. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking in the bulkhead, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane. DATES: This AD is effective November 21, 2016. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of November 21, 2016. We must receive comments on this AD by December 19, 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: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this final rule, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-5600; telephone 562-797-1717; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.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-2016-9306. 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- 9306; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: George Garrido, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office [[Page 76849]] (ACO), 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712-4137; phone: 562- 627-5232; fax: 562-627-5210; email: [email protected]. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We have received a report indicating an operator found cracking of various structures in the fuselage cant station 1520 bulkhead on a Model MD-90-30 airplane. The cracks were in the upper left area of the bulkhead, between longerons 5 and 10, in the web, lower tee cap, and the upper cap and (cap) doubler. The affected airplane had accumulated 52,993 total flight hours and 28,718 total flight cycles. Boeing analysis determined that the operational and limit loads cannot duplicate this condition, and the root cause is suspected to be the result of a high load event based on service experience. Cracking of the bulkhead, if not detected and corrected, could result in the inability of the structure to sustain limit loads, and consequent reduced structural integrity of the airplane. We are issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these products. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90-53A037, dated September 19, 2016. The service information describes procedures for a detailed inspection of the forward and aft surfaces on the left and right sides at cant station 1520 bulkhead for any crack in the upper cap and (cap) doubler, webs and doublers, stiffeners, and the lower tee cap between longerons 3 through 11, and repairs. 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 We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design. AD Requirements This AD requires accomplishing the actions specified in the service information described previously, except as discussed under ``Differences Between this Proposed AD and the Service Information.'' For information on the procedures and compliance times, see this service information at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-9306. Differences Between This Proposed AD and the Service Information Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90-53A037, dated September 19, 2016, specifies to contact the manufacturer for certain instructions, but this AD would require accomplishment of repair methods, modification deviations, and alteration deviations in one of the following ways: In accordance with a method that we approve; or Using data that meet the certification basis of the airplane, and that have been approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) whom we have authorized to make those findings. 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 undetected cracking of the bulkhead may result in the inability of the structure to sustain limit loads, and consequent reduced structural integrity of the airplane. Therefore, we find that notice and opportunity for prior public comment are impracticable and that good cause exists for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days. Comments Invited This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for public comment. However, we invite you to send any written data, views, or arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number FAA-2016-9306 and Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-169-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 71 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 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Detailed inspection............ 2 work-hours x $85 per hour $0 $170 $12,070 = $170. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide cost estimates for the on-condition actions specified in this AD. 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 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 [[Page 76850]] 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 DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 0 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. Sec. 39.13 [Amended] 0 2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): 2016-22-18 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-18707; Docket No. FAA- 2016-9306; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-169-AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective November 21, 2016. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model MD-90-30 airplanes, certificated in any category. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a report of cracking in various structures in the fuselage cant station 1520 bulkhead. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking in the bulkhead, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Detailed Inspection of the Cant Station 1520 Bulkhead At the applicable time specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90-53A037, dated September 19, 2016, except as required by paragraph (j) of this AD: On the left and right sides at the cant station 1520 bulkhead, do a detailed inspection of the forward and aft surfaces, for any crack in the upper cap and (cap) doubler, webs and doublers, stiffeners, and the lower tee cap between longerons 3 through 11, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90-53A037, dated September 19, 2016. (h) Repair of Cracks in the Bulkhead Web or Doubler If any crack is found in the bulkhead web or doubler, do the repair in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90-53A037, dated September 19, 2016. Do all repairs before further flight. (i) Repair of Non-Web or Non-Doubler Cracks in the Bulkhead If any non-web or non-doubler crack is found in the bulkhead, repair before further flight using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (l) of this AD. (j) Service Information Exception Where paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90-53A037, dated September 19, 2016, specifies a compliance time ``after the original issue date of this service bulletin,'' this AD requires compliance within the specified compliance time after the effective date of this AD. (k) Special Flight Permit Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with sections 21.197 and 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199) to operate the airplane to a location where the airplane can be repaired, but if any crack is found as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90-53A037, dated September 19, 2016, concurrence by the Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, is required before issuance of the special flight permit. (l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Los Angeles ACO, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (m) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected]. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding district office. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles ACO, to make those findings. To be approved, the repair method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. (4) Except as required by paragraph (j) of this AD: For service information that contains steps that are labeled as Required for Compliance (RC), the provisions of paragraphs (l)(4)(i) and (l)(4)(ii) of this AD apply. (i) The steps labeled as RC, including substeps under an RC step and any figures identified in an RC step, must be done to comply with the AD. If a step or substep is labeled ``RC Exempt,'' then the RC requirement is removed from that step or substep. An AMOC is required for any deviations to RC steps, including substeps and identified figures. (ii) Steps not labeled 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 RC steps, including substeps and identified figures, can still be done as specified, and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. (m) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact George Garrido, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712-4137; phone: 562-627-5232; fax: 562-627-5210; email: [email protected]. (n) 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 the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90-53A037, dated September 19, 2016. (ii) Reserved. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740- 5600; telephone 562-797-1717; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. [[Page 76851]] Issued in Renton, Washington, on October 26, 2016. Dionne Palermo, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2016-26629 Filed 11-3-16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
![76848 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 214 / Friday, November 4, 2016 / Rules and Regulations
AD if done before November 4, 2016 (the (2) You must use this service information are issuing this AD to detect and correct
effective date of this AD), following Pilatus as applicable to do the actions required by cracking in the bulkhead, which could
PC–6 SB No. 53–003, dated October 4, 2016. this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. result in reduced structural integrity of
The dye-penetrant or eddy current inspection (i) Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. PC–6 Service
the airplane.
must still be done following Pilatus PC–6 SB Bulletin No. 53–003, Revision 1, dated
No. 53–003, Revision 1, dated October 13, October 13, 2016. DATES: This AD is effective November
2016. (ii) Reserved. 21, 2016.
(3) For Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. service The Director of the Federal Register
(h) Other FAA AD Provisions information identified in this AD, contact approved the incorporation by reference
The following provisions also apply to this Pilatus Aircraft Ltd., Customer Liaison of a certain publication listed in this AD
AD: Manager, CH–6371 STANS, Switzerland; as of November 21, 2016.
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance telephone: +41 41 619 3333; fax: +41 41 619
We must receive comments on this
(AMOCs): The Manager, Standards Office, 7311; Internet: http://www.pilatus-
aircraft.com. AD by December 19, 2016.
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs
for this AD, if requested using the procedures (4) You may view this service information ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to at the FAA, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, using the procedures found in 14 CFR
ATTN: Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, information on the availability of this methods:
Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. It • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
telephone: (816) 329–4059; fax: (816) 329– is also available on the Internet at http:// http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
4090; email: doug.rudolph@faa.gov. Before www.regulations.gov by searching for
locating Docket No. FAA–2016–9356.
instructions for submitting comments.
using any approved AMOC on any airplane
(5) You may view this service information • Fax: 202–493–2251.
to which the AMOC applies, notify your
appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the that is incorporated by reference at the • Mail: U.S. Department of
FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), National Archives and Records Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
or lacking a PI, your local FSDO. Administration (NARA). For information on 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
(2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement the availability of this material at NARA, call W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
in this AD to obtain corrective actions from 202–741–6030, or go to: http:// Washington, DC 20590.
a manufacturer or other source, use these www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail
actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective locations.html. address above between 9 a.m. and 5
actions are considered FAA-approved if they p.m., Monday through Friday, except
are approved by the State of Design Authority Issued in Kansas City, Missouri on October
27, 2016. Federal holidays.
(or their delegated agent). You are required
For service information identified in
to assure the product is airworthy before it Pat Mullen,
is returned to service. this final rule, contact Boeing
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate,
(3) Reporting Requirements: For any Commercial Airplanes, Attention:
Aircraft Certification Service.
reporting requirement in this AD, a federal Contractual & Data Services (C&DS),
[FR Doc. 2016–26431 Filed 11–3–16; 8:45 am]
agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110–SK57,
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
person is not required to respond to, nor Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600; telephone
shall a person be subject to a penalty for 562–797–1717; Internet https://
failure to comply with a collection of www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view
information subject to the requirements of DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
this referenced service information at
the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that
Federal Aviation Administration the FAA, Transport Airplane
collection of information displays a current
valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,
Control Number for this information 14 CFR Part 39 Renton, WA. For information on the
collection is 2120–0056. Public reporting for availability of this material at the FAA,
this collection of information is estimated to [Docket No. FAA–2016–9306; Directorate call 425–227–1221. It is also available
be approximately 5 minutes per response, Identifier 2016–NM–169–AD; Amendment on the Internet at http://
including the time for reviewing instructions, 39–18707; AD 2016–22–18]
www.regulations.gov by searching for
completing and reviewing the collection of RIN 2120–AA64 and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
information. All responses to this collection 9306.
of information are mandatory. Comments Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
concerning the accuracy of this burden and Company Airplanes Examining the AD Docket
suggestions for reducing the burden should
be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence AGENCY: Federal Aviation You may examine the AD docket on
Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: Administration (FAA), DOT. the Internet at http://
Information Collection Clearance Officer, www.regulations.gov by searching for
ACTION: Final rule; request for
AES–200. and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
comments.
9306; or in person at the Docket
(i) Related Information
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new Management Facility between 9 a.m.
Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
Agency (EASA) AD No. 2016–0202–E, dated airworthiness directive (AD) for all The
Boeing Company Model MD–90–30 except Federal holidays. The AD docket
October 7, 2016, and Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. PC–
6 Service Bulletin No. 53–003, dated October airplanes. This AD requires a detailed contains this AD, the regulatory
4, 2016. You may examine the MCAI on the inspection of the forward and aft evaluation, any comments received, and
Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by surfaces on the left and right sides at the other information. The street address for
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA– cant station 1520 bulkhead for any crack the Docket Office (phone: 800–647–
2016–9356. in the upper cap and (cap) doubler, 5527) is in the ADDRESSES section.
rmajette on DSK2TPTVN1PROD with RULES
(j) Material Incorporated by Reference webs and doublers, stiffeners, and the Comments will be available in the AD
lower tee cap between longerons 3 docket shortly after receipt.
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference through 11, and repairs if necessary. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
(IBR) of the service information listed in this This AD was prompted by a report of George Garrido, Aerospace Engineer,
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR cracking in various structures in the Airframe Branch, ANM–120L, FAA, Los
part 51. fuselage cant station 1520 bulkhead. We Angeles Aircraft Certification Office
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distribution of power and (g) Detailed Inspection of the Cant Station modification, or alteration required by this
responsibilities among the various 1520 Bulkhead AD if it is approved by the Boeing
levels of government. At the applicable time specified in Commercial Airplanes Organization
For the reasons discussed above, I paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Designation Authorization (ODA) that has
certify that this AD: Alert Service Bulletin MD90–53A037, dated been authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles
September 19, 2016, except as required by ACO, to make those findings. To be
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
paragraph (j) of this AD: On the left and right approved, the repair method, modification
action’’ under Executive Order 12866, deviation, or alteration deviation must meet
sides at the cant station 1520 bulkhead, do
(2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under a detailed inspection of the forward and aft the certification basis of the airplane, and the
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures surfaces, for any crack in the upper cap and approval must specifically refer to this AD.
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), (cap) doubler, webs and doublers, stiffeners, (4) Except as required by paragraph (j) of
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation and the lower tee cap between longerons 3 this AD: For service information that
in Alaska, and through 11, in accordance with the contains steps that are labeled as Required
(4) Will not have a significant Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert for Compliance (RC), the provisions of
economic impact, positive or negative, Service Bulletin MD90–53A037, dated paragraphs (l)(4)(i) and (l)(4)(ii) of this AD
on a substantial number of small entities September 19, 2016. apply.
under the criteria of the Regulatory (i) The steps labeled as RC, including
(h) Repair of Cracks in the Bulkhead Web or
Flexibility Act. substeps under an RC step and any figures
Doubler
identified in an RC step, must be done to
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 If any crack is found in the bulkhead web comply with the AD. If a step or substep is
or doubler, do the repair in accordance with labeled ‘‘RC Exempt,’’ then the RC
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90–53A037, requirement is removed from that step or
safety, Incorporation by reference, dated September 19, 2016. Do all repairs substep. An AMOC is required for any
Safety. before further flight. deviations to RC steps, including substeps
(i) Repair of Non-Web or Non-Doubler and identified figures.
Adoption of the Amendment
Cracks in the Bulkhead (ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be
Accordingly, under the authority deviated from using accepted methods in
If any non-web or non-doubler crack is
delegated to me by the Administrator, accordance with the operator’s maintenance
found in the bulkhead, repair before further or inspection program without obtaining
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as flight using a method approved in
follows: approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps,
accordance with the procedures specified in including substeps and identified figures, can
paragraph (l) of this AD. still be done as specified, and the airplane
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES (j) Service Information Exception can be put back in an airworthy condition.
Where paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of (m) Related Information
■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90–53A037,
For more information about this AD,
continues to read as follows: dated September 19, 2016, specifies a
contact George Garrido, Aerospace Engineer,
compliance time ‘‘after the original issue date
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. Airframe Branch, ANM–120L, FAA, Los
of this service bulletin,’’ this AD requires
Angeles Aircraft Certification Office (ACO),
§ 39.13 [Amended] compliance within the specified compliance
3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA
time after the effective date of this AD.
■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding 90712–4137; phone: 562–627–5232; fax: 562–
the following new airworthiness (k) Special Flight Permit 627–5210; email: george.garrido@faa.gov.
directive (AD): Special flight permits may be issued in (n) Material Incorporated by Reference
accordance with sections 21.197 and 21.199
2016–22–18 The Boeing Company: (1) The Director of the Federal Register
of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR
Amendment 39–18707; Docket No. approved the incorporation by reference
21.197 and 21.199) to operate the airplane to
FAA–2016–9306; Directorate Identifier (IBR) of the service information listed in this
a location where the airplane can be repaired,
2016–NM–169–AD. paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
but if any crack is found as identified in
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90–53A037, part 51.
(a) Effective Date
dated September 19, 2016, concurrence by (2) You must use this service information
This AD is effective November 21, 2016. as applicable to do the actions required by
the Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft
(b) Affected ADs Certification Office (ACO), FAA, is required this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
before issuance of the special flight permit. (i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin MD90–
None. 53A037, dated September 19, 2016.
(c) Applicability (l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (ii) Reserved.
(AMOCs) (3) For service information identified in
This AD applies to all The Boeing
(1) The Manager, Los Angeles ACO, FAA, this AD, contact Boeing Commercial
Company Model MD–90–30 airplanes,
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
certificated in any category.
AD, if requested using the procedures found Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd.,
(d) Subject in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600;
Air Transport Association (ATA) of 39.19, send your request to your principal telephone 562–797–1717; Internet https://
America Code 53, Fuselage. inspector or local Flight Standards District www.myboeingfleet.com.
Office, as appropriate. If sending information (4) You may view this service information
(e) Unsafe Condition directly to the manager of the ACO, send it at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
This AD was prompted by a report of to the attention of the person identified in 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For
cracking in various structures in the fuselage paragraph (m) of this AD. Information may be information on the availability of this
cant station 1520 bulkhead. We are issuing emailed to: 9-ANM-LAACO-AMOC- material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
this AD to detect and correct cracking in the Requests@faa.gov. (5) You may view this service information
rmajette on DSK2TPTVN1PROD with RULES
bulkhead, which could result in reduced (2) Before using any approved AMOC, that is incorporated by reference at the
structural integrity of the airplane. notify your appropriate principal inspector, National Archives and Records
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager Administration (NARA). For information on
(f) Compliance of the local flight standards district office/ the availability of this material at NARA, call
Comply with this AD within the certificate holding district office. 202–741–6030, or go to: http://
compliance times specified, unless already (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-
done. level of safety may be used for any repair, locations.html.
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![Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 214 / Friday, November 4, 2016 / Rules and Regulations 76851
Issued in Renton, Washington, on October 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740; Comments
26, 2016. telephone 562–797–1717; Internet We gave the public the opportunity to
Dionne Palermo, https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You participate in developing this AD. The
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane may view this referenced service following presents the comments
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. information at the FAA, Transport received on the NPRM and the FAA’s
[FR Doc. 2016–26629 Filed 11–3–16; 8:45 am] Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue response to each comment.
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P SW., Renton, WA. For information on
the availability of this material at the Support of the NPRM
FAA, call 425–227–1221. It is also FedEx provided comments that
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION available on the Internet at http:// supported the intent of the NPRM.
www.regulations.gov by searching for
Federal Aviation Administration and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– Request To Change Compliance Time
6669. Boeing and United Airlines (UA)
14 CFR Part 39
Examining the AD Docket asked that we change the compliance
[Docket No. FAA–2016–6669; Directorate time for the repetitive HFEC inspections
Identifier 2015–NM–191–AD; Amendment You may examine the AD docket on specified in paragraph (j) of the
39–18698; AD 2016–22–09] the Internet at http:// proposed AD. Boeing learned that some
www.regulations.gov by searching for operators began doing inspections long
RIN 2120–AA64
and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– before the 37,500-flight-cycle threshold
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing 6669; or in person at the Docket was attained. Boeing stated that the
Company Airplanes Management Facility between 9 a.m. compliance table in Boeing Special
and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, Attention Service Bulletin 757–53–
AGENCY: Federal Aviation except Federal holidays. The AD docket 0090, Revision 1, dated November 19,
Administration (FAA), DOT. contains this AD, the regulatory 2015, provided grace periods for doing
ACTION: Final rule. evaluation, any comments received, and the HFEC inspections after doing
other information. The address for the previous inspections, but did not
SUMMARY: We are superseding Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is provide for previous inspections being
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2006–20– Docket Management Facility, U.S. done within the grace period or before
11 for certain The Boeing Company Department of Transportation, Docket the required threshold of 37,500 flight
Model 757–200, –200CB, and –200PF Operations, M–30, West Building cycles, whichever occurs later. Boeing
series airplanes. AD 2006–20–11 Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 added that, as written, the service
required initial and repetitive detailed New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, information specifies repetitive
or high frequency eddy current (HFEC) DC 20590. inspections within 3,000 flight cycles
inspections for cracks around the rivets FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Eric after any previous detailed inspection
at the upper fastener row of the skin lap Schrieber, Aerospace Engineer, and within 12,000 flight cycles after any
splice of the fuselage, and repair of any Airframe Branch, ANM–120L, FAA, Los previous HFEC inspection—even if the
crack found. This new AD no longer Angeles Aircraft Certification Office interval occurred before the 37,500-
allows the detailed inspections and (ACO), 3960 Paramount Boulevard, flight-cycle threshold.
instead requires repetitive external Lakewood, CA 90712–4137; phone: UA stated that if an operator decided
HFEC inspections for cracking of the 562–627–5348; fax: 562–627–5210; to proactively accomplish either a
skin lap splices of the fuselage, and email: eric.schrieber@faa.gov. detailed or HFEC inspection before the
repair if necessary. This AD was specified compliance time in, and in
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
prompted by an evaluation done by the accordance with either Boeing Special
design approval holder (DAH) Discussion Attention Service Bulletin 757–53–
indicating that the fuselage skin lap We issued a notice of proposed 0090, dated June 2, 2005 or Boeing
splice is subject to widespread fatigue rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR Special Attention Service Bulletin 757–
damage (WFD). We are issuing this AD part 39 to supersede AD 2006–20–11, 53–0090, Revision 1, dated November
to detect and correct fatigue cracking at Amendment 39–14781 (71 FR 58485, 19, 2015, then the inspection would
certain skin lap splice locations of the October 4, 2006) (‘‘AD 2006–20–11’’). have to be repeated within 3,000 or
fuselage, which could result in reduced AD 2006–20–11 applied to certain The 12,000 flight cycles, depending on
structural integrity and rapid Boeing Company Model 757–200, which inspection was previously done.
decompression of the airplane. –200CB, and –200PF series airplanes. UA stated that this compliance time
DATES: This AD is effective December 9, The NPRM published in the Federal could be much sooner than the intended
2016. Register on May 12, 2016 (81 FR 29508) 37,500 flight cycles. UA noted that it
The Director of the Federal Register (‘‘the NPRM’’). The NPRM was discussed this problem with Boeing and
approved the incorporation by reference prompted by an evaluation done by the hoped it could be clarified in the NPRM.
of a certain publication listed in this AD DAH indicating that the fuselage skin We agree with the commenters’
as of December 9, 2016. lap splice is subject to WFD. The NPRM requests to change the compliance time
The Director of the Federal Register proposed to require repetitive external for the repetitive HFEC inspections
approved the incorporation by reference HFEC inspections for cracking of the specified in paragraph (j) of this AD.
of a certain other publication listed in skin lap splices of the fuselage, and According to the proposed AD,
this AD as of November 8, 2006 (71 FR repair if necessary. We are issuing this operators that accomplished the
rmajette on DSK2TPTVN1PROD with RULES
58485, October 4, 2006). AD to detect and correct fatigue inspections early would be required to
ADDRESSES: For service information cracking at certain skin lap splice do the inspections before reaching the
identified in this final rule, contact locations of the fuselage, which could inspection threshold specified in
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, result in reduced structural integrity paragraph (j) of the proposed AD. It was
Attention: Contractual & Data Services and rapid decompression of the not the intent of Boeing or the FAA to
(C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC airplane. require that the airplane be inspected
VerDate Sep<11>2014 11:51 Nov 03, 2016 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\04NOR1.SGM 04NOR1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/81_FR_77062/page/4.svg)
Document Created: 2018-02-14 08:26:24
Document Modified: 2018-02-14 08:26:24
| 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 November 21, 2016. | |
| Contact | George Garrido, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712-4137; phone: 562- 627-5232; fax: 562-627-5210; email: [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 81 FR 76848 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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