81 FR 87496 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 233 (December 5, 2016)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 233 (December 5, 2016)
| Page Range | 87496-87499 | |
| FR Document | 2016-28664 |
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 233 (Monday, December 5, 2016)] [Proposed Rules] [Pages 87496-87499] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2016-28664] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2016-9434; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-136-AD] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, and -900 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by an evaluation by the design approval holder (DAH) indicating that the web lap splices in the aft pressure bulkhead are subject to widespread fatigue damage (WFD). This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections of the web lap splices in the aft pressure bulkhead for cracking of the fastener holes, and repair if necessary. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by January 19, 2017. 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 NPRM, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740; 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-2016-9434. 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- 9434; 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 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: Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917- 6450; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected]. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2016-9434; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-136-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 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 [[Page 87497]] will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. Discussion Fatigue damage can occur locally, in small areas or structural design details, or globally, in widespread areas. Multiple-site damage is widespread damage that occurs in a large structural element such as a single rivet line of a lap splice joining two large skin panels. Widespread damage can also occur in multiple elements such as adjacent frames or stringers. Multiple-site damage and multiple-element damage cracks are typically too small initially to be reliably detected with normal inspection methods. Without intervention, these cracks will grow, and eventually compromise the structural integrity of the airplane. This condition is known as widespread fatigue damage. It is associated with general degradation of large areas of structure with similar structural details and stress levels. As an airplane ages, WFD will likely occur, and will certainly occur if the airplane is operated long enough without any intervention. The FAA's WFD final rule (75 FR 69746, November 15, 2010) became effective on January 14, 2011. The WFD rule requires certain actions to prevent structural failure due to WFD throughout the operational life of certain existing transport category airplanes and all of these airplanes that will be certificated in the future. For existing and future airplanes subject to the WFD rule, the rule requires that DAHs establish a limit of validity (LOV) of the engineering data that support the structural maintenance program. Operators affected by the WFD rule may not fly an airplane beyond its LOV, unless an extended LOV is approved. The WFD rule (75 FR 69746, November 15, 2010) does not require identifying and developing maintenance actions if the DAHs can show that such actions are not necessary to prevent WFD before the airplane reaches the LOV. Many LOVs, however, do depend on accomplishment of future maintenance actions. As stated in the WFD rule, any maintenance actions necessary to reach the LOV will be mandated by airworthiness directives through separate rulemaking actions. In the context of WFD, this action is necessary to enable DAHs to propose LOVs that allow operators the longest operational lives for their airplanes, and still ensure that WFD will not occur. This approach allows for an implementation strategy that provides flexibility to DAHs in determining the timing of service information development (with FAA approval), while providing operators with certainty regarding the LOV applicable to their airplanes. Analysis by the DAH has determined that the web lap splices in the aft pressure bulkhead are susceptible to WFD for certain Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, and -900 series airplanes. This cracking, if left undetected, could result in possible rapid decompression and loss of structural integrity of the airplane. During in-service inspections of a 737-300 aft pressure bulkhead, one operator reported two cracks on the web lap splices outside the specified inspection area. Since Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, and -900 series airplanes have a similar structural design for the aft pressure bulkhead, cracks could develop in the same location on these airplanes. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1353, dated July 21, 2016. The service information describes procedures for a low frequency eddy current inspection to detect cracking of each web lap splice of the aft pressure bulkhead at the fastener row common to the stiffener, and a high frequency eddy current inspection to detect cracking of each web lap splice of the aft pressure bulkhead at the fastener row not common to the stiffener. 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 proposing 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 these same type designs. Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions specified in the service information described previously, except as discussed under ``Difference Between this Proposed AD and the Service Information.'' Difference Between This Proposed AD and the Service Information Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1353, dated July 21, 2016, specifies to contact the manufacturer for certain instructions, but this proposed AD would require using 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. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 693 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: Estimated Costs ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Action Labor cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Inspections.................. 26 work-hours x $85 per hour $2,210 per inspection $1,531,530 per = $2,210 per inspection cycle. inspection cycle. cycle. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide cost estimates for the on-condition actions specified in this proposed 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 [[Page 87498]] 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): The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA-2016-9434; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-136-AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by January 19, 2017. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, - 700C, -800, and -900 series airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1353, dated July 21, 2016. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by an evaluation by the design approval holder (DAH) indicating that the web lap splices in the aft pressure bulkhead are subject to widespread fatigue damage (WFD). We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks of the web lap splices in the aft pressure bulkhead, which could result in possible rapid decompression and loss of structural integrity of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Repetitive Inspections Except as provided by paragraph (h) of this AD, at the applicable time specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1353, dated July 21, 2016: Do a low frequency eddy current (LFEC) inspection to detect cracking of each web lap splice of the aft pressure bulkhead at the fastener row common to the stiffener, and a high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection to detect cracking of each web lap splice of the aft pressure bulkhead at the fastener row not common to the stiffener, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1353, dated July 21, 2016. (1) If no crack is found: Repeat the inspections thereafter at the applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1353, dated July 21, 2016. (2) If any crack is found: Do the actions specified in paragraphs (g)(2)(i) and (g)(2)(ii) of this AD. (i) Repair the crack before further flight using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (i) of this AD. Although Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1353, dated July 21, 2016, specifies to contact Boeing for repair instructions, and specifies that action as ``RC'' (Required for Compliance), this AD requires repair as specified in this paragraph. (ii) On areas that are not repaired, repeat the inspections thereafter at the applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1353, dated July 21, 2016. (h) Service Information Exception Where paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1353, dated July 21, 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. (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. 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 (g)(2)(i) of this AD: For service information that contains steps that are labeled as 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. 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. (j) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle ACO, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6450; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected]. (2) 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; 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. [[Page 87499]] Issued in Renton, Washington, on November 17, 2016. Phil Forde, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2016-28664 Filed 12-2-16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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(i) Exception to the Service Information Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Where paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600; Federal holidays.
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–21A1203, telephone 562–797–1717; Internet https:// For service information identified in
dated June 8, 2016, specifies a compliance www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this this NPRM, contact Boeing Commercial
time ‘‘after the original issue date of this referenced service information at the FAA,
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind
Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
service bulletin,’’ this AD requires Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster
compliance within the specified compliance Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information
on the availability of this material at the Blvd., MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA
time after the effective date of this AD.
FAA, call 425–227–1221. 90740; telephone 562–797–1717;
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance Internet https://
(AMOCs) Issued in Renton, Washington, on
November 17, 2016. www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view
(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft
Phil Forde,
this referenced service information at
Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the the FAA, Transport Airplane
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,
requested using the procedures found in 14 Renton, WA. For information on the
CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, [FR Doc. 2016–28631 Filed 12–2–16; 8:45 am]
send your request to your principal inspector availability of this material at the FAA,
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
or local Flight Standards District Office, as call 425–227–1221. It is also available
appropriate. If sending information directly on the Internet at http://
to the manager of the ACO, send it to the www.regulations.gov by searching for
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
attention of the person identified in and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
paragraph (k)(1) of this AD. Information may 9434.
Federal Aviation Administration
be emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-
Requests@faa.gov. Examining the AD Docket
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, 14 CFR Part 39
You may examine the AD docket on
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager [Docket No. FAA–2016–9434; Directorate the Internet at http://
of the local flight standards district office/ Identifier 2016–NM–136–AD] www.regulations.gov by searching for
certificate holding district office. and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
RIN 2120–AA64 9434; or in person at the Docket
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable
level of safety may be used for any repair, Management Facility between 9 a.m.
modification, or alteration required by this
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
AD if it is approved by the Boeing Company Airplanes
except Federal holidays. The AD docket
Commercial Airplanes Organization AGENCY: Federal Aviation contains this proposed AD, the
Designation Authorization (ODA) that has
Administration (FAA), DOT. regulatory evaluation, any comments
been authorized by the Manager, Seattle
ACO, to make those findings. To be ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking received, and other information. The
approved, the repair method, modification (NPRM). street address for the Docket Office
deviation, or alteration deviation must meet (phone: 800–647–5527) is in the
the certification basis of the airplane, and the SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new ADDRESSES section. Comments will be
approval must specifically refer to this AD. airworthiness directive (AD) for certain available in the AD docket shortly after
(4) For service information that contains The Boeing Company Model 737–600, receipt.
steps that are labeled as Required for –700, –700C, –800, and –900 series FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Compliance (RC), the provisions of airplanes. This proposed AD was
paragraphs (j)(4)(i) and (j)(4)(ii) of this AD Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer,
prompted by an evaluation by the Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA,
apply.
(i) The steps labeled as RC, including design approval holder (DAH) Seattle Aircraft Certification Office
substeps under an RC step and any figures indicating that the web lap splices in (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton,
identified in an RC step, must be done to the aft pressure bulkhead are subject to WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6450;
comply with the AD. If a step or substep is widespread fatigue damage (WFD). This fax: 425–917–6590; email: alan.pohl@
labeled ‘‘RC Exempt,’’ then the RC proposed AD would require repetitive faa.gov.
requirement is removed from that step or inspections of the web lap splices in the
substep. An AMOC is required for any SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
aft pressure bulkhead for cracking of the
deviations to RC steps, including substeps fastener holes, and repair if necessary. Comments Invited
and identified figures.
We are proposing this AD to address the We invite you to send any written
(ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be
deviated from using accepted methods in unsafe condition on these products. relevant data, views, or arguments about
accordance with the operator’s maintenance DATES: We must receive comments on this proposal. Send your comments to
or inspection program without obtaining this proposed AD by January 19, 2017. an address listed under the ADDRESSES
approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps, ADDRESSES: You may send comments, section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–
including substeps and identified figures, can
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 2016–9434; Directorate Identifier 2016–
still be done as specified, and the airplane
can be put back in an airworthy condition. 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following NM–136–AD’’ at the beginning of your
methods: comments. We specifically invite
(k) Related Information • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to comments on the overall regulatory,
(1) For more information about this AD, http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the economic, environmental, and energy
contact: Stanley Chen, Aerospace Engineer, instructions for submitting comments. aspects of this proposed AD. We will
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with PROPOSALS
Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems • Fax: 202–493–2251. consider all comments received by the
Branch, ANM–150S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft • Mail: U.S. Department of closing date and may amend this
Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue
Transportation, Docket Operations, proposed AD because of those
SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–
917–6585; fax: 425–917–6590; email: M–30, West Building Ground Floor, comments.
stanley.chen@faa.gov. Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey We will post all comments we
(2) For service information identified in Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. receive, without change, to http://
this AD, contact Boeing Commercial • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail www.regulations.gov, including any
Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data address above between 9 a.m. and 5 personal information you provide. We
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is within the scope of that authority as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if
because it addresses an unsafe condition 737–53A1353, dated July 21, 2016. requested using the procedures found in 14
that is likely to exist or develop on (d) Subject CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,
products identified in this rulemaking send your request to your principal inspector
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
action. or local Flight Standards District Office, as
America Code 53, Fuselage.
appropriate. If sending information directly
Regulatory Findings (e) Unsafe Condition to the manager of the ACO, send it to the
We determined that this proposed AD This AD was prompted by an evaluation by attention of the person identified in
would not have federalism implications the design approval holder (DAH) indicating paragraph (j)(1) of this AD. Information may
under Executive Order 13132. This that the web lap splices in the aft pressure be emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-
bulkhead are subject to widespread fatigue Requests@faa.gov.
proposed AD would not have a
damage (WFD). We are issuing this AD to (2) Before using any approved AMOC,
substantial direct effect on the States, on detect and correct cracks of the web lap
the relationship between the national notify your appropriate principal inspector,
splices in the aft pressure bulkhead, which
Government and the States, or on the or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
could result in possible rapid decompression
distribution of power and and loss of structural integrity of the of the local flight standards district office/
responsibilities among the various airplane. certificate holding district office.
levels of government. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable
(f) Compliance level of safety may be used for any repair,
For the reasons discussed above, I
Comply with this AD within the modification, or alteration required by this
certify this proposed regulation: compliance times specified, unless already AD if it is approved by the Boeing
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory done. Commercial Airplanes Organization
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
(g) Repetitive Inspections Designation Authorization (ODA) that has
(2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under
Except as provided by paragraph (h) of this been authorized by the Manager, Seattle
the DOT Regulatory Policies and ACO, to make those findings. To be
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, AD, at the applicable time specified in
paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing approved, the repair method, modification
1979), deviation, or alteration deviation must meet
Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1353, dated
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation July 21, 2016: Do a low frequency eddy the certification basis of the airplane, and the
in Alaska, and current (LFEC) inspection to detect cracking approval must specifically refer to this AD.
(4) Will not have a significant of each web lap splice of the aft pressure (4) Except as required by paragraph (g)(2)(i)
economic impact, positive or negative, bulkhead at the fastener row common to the of this AD: For service information that
on a substantial number of small entities stiffener, and a high frequency eddy current contains steps that are labeled as RC, the
under the criteria of the Regulatory (HFEC) inspection to detect cracking of each
provisions of paragraphs (i)(4)(i) and (i)(4)(ii)
Flexibility Act. web lap splice of the aft pressure bulkhead
at the fastener row not common to the of this AD apply.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 stiffener, in accordance with the (i) The steps labeled as RC, including
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert substeps under an RC step and any figures
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation Service Bulletin 737–53A1353, dated July 21, identified in an RC step, must be done to
safety, Incorporation by reference, 2016. comply with the AD. If a step or substep is
Safety. (1) If no crack is found: Repeat the labeled ‘‘RC Exempt,’’ then the RC
inspections thereafter at the applicable times requirement is removed from that step or
The Proposed Amendment specified in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of substep. An AMOC is required for any
Accordingly, under the authority Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1353, deviations to RC steps, including substeps
delegated to me by the Administrator, dated July 21, 2016.
and identified figures.
the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part (2) If any crack is found: Do the actions
specified in paragraphs (g)(2)(i) and (g)(2)(ii) (ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be
39 as follows: of this AD. deviated from using accepted methods in
(i) Repair the crack before further flight accordance with the operator’s maintenance
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS using a method approved in accordance with or inspection program without obtaining
DIRECTIVES the procedures specified in paragraph (i) of approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps,
this AD. Although Boeing Alert Service including substeps and identified figures, can
■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 Bulletin 737–53A1353, dated July 21, 2016, still be done as specified, and the airplane
continues to read as follows: specifies to contact Boeing for repair can be put back in an airworthy condition.
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. instructions, and specifies that action as
‘‘RC’’ (Required for Compliance), this AD (j) Related Information
§ 39.13 [Amended] requires repair as specified in this paragraph. (1) For more information about this AD,
(ii) On areas that are not repaired, repeat
■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding contact Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer,
the inspections thereafter at the applicable
the following new airworthiness times specified in paragraph 1.E., Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle
directive (AD): ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service ACO, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA
The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA– Bulletin 737–53A1353, dated July 21, 2016. 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6450; fax: 425–
2016–9434; Directorate Identifier 2016– 917–6590; email: alan.pohl@faa.gov.
(h) Service Information Exception (2) For service information identified in
NM–136–AD.
Where paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of this AD, contact Boeing Commercial
(a) Comments Due Date Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1353, Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
dated July 21, 2016, specifies a compliance
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with PROPOSALS
We must receive comments by January 19, Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd.,
2017. time ‘‘after the Original Issue date of this MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740;
Service Bulletin,’’ this AD requires telephone 562–797–1717; Internet https://
(b) Affected ADs compliance within the specified compliance
www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this
None. time after the effective date of this AD.
referenced service information at the FAA,
(c) Applicability (i) Alternative Methods of Compliance Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind
This AD applies to The Boeing Company (AMOCs) Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information
Model 737–600, –700, –700C, –800, and –900 (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft on the availability of this material at the
series airplanes, certificated in any category, Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
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![Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 233 / Monday, December 5, 2016 / Proposed Rules 87499
Issued in Renton, Washington, on Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data personal information you provide. We
November 17, 2016. Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster will also post a report summarizing each
Phil Forde, Blvd., MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA substantive verbal contact we receive
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane 90740; telephone 562–797–1717; about this proposed AD.
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. Internet https://
Discussion
[FR Doc. 2016–28664 Filed 12–2–16; 8:45 am] www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P this referenced service information at We have received a report of cracking
the FAA, Transport Airplane in an MD–90 horizontal stabilizer rear
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., spar cap at station XE = +/¥5.931. The
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Renton, WA. For information on the affected airplane had accumulated
availability of this material at the FAA, 36,588 total flight hours and 24,975 total
Federal Aviation Administration call 425–227–1221. It is also available landing cycles. Without routine
on the Internet at http:// inspections, such cracks could grow to
14 CFR Part 39 www.regulations.gov by searching for critical length before being detected.
[Docket No. FAA–2016–9433; Directorate and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– This condition, if not corrected, could
Identifier 2016–NM–159–AD] 9433. result in fatigue cracking of the
RIN 2120–AA64 Examining the AD Docket horizontal stabilizer rear spar upper cap,
which could adversely affect the
You may examine the AD docket on structural integrity of the airplane.
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
the Internet at http://
Company Airplanes Related Service Information Under
www.regulations.gov by searching for
AGENCY: Federal Aviation and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– 1 CFR Part 51
Administration (FAA), DOT. 9433; or in person at the Docket
We reviewed Boeing Alert Service
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking Management Facility between 9 a.m.
Bulletin MD90–55A018, dated June 29,
(NPRM). and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
2016. The service information describes
except Federal holidays. The AD docket
SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new procedures for repetitive open hole
contains this proposed AD, the
airworthiness directive (AD) for all The ETHF or surface ETLF inspections for
regulatory evaluation, any comments
Boeing Company Model MD–90–30 any crack in the left and right side
received, and other information. The
airplanes. This proposed AD was horizontal stabilizer rear spar upper
street address for the Docket Office
prompted by a report of cracking in a caps common to the elevator hinge
(phone: 800–647–5527) is in the
horizontal stabilizer rear spar cap. This fitting at station XE = +/¥5.931, and
ADDRESSES section. Comments will be
proposed AD would require repetitive repair or replacement. This service
available in the AD docket shortly after
open hole eddy current high frequency information is reasonably available
receipt.
(ETHF) or surface eddy current low because the interested parties have
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
frequency (ETLF) inspections for any access to it through their normal course
Haytham Alaidy, Aerospace Engineer, of business or by the means identified
crack in the left and right side Airframe Branch, ANM–120L, FAA, Los
horizontal stabilizer rear spar upper in the ADDRESSES section.
Angeles Aircraft Certification Office
caps, and repair or replacement if (ACO), 3960 Paramount Boulevard, FAA’s Determination
necessary. We are proposing this AD to Lakewood, CA 90712–4137; phone:
prevent the unsafe condition on these 562–627–5224; fax: 562–627–5210; We are proposing this AD because we
products. email: haytham.alaidy@faa.gov. evaluated all the relevant information
and determined the unsafe condition
DATES: We must receive comments on SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
described previously is likely to exist or
this proposed AD by January 19, 2017.
Comments Invited develop in other products of the same
ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
We invite you to send any written type design.
using the procedures found in 14 CFR
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following relevant data, views, or arguments about Proposed AD Requirements
methods: this proposal. Send your comments to
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to an address listed under the ADDRESSES This proposed AD would require
http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA– accomplishing the actions specified in
instructions for submitting comments. 2016–9433; Directorate Identifier 2016– the service information described
• Fax: 202–493–2251. NM–159–AD’’ at the beginning of your previously. For information on the
• Mail: U.S. Department of comments. We specifically invite procedures and compliance times, see
Transportation, Docket Operations, comments on the overall regulatory, this service information at http://
M–30, West Building Ground Floor, economic, environmental, and energy www.regulations.gov by searching for
Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey aspects of this proposed AD. We will and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. consider all comments received by the 9433.
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail closing date and may amend this Costs of Compliance
address above between 9 a.m. and 5 proposed AD because of those
p.m., Monday through Friday, except comments. We estimate that this proposed AD
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with PROPOSALS
Federal holidays. We will post all comments we affects 105 airplanes of U.S. registry. We
For service information identified in receive, without change, to http:// estimate the following costs to comply
this NPRM, contact Boeing Commercial www.regulations.gov, including any with this proposed AD:
VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:33 Dec 02, 2016 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\05DEP1.SGM 05DEP1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/81_FR_87729/page/4.svg)
Document Created: 2016-12-03 00:26:22
Document Modified: 2016-12-03 00:26:22
| 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 January 19, 2017. | |
| Contact | Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917- 6450; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 81 FR 87496 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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