81_FR_95197 81 FR 94949 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

81 FR 94949 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 248 (December 27, 2016)

Page Range94949-94954
FR Document2016-29247

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 747-400, 747-400D, and 747-400F series airplanes; Model 757 airplanes; and Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and - 400ER series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of uncommanded autopilot engagement events resulting in incorrect stabilizer trim adjustment during takeoff. This AD requires, depending on the model/ configuration, installing an on-ground stabilizer autotrim inhibit system, relays and related wiring to open and close the flight control computer (FCC) analog output, and new operational program software (OPS) into the FCCs. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Federal Register, Volume 81 Issue 248 (Tuesday, December 27, 2016)
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 248 (Tuesday, December 27, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 94949-94954]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2016-29247]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2015-7525; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-064-AD; 
Amendment 39-18727; AD 2016-25-01]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain 
The Boeing Company Model 747-400, 747-400D, and 747-400F series 
airplanes; Model 757 airplanes; and Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and -
400ER series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of uncommanded 
autopilot engagement events resulting in incorrect stabilizer trim 
adjustment during takeoff. This AD requires, depending on the model/
configuration, installing an on-ground stabilizer autotrim inhibit 
system, relays and related wiring to open and close the flight control 
computer (FCC) analog output, and new operational program software 
(OPS) into the FCCs. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe 
condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective January 31, 2017.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of January 31, 
2017.

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-2015-7525.

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-
7525; 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: Fnu Winarto, Aerospace Engineer, 
Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM-130S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft 
Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-
3356; phone: 425-917-6659; 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 certain The Boeing Company 
Model 747-400, 747-400D, and 747-400F series airplanes; Model 757 
airplanes; and Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and -400ER series airplanes. 
The NPRM published in the Federal Register on December 23, 2015 (80 FR 
79735) (``the NPRM''). The NPRM was prompted by reports of uncommanded 
autopilot engagement events resulting in incorrect stabilizer trim 
adjustment during takeoff. The NPRM proposed to require, depending on 
the model/configuration for Model 747 airplanes, installing an on-
ground stabilizer autotrim inhibit system, doing routine functional 
testing of the system, and doing corrective actions if necessary; for 
Model 757 airplanes and Model 767 airplanes, installing relays and 
related wiring to open and close the FCC analog output that controls 
the stabilizer trim adjustment, doing routine functional testing of the 
on-ground auto stabilizer trim inhibit system, and doing corrective 
actions if necessary; and for Model 767-300, and -300F series 
airplanes, installing new OPS into the FCCs. We are issuing this AD to 
prevent stabilizer mistrim, which could result in a high-speed rejected 
takeoff and runway overrun, or reduced controllability of the airplane 
after takeoff due to insufficient pitch control.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and 
the FAA's response to each comment.

Support for the NPRM

    The Airline Pilots Association, International stated that it fully 
supports the intent of the NPRM.

Requests To Withdraw the NPRM

    United Parcel Service (UPS) requested that the NPRM be withdrawn 
until the actual root cause of the unsafe condition can be determined 
and a validated and confirmed solution is developed.
    FedEx Express (FedEx) requested that we withdraw the NPRM. FedEx 
stated that the burden of the actions proposed in the NPRM is not 
justified based on data presented in Boeing Fleet Team Digest 757-FTD-
22-12001 or its operational experience. FedEx believes this is an 
extremely isolated and unlikely anomaly on the Model 757 fleet. FedEx 
stated that it operates over 100 Model 757 aircraft and has completed 
over 210,000 flight cycles with no reports of uncommanded autopilot 
engagement.
    We disagree with the commenters' request to withdraw the NPRM. The 
quantitative and qualitative risks analyzed for this identified unsafe 
condition present an unacceptable risk that must be addressed on both 
passenger and freighter models. The manufacturer also considers the 
condition a safety issue and has developed an on-ground stabilizer 
autotrim inhibit system that addresses the unsafe condition. We have 
determined that it is necessary to proceed with issuance of this AD.

Requests To Clarify Root Cause

    Boeing requested that we revise the Discussion section of the NPRM. 
Boeing

[[Page 94950]]

acknowledged that the root cause is unknown, but requested that we 
revise the speculation that ``the erroneous autopilot engage request is 
believed to have come from the mode control panel (MCP) and to have 
been caused by contamination within the MCP.'' Boeing requested that we 
instead indicate that possible failures in the autopilot flight 
director system can cause an uncommanded engagement of the autopilot. 
Boeing stated that the revised statement would be less speculative.
    We partially agree with the commenter's request. We agree that the 
revised statement would be less speculative. However, since the 
pertinent part of the Discussion section is not repeated in this final 
rule, no change is necessary to this final rule.
    One commenter, Geoffrey Barrance, requested that we take immediate 
action to require examination for contamination of all MCPs on all 
affected airplanes. Mr. Barrance stated that the exposure to the 
problem will persist until all (or some critical part) of the actions 
specified by the NPRM are completed.
    We do not agree with the commenter's request. As stated above, the 
manufacturer and the FAA agree that pointing to MCP contamination as 
the root cause is speculative. We concur with the manufacturer's 
conclusion that the on-ground stabilizer autotrim inhibit system of 
this AD mitigates possible failures in the autopilot flight director 
system. The compliance times specified in this AD are established to 
ensure an acceptable level of risk. We have not changed this final rule 
in this regard.

Request To Revise SUMMARY

    Boeing requested that we revise the SUMMARY of the NPRM to describe 
the specific Model 767 airplanes identified in the applicability of 
this AD, rather than using the term ``Model 767 airplanes.'' Boeing 
stated that this will clarify that the applicability will not apply to 
future Model 767 series airplanes, such as the Model 767-2C, which will 
be designed to inhibit autopilot engagement on the ground with the 
flaps down, preventing the unsafe condition addressed by the NPRM.
    We agree with the commenter's request. In the SUMMARY of this final 
rule we refer to ``certain'' airplanes, and we identify the subgroup of 
Model 767 airplanes by referring to the effectivity of the service 
information in paragraph (c) of this AD. We are not including future 
production airplanes in the applicability of this AD.

Request To Clarify Differences Between NPRM and Service Information

    United Airlines (UAL) requested that we revise the NPRM to specify 
using Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-22-2256, Revision 
1, dated January 6, 2016 (``SASB 747-22-2256 R1''), and that we give 
credit for Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-22-2256, dated 
March 6, 2015.
    We agree with UAL's request. We have revised paragraphs (c)(1) and 
(g) of this AD to specify using SASB 747-22-2256 R1, as an appropriate 
source of service information for accomplishing the required actions in 
these paragraphs. SASB 747-22-2256 R1 specifies doing functional 
testing of the automatic stabilizer trim inhibit system. Since 
paragraph (g) of the proposed AD specified doing the functional testing 
of the automatic stabilizer trim inhibit, there is no increase in the 
economic burden on any operator or increase of the scope of this AD. We 
added credit for using Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-
22-2256, dated March 6, 2015, to paragraph (k) of this AD.
    EVA Airways (EVA) requested that we consider the complexity of 
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-22-2256, dated March 6, 
2015, and noted that Boeing Information Notice 747-22-2256 IN 02, dated 
June 10, 2015, has been issued to revise Boeing Special Attention 
Service Bulletin 747-22-2256, dated March 6, 2015.
    We agree with the commenter's request. As previously stated, we 
have revised this AD to specify SASB 747-22-2256 R1 as an appropriate 
source of service information. This service information has 
incorporated the information in Boeing Information Notice 747-22-2256 
IN 02, dated June 10, 2015. No further change is necessary in this 
regard in this final rule.
    Boeing requested that we delete the ``Differences Between this 
Proposed AD and the Service Information'' section in the NPRM, which 
stated that, for Model 747 airplanes, the proposed AD would require 
doing post-modification routine functional testing of the on-ground 
stabilizer auto trim inhibit system, and corrective actions if 
necessary, at intervals not to exceed 1,500 flight hours. Boeing stated 
that SASB 747-22-2256 R1 now includes the functional testing of the on-
ground stabilizer auto trim inhibit system.
    We agree with Boeing that SASB 747-22-2256 R1 specifies doing the 
functional testing of the on-ground auto stabilizer trim inhibit system 
specified in ``Differences Between this Proposed AD and the Service 
Information'' in the NPRM, and in paragraph (i) of this AD. However, 
the ``Differences Between this Proposed AD and the Service 
Information'' section is not repeated in this final rule. We have not 
changed this final rule in this regard.

Effect of Winglets on Accomplishment of the Proposed Actions

    Aviation Partners Boeing (APB) stated that the installation of 
winglets per Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) ST01518SE does not 
affect the accomplishment of the manufacturer's service instructions.
    We agree with APB that STC ST01518SE does not affect the 
accomplishment of the manufacturer's service instructions for Model 757 
airplanes. Therefore, the installation of STC ST01518SE does not affect 
the ability to accomplish the actions required by this AD for Model 757 
airplanes. Therefore, we have not changed this AD in this regard.

Requests To Address Airplanes Equipped With Aviation Partners Boeing 
(APB) Winglets

    All Nippon Airways (ANA), American Airlines (AA), APB, Boeing, 
Thompson Airways, UAL, and UPS requested that we revise the NPRM to 
address the Model 767 airplanes equipped with winglets installed under 
APB STC ST01920SE. The commenters explained that the Model 767 equipped 
with APB winglets have a different compliance time and modification 
specified in APB Service Bulletin AP767-22-005, Revision 1, dated June 
16, 2015 (``SB AP767-22-005 R1''), than those that have not been 
modified by the APB STC.
    We agree with the commenters' requests to revise this AD to address 
Model 767 airplanes equipped with APB winglets. The Model 767-300 and -
300F series airplanes identified in Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 767-22-0143, Revision 1, dated July 6, 2015 (``SASB 767-22-
0143 R1''), that have been modified with the installation of APB 
winglets are identified in SB AP767-22-005 R1.
    We have revised applicability paragraph (c)(3) of this AD to 
exclude Model 767-300 and -300F series airplanes that are identified in 
SB AP767-22-005 R1. We have added a new paragraph (c)(5) to this AD to 
include Model 767-300 and -300F series airplanes with winglets 
installed per STC ST01920SE having part number (P/N) 2276-COL-AF2-03 
installed, as identified in APB Service Bulletin AP767-22-005, dated 
May 8, 2015; or SB AP767-22-005 R1.

[[Page 94951]]

    We have redesignated paragraph (j) of the proposed AD as paragraph 
(j)(1) of this AD and added paragraph (j)(2) to this AD to require the 
actions specified in SB AP767-22-005 R1, for Model 767 airplanes that 
are identified in paragraph (c)(5) of this AD. These actions were 
previously proposed in the NPRM; therefore, there is no increase in 
scope of the requirements of this AD and no supplemental comment period 
is necessary. We have also added paragraph (j)(3) to this AD which 
states that, for airplanes identified in paragraph (c)(5) of this AD, 
no additional action is required by this AD.

Requests To Reference Revised Service Information and Provide Credit

    AIRDO Company, ANA, Boeing, British Airways, Thomson Airways, and 
UAL requested that we revise the NPRM to specify using Boeing Special 
Attention Service Bulletin 757-22-0096, Revision 1, dated February 8, 
2016 (``SASB 757-22-0096 R1''); Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 767-22-0143, Revision 2, dated May 25, 2016 (``SASB 767-22-
0143 R2''); certain Boeing Information Notices that provide revisions 
to the service information; and to provide credit for actions using the 
previous issues of service information.
    We agree with the commenters' requests to reference the revised 
service information, which incorporates the revisions in the Boeing 
Information Notices, and to provide credit. This service information 
incorporates small editorial changes and requires no additional work on 
airplanes that have had prior revisions of this service information 
accomplished on them. We have revised paragraphs (c)(2) and (h) of this 
AD to reference SASB 757-22-0096 R1. We have revised paragraphs (c)(3) 
and (i) of this AD to reference SASB 767-22-0143 R2. In paragraph (k) 
of this AD, we have added credit for previous actions using Boeing 
Special Attention Service Bulletin 757-22-0096, dated March 23, 2015; 
and Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 767-22-0143, Revision 1, 
dated July 6, 2015.

Request To Approve Alternative Method of Compliance (AMOC)

    AAL requested that we approve SB AP767-22-005 R1, or later FAA-
approved revisions, as an AMOC to the NPRM requirements. AAL also 
requested that we approve later FAA-approved revisions to the service 
information in the NPRM.
    We do not agree with the commenter's requests. As stated 
previously, we have included SB AP767-22-005 R1 as a source of service 
information in this AD. AMOCs provide an alternative method of 
compliance to the methods required to be used in the associated AD. An 
AMOC is issued only after an AD has been issued and only after data are 
provided to show that the proposed alternative adequately addresses the 
unsafe condition.
    Referring to specific service information in an AD and using the 
phrase ``or later FAA-approved revisions'' violates Office of the 
Federal Register regulations for approving materials that are 
incorporated by reference. However, operators may request approval to 
use a later revision of the referenced service information as an AMOC, 
under the provisions of paragraph (l) of this AD. We have not changed 
this AD in this regard.

Requests To Revise Compliance Times

    AAL, AIRDO Company, FedEx, British Airways, EVA Airways, Thomson 
Airways, and UAL requested that we revise the NPRM compliance times. 
The revision requests for the Model 747 airplanes 24-month compliance 
time range from 48 months to 60 months to the next scheduled heavy 
airplane check. The revision requests for the Model 757 airplanes 24-
month compliance time range from 36 months to 48 months. The revision 
requests for the Model 767 airplanes 24-month compliance time is 36 
months. UAL requested that operators installing the APB winglets in the 
near future, have 24 months instead of 16 months after the effective 
date of the AD to comply with the AD requirements. The commenters 
requested the compliance time changes to accommodate maintenance 
schedules, parts availability, and airplane down times.
    We do not agree with the commenters' compliance time requests. In 
developing appropriate compliance times, we considered the safety 
implications, normal maintenance schedules for timely accomplishment of 
the modification, and parts availability. In light of these items, we 
have determined that the compliance times, as proposed, represent the 
maximum interval of time allowable for the affected airplanes to 
continue to safely operate before the modification is done. In 
addition, since maintenance schedules vary among operators, there would 
be no assurance that the airplane would be modified during that maximum 
interval. The manufacturer has concurred with the compliance times as 
proposed. We have not changed this final rule in this regard. However, 
under the provisions of paragraph (l) of this AD, we will consider 
requests for approval of an extension of the compliance time if 
sufficient data are submitted to substantiate that the new compliance 
time would provide an acceptable level of safety. We have not changed 
this final rule in this regard.

Request To Conduct Compliance Time Risk Assessment

    Mr. Geoffrey Barrance requested that we do a risk assessment and 
probability safety analysis in setting the compliance time. Mr. 
Barrance stated that steps must be immediately taken to assess whether 
the specified compliance time is adequate to keep the fleet risk within 
proper limits.
    We agree with the commenter. We have done an assessment of the risk 
posed by the identified unsafe condition. The compliance times 
following the effective date of this AD were determined to be 
appropriate. The manufacturer has concurred with the compliance times 
as proposed. No change to this final rule is needed in this regard.

Request To Revise Airplane Checklist

    Mr. Geoffrey Barrance requested that, until the modification of any 
specific airframe has been accomplished, we include an additional step 
in the pre-flight checklist to check that the stabilizer is in the 
correct position.
    We agree that this step is necessary. However, the existing pre-
flight checklist already requires checking the stabilizer position 
prior to departure. Therefore, no change is needed to this AD in this 
regard.

Request To Revise Cost Estimate

    UAL requested that we revise the cost estimate to reflect the 
additional financial burden imposed on the operator in order to comply 
with the NPRM. UAL stated that the compliance times do not coincide 
with UAL's maintenance intervals for heavy aircraft checks. UAL 
explained that, as a result, it will need to take a number of airplanes 
out of service for several days.
    We do not agree with the commenter's request. In establishing the 
requirements of all ADs, we consider the cost impact to operators for 
parts and labor costs. We attempt to set compliance times that 
generally coincide with operators' maintenance schedules where possible 
in consideration of the safety risk. However, because operators' 
schedules vary substantially, we cannot accommodate every operator's 
optimal scheduling in each AD. Each AD has an allowable provision for 
individual operators to obtain approval for extensions of compliance 
times, based on a showing that the extension provides an acceptable 
level of safety.

[[Page 94952]]

We have not changed this AD regarding this issue.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, 
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting 
this AD with the changes described previously and 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.
    We also determined that these changes will not increase the 
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this AD.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR part 51

    We reviewed the following service information. These documents are 
distinct since they apply to different airplane models in different 
configurations.
     SB AP767-22-005 R1. This service information describes 
procedures for modifying relays and wiring to open and close the FCC 
analog output that controls the stabilizer trim adjustment, and doing 
functional testing.
     SASB 747-22-2256 R1. This service information describes 
procedures for installing an on-ground stabilizer autotrim inhibit 
system, and doing functional testing.
     SASB 757-22-0096 R1. This service information describes 
procedures for modifying relays and wiring to open and close the FCC 
analog output that controls the stabilizer trim adjustment, and doing 
functional testing.
     SASB 767-22-0143 R2. This service information describes 
procedures for modifying relays and wiring to open and close the FCC 
analog output that controls the stabilizer trim adjustment, and doing 
functional testing.
     Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 767-22-0146, 
Revision 1, dated June 25, 2015. This service information describes 
procedures for installing new OPS into the FCCs.
    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 1,220 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             Parts                              Cost on  U.S.
              Action                      Labor cost          cost      Cost per  product         operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Model 747 series airplane           123 work-hours x $85      $2,714  $13,169.............  $1,790,984.
 modification (136 airplanes).       per hour = $10,455.
Model 747 series airplane           4 work-hours x $85             0  $340 per test.......  $46,240 per test.
 functional test (136 airplanes).    per hour = $340.
Model 757 series airplane           83 work-hours x $85        3,236  $10,291.............  $6,977,298.
 modification (678 airplanes).       per hour = $7,055.
Model 757 series airplane           3 work-hours x $85             0  $255 per test.......  $172,890 per test.
 functional test (678 airplanes).    per hour = $255 per
                                     test.
Model 767 series airplane           121 work-hours x $85       6,076  $16,361.............  $6,642,566.
 modification (406 airplanes).       per hour = $10,285.
Model 767 series airplane software  1 work-hour x $85 per          0  $85.................  $1,955.
 modification (23 airplanes).        hour = $85.
Model 767 series airplane           5 work-hours x $85             0  $425 per test.......  $172,550 per test.
 functional test (406 airplanes).    per hour = $425 per
                                     test.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    According to the manufacturer, some of the costs of this AD may be 
covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected 
individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected 
individuals. As a result, we have included all available costs in our 
cost estimate.
    We have received no definitive data that will 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 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

0
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator,

[[Page 94953]]

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):

2016-25-01 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-18727; Docket No. FAA-
2015-7525; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-064-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective January 31, 2017.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to The Boeing Company airplanes, certificated in 
any category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1) through (c)(5) of this 
AD.
    (1) Model 747-400, 747-400D, and 747-400F series airplanes, as 
identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-22-2256, 
Revision 1, dated January 6, 2016 (``SASB 747-22-2256 R1'').
    (2) Model 757-200, -200PF, -200CB, and -300 series airplanes, as 
identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 757-22-0096, 
Revision 1, dated February 8, 2016 (``SASB 757-22-0096 R1'').
    (3) Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and -400ER series airplanes, as 
identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 767-22-0143, 
Revision 2, dated May 25, 2016 (``SASB 767-22-0143 R2''), except 
those Model 767-300 and -300F series airplanes with winglets 
installed in accordance with Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) 
ST01920SE (http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/59027f43b9a7486e86257b1d006591ee/Body/0.48A!OpenElement&FieldElemFormat=gif), and that are identified in 
Aviation Partners Boeing (APB) Service Bulletin AP767-22-005, 
Revision 1, dated June 16, 2015 (``SB AP767-22-005 R1'').
    (4) Model 767-300 and -300F series airplanes, as identified in 
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 767-22-0146, Revision 1, 
dated June 25, 2015 (``SASB 767-22-0146 R1'').
    (5) Model 767-300 and -300F series airplanes with winglets 
installed per STC ST01920SE (http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/59027f43b9a7486e86257b1d006591ee/Body/0.48A!OpenElement&FieldElemFormat=gif) having part number (P/N) 
2276-COL-AF2-03 installed, as identified in APB Service Bulletin 
AP767-22-005, dated May 8, 2015; or SB AP767-22-005 R1.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 22, Auto flight.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports of uncommanded autopilot 
engagement events resulting in incorrect stabilizer trim adjustment 
during takeoff. We are issuing this AD to prevent stabilizer 
mistrim, which could result in a high-speed rejected takeoff and 
runway overrun, or reduced controllability of the airplane after 
takeoff due to insufficient pitch control.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) Model 747 Airplane Modification and Repetitive Functional Testing

    For airplanes identified in paragraph (c)(1) of this AD: Within 
24 months after the effective date of this AD, install new wiring 
and relays to reroute the four autotrim arm signals through new or 
existing air/ground determination source select switches, and do 
functional testing, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of SASB 747-22-2256 R1. If the functional test fails, 
before further flight, do corrective actions, repeat the test, and 
do all applicable corrective actions until the functional test is 
passed, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 
747-22-2256 R1. Repeat the functional test of the automatic 
stabilizer trim system specified in step 250. of paragraph 3.B. of 
the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 747-22-2256 R1, thereafter 
at intervals not to exceed 1,500 flight hours. If the functional 
test fails, before further flight, do corrective actions, repeat the 
test, and do all applicable corrective actions until the functional 
test is passed, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions 
of SASB 747-22-2256 R1.

(h) Model 757 Airplane Modification and Repetitive Functional Testing

    For airplanes identified in paragraph (c)(2) of this AD: Within 
24 months after the effective date of this AD, install wiring to 
inhibit the automatic stabilizer trim arm discrete when the airplane 
is on ground, install a two-position momentary contact test switch 
in the main equipment center, and do the functional test and all 
applicable corrective actions until the functional test is passed, 
in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 757-22-
0096 R1. Repeat the functional test of the on-ground automatic 
stabilizer auto trim inhibit system and all applicable corrective 
actions specified in step 11. of paragraph 3.B. of the 
Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 757-22-0096 R1, thereafter at 
intervals not to exceed 1,500 flight hours. If the functional test 
fails, before further flight, do corrective actions, repeat the 
test, and do all applicable corrective actions until the functional 
test is passed, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions 
of SASB 757-22-0096 R1.

(i) Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and -400ER Series Airplane Modification 
and Repetitive Functional Testing

    For airplanes identified in paragraph (c)(3) of this AD: Within 
24 months after the effective date of this AD, install relays and 
wiring to open and close the flight control computer (FCC) analog 
output that controls the stabilizer trim adjustment, install a 
momentary action ground test switch, and do the functional testing 
and all applicable corrective actions, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 767-22-0143 R2. Repeat the 
functional test of the on-ground automatic stabilizer auto trim 
inhibit system and all applicable corrective actions specified in 
steps 5.a. through 5.g. of Paragraph 3.B. of the Accomplishment 
Instructions of SASB 767-22-0143 R2, thereafter at intervals not to 
exceed 1,500 flight hours. If the functional test fails, before 
further flight, do corrective actions, repeat the test, and do all 
applicable corrective actions until the functional test is passed, 
in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 767-22-
0143 R2.

(j) Model 767-300 and -300F Series Airplane Modification

    (1) For airplanes identified in paragraph (c)(4) of this AD: 
Within 16 months after the effective date of this AD, install new 
operational program software into the FCCs, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 767-22-0146 R1.
    (2) For airplanes identified in paragraph (c)(5) of this AD: 
Within 16 months after the effective date of this AD, install new 
operational program software into the FCCs, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of SB AP767-22-005 R1.

(k) Credit for Actions Accomplished in Accordance With Previous Service 
Information

    (1) This paragraph provides credit for actions required by 
paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the 
effective date of this AD using Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 747-22-2256, dated March 6, 2015.
    (2) This paragraph provides credit for actions required by 
paragraph (h) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the 
effective date of this AD using Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 757-22-0096, dated March 23, 2015.
    (3) This paragraph provides credit for actions required by 
paragraph (i) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the 
effective date of this AD using Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 767-22-0143, dated March 6, 2015; or Boeing Special 
Attention Service Bulletin 767-22-0143, Revision 1, dated July 6, 
2015.
    (4) This paragraph provides credit for actions required by 
paragraph (j) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the 
effective date of this AD using Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 767-22-0146, dated March 24, 2015.

(l) 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

[[Page 94954]]

to the manager of the ACO, send it to the attention of the person 
identified in paragraph (m)(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) 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) 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 sub-step is labeled ``RC Exempt,'' then 
the RC requirement is removed from that step or sub-step. 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

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Fnu Winarto, 
Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM-130S, FAA, 
Seattle ACO, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 
425-917-6659; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected].
    (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not 
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in 
paragraphs (n)(3) and (n)(4) of this AD.

(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) Aviation Partners Boeing Service Bulletin AP767-22-005, 
Revision 1, dated June 16, 2015.
    (ii) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 747-22-2256, 
Revision 1, dated January 6, 2016.
    (iii) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 757-22-0096, 
Revision 1, dated February 8, 2016.
    (iv) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 767-22-0143, 
Revision 2, dated May 25, 2016.
    (v) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 767-22-0146, 
Revision 1, dated June 25, 2015.
    (3) For Boeing 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 at 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 November 23, 2016.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-29247 Filed 12-23-16; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P



                                                                   Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 248 / Tuesday, December 27, 2016 / Rules and Regulations                                        94949

                                                  D’Angelo; telephone 39–0331–664757; fax 39              ADDRESSES:   For service information                  functional testing of the system, and
                                                  0331–664680; or at http://                              identified in this final rule, contact                doing corrective actions if necessary; for
                                                  www.agustawestland.com/technical-                       Boeing Commercial Airplanes,                          Model 757 airplanes and Model 767
                                                  bulletins.                                              Attention: Data & Services Management,                airplanes, installing relays and related
                                                     (4) You may view this service information
                                                  at FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
                                                                                                          P. O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, WA                 wiring to open and close the FCC analog
                                                  Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy,                  98124–2207; telephone: 206–544–5000,                  output that controls the stabilizer trim
                                                  Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For                  extension 1; fax: 206–766–5680; Internet              adjustment, doing routine functional
                                                  information on the availability of this                 https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You                    testing of the on-ground auto stabilizer
                                                  material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110.               may view this referenced service                      trim inhibit system, and doing
                                                     (5) You may view this service information            information at the FAA, Transport                     corrective actions if necessary; and for
                                                  that is incorporated by reference at the                Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue                Model 767–300, and –300F series
                                                  National Archives and Records                           SW., Renton, WA. For information on                   airplanes, installing new OPS into the
                                                  Administration (NARA). For information on               the availability of this material at the              FCCs. We are issuing this AD to prevent
                                                  the availability of this material at NARA, call
                                                  (202) 741–6030, or go to: http://
                                                                                                          FAA, call 425–227–1221. It is also                    stabilizer mistrim, which could result in
                                                  www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-              available on the Internet at http://                  a high-speed rejected takeoff and
                                                  locations.html.                                         www.regulations.gov by searching for                  runway overrun, or reduced
                                                                                                          and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–                     controllability of the airplane after
                                                     Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on December
                                                  9, 2016.
                                                                                                          7525.                                                 takeoff due to insufficient pitch control.
                                                  Scott A. Horn,                                          Examining the AD Docket                               Comments
                                                  Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate,                   You may examine the AD docket on                      We gave the public the opportunity to
                                                  Aircraft Certification Service.                         the Internet at http://                               participate in developing this AD. The
                                                  [FR Doc. 2016–30285 Filed 12–23–16; 8:45 am]            www.regulations.gov by searching for                  following presents the comments
                                                  BILLING CODE 4910–13–P                                  and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–                     received on the NPRM and the FAA’s
                                                                                                          7525; or in person at the Docket                      response to each comment.
                                                                                                          Management Facility between 9 a.m.                    Support for the NPRM
                                                  DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION                            and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
                                                                                                          except Federal holidays. The AD docket                  The Airline Pilots Association,
                                                  Federal Aviation Administration                                                                               International stated that it fully supports
                                                                                                          contains this AD, the regulatory
                                                                                                          evaluation, any comments received, and                the intent of the NPRM.
                                                  14 CFR Part 39
                                                                                                          other information. The address for the                Requests To Withdraw the NPRM
                                                  [Docket No. FAA–2015–7525; Directorate                  Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is
                                                  Identifier 2015–NM–064–AD; Amendment                    Docket Management Facility, U.S.                         United Parcel Service (UPS) requested
                                                  39–18727; AD 2016–25–01]                                Department of Transportation, Docket                  that the NPRM be withdrawn until the
                                                                                                          Operations, M–30, West Building                       actual root cause of the unsafe condition
                                                  RIN 2120–AA64
                                                                                                          Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200                      can be determined and a validated and
                                                  Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing                    New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington,                    confirmed solution is developed.
                                                  Company Airplanes                                                                                                FedEx Express (FedEx) requested that
                                                                                                          DC 20590.
                                                                                                                                                                we withdraw the NPRM. FedEx stated
                                                  AGENCY:  Federal Aviation                               FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Fnu                  that the burden of the actions proposed
                                                  Administration (FAA), DOT.                              Winarto, Aerospace Engineer, Systems                  in the NPRM is not justified based on
                                                  ACTION: Final rule.                                     and Equipment Branch, ANM–130S,                       data presented in Boeing Fleet Team
                                                                                                          FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification                   Digest 757–FTD–22–12001 or its
                                                  SUMMARY:   We are adopting a new                        Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,                   operational experience. FedEx believes
                                                  airworthiness directive (AD) for certain                Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–                    this is an extremely isolated and
                                                  The Boeing Company Model 747–400,                       917–6659; fax: 425–917–6590; email:                   unlikely anomaly on the Model 757
                                                  747–400D, and 747–400F series                           fnu.winarto@faa.gov.                                  fleet. FedEx stated that it operates over
                                                  airplanes; Model 757 airplanes; and                     SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:                            100 Model 757 aircraft and has
                                                  Model 767–200, –300, –300F, and                                                                               completed over 210,000 flight cycles
                                                  –400ER series airplanes. This AD was                    Discussion
                                                                                                                                                                with no reports of uncommanded
                                                  prompted by reports of uncommanded                        We issued a notice of proposed                      autopilot engagement.
                                                  autopilot engagement events resulting in                rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR                        We disagree with the commenters’
                                                  incorrect stabilizer trim adjustment                    part 39 by adding an AD that would                    request to withdraw the NPRM. The
                                                  during takeoff. This AD requires,                       apply to certain The Boeing Company                   quantitative and qualitative risks
                                                  depending on the model/configuration,                   Model 747–400, 747–400D, and 747–                     analyzed for this identified unsafe
                                                  installing an on-ground stabilizer                      400F series airplanes; Model 757                      condition present an unacceptable risk
                                                  autotrim inhibit system, relays and                     airplanes; and Model 767–200, –300,                   that must be addressed on both
                                                  related wiring to open and close the                    –300F, and –400ER series airplanes. The               passenger and freighter models. The
                                                  flight control computer (FCC) analog                    NPRM published in the Federal                         manufacturer also considers the
                                                  output, and new operational program                     Register on December 23, 2015 (80 FR                  condition a safety issue and has
                                                  software (OPS) into the FCCs. We are                    79735) (‘‘the NPRM’’). The NPRM was                   developed an on-ground stabilizer
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                                                  issuing this AD to address the unsafe                   prompted by reports of uncommanded                    autotrim inhibit system that addresses
                                                  condition on these products.                            autopilot engagement events resulting in              the unsafe condition. We have
                                                  DATES: This AD is effective January 31,                 incorrect stabilizer trim adjustment                  determined that it is necessary to
                                                  2017.                                                   during takeoff. The NPRM proposed to                  proceed with issuance of this AD.
                                                     The Director of the Federal Register                 require, depending on the model/
                                                  approved the incorporation by reference                 configuration for Model 747 airplanes,                Requests To Clarify Root Cause
                                                  of certain publications listed in this AD               installing an on-ground stabilizer                      Boeing requested that we revise the
                                                  as of January 31, 2017.                                 autotrim inhibit system, doing routine                Discussion section of the NPRM. Boeing


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                                                  94950            Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 248 / Tuesday, December 27, 2016 / Rules and Regulations

                                                  acknowledged that the root cause is                     Request To Clarify Differences Between                NPRM, and in paragraph (i) of this AD.
                                                  unknown, but requested that we revise                   NPRM and Service Information                          However, the ‘‘Differences Between this
                                                  the speculation that ‘‘the erroneous                       United Airlines (UAL) requested that               Proposed AD and the Service
                                                  autopilot engage request is believed to                 we revise the NPRM to specify using                   Information’’ section is not repeated in
                                                  have come from the mode control panel                   Boeing Special Attention Service                      this final rule. We have not changed this
                                                  (MCP) and to have been caused by                        Bulletin 747–22–2256, Revision 1, dated               final rule in this regard.
                                                  contamination within the MCP.’’ Boeing                  January 6, 2016 (‘‘SASB 747–22–2256                   Effect of Winglets on Accomplishment
                                                  requested that we instead indicate that                 R1’’), and that we give credit for Boeing             of the Proposed Actions
                                                  possible failures in the autopilot flight               Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–
                                                  director system can cause an                            22–2256, dated March 6, 2015.                           Aviation Partners Boeing (APB) stated
                                                  uncommanded engagement of the                              We agree with UAL’s request. We                    that the installation of winglets per
                                                  autopilot. Boeing stated that the revised               have revised paragraphs (c)(1) and (g) of             Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)
                                                  statement would be less speculative.                    this AD to specify using SASB 747–22–                 ST01518SE does not affect the
                                                     We partially agree with the                          2256 R1, as an appropriate source of                  accomplishment of the manufacturer’s
                                                  commenter’s request. We agree that the                  service information for accomplishing                 service instructions.
                                                  revised statement would be less                         the required actions in these paragraphs.               We agree with APB that STC
                                                  speculative. However, since the                         SASB 747–22–2256 R1 specifies doing                   ST01518SE does not affect the
                                                  pertinent part of the Discussion section                functional testing of the automatic                   accomplishment of the manufacturer’s
                                                  is not repeated in this final rule, no                  stabilizer trim inhibit system. Since                 service instructions for Model 757
                                                  change is necessary to this final rule.                 paragraph (g) of the proposed AD                      airplanes. Therefore, the installation of
                                                                                                          specified doing the functional testing of             STC ST01518SE does not affect the
                                                     One commenter, Geoffrey Barrance,
                                                                                                          the automatic stabilizer trim inhibit,                ability to accomplish the actions
                                                  requested that we take immediate action
                                                                                                          there is no increase in the economic                  required by this AD for Model 757
                                                  to require examination for
                                                                                                          burden on any operator or increase of                 airplanes. Therefore, we have not
                                                  contamination of all MCPs on all
                                                                                                          the scope of this AD. We added credit                 changed this AD in this regard.
                                                  affected airplanes. Mr. Barrance stated
                                                  that the exposure to the problem will                   for using Boeing Special Attention                    Requests To Address Airplanes
                                                  persist until all (or some critical part) of            Service Bulletin 747–22–2256, dated                   Equipped With Aviation Partners
                                                  the actions specified by the NPRM are                   March 6, 2015, to paragraph (k) of this               Boeing (APB) Winglets
                                                  completed.                                              AD.
                                                                                                             EVA Airways (EVA) requested that we                  All Nippon Airways (ANA), American
                                                     We do not agree with the commenter’s                                                                       Airlines (AA), APB, Boeing, Thompson
                                                                                                          consider the complexity of Boeing
                                                  request. As stated above, the                                                                                 Airways, UAL, and UPS requested that
                                                                                                          Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–
                                                  manufacturer and the FAA agree that                                                                           we revise the NPRM to address the
                                                                                                          22–2256, dated March 6, 2015, and
                                                  pointing to MCP contamination as the                                                                          Model 767 airplanes equipped with
                                                                                                          noted that Boeing Information Notice
                                                  root cause is speculative. We concur                                                                          winglets installed under APB STC
                                                                                                          747–22–2256 IN 02, dated June 10,
                                                  with the manufacturer’s conclusion that                                                                       ST01920SE. The commenters explained
                                                                                                          2015, has been issued to revise Boeing
                                                  the on-ground stabilizer autotrim inhibit                                                                     that the Model 767 equipped with APB
                                                                                                          Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–
                                                  system of this AD mitigates possible                                                                          winglets have a different compliance
                                                                                                          22–2256, dated March 6, 2015.
                                                  failures in the autopilot flight director                                                                     time and modification specified in APB
                                                                                                             We agree with the commenter’s
                                                  system. The compliance times specified                                                                        Service Bulletin AP767–22–005,
                                                                                                          request. As previously stated, we have
                                                  in this AD are established to ensure an                                                                       Revision 1, dated June 16, 2015 (‘‘SB
                                                                                                          revised this AD to specify SASB 747–
                                                  acceptable level of risk. We have not                                                                         AP767–22–005 R1’’), than those that
                                                                                                          22–2256 R1 as an appropriate source of
                                                  changed this final rule in this regard.                                                                       have not been modified by the APB
                                                                                                          service information. This service
                                                  Request To Revise SUMMARY                               information has incorporated the                      STC.
                                                                                                          information in Boeing Information                       We agree with the commenters’
                                                     Boeing requested that we revise the                  Notice 747–22–2256 IN 02, dated June                  requests to revise this AD to address
                                                  SUMMARY of the NPRM to describe the                     10, 2015. No further change is necessary              Model 767 airplanes equipped with
                                                  specific Model 767 airplanes identified                 in this regard in this final rule.                    APB winglets. The Model 767–300 and
                                                  in the applicability of this AD, rather                    Boeing requested that we delete the                –300F series airplanes identified in
                                                  than using the term ‘‘Model 767                         ‘‘Differences Between this Proposed AD                Boeing Special Attention Service
                                                  airplanes.’’ Boeing stated that this will               and the Service Information’’ section in              Bulletin 767–22–0143, Revision 1, dated
                                                  clarify that the applicability will not                 the NPRM, which stated that, for Model                July 6, 2015 (‘‘SASB 767–22–0143 R1’’),
                                                  apply to future Model 767 series                        747 airplanes, the proposed AD would                  that have been modified with the
                                                  airplanes, such as the Model 767–2C,                    require doing post-modification routine               installation of APB winglets are
                                                  which will be designed to inhibit                       functional testing of the on-ground                   identified in SB AP767–22–005 R1.
                                                  autopilot engagement on the ground                      stabilizer auto trim inhibit system, and                We have revised applicability
                                                  with the flaps down, preventing the                     corrective actions if necessary, at                   paragraph (c)(3) of this AD to exclude
                                                  unsafe condition addressed by the                       intervals not to exceed 1,500 flight                  Model 767–300 and –300F series
                                                  NPRM.                                                   hours. Boeing stated that SASB 747–22–                airplanes that are identified in SB
                                                     We agree with the commenter’s                        2256 R1 now includes the functional                   AP767–22–005 R1. We have added a
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                                                  request. In the SUMMARY of this final                   testing of the on-ground stabilizer auto              new paragraph (c)(5) to this AD to
                                                  rule we refer to ‘‘certain’’ airplanes, and             trim inhibit system.                                  include Model 767–300 and –300F
                                                  we identify the subgroup of Model 767                      We agree with Boeing that SASB 747–                series airplanes with winglets installed
                                                  airplanes by referring to the effectivity               22–2256 R1 specifies doing the                        per STC ST01920SE having part number
                                                  of the service information in paragraph                 functional testing of the on-ground auto              (P/N) 2276–COL–AF2–03 installed, as
                                                  (c) of this AD. We are not including                    stabilizer trim inhibit system specified              identified in APB Service Bulletin
                                                  future production airplanes in the                      in ‘‘Differences Between this Proposed                AP767–22–005, dated May 8, 2015; or
                                                  applicability of this AD.                               AD and the Service Information’’ in the               SB AP767–22–005 R1.


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                                                                   Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 248 / Tuesday, December 27, 2016 / Rules and Regulations                                       94951

                                                    We have redesignated paragraph (j) of                 of compliance to the methods required                 substantiate that the new compliance
                                                  the proposed AD as paragraph (j)(1) of                  to be used in the associated AD. An                   time would provide an acceptable level
                                                  this AD and added paragraph (j)(2) to                   AMOC is issued only after an AD has                   of safety. We have not changed this final
                                                  this AD to require the actions specified                been issued and only after data are                   rule in this regard.
                                                  in SB AP767–22–005 R1, for Model 767                    provided to show that the proposed
                                                                                                                                                                Request To Conduct Compliance Time
                                                  airplanes that are identified in                        alternative adequately addresses the
                                                  paragraph (c)(5) of this AD. These                      unsafe condition.                                     Risk Assessment
                                                  actions were previously proposed in the                    Referring to specific service                         Mr. Geoffrey Barrance requested that
                                                  NPRM; therefore, there is no increase in                information in an AD and using the                    we do a risk assessment and probability
                                                  scope of the requirements of this AD                    phrase ‘‘or later FAA-approved                        safety analysis in setting the compliance
                                                  and no supplemental comment period is                   revisions’’ violates Office of the Federal            time. Mr. Barrance stated that steps
                                                  necessary. We have also added                           Register regulations for approving                    must be immediately taken to assess
                                                  paragraph (j)(3) to this AD which states                materials that are incorporated by                    whether the specified compliance time
                                                  that, for airplanes identified in                       reference. However, operators may                     is adequate to keep the fleet risk within
                                                  paragraph (c)(5) of this AD, no                         request approval to use a later revision              proper limits.
                                                  additional action is required by this AD.               of the referenced service information as                 We agree with the commenter. We
                                                                                                          an AMOC, under the provisions of                      have done an assessment of the risk
                                                  Requests To Reference Revised Service                   paragraph (l) of this AD. We have not
                                                  Information and Provide Credit                                                                                posed by the identified unsafe
                                                                                                          changed this AD in this regard.                       condition. The compliance times
                                                    AIRDO Company, ANA, Boeing,                                                                                 following the effective date of this AD
                                                  British Airways, Thomson Airways, and                   Requests To Revise Compliance Times
                                                                                                                                                                were determined to be appropriate. The
                                                  UAL requested that we revise the NPRM                      AAL, AIRDO Company, FedEx,
                                                                                                                                                                manufacturer has concurred with the
                                                  to specify using Boeing Special                         British Airways, EVA Airways,
                                                                                                                                                                compliance times as proposed. No
                                                  Attention Service Bulletin 757–22–                      Thomson Airways, and UAL requested
                                                                                                          that we revise the NPRM compliance                    change to this final rule is needed in
                                                  0096, Revision 1, dated February 8,
                                                                                                          times. The revision requests for the                  this regard.
                                                  2016 (‘‘SASB 757–22–0096 R1’’); Boeing
                                                  Special Attention Service Bulletin 767–                 Model 747 airplanes 24-month                          Request To Revise Airplane Checklist
                                                  22–0143, Revision 2, dated May 25,                      compliance time range from 48 months
                                                                                                          to 60 months to the next scheduled                       Mr. Geoffrey Barrance requested that,
                                                  2016 (‘‘SASB 767–22–0143 R2’’); certain
                                                                                                          heavy airplane check. The revision                    until the modification of any specific
                                                  Boeing Information Notices that provide
                                                                                                          requests for the Model 757 airplanes 24-              airframe has been accomplished, we
                                                  revisions to the service information; and
                                                                                                          month compliance time range from 36                   include an additional step in the pre-
                                                  to provide credit for actions using the
                                                                                                          months to 48 months. The revision                     flight checklist to check that the
                                                  previous issues of service information.
                                                    We agree with the commenters’                         requests for the Model 767 airplanes 24-              stabilizer is in the correct position.
                                                  requests to reference the revised service               month compliance time is 36 months.                      We agree that this step is necessary.
                                                  information, which incorporates the                     UAL requested that operators installing               However, the existing pre-flight
                                                  revisions in the Boeing Information                     the APB winglets in the near future,                  checklist already requires checking the
                                                  Notices, and to provide credit. This                    have 24 months instead of 16 months                   stabilizer position prior to departure.
                                                  service information incorporates small                  after the effective date of the AD to                 Therefore, no change is needed to this
                                                  editorial changes and requires no                       comply with the AD requirements. The                  AD in this regard.
                                                  additional work on airplanes that have                  commenters requested the compliance                   Request To Revise Cost Estimate
                                                  had prior revisions of this service                     time changes to accommodate
                                                  information accomplished on them. We                    maintenance schedules, parts                             UAL requested that we revise the cost
                                                  have revised paragraphs (c)(2) and (h) of               availability, and airplane down times.                estimate to reflect the additional
                                                  this AD to reference SASB 757–22–0096                      We do not agree with the commenters’               financial burden imposed on the
                                                  R1. We have revised paragraphs (c)(3)                   compliance time requests. In developing               operator in order to comply with the
                                                  and (i) of this AD to reference SASB                    appropriate compliance times, we                      NPRM. UAL stated that the compliance
                                                  767–22–0143 R2. In paragraph (k) of this                considered the safety implications,                   times do not coincide with UAL’s
                                                  AD, we have added credit for previous                   normal maintenance schedules for                      maintenance intervals for heavy aircraft
                                                  actions using Boeing Special Attention                  timely accomplishment of the                          checks. UAL explained that, as a result,
                                                  Service Bulletin 757–22–0096, dated                     modification, and parts availability. In              it will need to take a number of
                                                  March 23, 2015; and Boeing Special                      light of these items, we have determined              airplanes out of service for several days.
                                                  Attention Service Bulletin 767–22–                      that the compliance times, as proposed,                  We do not agree with the commenter’s
                                                  0143, Revision 1, dated July 6, 2015.                   represent the maximum interval of time                request. In establishing the requirements
                                                                                                          allowable for the affected airplanes to               of all ADs, we consider the cost impact
                                                  Request To Approve Alternative                          continue to safely operate before the                 to operators for parts and labor costs.
                                                  Method of Compliance (AMOC)                             modification is done. In addition, since              We attempt to set compliance times that
                                                    AAL requested that we approve SB                      maintenance schedules vary among                      generally coincide with operators’
                                                  AP767–22–005 R1, or later FAA-                          operators, there would be no assurance                maintenance schedules where possible
                                                  approved revisions, as an AMOC to the                   that the airplane would be modified                   in consideration of the safety risk.
                                                  NPRM requirements. AAL also                             during that maximum interval. The                     However, because operators’ schedules
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                                                  requested that we approve later FAA-                    manufacturer has concurred with the                   vary substantially, we cannot
                                                  approved revisions to the service                       compliance times as proposed. We have                 accommodate every operator’s optimal
                                                  information in the NPRM.                                not changed this final rule in this                   scheduling in each AD. Each AD has an
                                                    We do not agree with the commenter’s                  regard. However, under the provisions                 allowable provision for individual
                                                  requests. As stated previously, we have                 of paragraph (l) of this AD, we will                  operators to obtain approval for
                                                  included SB AP767–22–005 R1 as a                        consider requests for approval of an                  extensions of compliance times, based
                                                  source of service information in this AD.               extension of the compliance time if                   on a showing that the extension
                                                  AMOCs provide an alternative method                     sufficient data are submitted to                      provides an acceptable level of safety.


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                                                  94952            Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 248 / Tuesday, December 27, 2016 / Rules and Regulations

                                                  We have not changed this AD regarding                   Related Service Information Under 1                     • SASB 767–22–0143 R2. This service
                                                  this issue.                                             CFR part 51                                           information describes procedures for
                                                                                                            We reviewed the following service                   modifying relays and wiring to open
                                                  Conclusion
                                                                                                          information. These documents are                      and close the FCC analog output that
                                                    We reviewed the relevant data,                        distinct since they apply to different                controls the stabilizer trim adjustment,
                                                  considered the comments received, and                   airplane models in different                          and doing functional testing.
                                                  determined that air safety and the                      configurations.                                         • Boeing Special Attention Service
                                                  public interest require adopting this AD                  • SB AP767–22–005 R1. This service                  Bulletin 767–22–0146, Revision 1, dated
                                                  with the changes described previously                   information describes procedures for                  June 25, 2015. This service information
                                                  and minor editorial changes. We have                    modifying relays and wiring to open
                                                                                                                                                                describes procedures for installing new
                                                  determined that these minor changes:                    and close the FCC analog output that
                                                                                                                                                                OPS into the FCCs.
                                                                                                          controls the stabilizer trim adjustment,
                                                    • Are consistent with the intent that                 and doing functional testing.                           This service information is reasonably
                                                  was proposed in the NPRM for                              • SASB 747–22–2256 R1. This service                 available because the interested parties
                                                  correcting the unsafe condition; and                    information describes procedures for                  have access to it through their normal
                                                    • Do not add any additional burden                    installing an on-ground stabilizer                    course of business or by the means
                                                  upon the public than was already                        autotrim inhibit system, and doing                    identified in the ADDRESSES section.
                                                  proposed in the NPRM.                                   functional testing.
                                                                                                            • SASB 757–22–0096 R1. This service                 Costs of Compliance
                                                    We also determined that these                         information describes procedures for
                                                  changes will not increase the economic                                                                          We estimate that this AD affects 1,220
                                                                                                          modifying relays and wiring to open
                                                  burden on any operator or increase the                  and close the FCC analog output that                  airplanes of U.S. registry.
                                                  scope of this AD.                                       controls the stabilizer trim adjustment,                We estimate the following costs to
                                                                                                          and doing functional testing.                         comply with this AD:

                                                                                                                       ESTIMATED COSTS
                                                                                                                                                                 Parts           Cost per                Cost on
                                                                        Action                                               Labor cost                          cost            product              U.S. operators

                                                  Model 747 series airplane modification (136            123 work-hours × $85 per hour = $10,455 ....               $2,714   $13,169 ..........      $1,790,984.
                                                   airplanes).
                                                  Model 747 series airplane functional test (136         4 work-hours × $85 per hour = $340 .............                0   $340 per test ..        $46,240 per test.
                                                   airplanes).
                                                  Model 757 series airplane modification (678            83 work-hours × $85 per hour = $7,055 ........              3,236   $10,291 ..........      $6,977,298.
                                                   airplanes).
                                                  Model 757 series airplane functional test (678         3 work-hours × $85 per hour = $255 per test                     0   $255 per test ..        $172,890 per test.
                                                   airplanes).
                                                  Model 767 series airplane modification (406            121 work-hours × $85 per hour = $10,285 ....                6,076   $16,361 ..........      $6,642,566.
                                                   airplanes).
                                                  Model 767 series airplane software modifica-           1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 .................              0   $85 .................   $1,955.
                                                   tion (23 airplanes).
                                                  Model 767 series airplane functional test (406         5 work-hours × $85 per hour = $425 per test                     0   $425 per test ..        $172,550 per test.
                                                   airplanes).



                                                     According to the manufacturer, some                  Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:                     For the reasons discussed above, I
                                                  of the costs of this AD may be covered                  ‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that                  certify that this AD:
                                                  under warranty, thereby reducing the                    section, Congress charges the FAA with                  (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
                                                  cost impact on affected individuals. We                 promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in            action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
                                                  do not control warranty coverage for                    air commerce by prescribing regulations                 (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under
                                                  affected individuals. As a result, we                   for practices, methods, and procedures                DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
                                                  have included all available costs in our                the Administrator finds necessary for                 (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
                                                  cost estimate.                                          safety in air commerce. This regulation
                                                                                                                                                                  (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation
                                                     We have received no definitive data                  is within the scope of that authority
                                                                                                                                                                in Alaska, and
                                                  that will enable us to provide cost                     because it addresses an unsafe condition
                                                  estimates for the on-condition actions                  that is likely to exist or develop on                   (4) Will not have a significant
                                                  specified in this AD.                                   products identified in this rulemaking                economic impact, positive or negative,
                                                                                                          action.                                               on a substantial number of small entities
                                                  Authority for This Rulemaking                                                                                 under the criteria of the Regulatory
                                                                                                          Regulatory Findings                                   Flexibility Act.
                                                    Title 49 of the United States Code
                                                  specifies the FAA’s authority to issue                    This AD will not have federalism                    List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
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                                                  rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,                   implications under Executive Order
                                                  section 106, describes the authority of                 13132. This AD will not have a                          Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
                                                  the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:                    substantial direct effect on the States, on           safety, Incorporation by reference,
                                                  Aviation Programs, describes in more                    the relationship between the national                 Safety.
                                                  detail the scope of the Agency’s                        government and the States, or on the                  Adoption of the Amendment
                                                  authority.                                              distribution of power and
                                                    We are issuing this rulemaking under                  responsibilities among the various                    ■ Accordingly, under the authority
                                                  the authority described in Subtitle VII,                levels of government.                                 delegated to me by the Administrator,


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                                                                   Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 248 / Tuesday, December 27, 2016 / Rules and Regulations                                              94953

                                                  the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as                        (e) Unsafe Condition                                  effective date of this AD, install relays and
                                                  follows:                                                   This AD was prompted by reports of                 wiring to open and close the flight control
                                                                                                          uncommanded autopilot engagement events               computer (FCC) analog output that controls
                                                  PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS                                   resulting in incorrect stabilizer trim                the stabilizer trim adjustment, install a
                                                  DIRECTIVES                                              adjustment during takeoff. We are issuing             momentary action ground test switch, and do
                                                                                                          this AD to prevent stabilizer mistrim, which          the functional testing and all applicable
                                                  ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39                 could result in a high-speed rejected takeoff         corrective actions, in accordance with the
                                                  continues to read as follows:                           and runway overrun, or reduced                        Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 767–
                                                                                                          controllability of the airplane after takeoff         22–0143 R2. Repeat the functional test of the
                                                      Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.                                                                on-ground automatic stabilizer auto trim
                                                                                                          due to insufficient pitch control.
                                                                                                                                                                inhibit system and all applicable corrective
                                                  § 39.13   [Amended]
                                                                                                          (f) Compliance                                        actions specified in steps 5.a. through 5.g. of
                                                  ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding                                                                         Paragraph 3.B. of the Accomplishment
                                                                                                             Comply with this AD within the
                                                  the following new airworthiness                         compliance times specified, unless already            Instructions of SASB 767–22–0143 R2,
                                                  directive (AD):                                         done.                                                 thereafter at intervals not to exceed 1,500
                                                                                                                                                                flight hours. If the functional test fails, before
                                                  2016–25–01 The Boeing Company:
                                                                                                          (g) Model 747 Airplane Modification and               further flight, do corrective actions, repeat
                                                      Amendment 39–18727; Docket No.
                                                                                                          Repetitive Functional Testing                         the test, and do all applicable corrective
                                                      FAA–2015–7525; Directorate Identifier
                                                                                                             For airplanes identified in paragraph (c)(1)       actions until the functional test is passed, in
                                                      2015–NM–064–AD.
                                                                                                          of this AD: Within 24 months after the                accordance with the Accomplishment
                                                  (a) Effective Date                                      effective date of this AD, install new wiring         Instructions of SASB 767–22–0143 R2.
                                                    This AD is effective January 31, 2017.                and relays to reroute the four autotrim arm           (j) Model 767–300 and –300F Series Airplane
                                                                                                          signals through new or existing air/ground            Modification
                                                  (b) Affected ADs
                                                                                                          determination source select switches, and do
                                                    None.                                                                                                          (1) For airplanes identified in paragraph
                                                                                                          functional testing, in accordance with the
                                                                                                                                                                (c)(4) of this AD: Within 16 months after the
                                                  (c) Applicability                                       Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 747–
                                                                                                                                                                effective date of this AD, install new
                                                                                                          22–2256 R1. If the functional test fails, before
                                                     This AD applies to The Boeing Company                                                                      operational program software into the FCCs,
                                                                                                          further flight, do corrective actions, repeat
                                                  airplanes, certificated in any category,                                                                      in accordance with the Accomplishment
                                                                                                          the test, and do all applicable corrective
                                                  identified in paragraphs (c)(1) through (c)(5)                                                                Instructions of SASB 767–22–0146 R1.
                                                                                                          actions until the functional test is passed, in
                                                  of this AD.                                                                                                      (2) For airplanes identified in paragraph
                                                                                                          accordance with the Accomplishment                    (c)(5) of this AD: Within 16 months after the
                                                     (1) Model 747–400, 747–400D, and 747–                Instructions of SASB 747–22–2256 R1.
                                                  400F series airplanes, as identified in Boeing                                                                effective date of this AD, install new
                                                                                                          Repeat the functional test of the automatic           operational program software into the FCCs,
                                                  Special Attention Service Bulletin 747–22–
                                                                                                          stabilizer trim system specified in step 250.         in accordance with the Accomplishment
                                                  2256, Revision 1, dated January 6, 2016
                                                                                                          of paragraph 3.B. of the Accomplishment               Instructions of SB AP767–22–005 R1.
                                                  (‘‘SASB 747–22–2256 R1’’).
                                                                                                          Instructions of SASB 747–22–2256 R1,
                                                     (2) Model 757–200, –200PF, –200CB, and
                                                                                                          thereafter at intervals not to exceed 1,500           (k) Credit for Actions Accomplished in
                                                  –300 series airplanes, as identified in Boeing
                                                                                                          flight hours. If the functional test fails, before    Accordance With Previous Service
                                                  Special Attention Service Bulletin 757–22–
                                                                                                          further flight, do corrective actions, repeat         Information
                                                  0096, Revision 1, dated February 8, 2016
                                                  (‘‘SASB 757–22–0096 R1’’).                              the test, and do all applicable corrective               (1) This paragraph provides credit for
                                                     (3) Model 767–200, –300, –300F, and                  actions until the functional test is passed, in       actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD,
                                                  –400ER series airplanes, as identified in               accordance with the Accomplishment                    if those actions were performed before the
                                                  Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin               Instructions of SASB 747–22–2256 R1.                  effective date of this AD using Boeing Special
                                                  767–22–0143, Revision 2, dated May 25,                  (h) Model 757 Airplane Modification and               Attention Service Bulletin 747–22–2256,
                                                  2016 (‘‘SASB 767–22–0143 R2’’), except                  Repetitive Functional Testing                         dated March 6, 2015.
                                                  those Model 767–300 and –300F series                                                                             (2) This paragraph provides credit for
                                                  airplanes with winglets installed in                       For airplanes identified in paragraph (c)(2)       actions required by paragraph (h) of this AD,
                                                  accordance with Supplemental Type                       of this AD: Within 24 months after the                if those actions were performed before the
                                                  Certificate (STC) ST01920SE (http://                    effective date of this AD, install wiring to          effective date of this AD using Boeing Special
                                                  rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_                    inhibit the automatic stabilizer trim arm             Attention Service Bulletin 757–22–0096,
                                                  Library/rgstc.nsf/0/                                    discrete when the airplane is on ground,              dated March 23, 2015.
                                                  59027f43b9a7486e86257b1d006591ee/Body/                  install a two-position momentary contact test            (3) This paragraph provides credit for
                                                  0.48A!OpenElement&FieldElemFormat=gif),                 switch in the main equipment center, and do           actions required by paragraph (i) of this AD,
                                                  and that are identified in Aviation Partners            the functional test and all applicable                if those actions were performed before the
                                                  Boeing (APB) Service Bulletin AP767–22–                 corrective actions until the functional test is       effective date of this AD using Boeing Special
                                                  005, Revision 1, dated June 16, 2015 (‘‘SB              passed, in accordance with the                        Attention Service Bulletin 767–22–0143,
                                                  AP767–22–005 R1’’).                                     Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 757–              dated March 6, 2015; or Boeing Special
                                                     (4) Model 767–300 and –300F series                   22–0096 R1. Repeat the functional test of the         Attention Service Bulletin 767–22–0143,
                                                  airplanes, as identified in Boeing Special              on-ground automatic stabilizer auto trim              Revision 1, dated July 6, 2015.
                                                  Attention Service Bulletin 767–22–0146,                 inhibit system and all applicable corrective             (4) This paragraph provides credit for
                                                  Revision 1, dated June 25, 2015 (‘‘SASB 767–            actions specified in step 11. of paragraph 3.B.       actions required by paragraph (j) of this AD,
                                                  22–0146 R1’’).                                          of the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB            if those actions were performed before the
                                                     (5) Model 767–300 and –300F series                   757–22–0096 R1, thereafter at intervals not to        effective date of this AD using Boeing Special
                                                  airplanes with winglets installed per STC               exceed 1,500 flight hours. If the functional          Attention Service Bulletin 767–22–0146,
                                                  ST01920SE (http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_               test fails, before further flight, do corrective      dated March 24, 2015.
                                                  and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/                       actions, repeat the test, and do all applicable
                                                                                                          corrective actions until the functional test is       (l) Alternative Methods of Compliance
                                                  59027f43b9a7486e86257b1d006591ee/Body/
                                                                                                                                                                (AMOCs)
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                                                  0.48A!OpenElement&FieldElemFormat=gif)                  passed, in accordance with the
                                                  having part number (P/N) 2276–COL–AF2–                  Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 757–                 (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft
                                                  03 installed, as identified in APB Service              22–0096 R1.                                           Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the
                                                  Bulletin AP767–22–005, dated May 8, 2015;                                                                     authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if
                                                                                                          (i) Model 767–200, –300, –300F, and –400ER            requested using the procedures found in 14
                                                  or SB AP767–22–005 R1.
                                                                                                          Series Airplane Modification and Repetitive           CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,
                                                  (d) Subject                                             Functional Testing                                    send your request to your principal inspector
                                                    Air Transport Association (ATA) of                       For airplanes identified in paragraph (c)(3)       or local Flight Standards District Office, as
                                                  America Code 22, Auto flight.                           of this AD: Within 24 months after the                appropriate. If sending information directly



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                                                  94954            Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 248 / Tuesday, December 27, 2016 / Rules and Regulations

                                                  to the manager of the ACO, send it to the                  (iv) Boeing Special Attention Service              Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
                                                  attention of the person identified in                   Bulletin 767–22–0143, Revision 2, dated May           telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–
                                                  paragraph (m)(1) of this AD. Information may            25, 2016.                                             0323; fax (972) 641–3775; or at http://
                                                  be emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-                     (v) Boeing Special Attention Service
                                                                                                          Bulletin 767–22–0146, Revision 1, dated June
                                                                                                                                                                www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub.
                                                  Requests@faa.gov.
                                                                                                          25, 2015.                                                You may review the referenced
                                                     (2) Before using any approved AMOC,
                                                  notify your appropriate principal inspector,               (3) For Boeing service information                 service information at the FAA, Office
                                                  or lacking a principal inspector, the manager           identified in this AD, contact Boeing                 of the Regional Counsel, Southwest
                                                  of the local flight standards district office/          Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data &               Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room
                                                  certificate holding district office.                    Services Management, P. O. Box 3707, MC               6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. You
                                                     (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable              2H–65, Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone:             may review the referenced service
                                                  level of safety may be used for any repair,             206–544–5000, extension 1; fax: 206–766–              information at the FAA, Office of the
                                                                                                          5680; Internet https://
                                                  modification, or alteration required by this
                                                                                                          www.myboeingfleet.com.
                                                                                                                                                                Regional Counsel, Southwest Region,
                                                  AD if it is approved by the Boeing                                                                            10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N–321,
                                                                                                             (4) You may view this service information
                                                  Commercial Airplanes Organization                                                                             Fort Worth, TX 76177.
                                                                                                          at FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601
                                                  Designation Authorization (ODA) that has
                                                                                                          Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For                      Examining the AD Docket
                                                  been authorized by the Manager, Seattle                 information on the availability of this
                                                  ACO, to make those findings. To be                      material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.                  You may examine the AD docket on
                                                  approved, the repair method, modification                  (5) You may view this service information          the Internet at http://
                                                  deviation, or alteration deviation must meet            that is incorporated by reference at the
                                                  the certification basis of the airplane, and the                                                              www.regulations.gov by searching for
                                                                                                          National Archives and Records                         and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
                                                  approval must specifically refer to this AD.            Administration (NARA). For information on
                                                     (4) For service information that contains            the availability of this material at NARA, call
                                                                                                                                                                3929; or in person at the Docket
                                                  steps that are labeled as Required for                  202–741–6030, or go to: http://                       Operations Office between 9 a.m. and 5
                                                  Compliance (RC), the provisions of                      www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-            p.m., Monday through Friday, except
                                                  paragraphs (l)(4)(i) and (l)(4)(ii) apply.              locations.html.                                       Federal holidays. The AD docket
                                                     (i) The steps labeled as RC, including                                                                     contains this AD, the European Aviation
                                                  substeps under an RC step and any figures                 Issued in Renton, Washington, on
                                                                                                          November 23, 2016.                                    Safety Agency (EASA) AD, the
                                                  identified in an RC step, must be done to                                                                     economic evaluation, any comments
                                                  comply with the AD. If a step or sub-step is            Michael Kaszycki,
                                                                                                                                                                received, and other information. The
                                                  labeled ‘‘RC Exempt,’’ then the RC                      Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
                                                  requirement is removed from that step or                Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
                                                                                                                                                                street address for the Docket Operations
                                                  sub-step. An AMOC is required for any                                                                         Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is U.S.
                                                                                                          [FR Doc. 2016–29247 Filed 12–23–16; 8:45 am]
                                                  deviations to RC steps, including substeps                                                                    Department of Transportation, Docket
                                                                                                          BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
                                                  and identified figures.                                                                                       Operations Office, M–30, West Building
                                                     (ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be                                                                        Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
                                                  deviated from using accepted methods in                                                                       New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington,
                                                  accordance with the operator’s maintenance              DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
                                                                                                                                                                DC 20590.
                                                  or inspection program without obtaining
                                                                                                          Federal Aviation Administration                       FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
                                                  approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps,
                                                  including substeps and identified figures, can                                                                Robert Grant, Aviation Safety Engineer,
                                                  still be done as specified, and the airplane            14 CFR Part 39                                        Safety Management Group, FAA, 10101
                                                  can be put back in an airworthy condition.                                                                    Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177;
                                                                                                          [Docket No. FAA–2015–3929; Directorate
                                                                                                          Identifier 2015–SW–031–AD; Amendment
                                                                                                                                                                telephone (817) 222–5110; email
                                                  (m) Related Information                                                                                       robert.grant@faa.gov.
                                                                                                          39–18746; AD 2016–25–20]
                                                    (1) For more information about this AD,                                                                     SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                                  contact Fnu Winarto, Aerospace Engineer,                RIN 2120–AA64
                                                  Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM–130S,                                                                       Discussion
                                                  FAA, Seattle ACO, 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,                 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
                                                  Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–                                                                          On April 11, 2016, at 81 FR 21284, the
                                                                                                          Helicopters
                                                  6659; fax: 425–917–6590; email:                                                                               Federal Register published our notice of
                                                  fnu.winarto@faa.gov.                                    AGENCY:  Federal Aviation                             proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which
                                                    (2) Service information identified in this            Administration (FAA), DOT.                            proposed to amend 14 CFR part 39 by
                                                  AD that is not incorporated by reference is             ACTION: Final rule.                                   adding an AD that would apply to
                                                  available at the addresses specified in                                                                       Airbus Helicopters Model EC130B4,
                                                  paragraphs (n)(3) and (n)(4) of this AD.                SUMMARY:   We are adopting a new                      EC130T2, AS350B, AS350B1, AS350B2,
                                                                                                          airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus               AS350B3, AS350BA, AS350C, AS350D,
                                                  (n) Material Incorporated by Reference
                                                                                                          Helicopters Model EC130B4, EC130T2,                   AS350D1, AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1,
                                                     (1) The Director of the Federal Register             AS350B, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3,
                                                  approved the incorporation by reference                                                                       AS355F2, AS355N, and AS355NP
                                                                                                          AS350BA, AS350C, AS350D, AS350D1,                     helicopters with a cross-bar part number
                                                  (IBR) of the service information listed in this
                                                  paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR               AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2,                     (P/N) 350A38–1040–20 or P/N 350A38–
                                                  part 51.                                                AS355N, and AS355NP helicopters.                      1040–00 installed. The NPRM proposed
                                                     (2) You must use this service information            This AD requires inspecting each bi-                  to require repetitively inspecting each
                                                  as applicable to do the actions required by             directional suspension cross-bar (cross-              cross-bar for a crack and replacing any
                                                  this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.             bar). This AD was prompted by two                     cracked cross-bar before further flight.
asabaliauskas on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES




                                                     (i) Aviation Partners Boeing Service                 reports of cracks in a cross-bar. These               The proposed requirements were
                                                  Bulletin AP767–22–005, Revision 1, dated                actions are intended to prevent the                   intended to detect cracks in a cross-bar
                                                  June 16, 2015.                                          unsafe condition on these products.
                                                     (ii) Boeing Special Attention Service
                                                                                                                                                                and prevent failure of the cross-bar and
                                                                                                          DATES: This AD is effective January 31,               subsequent loss of control of the
                                                  Bulletin 747–22–2256, Revision 1, dated
                                                  January 6, 2016.                                        2017.                                                 helicopter.
                                                     (iii) Boeing Special Attention Service               ADDRESSES: For service information                      The NPRM was prompted by AD No.
                                                  Bulletin 757–22–0096, Revision 1, dated                 identified in this final rule, contact                2015–0094, dated May 29, 2015, issued
                                                  February 8, 2016.                                       Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum                     by EASA, which is the Technical Agent


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Document Created: 2018-02-14 09:13:44
Document Modified: 2018-02-14 09:13:44
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionRules and Regulations
ActionFinal rule.
DatesThis AD is effective January 31, 2017.
ContactFnu Winarto, Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM-130S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057- 3356; phone: 425-917-6659; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected]
FR Citation81 FR 94949 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

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