81 FR 8138 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 32 (February 18, 2016)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 32 (February 18, 2016)
| Page Range | 8138-8140 | |
| FR Document | 2016-03217 |
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 32 (Thursday, February 18, 2016)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 8138-8140] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2016-03217] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2015-3630; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-253-AD; Amendment 39-18397; AD 2016-04-03] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Boeing Company Model 747-400F series airplanes. This AD was prompted by an analysis of the production methods used to increase fatigue resistance of the upper closure fittings at the nose cargo door portal's C-3 frame, which showed that cracking could start too early to be caught in a timely manner by the inspection or maintenance program. This AD requires inspections of the upper closure fitting and connected strap and doubler at the nose cargo door portal for cracking, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct such cracking, which could result in sudden decompression and loss of the airplane's structural integrity. DATES: This AD is effective March 24, 2016. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of March 24, 2016. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; 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-2015- 3630. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015- 3630; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The address for the Docket Office (phone: 800-647- 5527) is Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Bill Ashforth, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917- 6432; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected]. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all The Boeing Company Model 747-400F series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on September 15, 2015 (80 FR 55273) (``the NPRM''). The NPRM was prompted by a report indicating that an analysis of the production methods used to increase fatigue resistance of the upper closure fittings at the nose cargo door portal's C-3 frame showed that cracking could start too early to be caught in a timely manner by the inspection or maintenance program. The upper closure fittings used in the nose cargo door portal C-3 frame were shot peened to increase fatigue resistance. However, an analysis showed that the increase in [[Page 8139]] fatigue resistance was still not enough to ensure that cracking would be caught by the inspection program specified in the Boeing 747-400 maintenance planning data (MPD) document. The NPRM proposed to require inspections of the upper closure fitting and connected strap and doubler at the nose cargo door portal for cracking, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct such cracking, which could result in sudden decompression and loss of the airplane's structural integrity. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. We considered the comment received. Boeing supported the NPRM. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comment received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this AD as proposed except for minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2880, dated December 3, 2014. This service information describes procedures for a detailed inspection of the upper closure fitting and connected strap and doubler, a surface high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection of the upper closure fitting for cracking, and related investigative and corrective actions. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 38 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: Estimated Costs ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cost on U.S. Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product operators ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Inspections.................... 9 work-hours x $85 per $0............... $765 per $29,070 per hour = $765 per inspection cycle. inspection inspection cycle. cycle. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We estimate the following costs to do any necessary repairs or replacements that would be required based on the results of the inspection. Parts costs could be up to $42,930 per airplane. We have no way of determining the number of work hours (because the type of repair will vary depending on findings) or the number of aircraft that might need the repairs or replacements. 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 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): 2016-04-03 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-18397; Docket No. FAA- 2015-3630; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-253-AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective March 24, 2016. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 747-400F series airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in paragraph 1.A., ``Effectivity,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2880, dated December 3, 2014. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a report that an analysis of the production methods used to increase fatigue resistance of the upper closure fittings at the nose cargo door portal's C-3 frame showed that cracking could still start too early to be caught in a timely [[Page 8140]] manner by the inspection or maintenance program. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct such cracking, which could result in sudden decompression and loss of the airplane's structural integrity. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Inspections and Corrective Actions Except as required by paragraph (h) of this AD: At the applicable time specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2880, dated December 3, 2014, do a detailed inspection of the upper closure fitting, strap, and doubler and a surface high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection of the upper closure fitting at the nose cargo door portal for cracking, and do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2880, dated December 3, 2014. Repeat the inspections at the time specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2880, dated December 3, 2014. Do the applicable related investigative and corrective actions at the times specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2880, dated December 3, 2014. (h) Exceptions to the Service Information (1) Where paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2880, dated December 3, 2014, refers to a compliance time ``after the original issue date of this service bulletin,'' this AD requires compliance within the specific compliance time after the effective date of this AD. (2) If any crack is found during any inspection required by this AD, and Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2880, dated December 3, 2014, specifies to contact Boeing for appropriate action: Before further flight, repair the cracking using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (i) of this AD. (i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (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 (j)(1) 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, Seattle ACO, to make those findings. For a repair method 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 (h)(2) of this AD: For service information that contains steps that are labeled as Required for Compliance (RC), the provisions of paragraphs (i)(4)(i) and (i)(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. 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. (j) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Bill Ashforth, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle ACO, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6432; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected]. (k) 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 747-53A2880, dated December 3, 2014. (ii) Reserved. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544- 5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. (4) You may view this service information FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. Issued in Renton, Washington, on February 8, 2016. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2016-03217 Filed 2-17-16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
![8138 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 32 / Thursday, February 18, 2016 / Rules and Regulations
appropriate. If sending information directly 7002; telephone 860–654–3575; fax 860–998– ADDRESSES: For service information
to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: 4564; email tech.solutions@hs.utc.com; identified in this final rule, contact
Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, Internet http:// Boeing Commercial Airplanes,
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport www.hamiltonsundstrand.com.
Attention: Data & Services Management,
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind (6) You may view this service information
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, WA
telephone 425–227–1138; fax 425–227–1149. 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For 98124–2207; telephone 206–544–5000,
Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116- information on the availability of this extension 1; fax 206–766–5680; Internet
AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You
any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate (7) You may view this service information may view this referenced service
principal inspector, or lacking a principal that is incorporated by reference at the information at the FAA, Transport
inspector, the manager of the local flight National Archives and Records Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue
standards district office/certificate holding Administration (NARA). For information on SW., Renton, WA. For information on
district office. The AMOC approval letter the availability of this material at NARA, call
the availability of this material at the
must specifically reference this AD. 202–741–6030, or go to: http://
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- FAA, call 425–227–1221. It is also
requirement in this AD to obtain corrective locations.html. available on the Internet at http://
actions from a manufacturer, the action must www.regulations.gov by searching for
Issued in Renton, Washington, on February
be accomplished using a method approved and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
8, 2016.
by the Manager, International Branch, ANM– 3630.
116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or Michael Kaszycki,
the European Aviation Safety Agency Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Examining the AD Docket
(EASA); or Airbus’s EASA Design Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. You may examine the AD docket on
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by [FR Doc. 2016–03215 Filed 2–17–16; 8:45 am] the Internet at http://
the DOA, the approval must include the BILLING CODE 4910–13–P www.regulations.gov by searching for
DOA-authorized signature.
and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
(q) Related Information 3630; or in person at the Docket
Refer to Mandatory Continuing
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Management Facility between 9 a.m.
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
Airworthiness Directive 2013–0274, dated
Federal Aviation Administration
except Federal holidays. The AD docket
November 15, 2013, for related information. contains this AD, the regulatory
This MCAI may be found in the AD docket 14 CFR Part 39
evaluation, any comments received, and
on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov [Docket No. FAA–2015–3630; Directorate other information. The address for the
by searching for and locating Docket No. Identifier 2014–NM–253–AD; Amendment
FAA–2016–0467.
Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is
39–18397; AD 2016–04–03] Docket Management Facility, U.S.
(r) Material Incorporated by Reference RIN 2120–AA64 Department of Transportation, Docket
(1) The Director of the Federal Register Operations, M–30, West Building
approved the incorporation by reference Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
(IBR) of the service information listed in this Company Airplanes New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington,
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR DC 20590.
part 51. AGENCY: Federal Aviation
(2) You must use this service information Administration (FAA), DOT. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Bill
as applicable to do the actions required by ACTION: Final rule.
Ashforth, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle
(3) The following service information was SUMMARY: We are adopting a new Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601
approved for IBR on February 2, 2016 (80 FR airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–
81174, December 29, 2015). Boeing Company Model 747–400F 3356; phone: 425–917–6432; fax: 425–
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A330–29–3122, series airplanes. This AD was prompted 917–6590; email: bill.ashforth@faa.gov.
dated October 25, 2012.
(ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A330–29–3126,
by an analysis of the production SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
dated June 12, 2014. methods used to increase fatigue
resistance of the upper closure fittings at Discussion
(iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340–29–
4093, dated October 25, 2012. the nose cargo door portal’s C–3 frame, We issued a notice of proposed
(iv) Airbus Service Bulletin A340–29– which showed that cracking could start rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
4097, dated June 12, 2014. too early to be caught in a timely part 39 by adding an AD that would
(v) Airbus Service Bulletin A340–29–5021, manner by the inspection or apply to all The Boeing Company Model
dated October 2, 2012. maintenance program. This AD requires 747–400F series airplanes. The NPRM
(vi) Airbus Service Bulletin A340–29– inspections of the upper closure fitting published in the Federal Register on
5025, dated June 16, 2014.
(vii) Hamilton Sundstrand Service Bulletin
and connected strap and doubler at the September 15, 2015 (80 FR 55273) (‘‘the
ERPS06M–29–19, dated August 6, 2012. nose cargo door portal for cracking, and NPRM’’). The NPRM was prompted by
(4) For Airbus service information related investigative and corrective a report indicating that an analysis of
identified in this AD, contact Airbus SAS, actions if necessary. We are issuing this the production methods used to
Airworthiness Office—EAL, 1 Rond Point AD to detect and correct such cracking, increase fatigue resistance of the upper
Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, which could result in sudden closure fittings at the nose cargo door
France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 decompression and loss of the airplane’s portal’s C–3 frame showed that cracking
5 61 93 45 80; email airworthiness.A330- structural integrity. could start too early to be caught in a
wgreen on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES
A340@airbus.com; Internet http:// timely manner by the inspection or
DATES: This AD is effective March 24,
www.airbus.com.
(5) For Hamilton Sundstrand service 2016. maintenance program. The upper
information identified in this AD, contact The Director of the Federal Register closure fittings used in the nose cargo
Hamilton Sundstrand, Technical approved the incorporation by reference door portal C–3 frame were shot peened
Publications, Mail Stop 302–9, 4747 Harrison of a certain publication listed in this AD to increase fatigue resistance. However,
Avenue, P.O. Box 7002, Rockford, IL 61125– as of March 24, 2016. an analysis showed that the increase in
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![Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 32 / Thursday, February 18, 2016 / Rules and Regulations 8139
fatigue resistance was still not enough to Conclusion describes procedures for a detailed
ensure that cracking would be caught by inspection of the upper closure fitting
We reviewed the relevant data,
the inspection program specified in the and connected strap and doubler, a
considered the comment received, and
Boeing 747–400 maintenance planning surface high frequency eddy current
determined that air safety and the
data (MPD) document. The NPRM (HFEC) inspection of the upper closure
public interest require adopting this AD
proposed to require inspections of the fitting for cracking, and related
as proposed except for minor editorial
upper closure fitting and connected investigative and corrective actions.
strap and doubler at the nose cargo door changes. We have determined that these
minor changes: This service information is reasonably
portal for cracking, and related available because the interested parties
investigative and corrective actions if • Are consistent with the intent that
was proposed in the NPRM for have access to it through their normal
necessary. We are issuing this AD to
correcting the unsafe condition; and course of business or by the means
detect and correct such cracking, which
could result in sudden decompression • Do not add any additional burden identified in the ADDRESSES section.
and loss of the airplane’s structural upon the public than was already Costs of Compliance
integrity. proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1 We estimate that this AD affects 38
Comments airplanes of U.S. registry.
CFR Part 51
We gave the public the opportunity to We estimate the following costs to
participate in developing this AD. We We reviewed Boeing Alert Service
comply with this AD:
considered the comment received. Bulletin 747–53A2880, dated December
Boeing supported the NPRM. 3, 2014. This service information
ESTIMATED COSTS
Parts
Action Labor cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators
cost
Inspections ...................... 9 work-hours × $85 per hour = $765 per inspection $0 $765 per inspection cycle $29,070 per inspection
cycle. cycle.
We estimate the following costs to do Regulatory Findings PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
any necessary repairs or replacements DIRECTIVES
that would be required based on the This AD will not have federalism
results of the inspection. Parts costs implications under Executive Order ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
could be up to $42,930 per airplane. We 13132. This AD will not have a continues to read as follows:
have no way of determining the number substantial direct effect on the States, on
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
the relationship between the national
of work hours (because the type of
government and the States, or on the § 39.13 [Amended]
repair will vary depending on findings)
distribution of power and 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
or the number of aircraft that might ■
responsibilities among the various the following new airworthiness
need the repairs or replacements.
levels of government. directive (AD):
Authority for This Rulemaking For the reasons discussed above, I 2016–04–03 The Boeing Company:
certify that this AD: Amendment 39–18397; Docket No.
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory FAA–2015–3630; Directorate Identifier
action’’ under Executive Order 12866, 2014–NM–253–AD.
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under (a) Effective Date
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures This AD is effective March 24, 2016.
Aviation Programs, describes in more (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), (b) Affected ADs
detail the scope of the Agency’s (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation None.
authority. in Alaska, and
(c) Applicability
We are issuing this rulemaking under (4) Will not have a significant
the authority described in Subtitle VII, This AD applies to all The Boeing
economic impact, positive or negative,
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: Company Model 747–400F series airplanes,
on a substantial number of small entities certificated in any category, as identified in
‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that under the criteria of the Regulatory paragraph 1.A., ‘‘Effectivity,’’ of Boeing Alert
section, Congress charges the FAA with Flexibility Act. Service Bulletin 747–53A2880, dated
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in December 3, 2014.
air commerce by prescribing regulations List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
(d) Subject
for practices, methods, and procedures Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation Air Transport Association (ATA) of
the Administrator finds necessary for safety, Incorporation by reference, America Code 53, Fuselage.
safety in air commerce. This regulation Safety.
wgreen on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES
is within the scope of that authority (e) Unsafe Condition
because it addresses an unsafe condition Adoption of the Amendment This AD was prompted by a report that an
that is likely to exist or develop on analysis of the production methods used to
Accordingly, under the authority increase fatigue resistance of the upper
products identified in this rulemaking delegated to me by the Administrator, closure fittings at the nose cargo door portal’s
action. the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as C–3 frame showed that cracking could still
follows: start too early to be caught in a timely
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![8140 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 32 / Thursday, February 18, 2016 / Rules and Regulations
manner by the inspection or maintenance Commercial Airplanes Organization Issued in Renton, Washington, on February
program. We are issuing this AD to detect Designation Authorization (ODA) that has 8, 2016.
and correct such cracking, which could result been authorized by the Manager, Seattle Michael Kaszycki,
in sudden decompression and loss of the ACO, to make those findings. For a repair Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
airplane’s structural integrity. method to be approved, the repair method, Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
(f) Compliance modification deviation, or alteration [FR Doc. 2016–03217 Filed 2–17–16; 8:45 am]
Comply with this AD within the deviation must meet the certification basis of BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
compliance times specified, unless already the airplane, and the approval must
done. specifically refer to this AD.
(4) Except as required by paragraph (h)(2) DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
(g) Inspections and Corrective Actions
of this AD: For service information that
Except as required by paragraph (h) of this contains steps that are labeled as Required Federal Aviation Administration
AD: At the applicable time specified in for Compliance (RC), the provisions of
paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing
paragraphs (i)(4)(i) and (i)(4)(ii) of this AD 14 CFR Part 39
Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2880, dated
December 3, 2014, do a detailed inspection apply.
[Docket No. FAA–2015–2460; Directorate
of the upper closure fitting, strap, and (i) The steps labeled as RC, including
Identifier 2014–NM–163–AD; Amendment
doubler and a surface high frequency eddy substeps under an RC step and any figures
39–18396; AD 2016–04–02]
current (HFEC) inspection of the upper identified in an RC step, must be done to
closure fitting at the nose cargo door portal comply with the AD. An AMOC is required RIN 2120–AA64
for cracking, and do all applicable related for any deviations to RC steps, including
investigative and corrective actions, in substeps and identified figures. Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
accordance with the Accomplishment (ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be Company Airplanes
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin deviated from using accepted methods in
747–53A2880, dated December 3, 2014. AGENCY: Federal Aviation
accordance with the operator’s maintenance Administration (FAA), DOT.
Repeat the inspections at the time specified
in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing or inspection program without obtaining
ACTION: Final rule.
Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2880, dated approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps,
December 3, 2014. Do the applicable related including substeps and identified figures, can SUMMARY: We are superseding
investigative and corrective actions at the still be done as specified, and the airplane Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2010–26–
times specified in paragraph 1.E., can be put back in an airworthy condition. 10, which applied to certain The Boeing
‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 747–53A2880, dated December 3, (j) Related Information Company Model 747–200C, –200F,
2014. For more information about this AD,
–400, –400D, and –400F series
contact Bill Ashforth, Aerospace Engineer, airplanes. AD 2010–26–10 required
(h) Exceptions to the Service Information repetitive inspections for cracking of the
Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle
(1) Where paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of lap joints, modification of certain lap
ACO, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2880, joints, and certain post-repair
dated December 3, 2014, refers to a 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6432; fax: 425–
917–6590; email: bill.ashforth@faa.gov. inspections of the lap joints. This new
compliance time ‘‘after the original issue date
of this service bulletin,’’ this AD requires
AD adds new repetitive post-
(k) Material Incorporated by Reference modification inspections for cracking in
compliance within the specific compliance
time after the effective date of this AD. (1) The Director of the Federal Register the lap joints, and repair if necessary.
(2) If any crack is found during any approved the incorporation by reference This AD was prompted by an evaluation
inspection required by this AD, and Boeing (IBR) of the service information listed in this by the design approval holder (DAH)
Alert Service Bulletin 747–53A2880, dated paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR which indicated that certain lap joints
December 3, 2014, specifies to contact Boeing part 51. are subject to widespread fatigue
for appropriate action: Before further flight, (2) You must use this service information damage (WFD). We are issuing this AD
repair the cracking using a method approved as applicable to do the actions required by to detect and correct fatigue cracking in
in accordance with the procedures specified
in paragraph (i) of this AD.
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. certain lap joints, which could result in
(i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747– rapid depressurization and consequent
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance 53A2880, dated December 3, 2014. reduced structural integrity of the
(AMOCs) (ii) Reserved. airplane.
(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft (3) For service information identified in
Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the DATES: This AD is effective March 24,
this AD, contact Boeing Commercial
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services
2016.
requested using the procedures found in 14 Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65,
The Director of the Federal Register
CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone 206–
approved the incorporation by reference
send your request to your principal inspector of a certain publication listed in this AD
544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–5680;
or local Flight Standards District Office, as as of March 24, 2016.
appropriate. If sending information directly Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com.
(4) You may view this service information ADDRESSES: For service information
to the manager of the ACO, send it to the
attention of the person identified in FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 identified in this final rule, contact
paragraph (j)(1) of this AD. Information may Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For Boeing Commercial Airplanes,
be emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC- information on the availability of this Attention: Data & Services Management,
Requests@faa.gov. material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, WA
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, (5) You may view this service information 98124–2207; telephone 206–544–5000,
notify your appropriate principal inspector, that is incorporated by reference at the extension 1; fax 206–766–5680; Internet
wgreen on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You
National Archives and Records
of the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office. Administration (NARA). For information on may view this referenced service
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable the availability of this material at NARA, call information at the FAA, Transport
level of safety may be used for any repair, 202–741–6030, or go to: http:// Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue
modification, or alteration required by this www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- SW., Renton, WA. For information on
AD if it is approved by the Boeing locations.html. the availability of this material at the
VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:29 Feb 17, 2016 Jkt 238001 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\18FER1.SGM 18FER1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/81_FR_8170/page/3.svg)
Document Created: 2016-02-18 07:46:57
Document Modified: 2016-02-18 07:46:57
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Rules and Regulations | |
| Action | Final rule. | |
| Dates | This AD is effective March 24, 2016. | |
| Contact | Bill Ashforth, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917- 6432; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 81 FR 8138 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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