82_FR_11333 82 FR 11299 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

82 FR 11299 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 34 (February 22, 2017)

Page Range11299-11304
FR Document2017-03261

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) all The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, and -900 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of paint deterioration on the surface of the main landing gear (MLG) and the early onset of corrosion in the trunnion bore of the MLG outer cylinder. This AD requires identifying affected parts, repetitive external surface detailed inspections for damage of affected parts, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. For certain airplanes, this AD also requires a detailed inspection and bushing replacement of the trunnion bore, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Federal Register, Volume 82 Issue 34 (Wednesday, February 22, 2017)
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 34 (Wednesday, February 22, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 11299-11304]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2017-03261]



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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 34 / Wednesday, February 22, 2017 / 
Rules and Regulations

[[Page 11299]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2016-5468; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-021-AD; 
Amendment 39-18806; AD 2017-04-11]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) all The 
Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, and -900 series 
airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of paint deterioration on 
the surface of the main landing gear (MLG) and the early onset of 
corrosion in the trunnion bore of the MLG outer cylinder. This AD 
requires identifying affected parts, repetitive external surface 
detailed inspections for damage of affected parts, and related 
investigative and corrective actions if necessary. For certain 
airplanes, this AD also requires a detailed inspection and bushing 
replacement of the trunnion bore, and related investigative and 
corrective actions if necessary. We are issuing this AD to address the 
unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective March 29, 2017.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of March 29, 
2017.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data 
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 
90740-5600; telephone: 562-797-1717; Internet: https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this referenced service information 
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., 
Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the 
FAA, call 425-227-1221. It is also available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-
5468.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-
5468; 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: Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer, 
Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office 
(ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-
6450; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all The Boeing Company 
Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, and -900 series airplanes. The NPRM 
published in the Federal Register on April 12, 2016 (81 FR 21497) 
(``the NPRM''). The NPRM was prompted by reports of paint deterioration 
on the surface of the MLG and the early onset of corrosion in the 
trunnion bore of the MLG outer cylinder. The NPRM proposed to require 
identifying affected parts, repetitive external surface detailed 
inspections for damage of affected parts, and related investigative and 
corrective actions, if necessary. For certain airplanes, the NPRM also 
proposed to require a detailed inspection and bushing replacement of 
the trunnion bore, and related investigative and corrective actions, if 
necessary. We are issuing this AD to prevent stress corrosion cracking 
of the external surfaces of the MLG, which could result in a fracture 
of the MLG and consequent MLG collapse.

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.

Request To Withdraw the NPRM

    Messier Services Asia Pte Ltd (MS Asia) explained that this 
maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility, located in Singapore, 
has disclosed to Boeing that between November 2007 and December 2011, 
painting performed by MS Asia on certain landing gear legs as part of 
its overhaul service for Boeing did not fully conform to Boeing 
instructions and specifications. MS Asia stated that this painting 
error was disclosed to Boeing for Model 737 airplane landing gears 
identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-32-1486, 
dated November 6, 2014, as revised by Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 737-32-1486, Revision 1, dated April 1, 2015 (``SASB 737-32-
1486, R1'').
    MS Asia refuted and continues to refute that the painting has 
generated the potential onset of corrosion discovered on the MLG. MS 
Asia explained that it had the opportunity to demonstrate to Boeing the 
absence of links between these two events and is willing to reiterate 
its technical demonstration to the FAA. MS Asia asserted that the NPRM 
makes an incorrect statement and conclusion, and is without technical 
evidence that the root cause of the corrosion detected on the trunnion 
bore and the associated risk of fracture is the consequence of the 
incorrect paint scheme application.
    MS Asia also stated that the NPRM is creating confusion when it 
refers to SAFRAN Messier-Bugatti-Dowty, and that the painting issues 
only affect gears overhauled by MS Asia during the period of November 
2007 to December 2011. MS Asia asserted that no painting issues have 
affected landing gears overhauled by the MRO entity of Messier-Bugatti-
Dowty outside the

[[Page 11300]]

period of November 2007 to December 2011.
    From these statements, we infer that MS Asia is requesting we 
withdraw the NPRM. We do not agree.
    Landing gear components include materials that are very sensitive 
to corrosion and cracking and are not tolerant of improper maintenance. 
In particular, high strength steel, once corroded, can readily develop 
cracks which could then propagate very rapidly and render inspection 
programs ineffectual. This is why it is imperative that protective 
finishes be applied as specified.
    The determination of a connection between improper finish 
application and the potential onset of corrosion was made by Boeing in 
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-32-1486, dated November 
6, 2014, with review and concurrence by the FAA. This connection has 
also been validated by extensive fleet experience.
    MS Asia provided no definitive data to substantiate its statement 
that there is not such a connection between its painting (application 
of unqualified primer) and corrosion. It should also be noted that this 
painting was only one of several discrepancies noted that indicated 
improper maintenance. There is no refutation of the finding that the 
components were not overhauled in accordance with Boeing instructions 
and specifications. These instructions and specifications, or their 
equivalent, are in turn included in operators' maintenance programs 
that are approved by the governing regulatory authority.
    We are willing to review data MS Asia might wish to submit 
regarding this AD. However, this issue has been determined to be a 
safety issue by both Boeing and the FAA, and the FAA has also 
determined that it is not appropriate to withdraw the NPRM. If a future 
review of submitted data substantiates MS Asia's claim that the root 
cause of the corrosion detected on the trunnion bore and the associated 
risk of fracture is not the consequence of the incorrect paint scheme 
application, then we may grant relief through either additional 
rulemaking or a global alternative method of compliance (AMOC).
    We have not revised this final rule regarding a connection between 
improper finish application and the potential onset of corrosion.
    We note that the dates of the discrepant overhaul specified in 
paragraph (g) of this AD differ from the dates given in Boeing Special 
Attention Service Bulletin 737-32-1486, dated November 6, 2014, and in 
MS Asia's comments. The dates in paragraph (g) of this AD were 
determined by an investigation of MS Asia's maintenance records by an 
FAA inspector. After that review of maintenance records by an FAA field 
office, we concur with MS Asia's statement that this improper rework is 
limited to their facility in Singapore. We have revised this final rule 
to refer to MS Asia instead of SAFRAN Messier-Bugatti-Dowty to avoid 
confusion regarding affected parts.

Requests for Clarification Regarding the Nose Landing Gear (NLG)

    Boeing and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) requested 
that we clarify why the NPRM did not address actions specified in the 
service information for the NLG.
    We agree that there is a need to clarify. The discrepant rework 
described in the Boeing service information does specify the NLG as 
well as the MLG. We note that in the Boeing service information, 
inspections of the MLG were specified for safety and were so labeled. 
However, inspections of the NLG were not determined by Boeing to be a 
safety issue. Those NLG inspections were labeled as economic 
inspections. This determination is consistent with the FAA's safety 
determination. Issues involving potential collapse of the NLG are 
evaluated on a case-by-case basis, but are typically determined not to 
be safety issues. In the event of failure of the NLG, the flight crew 
normally retains adequate directional control of the airplane via 
differential braking, engine thrust, and/or rudder. This is not the 
case for MLG collapses. We have not changed this AD in this regard.

Request To Revise Corrective Action in Paragraph (i) of the Proposed AD

    Boeing requested that we include Part 7 of the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-32-1486, 
dated November 6, 2014, in the applicable investigative and corrective 
actions identified in paragraph (i) of the proposed AD. Boeing stated 
that the replacement of the MLG outer cylinder in accordance with Part 
7 should be allowed as an option for compliance with the requirements 
of paragraph (i) of the proposed AD.
    We have confirmed that Boeing's requested change to paragraph (i) 
of this AD is not needed since Part 7 of the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-32-1486, 
dated November 6, 2014, is already cited in paragraph (j)(3) of this AD 
as terminating action for the actions required by paragraph (i) of this 
AD. We have not changed this AD in this regard.

Request To Clarify ``New'' Part

    EASA stated that the NPRM does not explicitly state that 
replacement with a new part is acceptable unless the new part belongs 
to ``Appendix D (wrong batch).''
    We are not sure what EASA intended by the term ``new.'' This would 
ordinarily indicate a brand new part obtained from the design approval 
holder or authorized supplier that has never previously been placed 
into service. However, we infer from EASA's statement that it intends 
the term to mean a different part than what is currently installed on 
the airplane. If this is the case, then this issue is already addressed 
in the service information. For example, for replacement of the entire 
MLG, Part 8 of the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special 
Attention Service Bulletin 737-32-1486, dated November 6, 2014, 
specifies that such replacement be accomplished with a serviceable MLG. 
By definition, the components listed in Appendix D of SASB 737-32-1486, 
R1 are not serviceable. We have not changed this AD in this regard.

Requests To Clarify/Revise Overhaul Procedures and Clarify Component 
Installations

    SunExpress requested clarification that overhaul of affected 
components/assemblies specified in the service information is 
terminating action for inspections. SunExpress stated that the service 
information has a note specifying to not reinstall a removed component 
and/or MLG on another airplane until overhaul is completed.
    United Airlines (UAL) requested that we revise paragraph (l) of the 
proposed AD to allow operators to install affected parts as long as 
they have been overhauled using the component maintenance manual and 
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-32-1486, dated November 
6, 2014, as revised by SASB 737-32-1486, R1. UAL stated that the 
wording in paragraph (l) of the proposed AD implies that all affected 
serial numbers would need FAA approval for repair/overhaul.
    In addition, SunExpress requested clarification as to whether each 
sub-part or sub-assembly under an MLG component installation is also 
affected individually. SunExpress asked if, for example, a sub-part 
(e.g., inner cylinder) that was previously installed on an MLG assembly 
affected by the proposed AD would be subject to the AD requirements if 
it is installed on a different unaffected MLG assembly.

[[Page 11301]]

    We partially agree with the commenters' requests. We find that the 
instructions in the service information for overhaul, as specified in 
the NPRM, already address the commenters' concerns. However, we agree 
that additional clarification would be helpful. We have revised 
paragraph (l) of this AD to specify, in part, that an MLG may not be 
installed unless that MLG has been overhauled as specified in the 
applicable corrective actions of paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD, or 
using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in 
paragraph (m) of this AD.
    In addition, to address SunExpress's comment concerning component 
installations, we provide the following clarification. Based on 
accepted maintenance practices, a part number would include all of the 
components that make up that part. It is incumbent upon the operator to 
either inspect or do a records review to identify those parts affected 
by this AD. Any parts identified, including all components of those 
parts, are affected. As stated previously, we have revised paragraph 
(l) of this AD to provide clarification.

Request To Extend Proposed Compliance Time

    SunExpress requested that we revise the proposed compliance time 
for the MLG inspections from 24 months to 36 months to accommodate its 
maintenance schedule. SunExpress pointed out that the longer compliance 
time would be financially beneficial for operators.
    We do not agree with SunExpress's request to extend the compliance 
time. The operator provided no technical justification for revising 
this compliance time. Stress corrosion cracking of the external 
surfaces of the MLG is a significant safety issue, and we have 
determined that the proposed inspection threshold is warranted, based 
on the effectiveness of the inspection procedure and the FAA transport 
airplane risk assessment.
    In developing an appropriate compliance time for this AD, we 
considered the safety issues as well as the recommendations of the 
manufacturer, the availability of necessary parts, and the practical 
aspect of accomplishing the required inspection within an interval of 
time that corresponds to the normal maintenance schedules of most 
affected operators. We considered the manufacturer's recommendation as 
well as the time necessary to complete the rulemaking process, and 
found that a 24-month initial compliance time should fall well within 
the time that the majority of operators have regular maintenance visits 
scheduled. In light of these factors, we have determined that the 24-
month initial compliance time, as proposed, is appropriate. We have not 
changed this AD in this regard.

Effect of Winglets on Accomplishment of the Proposed Actions

    Aviation Partners Boeing stated that accomplishing Supplemental 
Type Certificate (STC) ST00830SE does not affect the actions specified 
in the NPRM.
    We concur with the commenter. We have redesignated paragraph (c) of 
the proposed AD as (c)(1) and added new paragraph (c)(2) to this AD to 
state that installation of STC ST00830SE does not affect the ability to 
accomplish the actions required by this final rule. Therefore, for 
airplanes on which STC ST00830SE is installed, a ``change in product'' 
AMOC approval request is not necessary to comply with the requirements 
of 14 CFR 39.17.

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 Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-32-1486, 
dated November 6, 2014, as revised by SASB 737-32-1486, R1. The service 
information describes procedures for identifying affected parts, 
repetitive external surface detailed inspections for damage of affected 
parts, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. 
For certain airplanes, the service information describes procedures for 
a detailed inspection and bushing replacement of the trunnion bore, and 
related investigative and corrective actions. The service information 
also describes procedures for certain airplanes for a detailed 
inspection of the trunnion bore, and corrective actions. This service 
information is reasonably available because the interested parties have 
access to it through their normal course of business or by the means 
identified in the ADDRESSES section.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 33 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                 Cost on U.S.
             Action                     Labor cost          Parts cost     Cost per product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
External surface detailed        Up to 16 work-hours x                $0  $1,360 per          Up to $44,880 per
 inspection.                      $85 per hour = $1,360                    inspection cycle.   inspection cycle.
                                  per inspection cycle.
Outer cylinder assembly          70 work-hours x $85 per      Negligible  $5,950............  $196,350.
 trunnion bore detailed           hour = $5,950.
 inspection and bushing
 replacement (Groups 1-2,
 configuration 1).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We estimate the following costs to do any necessary replacements 
that would be required based on the results of the inspections. We have 
no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need this 
replacement.

[[Page 11302]]



                           On-Condition Costs
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             Cost per
             Action                    Labor cost            product
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Outer cylinder assembly          28 work-hours x $85             $2,380
 replacement (if required as a    per hour = $2,380.
 result of the outer cylinder
 assembly trunnion bore
 detailed inspection).
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide 
cost estimates for certain on-condition actions (MLG external surface 
repair, MLG component replacement, outer cylinder repair, and MLG 
replacement) specified in this AD.
    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 costs in our cost 
estimate.
    The previous information is based on known affected airplanes. 
However, the MLG may have been overhauled outside of the Boeing 
Exchange Program as specified in the ``Clarification of Affected MLGs'' 
section of 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

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13   [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

2017-04-11 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-18806; Docket No. FAA-
2016-5468; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-021-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective March 29, 2017.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    (1) This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -
700, -700C, -800, and -900 series airplanes, certificated in any 
category.
    (2) Installation of Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) 
ST00830SE (http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/184DE9A71EC3FA5586257EAE00707DA6?OpenDocument&Highlight=st00830se) 
does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by 
this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST00830SE is 
installed, a ``change in product'' alternative method of compliance 
(AMOC) approval request is not necessary to comply with the 
requirements of 14 CFR 39.17.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 32, Landing 
Gear.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports of paint deterioration on the 
surface of the main landing gear (MLG) and early onset of corrosion 
in the trunnion bore of the MLG outer cylinder. We are issuing this 
AD to prevent stress corrosion cracking of the external surfaces of 
the MLG, which could result in a fracture of the MLG and consequent 
MLG collapse.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Inspection for Affected Part/Serial Numbers

    At the applicable time specified in table 1 of paragraph 1.E., 
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-32-
1486, dated November 6, 2014, as revised by Boeing Special Attention 
Service Bulletin 737-32-1486, Revision 1, dated April 1, 2015 
(``SASB 737-32-1486, R1''), except as required by paragraph (k)(1) 
of this AD: Do the actions specified in paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) 
of this AD in order to identify affected parts.
    (1) Inspect the MLG to determine if it has any component 
installation or side strut assembly having a part number and serial 
number listed in Appendix D of Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 737-32-1486, dated November 6, 2014, as revised by SASB 
737-32-1486, R1; except that the ``Variable Number'' column of 
Appendix D is to be disregarded in determining affected part and 
serial numbers. An MLG that has any MLG component installation or 
side strut assembly having a part number and serial number listed in 
Appendix D of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-32-1486, 
dated November 6, 2014, as revised by SASB 737-32-1486, R1 is an 
affected part. A review of airplane maintenance records is 
acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the part number and serial 
number of the MLG component installation and side strut assembly can 
be conclusively identified from that review.
    (2) Do a records review to determine if the MLG has been 
overhauled by Messier Services Asia Pte Ltd (MS Asia) outside of the 
Boeing Exchange program from June 1, 2009, to July 31, 2013. If it 
is determined that the MLG has been overhauled by MS Asia outside of 
the Boeing Exchange program from

[[Page 11303]]

June 1, 2009, to July 31, 2013, that MLG is an affected part. If 
from the records review it cannot be conclusively determined that an 
overhauled MLG was overhauled by a maintenance, repair, and overhaul 
(MRO) facility other than MS Asia, or if from the records review it 
cannot be conclusively determined that an MLG overhauled by MS Asia 
was part of the Boeing Exchange Program from June 1, 2009, to July 
31, 2013, that MLG is an affected part.

(h) Requirements for Affected Parts

    If any affected part is identified during the inspection or 
records review required by paragraph (g) of this AD: At the 
applicable time specified in table 3 of paragraph 1.E., 
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-32-
1486, dated November 6, 2014, as revised by SASB 737-32-1486, R1, 
except as required by paragraph (k)(1) of this AD, do detailed 
inspections of the external surfaces of the MLG, and do all 
applicable related investigative and corrective actions, in 
accordance with Parts 1, 3, and 4 of the Accomplishment Instructions 
of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-32-1486, dated 
November 6, 2014, as revised by SASB 737-32-1486, R1, except as 
required by paragraph (k)(2) of this AD. Repeat the inspections 
thereafter at the applicable time specified in table 3 of paragraph 
1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 
737-32-1486, dated November 6, 2014, as revised by SASB 737-32-1486, 
R1. All applicable related investigative and corrective actions must 
be done before further flight.

(i) Additional Actions for Groups 1 and 2, Configuration 1 Airplanes

    For airplanes that are identified as Groups 1 and 2, 
Configuration 1, in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-
32-1486, dated November 6, 2014, as revised by SASB 737-32-1486, R1, 
and that have an affected part identified during the inspection or 
records review required by paragraph (g) of this AD: At the 
applicable time specified in table 4 of paragraph 1.E, 
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-32-
1486, dated November 6, 2014, as revised by SASB 737-32-1486, R1, 
except as required by paragraph (k)(1) of this AD, do a detailed 
inspection and bushing replacement of the MLG trunnion bore, and do 
all applicable related investigative and corrective actions, in 
accordance with Parts 2, 5, and 6 of the Accomplishment Instructions 
of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-32-1486, dated 
November 6, 2014, as revised by SASB 737-32-1486, R1, except as 
required by paragraph (k)(2) of this AD.

(j) Terminating Action

    (1) MLG replacement in accordance with Part 8 of the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 737-32-1486, dated November 6, 2014, as revised by SASB 
737-32-1486, R1, terminates the requirements of paragraphs (g), (h), 
and (i) of this AD for that MLG only.
    (2) MLG component replacement in accordance with Part 4 of the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 737-32-1486, dated November 6, 2014, as revised by SASB 
737-32-1486, R1, terminates the requirements of paragraph (h) of 
this AD for that component only.
    (3) MLG outer cylinder replacement in accordance with Part 7 of 
the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 737-32-1486, dated November 6, 2014, as revised by SASB 
737-32-1486, R1, terminates the requirements of paragraph (i) of 
this AD for that component only.

(k) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications

    (1) Where paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special 
Attention Service Bulletin 737-32-1486, dated November 6, 2014, as 
revised by SASB 737-32-1486, R1, specifies a compliance time ``after 
the original issue date of this service bulletin,'' this AD requires 
compliance within the specified compliance time after the effective 
date of this AD.
    (2) Although Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-32-
1486, dated November 6, 2014, as revised by SASB 737-32-1486, R1, 
specifies to contact Boeing for repair instructions, and specifies 
that action as ``RC'' (Required for Compliance), this AD requires 
repair before further flight using a method approved in accordance 
with the procedures specified in paragraph (m) of this AD.

(l) Parts Installation Prohibition

    As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install the 
following on any airplane identified in paragraph (c)(1) of this AD, 
unless either the MLG or MLG component has first been overhauled as 
specified in the corrective actions of paragraphs (h) and (i), as 
applicable, of this AD, or the MLG or MLG component has been 
overhauled using a method approved in accordance with the procedures 
specified in paragraph (m) of this AD.
    (1) An MLG or MLG component having a part number and serial 
number identified in Appendix D of SASB 737-32-1486, R1.
    (2) An MLG that was overhauled between June 1, 2009, and July 
31, 2013, by MS Asia.

(m) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested 
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 
CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local 
Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending 
information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the 
attention of the person identified in paragraph (n) of this AD. 
Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding 
district office.
    (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be 
used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD 
if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization 
Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the 
Manager, Seattle ACO, to make those findings. To be approved, the 
repair method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation must 
meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must 
specifically refer to this AD.
    (4) Except as required by paragraph (k)(2) of this AD: For 
service information that contains steps that are labeled as RC, the 
provisions of paragraphs (m)(4)(i) and (m)(4)(ii) of this AD apply.
    (i) The steps labeled as RC, including substeps under an RC step 
and any figures identified in an RC step, must be done to comply 
with the AD. If a step or substep is labeled ``RC Exempt,'' then the 
RC requirement is removed from that step or substep. An AMOC is 
required for any deviations to RC steps, including substeps and 
identified figures.
    (ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be deviated from using accepted 
methods in accordance with the operator's maintenance or inspection 
program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the RC 
steps, including substeps and identified figures, can still be done 
as specified, and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy 
condition.

(n) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Alan Pohl, Aerospace 
Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle ACO, 1601 Lind 
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6450; fax: 425-
917-6590; email: [email protected].

(o) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-32-1486, dated 
November 6, 2014.
    (ii) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-32-1486, 
Revision 1, dated April 1, 2015.
    (3) For Boeing service information identified in this AD, 
contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data 
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 
90740-5600; telephone: 562-797-1717; Internet: https://www.myboeingfleet.com.
    (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
425-227-1221.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.


[[Page 11304]]


    Issued in Renton, Washington, on February 8, 2017.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-03261 Filed 2-21-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P



                                                                                                                                                                                              11299

                                              Rules and Regulations                                                                                         Federal Register
                                                                                                                                                            Vol. 82, No. 34

                                                                                                                                                            Wednesday, February 22, 2017



                                              This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER                    telephone: 562–797–1717; Internet:                    require a detailed inspection and
                                              contains regulatory documents having general            https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You                    bushing replacement of the trunnion
                                              applicability and legal effect, most of which           may view this referenced service                      bore, and related investigative and
                                              are keyed to and codified in the Code of                information at the FAA, Transport                     corrective actions, if necessary. We are
                                              Federal Regulations, which is published under           Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue                issuing this AD to prevent stress
                                              50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.
                                                                                                      SW., Renton, WA. For information on                   corrosion cracking of the external
                                              The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by              the availability of this material at the              surfaces of the MLG, which could result
                                              the Superintendent of Documents. Prices of              FAA, call 425–227–1221. It is also                    in a fracture of the MLG and consequent
                                              new books are listed in the first FEDERAL               available on the Internet at http://                  MLG collapse.
                                              REGISTER issue of each week.                            www.regulations.gov by searching for                  Comments
                                                                                                      and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
                                                                                                      5468.                                                   We gave the public the opportunity to
                                              DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION                                                                                  participate in developing this AD. The
                                                                                                      Examining the AD Docket                               following presents the comments
                                              Federal Aviation Administration                           You may examine the AD docket on                    received on the NPRM and the FAA’s
                                                                                                      the Internet at http://                               response to each comment.
                                              14 CFR Part 39                                          www.regulations.gov by searching for                  Request To Withdraw the NPRM
                                              [Docket No. FAA–2016–5468; Directorate                  and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
                                                                                                      5468; or in person at the Docket                         Messier Services Asia Pte Ltd (MS
                                              Identifier 2015–NM–021–AD; Amendment
                                              39–18806; AD 2017–04–11]                                Management Facility between 9 a.m.                    Asia) explained that this maintenance,
                                                                                                      and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,                    repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility,
                                              RIN 2120–AA64                                                                                                 located in Singapore, has disclosed to
                                                                                                      except Federal holidays. The AD docket
                                                                                                      contains this AD, the regulatory                      Boeing that between November 2007
                                              Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing                                                                          and December 2011, painting performed
                                              Company Airplanes                                       evaluation, any comments received, and
                                                                                                      other information. The address for the                by MS Asia on certain landing gear legs
                                              AGENCY:  Federal Aviation                               Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is                as part of its overhaul service for Boeing
                                              Administration (FAA), DOT.                              Docket Management Facility, U.S.                      did not fully conform to Boeing
                                                                                                      Department of Transportation, Docket                  instructions and specifications. MS Asia
                                              ACTION: Final rule.
                                                                                                      Operations, M–30, West Building                       stated that this painting error was
                                              SUMMARY:   We are adopting a new                        Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200                      disclosed to Boeing for Model 737
                                              airworthiness directive (AD) all The                    New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington,                    airplane landing gears identified in
                                              Boeing Company Model 737–600, –700,                     DC 20590.                                             Boeing Special Attention Service
                                              –700C, –800, and –900 series airplanes.                                                                       Bulletin 737–32–1486, dated November
                                                                                                      FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
                                              This AD was prompted by reports of                                                                            6, 2014, as revised by Boeing Special
                                                                                                      Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer,                        Attention Service Bulletin 737–32–
                                              paint deterioration on the surface of the               Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA,
                                              main landing gear (MLG) and the early                                                                         1486, Revision 1, dated April 1, 2015
                                                                                                      Seattle Aircraft Certification Office                 (‘‘SASB 737–32–1486, R1’’).
                                              onset of corrosion in the trunnion bore                 (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton,
                                              of the MLG outer cylinder. This AD                                                                               MS Asia refuted and continues to
                                                                                                      WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6450;                   refute that the painting has generated
                                              requires identifying affected parts,                    fax: 425–917–6590; email: alan.pohl@
                                              repetitive external surface detailed                                                                          the potential onset of corrosion
                                                                                                      faa.gov.                                              discovered on the MLG. MS Asia
                                              inspections for damage of affected parts,
                                              and related investigative and corrective                SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:                            explained that it had the opportunity to
                                              actions if necessary. For certain                                                                             demonstrate to Boeing the absence of
                                                                                                      Discussion
                                              airplanes, this AD also requires a                                                                            links between these two events and is
                                                                                                        We issued a notice of proposed                      willing to reiterate its technical
                                              detailed inspection and bushing                         rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR                     demonstration to the FAA. MS Asia
                                              replacement of the trunnion bore, and                   part 39 by adding an AD that would                    asserted that the NPRM makes an
                                              related investigative and corrective                    apply to all The Boeing Company Model                 incorrect statement and conclusion, and
                                              actions if necessary. We are issuing this               737–600, –700, –700C, –800, and –900                  is without technical evidence that the
                                              AD to address the unsafe condition on                   series airplanes. The NPRM published                  root cause of the corrosion detected on
                                              these products.                                         in the Federal Register on April 12,                  the trunnion bore and the associated
                                              DATES: This AD is effective March 29,                   2016 (81 FR 21497) (‘‘the NPRM’’). The                risk of fracture is the consequence of the
                                              2017.                                                   NPRM was prompted by reports of paint                 incorrect paint scheme application.
                                                The Director of the Federal Register                  deterioration on the surface of the MLG                  MS Asia also stated that the NPRM is
                                              approved the incorporation by reference                 and the early onset of corrosion in the               creating confusion when it refers to
                                              of certain publications listed in this AD               trunnion bore of the MLG outer                        SAFRAN Messier-Bugatti-Dowty, and
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                                              as of March 29, 2017.                                   cylinder. The NPRM proposed to                        that the painting issues only affect gears
                                              ADDRESSES: For service information                      require identifying affected parts,                   overhauled by MS Asia during the
                                              identified in this final rule, contact                  repetitive external surface detailed                  period of November 2007 to December
                                              Boeing Commercial Airplanes,                            inspections for damage of affected parts,             2011. MS Asia asserted that no painting
                                              Attention: Contractual & Data Services                  and related investigative and corrective              issues have affected landing gears
                                              (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC                      actions, if necessary. For certain                    overhauled by the MRO entity of
                                              110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600;                    airplanes, the NPRM also proposed to                  Messier-Bugatti-Dowty outside the


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                                              11300            Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 34 / Wednesday, February 22, 2017 / Rules and Regulations

                                              period of November 2007 to December                      comments. The dates in paragraph (g) of               required by paragraph (i) of this AD. We
                                              2011.                                                    this AD were determined by an                         have not changed this AD in this regard.
                                                 From these statements, we infer that                  investigation of MS Asia’s maintenance
                                              MS Asia is requesting we withdraw the                                                                          Request To Clarify ‘‘New’’ Part
                                                                                                       records by an FAA inspector. After that
                                              NPRM. We do not agree.                                   review of maintenance records by an                     EASA stated that the NPRM does not
                                                 Landing gear components include                       FAA field office, we concur with MS                   explicitly state that replacement with a
                                              materials that are very sensitive to                     Asia’s statement that this improper                   new part is acceptable unless the new
                                              corrosion and cracking and are not                       rework is limited to their facility in                part belongs to ‘‘Appendix D (wrong
                                              tolerant of improper maintenance. In                     Singapore. We have revised this final                 batch).’’
                                              particular, high strength steel, once                    rule to refer to MS Asia instead of                     We are not sure what EASA intended
                                              corroded, can readily develop cracks                     SAFRAN Messier-Bugatti-Dowty to                       by the term ‘‘new.’’ This would
                                              which could then propagate very                          avoid confusion regarding affected                    ordinarily indicate a brand new part
                                              rapidly and render inspection programs                   parts.                                                obtained from the design approval
                                              ineffectual. This is why it is imperative                                                                      holder or authorized supplier that has
                                              that protective finishes be applied as                   Requests for Clarification Regarding the              never previously been placed into
                                              specified.                                               Nose Landing Gear (NLG)                               service. However, we infer from EASA’s
                                                 The determination of a connection                       Boeing and the European Aviation                    statement that it intends the term to
                                              between improper finish application                      Safety Agency (EASA) requested that we                mean a different part than what is
                                              and the potential onset of corrosion was                 clarify why the NPRM did not address                  currently installed on the airplane. If
                                              made by Boeing in Boeing Special                         actions specified in the service                      this is the case, then this issue is already
                                              Attention Service Bulletin 737–32–                       information for the NLG.                              addressed in the service information.
                                              1486, dated November 6, 2014, with                                                                             For example, for replacement of the
                                                                                                         We agree that there is a need to
                                              review and concurrence by the FAA.                                                                             entire MLG, Part 8 of the
                                                                                                       clarify. The discrepant rework described
                                              This connection has also been validated                                                                        Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing
                                                                                                       in the Boeing service information does
                                              by extensive fleet experience.                                                                                 Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–
                                                 MS Asia provided no definitive data                   specify the NLG as well as the MLG. We
                                                                                                                                                             32–1486, dated November 6, 2014,
                                              to substantiate its statement that there is              note that in the Boeing service
                                                                                                                                                             specifies that such replacement be
                                              not such a connection between its                        information, inspections of the MLG
                                                                                                                                                             accomplished with a serviceable MLG.
                                              painting (application of unqualified                     were specified for safety and were so
                                                                                                                                                             By definition, the components listed in
                                              primer) and corrosion. It should also be                 labeled. However, inspections of the
                                                                                                                                                             Appendix D of SASB 737–32–1486, R1
                                              noted that this painting was only one of                 NLG were not determined by Boeing to
                                                                                                                                                             are not serviceable. We have not
                                              several discrepancies noted that                         be a safety issue. Those NLG inspections
                                                                                                                                                             changed this AD in this regard.
                                              indicated improper maintenance. There                    were labeled as economic inspections.
                                              is no refutation of the finding that the                 This determination is consistent with                 Requests To Clarify/Revise Overhaul
                                              components were not overhauled in                        the FAA’s safety determination. Issues                Procedures and Clarify Component
                                              accordance with Boeing instructions                      involving potential collapse of the NLG               Installations
                                              and specifications. These instructions                   are evaluated on a case-by-case basis,                   SunExpress requested clarification
                                              and specifications, or their equivalent,                 but are typically determined not to be                that overhaul of affected components/
                                              are in turn included in operators’                       safety issues. In the event of failure of             assemblies specified in the service
                                              maintenance programs that are                            the NLG, the flight crew normally                     information is terminating action for
                                              approved by the governing regulatory                     retains adequate directional control of               inspections. SunExpress stated that the
                                              authority.                                               the airplane via differential braking,                service information has a note
                                                 We are willing to review data MS Asia                 engine thrust, and/or rudder. This is not             specifying to not reinstall a removed
                                              might wish to submit regarding this AD.                  the case for MLG collapses. We have not               component and/or MLG on another
                                              However, this issue has been                             changed this AD in this regard.                       airplane until overhaul is completed.
                                              determined to be a safety issue by both                  Request To Revise Corrective Action in                   United Airlines (UAL) requested that
                                              Boeing and the FAA, and the FAA has                      Paragraph (i) of the Proposed AD                      we revise paragraph (l) of the proposed
                                              also determined that it is not                                                                                 AD to allow operators to install affected
                                              appropriate to withdraw the NPRM. If a                      Boeing requested that we include Part              parts as long as they have been
                                              future review of submitted data                          7 of the Accomplishment Instructions of               overhauled using the component
                                              substantiates MS Asia’s claim that the                   Boeing Special Attention Service                      maintenance manual and Boeing
                                              root cause of the corrosion detected on                  Bulletin 737–32–1486, dated November                  Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–
                                              the trunnion bore and the associated                     6, 2014, in the applicable investigative              32–1486, dated November 6, 2014, as
                                              risk of fracture is not the consequence                  and corrective actions identified in                  revised by SASB 737–32–1486, R1. UAL
                                              of the incorrect paint scheme                            paragraph (i) of the proposed AD.                     stated that the wording in paragraph (l)
                                              application, then we may grant relief                    Boeing stated that the replacement of                 of the proposed AD implies that all
                                              through either additional rulemaking or                  the MLG outer cylinder in accordance                  affected serial numbers would need
                                              a global alternative method of                           with Part 7 should be allowed as an                   FAA approval for repair/overhaul.
                                              compliance (AMOC).                                       option for compliance with the                           In addition, SunExpress requested
                                                 We have not revised this final rule                   requirements of paragraph (i) of the                  clarification as to whether each sub-part
                                              regarding a connection between                           proposed AD.                                          or sub-assembly under an MLG
                                              improper finish application and the                         We have confirmed that Boeing’s                    component installation is also affected
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                                              potential onset of corrosion.                            requested change to paragraph (i) of this             individually. SunExpress asked if, for
                                                 We note that the dates of the                         AD is not needed since Part 7 of the                  example, a sub-part (e.g., inner cylinder)
                                              discrepant overhaul specified in                         Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing                 that was previously installed on an MLG
                                              paragraph (g) of this AD differ from the                 Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–               assembly affected by the proposed AD
                                              dates given in Boeing Special Attention                  32–1486, dated November 6, 2014, is                   would be subject to the AD
                                              Service Bulletin 737–32–1486, dated                      already cited in paragraph (j)(3) of this             requirements if it is installed on a
                                              November 6, 2014, and in MS Asia’s                       AD as terminating action for the actions              different unaffected MLG assembly.


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                                                               Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 34 / Wednesday, February 22, 2017 / Rules and Regulations                                                      11301

                                                 We partially agree with the                           inspection threshold is warranted, based                 determined that air safety and the
                                              commenters’ requests. We find that the                   on the effectiveness of the inspection                   public interest require adopting this AD
                                              instructions in the service information                  procedure and the FAA transport                          with the changes described previously
                                              for overhaul, as specified in the NPRM,                  airplane risk assessment.                                and minor editorial changes. We have
                                              already address the commenters’                            In developing an appropriate                           determined that these minor changes:
                                              concerns. However, we agree that                         compliance time for this AD, we                            • Are consistent with the intent that
                                              additional clarification would be                        considered the safety issues as well as                  was proposed in the NPRM for
                                              helpful. We have revised paragraph (l)                   the recommendations of the                               correcting the unsafe condition; and
                                              of this AD to specify, in part, that an                  manufacturer, the availability of
                                                                                                       necessary parts, and the practical aspect                  • Do not add any additional burden
                                              MLG may not be installed unless that                                                                              upon the public than was already
                                              MLG has been overhauled as specified                     of accomplishing the required
                                                                                                       inspection within an interval of time                    proposed in the NPRM.
                                              in the applicable corrective actions of
                                              paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD, or                    that corresponds to the normal                             We also determined that these
                                              using a method approved in accordance                    maintenance schedules of most affected                   changes will not increase the economic
                                              with the procedures specified in                         operators. We considered the                             burden on any operator or increase the
                                              paragraph (m) of this AD.                                manufacturer’s recommendation as well                    scope of this AD.
                                                 In addition, to address SunExpress’s                  as the time necessary to complete the                    Related Service Information Under 1
                                              comment concerning component                             rulemaking process, and found that a                     CFR Part 51
                                              installations, we provide the following                  24-month initial compliance time
                                              clarification. Based on accepted                         should fall well within the time that the                   We reviewed Boeing Special
                                              maintenance practices, a part number                     majority of operators have regular                       Attention Service Bulletin 737–32–
                                              would include all of the components                      maintenance visits scheduled. In light of                1486, dated November 6, 2014, as
                                              that make up that part. It is incumbent                  these factors, we have determined that                   revised by SASB 737–32–1486, R1. The
                                              upon the operator to either inspect or do                the 24-month initial compliance time, as                 service information describes
                                              a records review to identify those parts                 proposed, is appropriate. We have not                    procedures for identifying affected
                                              affected by this AD. Any parts                           changed this AD in this regard.                          parts, repetitive external surface
                                              identified, including all components of                  Effect of Winglets on Accomplishment                     detailed inspections for damage of
                                              those parts, are affected. As stated                     of the Proposed Actions                                  affected parts, and related investigative
                                              previously, we have revised paragraph                                                                             and corrective actions if necessary. For
                                                                                                          Aviation Partners Boeing stated that                  certain airplanes, the service
                                              (l) of this AD to provide clarification.                 accomplishing Supplemental Type                          information describes procedures for a
                                              Request To Extend Proposed                               Certificate (STC) ST00830SE does not                     detailed inspection and bushing
                                              Compliance Time                                          affect the actions specified in the                      replacement of the trunnion bore, and
                                                                                                       NPRM.                                                    related investigative and corrective
                                                SunExpress requested that we revise                       We concur with the commenter. We
                                              the proposed compliance time for the                                                                              actions. The service information also
                                                                                                       have redesignated paragraph (c) of the                   describes procedures for certain
                                              MLG inspections from 24 months to 36                     proposed AD as (c)(1) and added new
                                              months to accommodate its                                                                                         airplanes for a detailed inspection of the
                                                                                                       paragraph (c)(2) to this AD to state that                trunnion bore, and corrective actions.
                                              maintenance schedule. SunExpress                         installation of STC ST00830SE does not
                                              pointed out that the longer compliance                                                                            This service information is reasonably
                                                                                                       affect the ability to accomplish the                     available because the interested parties
                                              time would be financially beneficial for                 actions required by this final rule.
                                              operators.                                                                                                        have access to it through their normal
                                                                                                       Therefore, for airplanes on which STC                    course of business or by the means
                                                We do not agree with SunExpress’s                      ST00830SE is installed, a ‘‘change in
                                              request to extend the compliance time.                                                                            identified in the ADDRESSES section.
                                                                                                       product’’ AMOC approval request is not
                                              The operator provided no technical                       necessary to comply with the                             Costs of Compliance
                                              justification for revising this compliance               requirements of 14 CFR 39.17.
                                              time. Stress corrosion cracking of the                                                                              We estimate that this AD affects 33
                                              external surfaces of the MLG is a                        Conclusion                                               airplanes of U.S. registry.
                                              significant safety issue, and we have                      We reviewed the relevant data,                           We estimate the following costs to
                                              determined that the proposed                             considered the comments received, and                    comply with this AD:

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

                                              External surface detailed inspection ......         Up to 16 work-hours × $85 per hour =                          $0   $1,360 per inspec-            Up to $44,880 per
                                                                                                    $1,360 per inspection cycle.                                       tion cycle.                   inspection cycle.
                                              Outer cylinder assembly trunnion bore               70 work-hours × $85 per hour = $5,950              Negligible      $5,950 ....................   $196,350.
                                               detailed inspection and bushing re-
                                               placement (Groups 1–2, configuration
                                               1).
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                                                We estimate the following costs to do                  be required based on the results of the                  determining the number of aircraft that
                                              any necessary replacements that would                    inspections. We have no way of                           might need this replacement.




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                                              11302            Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 34 / Wednesday, February 22, 2017 / Rules and Regulations

                                                                                                                  ON-CONDITION COSTS
                                                                                                                                                                                                      Cost per
                                                                               Action                                                                  Labor cost                                     product

                                              Outer cylinder assembly replacement (if required as a result of            28 work-hours × $85 per hour = $2,380 ....................................   $2,380
                                               the outer cylinder assembly trunnion bore detailed inspec-
                                               tion).



                                                 We have received no definitive data                     (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory                  (AMOC) approval request is not necessary to
                                              that would enable us to provide cost                     action’’ under Executive Order 12866,                    comply with the requirements of 14 CFR
                                              estimates for certain on-condition                         (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under                39.17.
                                              actions (MLG external surface repair,                    DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures                   (d) Subject
                                              MLG component replacement, outer                         (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),                          Air Transport Association (ATA) of
                                              cylinder repair, and MLG replacement)                      (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation                America Code 32, Landing Gear.
                                              specified in this AD.                                    in Alaska, and
                                                                                                         (4) Will not have a significant                        (e) Unsafe Condition
                                                 According to the manufacturer, some
                                              of the costs of this AD may be covered                   economic impact, positive or negative,                      This AD was prompted by reports of paint
                                              under warranty, thereby reducing the                     on a substantial number of small entities                deterioration on the surface of the main
                                                                                                       under the criteria of the Regulatory                     landing gear (MLG) and early onset of
                                              cost impact on affected individuals. We                                                                           corrosion in the trunnion bore of the MLG
                                              do not control warranty coverage for                     Flexibility Act.
                                                                                                                                                                outer cylinder. We are issuing this AD to
                                              affected individuals. As a result, we                    List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39                       prevent stress corrosion cracking of the
                                              have included all costs in our cost                                                                               external surfaces of the MLG, which could
                                              estimate.                                                  Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation                 result in a fracture of the MLG and
                                                 The previous information is based on                  safety, Incorporation by reference,                      consequent MLG collapse.
                                              known affected airplanes. However, the                   Safety.
                                                                                                                                                                (f) Compliance
                                              MLG may have been overhauled outside                     Adoption of the Amendment                                   Comply with this AD within the
                                              of the Boeing Exchange Program as                                                                                 compliance times specified, unless already
                                                                                                         Accordingly, under the authority
                                              specified in the ‘‘Clarification of                                                                               done.
                                                                                                       delegated to me by the Administrator,
                                              Affected MLGs’’ section of this AD.
                                                                                                       the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as                         (g) Inspection for Affected Part/Serial
                                              Authority for This Rulemaking                            follows:                                                 Numbers
                                                 Title 49 of the United States Code                                                                                At the applicable time specified in table 1
                                                                                                       PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS                                    of paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing
                                              specifies the FAA’s authority to issue                   DIRECTIVES
                                              rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,                                                                             Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–32–
                                                                                                                                                                1486, dated November 6, 2014, as revised by
                                              section 106, describes the authority of                  ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39                  Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
                                              the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:                     continues to read as follows:                            737–32–1486, Revision 1, dated April 1, 2015
                                              Aviation Programs, describes in more                                                                              (‘‘SASB 737–32–1486, R1’’), except as
                                                                                                           Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
                                              detail the scope of the Agency’s                                                                                  required by paragraph (k)(1) of this AD: Do
                                              authority.                                               § 39.13   [Amended]                                      the actions specified in paragraphs (g)(1) and
                                                 We are issuing this rulemaking under                  ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
                                                                                                                                                                (g)(2) of this AD in order to identify affected
                                              the authority described in Subtitle VII,                                                                          parts.
                                                                                                       the following new airworthiness                             (1) Inspect the MLG to determine if it has
                                              Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:                      directive (AD):
                                              ‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that                                                                              any component installation or side strut
                                                                                                       2017–04–11 The Boeing Company:                           assembly having a part number and serial
                                              section, Congress charges the FAA with                                                                            number listed in Appendix D of Boeing
                                              promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in                   Amendment 39–18806; Docket No.
                                                                                                           FAA–2016–5468; Directorate Identifier                Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–32–
                                              air commerce by prescribing regulations                      2015–NM–021–AD.                                      1486, dated November 6, 2014, as revised by
                                              for practices, methods, and procedures                                                                            SASB 737–32–1486, R1; except that the
                                              the Administrator finds necessary for                    (a) Effective Date                                       ‘‘Variable Number’’ column of Appendix D is
                                              safety in air commerce. This regulation                    This AD is effective March 29, 2017.                   to be disregarded in determining affected part
                                              is within the scope of that authority                                                                             and serial numbers. An MLG that has any
                                                                                                       (b) Affected ADs                                         MLG component installation or side strut
                                              because it addresses an unsafe condition
                                                                                                         None.                                                  assembly having a part number and serial
                                              that is likely to exist or develop on                                                                             number listed in Appendix D of Boeing
                                              products identified in this rulemaking                   (c) Applicability                                        Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–32–
                                              action.                                                     (1) This AD applies to all The Boeing                 1486, dated November 6, 2014, as revised by
                                              Regulatory Findings                                      Company Model 737–600, –700, –700C,                      SASB 737–32–1486, R1 is an affected part. A
                                                                                                       –800, and –900 series airplanes, certificated            review of airplane maintenance records is
                                                This AD will not have federalism                       in any category.                                         acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the
                                              implications under Executive Order                          (2) Installation of Supplemental Type                 part number and serial number of the MLG
                                              13132. This AD will not have a                           Certificate (STC) ST00830SE (http://                     component installation and side strut
                                              substantial direct effect on the States, on              rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_                     assembly can be conclusively identified from
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                                              the relationship between the national                    Library/rgstc.nsf/0/184DE9A71EC3FA                       that review.
                                                                                                       5586257EAE007                                               (2) Do a records review to determine if the
                                              government and the States, or on the
                                                                                                       07DA6?OpenDocument&High                                  MLG has been overhauled by Messier
                                              distribution of power and                                light=st00830se) does not affect the ability to          Services Asia Pte Ltd (MS Asia) outside of
                                              responsibilities among the various                       accomplish the actions required by this AD.              the Boeing Exchange program from June 1,
                                              levels of government.                                    Therefore, for airplanes on which STC                    2009, to July 31, 2013. If it is determined that
                                                For the reasons discussed above, I                     ST00830SE is installed, a ‘‘change in                    the MLG has been overhauled by MS Asia
                                              certify that this AD:                                    product’’ alternative method of compliance               outside of the Boeing Exchange program from



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                                                               Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 34 / Wednesday, February 22, 2017 / Rules and Regulations                                            11303

                                              June 1, 2009, to July 31, 2013, that MLG is              Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–32–            AD if it is approved by the Boeing
                                              an affected part. If from the records review             1486, dated November 6, 2014, as revised by           Commercial Airplanes Organization
                                              it cannot be conclusively determined that an             SASB 737–32–1486, R1, terminates the                  Designation Authorization (ODA) that has
                                              overhauled MLG was overhauled by a                       requirements of paragraph (h) of this AD for          been authorized by the Manager, Seattle
                                              maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO)                  that component only.                                  ACO, to make those findings. To be
                                              facility other than MS Asia, or if from the                (3) MLG outer cylinder replacement in               approved, the repair method, modification
                                              records review it cannot be conclusively                 accordance with Part 7 of the                         deviation, or alteration deviation must meet
                                              determined that an MLG overhauled by MS                  Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing                 the certification basis of the airplane, and the
                                              Asia was part of the Boeing Exchange                     Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–32–            approval must specifically refer to this AD.
                                              Program from June 1, 2009, to July 31, 2013,             1486, dated November 6, 2014, as revised by              (4) Except as required by paragraph (k)(2)
                                              that MLG is an affected part.                            SASB 737–32–1486, R1, terminates the                  of this AD: For service information that
                                                                                                       requirements of paragraph (i) of this AD for          contains steps that are labeled as RC, the
                                              (h) Requirements for Affected Parts                      that component only.                                  provisions of paragraphs (m)(4)(i) and
                                                 If any affected part is identified during the                                                               (m)(4)(ii) of this AD apply.
                                              inspection or records review required by                 (k) Exceptions to Service Information
                                                                                                       Specifications                                           (i) The steps labeled as RC, including
                                              paragraph (g) of this AD: At the applicable                                                                    substeps under an RC step and any figures
                                              time specified in table 3 of paragraph 1.E.,               (1) Where paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of        identified in an RC step, must be done to
                                              ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Special Attention              Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin             comply with the AD. If a step or substep is
                                              Service Bulletin 737–32–1486, dated                      737–32–1486, dated November 6, 2014, as               labeled ‘‘RC Exempt,’’ then the RC
                                              November 6, 2014, as revised by SASB 737–                revised by SASB 737–32–1486, R1, specifies            requirement is removed from that step or
                                              32–1486, R1, except as required by paragraph             a compliance time ‘‘after the original issue          substep. An AMOC is required for any
                                              (k)(1) of this AD, do detailed inspections of            date of this service bulletin,’’ this AD              deviations to RC steps, including substeps
                                              the external surfaces of the MLG, and do all             requires compliance within the specified              and identified figures.
                                              applicable related investigative and                     compliance time after the effective date of              (ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be
                                              corrective actions, in accordance with Parts             this AD.                                              deviated from using accepted methods in
                                              1, 3, and 4 of the Accomplishment                          (2) Although Boeing Special Attention
                                                                                                                                                             accordance with the operator’s maintenance
                                              Instructions of Boeing Special Attention                 Service Bulletin 737–32–1486, dated
                                                                                                                                                             or inspection program without obtaining
                                              Service Bulletin 737–32–1486, dated                      November 6, 2014, as revised by SASB 737–
                                                                                                                                                             approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps,
                                              November 6, 2014, as revised by SASB 737–                32–1486, R1, specifies to contact Boeing for
                                                                                                                                                             including substeps and identified figures, can
                                              32–1486, R1, except as required by paragraph             repair instructions, and specifies that action
                                                                                                                                                             still be done as specified, and the airplane
                                              (k)(2) of this AD. Repeat the inspections                as ‘‘RC’’ (Required for Compliance), this AD
                                                                                                                                                             can be put back in an airworthy condition.
                                              thereafter at the applicable time specified in           requires repair before further flight using a
                                              table 3 of paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of            method approved in accordance with the                (n) Related Information
                                              Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin                procedures specified in paragraph (m) of this           For more information about this AD,
                                              737–32–1486, dated November 6, 2014, as                  AD.                                                   contact Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer,
                                              revised by SASB 737–32–1486, R1. All                                                                           Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle
                                                                                                       (l) Parts Installation Prohibition
                                              applicable related investigative and                                                                           ACO, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA
                                              corrective actions must be done before                      As of the effective date of this AD, no
                                                                                                       person may install the following on any               98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6450; fax: 425–
                                              further flight.
                                                                                                       airplane identified in paragraph (c)(1) of this       917–6590; email: alan.pohl@faa.gov.
                                              (i) Additional Actions for Groups 1 and 2,               AD, unless either the MLG or MLG                      (o) Material Incorporated by Reference
                                              Configuration 1 Airplanes                                component has first been overhauled as
                                                                                                                                                                (1) The Director of the Federal Register
                                                 For airplanes that are identified as Groups           specified in the corrective actions of
                                                                                                                                                             approved the incorporation by reference
                                              1 and 2, Configuration 1, in Boeing Special              paragraphs (h) and (i), as applicable, of this
                                                                                                                                                             (IBR) of the service information listed in this
                                              Attention Service Bulletin 737–32–1486,                  AD, or the MLG or MLG component has been
                                                                                                                                                             paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
                                              dated November 6, 2014, as revised by SASB               overhauled using a method approved in
                                                                                                       accordance with the procedures specified in           part 51.
                                              737–32–1486, R1, and that have an affected
                                                                                                       paragraph (m) of this AD.                                (2) You must use this service information
                                              part identified during the inspection or
                                                                                                          (1) An MLG or MLG component having a               as applicable to do the actions required by
                                              records review required by paragraph (g) of
                                              this AD: At the applicable time specified in             part number and serial number identified in           this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
                                              table 4 of paragraph 1.E, ‘‘Compliance,’’ of             Appendix D of SASB 737–32–1486, R1.                      (i) Boeing Special Attention Service
                                              Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin                   (2) An MLG that was overhauled between             Bulletin 737–32–1486, dated November 6,
                                              737–32–1486, dated November 6, 2014, as                  June 1, 2009, and July 31, 2013, by MS Asia.          2014.
                                              revised by SASB 737–32–1486, R1, except as                                                                        (ii) Boeing Special Attention Service
                                                                                                       (m) Alternative Methods of Compliance                 Bulletin 737–32–1486, Revision 1, dated
                                              required by paragraph (k)(1) of this AD, do
                                                                                                       (AMOCs)                                               April 1, 2015.
                                              a detailed inspection and bushing
                                              replacement of the MLG trunnion bore, and                   (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft                     (3) For Boeing service information
                                              do all applicable related investigative and              Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the              identified in this AD, contact Boeing
                                              corrective actions, in accordance with Parts             authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if            Commercial Airplanes, Attention:
                                              2, 5, and 6 of the Accomplishment                        requested using the procedures found in 14            Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600
                                              Instructions of Boeing Special Attention                 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,           Westminster Blvd., MC 110–SK57, Seal
                                              Service Bulletin 737–32–1486, dated                      send your request to your principal inspector         Beach, CA 90740–5600; telephone: 562–797–
                                              November 6, 2014, as revised by SASB 737–                or local Flight Standards District Office, as         1717; Internet: https://
                                              32–1486, R1, except as required by paragraph             appropriate. If sending information directly          www.myboeingfleet.com.
                                              (k)(2) of this AD.                                       to the manager of the ACO, send it to the                (4) You may view this service information
                                                                                                       attention of the person identified in                 at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
                                              (j) Terminating Action                                   paragraph (n) of this AD. Information may be          1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For
                                                 (1) MLG replacement in accordance with                emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-                   information on the availability of this
                                              Part 8 of the Accomplishment Instructions of             Requests@faa.gov.                                     material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
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                                              Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin                   (2) Before using any approved AMOC,                   (5) You may view this service information
                                              737–32–1486, dated November 6, 2014, as                  notify your appropriate principal inspector,          that is incorporated by reference at the
                                              revised by SASB 737–32–1486, R1,                         or lacking a principal inspector, the manager         National Archives and Records
                                              terminates the requirements of paragraphs                of the local flight standards district office/        Administration (NARA). For information on
                                              (g), (h), and (i) of this AD for that MLG only.          certificate holding district office.                  the availability of this material at NARA, call
                                                 (2) MLG component replacement in                         (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable            202–741–6030, or go to: http://
                                              accordance with Part 4 of the                            level of safety may be used for any repair,           www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-
                                              Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing                    modification, or alteration required by this          locations.html.



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                                              11304            Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 34 / Wednesday, February 22, 2017 / Rules and Regulations

                                                 Issued in Renton, Washington, on February             P.O. Box 31, Derby, DE24 8BJ, United                  issuing this AD to detect and correct
                                              8, 2017.                                                 Kingdom; telephone 44 (0) 1332 245882;                degraded structural integrity of the
                                              Michael Kaszycki,                                        fax 44 (0) 1332 249936; Internet http://              engine nose cowl, which in the case of
                                              Acting Manager, Transport Airplane                       www.Rolls-Royce.com.                                  forward bulkhead damage in
                                              Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.               You may view this referenced service                conjunction with a broken piccolo tube,
                                              [FR Doc. 2017–03261 Filed 2–21–17; 8:45 am]              information at the FAA, Transport                     could lead to damage to the engine and
                                              BILLING CODE 4910–13–P                                   Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue                operation in icing conditions with
                                                                                                       SW., Renton, WA. For information on                   reduced TAI performance.
                                                                                                       the availability of this material at the                 The European Aviation Safety Agency
                                              DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION                             FAA, call 425–227–1221. It is also                    (EASA), which is the Technical Agent
                                                                                                       available on the Internet at http://                  for the Member States of the European
                                              Federal Aviation Administration                          www.regulations.gov by searching for                  Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness
                                                                                                       and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–                     Directive, 2016–0086R1, dated May 13,
                                              14 CFR Part 39                                           9305.                                                 2016 (referred to after this as the
                                              [Docket No. FAA–2016–9305; Directorate                                                                         Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness
                                                                                                       Examining the AD Docket                               Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct
                                              Identifier 2016–NM–073–AD; Amendment
                                              39–18804; AD 2017–04–09]                                    You may examine the AD docket on                   an unsafe condition for all Airbus
                                                                                                       the Internet at http://                               Model 330–243, –243F, –341, –342, and
                                              RIN 2120–AA64
                                                                                                       www.regulations.gov by searching for                  –343 airplanes. The MCAI states:
                                              Airworthiness Directives; Airbus                         and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–                        During shop visit, cracks were found in
                                              Airplanes                                                9305; or in person at the Docket                      several primary structural parts of Rolls
                                                                                                       Management Facility between 9 a.m.                    Royce (RR) Trent 700 engine air intake cowls,
                                              AGENCY:  Federal Aviation                                and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,                    specifically in the forward bulkhead web,
                                              Administration (FAA), Department of                      except Federal holidays. The AD docket                web stiffeners and outer boundary angles
                                              Transportation (DOT).                                    contains this AD, the regulatory                      (OBA). In addition, several attachment links
                                                                                                                                                             were found severely worn, and some became
                                              ACTION: Final rule.                                      evaluation, any comments received, and
                                                                                                                                                             detached. In two cases, the thermal anti-ice
                                                                                                       other information. The address for the                (TAI) piccolo tube was found fractured.
                                              SUMMARY:   We are superseding                            Docket Office (telephone 800–647–5527)                Investigation results show that the cracks are
                                              Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2012–22–                    is Docket Management Facility, U.S.                   most likely due to acoustic excitation and
                                              12 for all Airbus Model A330–243,                        Department of Transportation, Docket                  vibration.
                                              –243F, –341, –342, and –343 airplanes.                   Operations, M–30, West Building                          A broken piccolo tube, if not detected and
                                              AD 2012–22–12 required inspecting                        Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200                      corrected, in conjunction with forward air
                                              piccolo tubes and mount links, the aft                   New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington,                    intake cowl bulkhead damage, could lead to
                                              side of the forward bulkhead, and outer                                                                        in-flight detachment of the outer barrel,
                                                                                                       DC 20590.
                                                                                                                                                             possibly resulting in damage to the engine or
                                              boundary angles (OBAs); and doing                        FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:                      reduced control of the aeroplane.
                                              corrective actions if necessary. This new                Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,                    To address this potential unsafe condition,
                                              AD retains certain requirements of AD                    International Branch, ANM–116,                        Airbus issued Service Bulletin (SB) A330–
                                              2012–22–12, and adds inspections of                      Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,                  71–3025, making reference to RR SB RB.211–
                                              certain areas of the forward bulkhead,                   1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA                      71–AG416, to provide inspection
                                              and related investigative and corrective                 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1138;                   instructions, and, depending on findings,
                                              actions if necessary. This AD was                                                                              accomplishment of applicable corrective
                                                                                                       fax 425–227–1149.                                     action(s).
                                              prompted by reports of cracking of air
                                                                                                       SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:                               Consequently, EASA issued AD 2011–0062
                                              intake cowls, worn and detached
                                                                                                                                                             [which corresponds to FAA AD 2012–22–12]
                                              attachment links, fractured thermal anti-                Discussion                                            to require repetitive special detailed
                                              ice (TAI) piccolo tubes, and loose or                       We issued a notice of proposed                     inspections (SDI) [borescope] of the piccolo
                                              missing attachment rivets of the inner                   rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR                     tube and affected mount links, the aft side of
                                              boundary angles (IBAs) and OBAs of the                   part 39 to supersede AD 2012–22–12,                   forward bulkhead, inner boundary angles
                                              forward bulkhead. We are issuing this                                                                          (IBA) and OBA of the RR Trent 700 air intake
                                                                                                       Amendment 39–17248 (77 FR 67263,                      cowl assemblies, and, depending on findings,
                                              AD to address the unsafe condition on                    November 9, 2012) (‘‘AD 2012–22–12’’).
                                              these products.                                                                                                accomplishment of applicable corrective
                                                                                                       AD 2012–22–12 applied to all Airbus                   action(s).
                                              DATES: This AD is effective March 29,                    Model A330–243, –243F, –341, –342,                       Since EASA AD 2011–0062 was issued,
                                              2017.                                                    and –343 airplanes. The NPRM                          some occurrences were reported of finding
                                                 The Director of the Federal Register                  published in the Federal Register on                  attachment rivets of the IBA and OBA either
                                              approved the incorporation by reference                  November 7, 2016 (81 FR 78085). The                   pulled, loose, or missing during inspection.
                                              of certain publications listed in this AD                NPRM was prompted by reports of                       It was determined that the affected IBA and
                                              as of March 29, 2017.                                                                                          OBA rivets may not have been previously
                                                                                                       cracking of air intake cowls on Rolls-                inspected if operators accomplished the
                                              ADDRESSES: For Airbus service                            Royce Trent engines, worn and                         required inspection in accordance with the
                                              information identified in this final rule,               detached attachment links, fractured                  instructions of RR SB RB.211–71–AG416 at
                                              contact Airbus SAS—Airworthiness                         TAI piccolo tubes, and loose or missing               original issue.
                                              Office—EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice                         attachment rivets of the IBAs and the                    To address this potentially missed
                                              Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France;                   OBAs of the forward bulkhead. The                     inspection, Airbus published SB A330–71–
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                                              telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5                   NPRM proposed to retain certain                       3033, providing instructions for a one-time
                                              61 93 45 80; email airworthiness.A330-                   requirements of AD 2012–22–12, and                    detailed inspection of the IBA and OBA
                                                                                                                                                             attachment rivets, to be accomplished if the
                                              A340@airbus.com; Internet http://                        add repetitive inspections for pulled,                previous inspection was accomplished using
                                              www.airbus.com.                                          loose, and missing attachment rivets of               the instructions of RR SB RB.211–71–AG416
                                                 For Rolls-Royce service information                   the IBAs and OBAs of the forward                      at original issue. Airbus also published SB
                                              identified in this final rule, contact                   bulkhead, and related investigative and               A330–71–3025 Revision 2, adding an
                                              Rolls-Royce Plc, Technical Publications,                 corrective actions if necessary. We are               inspection of the IBA and OBA attachment



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Document Created: 2017-02-22 00:08:26
Document Modified: 2017-02-22 00:08:26
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 March 29, 2017.
ContactAlan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917- 6450; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected]
FR Citation82 FR 11299 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

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